Italy
Last Updated: March 19, 2026
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Backpacking Italy In 2026
When we talk about the jewels of Europe, there is one country that gets mentioned more than most, and that's Italy. Its romantic landscape has been captured by numerous Hollywood blockbusters, and it is, in part, these film locations that draw in the tourists. However, as you'll discover when you're backpacking Italy, there is far more to uncover than its landscape.
After all, where else can you hear the roar of a twin-turbo V-8 get taunted into speeding by the cops, grab a slice of pizza to die for, and yet still find thousands of years of history and architecture that makes your heart quiver?
From the snow-capped Alps in the north to the sunkissed beaches of Sicily you'll be met with some of the most recognisable landmarks in the world such as the leaning tower of Pisa, the gigantic Colosseum and even two city-states.
Furthermore, you'll experience the rustic old towns, stunning lakes and a way of life that most can only dream of.
In all honesty, Italy is a slice of heaven, and I don't need to sell it. All I have to do is guide you in the direction of its best bits. And that's easy, as I still have the taste of fresh pizza and pasta from last week's trip.
Why Italy?
They say; Turin works, Rome thinks, Naples sings, and Florence dreams. And honestly, that's too romantic for me to beat. So, I'm not going to try.
But here is a little insight into why you should join the thousands in backpacking Italy.
Through every crumbling enclosed pathway, a new expansive Piazza reveals beauty, passion and a flair that only the Italians can do. Every old city, town or village has a maze of these skinny cobbled streets, often interrupted by exquisite statues, fountains and basilicas. Smells of pizza, fresh bread, garlic and balsamic vinegar walk shoulder to shoulder with you along these lanes.
Out in the countryside, there are vast open flatlands carpeted in olive, grape, plum and apricots, to name a few. The lakes, mountains and coasts are wildly different to the central lands, but that doesn't mean any less impressive. They're sublime.
Italy does everything with precision, finesse and panache no matter if it's cars, architecture, food or fashion. Everything is stylish to the extreme, and it will wrap you up, dress you, and draw you in like a moth to a flame.
Welcome to the sexiest country in the world.
Ladies and gents, I give you the magnificence that is Italy.
Quick Stats
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Religion
Christian: 85.6%
Population
58.7 million
Language
Official: Italian
When to Go
High Season: May - Sept
Low Season: Nov - April
Price of Beer
£3.80 a Pint
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Contents
Where To Visit
Rome
Italy's mighty capital will take your heart and never let it go.
They say all roads lead to Rome, and I wish they did. The architecture, food, wine, people, fashion, the city has it all, and by the bucket load.
Not only is Rome one of the prettiest cities, but it is also one of the most impressive, with the imposing Colosseum, the beauty of the Trevi Fountain and the grandeur of the Pantheon, there is more to wow you here than almost any other city in the world.
Just remember to stop and take it all in as you walk in the footsteps of the empire.
For more please read our full guide to backpacking Rome here.
Venice
Welcome to the city of romance.
Weaving through Venice's watery labyrinth and taking in the crumbling historic facade, you'll hear music, laughter and passion. This reverberates around the city, under every bridge, within every courtyard, and amid the grand halls of Doge's Palace.
Everything about the city shouldn't work, yet, somehow, it all does. In essence, Venice is a mishmash of everything special in life and is somewhere you'll never forget.
For more please read our full guide to backpacking Venice here.
Naples
The raw coastal city of Naples lies under the dangerous gaze of Mount Vesuvius whilst hugging the glorious waters in the Gulf of Naples.
The historic centre of Naples is unmissable and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its distinctive streets are encroached by the buildings above that almost appear to lean over and touch. Balconies, flowers and often washing lines, flags and ribbons run across the building tops.
The waterfront offers outrageously beautiful views over the bay whilst ships drift along the harbour walls. It's easy to fall in love with a place when there is everything you'll ever need right before your eyes. And that's before we even touch on its ancient neighbour, Pompeii.
For more please read our full guide to backpacking Naples here.
Modena
Modena is home to Ferrari, Lamborghini, Pagani and Maserati and is, without doubt, a car enthusiast's dream. The city is central to the factories and museums, which you can visit. Each one is a thrill a minute.
However, there is more to Modena than cars. The town is also famous as the birthplace of Pavarotti and its delicious Balsamic vinegar.
The pentagon-shaped central old town is classic Italian, with stupendous buildings, narrow cobbled streets and market squares, whilst the outskirts appear countryfied, rundown, derelict and unloved. As a result, Modena is a mixed bag, but one that will surely end up on top of the podium.
For more please read our full guide to backpacking Modena here.
Vatican City
Surrounded by the vast city of Rome, you'll find the unique, beautiful and influential Vatican City.
The Vatican is one of the smallest countries in the world. Yet it is also one of the most powerful, as it's the home of the Catholic Church.
Along with the Pope, around eight hundred other Catholics live in the walled city. Nevertheless, the city attracts thousands of visitors a day, most of whom visit The Sistine Chapel, created by Michelangelo.
For more please read our full guide to backpacking Vatican City here.
Milan
Milan is the fashion capital of Italy, which frankly means the world, and I'm not just talking clothing. Its architecture is phenomenal too. The city is home to the world's largest Gothic Cathedral, the Royal Palace, the Arch of Peace and the Incredible Central Railway Station.
Visitors come in their droves to Milan to see these wonderful buildings and to hear the Opera at La Scala. Some of the most famous composers in the world have graced the opera house, from Ponchielli and Puccini to Vacchi and Reggio. According to my Great Uncle Michael, they were dam-good.
Generally, the city is the perfect blend of new-age modernism, with the latest gadgets, gizmos and the most up to date fashion. Yet it still displays the grandeur and beauty of its past. It's somewhere you cannot afford to miss whilst backpacking Italy.
Pisa
Famed the world over for its leaning tower, the city perches on the River Arno in the Tuscany region of Italy.
At the city's heart is the old walled city, which showcases the leaning tower and the mighty Cathedral. In truth, Pisa is close enough to Florence to make it a day trip. As for staying any longer, it's your call.
Florence
Staying in Tuscany, and on the River Arno, we arrive in Florence.
For the most part, the city of Florence has a much more cosmopolitan feel, where once again we take fashion, designer shops, and narrow streets opening into grand piazzas.
Overall the riverfront and bridges have a very Venice feel to them, whilst the old town could easily have been picked up from any of the other larger cities and put here. They are all stunning, yet all too similar to tell them apart.
As well as fashion, the city is home to the arts, music, and is, unsurprisingly, flourishing as a tourist hotspot. Backpacking Italy can only be completed with a visit to its dreamy city of Florence.
Turin
Deep in Italy's northwest, at the foot of the Alps, is the busy metropolis of Turin.
Within the city, you'll find picturesque views of the weaving River Po, the imposing Alps in the background and the stunning architecture that split the two.
Famed for its arts, performance, food, sports and incredible skyline, you'll find something different every day of the week.
A bite from the mesmerising Gianduja, and you'll be bowled over by the city. When asked what was it about Turin you liked, you'll struggle to answer without the word everything.
Sicily
Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean and is one of those places I've heard so much about, yet only associate with The Godfather, the Italian Mafia and Mount Etna.
When we think of backpacking Italy, it is probably these hilltop towns and pristine rocky coasts that we picture, well, outside of the Colosseum anyway. Everything that makes people travel to Italy is here, from the ruins to the shimmering waters brimming with life, and of course, Mount Etna, one of the most active volcanos in the world.
This is the beauty, this is the romance, and quite frankly, this is Italy at its finest.
What's It Like Backpacking Italy?
Backpacking Italy is a romantic dream and is somewhere everyone deserves to experience at least once in their life.
From the crash of the waves on the southern coast to the freshly fallen snow in the peaks of the Alps, Italy will wow, amaze and astound you throughout.
Its history, its architecture, its food, its people and its culture combine to create a sense of style unlike any other country in the world. Yet, there is no snobbery or belief that they are better than anyone else.
Precision engineering isn't something that's confined to the factories, it's an inbuilt ideology in everything Italy offers. If something isn't going to be a masterpiece, it will not be created.
Therefore, people think that backpacking Italy will cost an arm and a leg. Whilst this can be true, you can enjoy your time in this magical country on a shoestring.
The Accommodation
Italy has a standard and style of accommodation for everyone. If you were after those penthouse city apartments, Italy has it. Sea views over the Amalfi Coast or a mountain escape with a hot tub? Yeah, it's got that too. At the same time, it also has dorm rooms in a wide variety of hostels across the country for those of us with a smaller budget.
In essence, if you're a baller and looking to drop the big money, trust me, Italy can take it off your hands. However, if you're backpacking Italy on a budget, you'll find great accommodation across the country too.
In either case, the only consistent thing is safety. Any accommodation you decide on will meet the excellent safety standards that Europe demands.
All the big names operate across Italy from Hostelworld to Booking.com and AirBnB.
A word of warning
At the end of your stay, you will be charged a city tax. This tax will be added to your bill when you check out. It's sneaky and I don't like it. How much depends on the standard of accommodation, how long you are there and which region you are staying in. It's about a euro a night.
Check our detailed accommodation guides for:
The Food
Italy is known for its delicious foods, namely pasta, spaghetti and pizza.
Pasta makes up a high percentage of Italian dishes, and honestly, what the Italians can't do with pasta isn't worth doing. They can twist, bend and manipulate it into anything you desire.
A few pasta dishes to tickle your taste buds are:Â
- Ravioli - Small pouches filled with meat, ricotta or vegetables in a pasta sauce.
- Tortellini - Small fancy dumplings stuffed with cheese, meat and egg served in a capon (chicken) broth.
- Tagliatelle - Long flat strips of pasta served in a creamy sauce.
- Lasagna - Thin flat sheets of pasta, commonly layered with mincemeat, sauce and cheese.
- Carbonara - Spaghetti noodles with bacon and cheese.
However, there is far more to Italy's culinary delights than these Italian classics.
Here are a few of my favourites that aren't pizza or pasta based:Â
- Focaccia - Fresh Bread that is often served to the table whilst you wait for your order.
- Gelato - A more flavoursome, softer and less fattening ice cream.
- Arancini - Deep-fried breaded ball with ragu, mozzarella and rice.
In addition to these world-renowned masterpieces, each region and, in some cases, each town creates a signature dish. Having been to a few different regions, I highly advise you to ask for the regional dish.
Essentially, whatever you try, the food is fresh, often hand-picked from the local market and is prepared with love. It's going to be delicious.
As a man who loves his food, I do have one gripe with Italian meals, and that is, if you don't have pizza, the portion size tends to be childlike. I love food, and here in Italy it is so delicious, I just need more of it.
The Culture
As you can imagine, there is more culture in Italy than my slightly aching, chubby fingers can type. After all, it is the birthplace of western civilisation. Since the time of The Roman Empire in 27BC, Italy has had an immense affiliation with religion, architecture, music, song, dance, art and food. We just have to pick up the history books, and we're bombarded with renaissance movements, Catholicism, statues and paintings.
Religion
With around 85% of the country following the Catholic Church, Italy's culture revolves around religion. Religion plays a part on an individual, family and local level with baptism, first communions, confirmations and marriages. Similarly, a vast number of Italians attend Mass every Sunday.
Several annual festivals are dedicated to religion across Italy, from Christmas Day and Easter to St Peter and Paul, All Saints and Epiphany.
Family
Italians have stronger family bonds than most, with respect being given to the elders, who head the households. Nowadays, younger generations have a lot more freedom than was once given. Yet parents still play a key role in what their children do, where they live and their financial security.
Food
Food plays a large role within family and friendship circles. Meals are often eaten in groups, slowly over many courses, and eaten late into the night. For the types of food, see above, where I talk more about Italian cuisine.
Style
As I had spoken about throughout this backpacking Italy blog, Italians are stylish from their haircuts to their shoes, from their gadgets to their cars. Appearance matters in Italy and nothing is left to chance. First impressions mean everything.
Sports and Cars
Sports play a massive role in Italian society. Whether it's football, Basket Ball, Formula 1 or Rugby, it doesn't matter. What matters is you either participate or have a team in said sport. Ferrari rules the roost in F1, whilst Juventus take the supports crown in football.
Whilst everything revolves around slick precision and speed, there is a saying in Italy that is easy to identify in day to day life. However, it completely contradicts everything I mention above. That saying is "Dolce Far Niente" which means "pleasant relaxation in carefree idleness".
And what better way to wrap up this section on Italian culture.
The Transport
Italy has some of the best public transport I've had the pleasure of travelling on. From the pothole-free open roads to the clean and classy trains. Italy has it all and without a traffic jam or delayed sign insight.
So without further ado let's look into the types of transport on offer whilst backpacking Italy.
Roads
Driving in Italy is both pleasurable and fearful at the same time.
First up, you drive on the right and give way to the left.
The road conditions are fantastic throughout the country, with the countryside roads offering further astonishing views and epic driving experiences. City roads tend to be a little heavy on traffic lights, whilst roundabouts are the preferred choice out of town.
Whilst the roads are great, the Italian style of driving isn't. If there is a foot of space to be had, someone will fill it. Bumper to bumper driving is the norm, and manoeuvres that make your arse squeak are met with a shrug of the shoulders and a raised smile.
If you decide that driving is just too horrifying, I couldn't blame you. Also, having travelled by taxi a lot in March 2022, I found them to be fairly expensive. However, they were all comfy and arrived bang on time.
In contrast, buses are super cheap with no thrills, but always arrived on time and were clean, and you can't ask for more than that. They were even easy to use by tapping your card Revolut Card when you get on.
Trains,
For all those of you backpacking Italy properly, and by this, I mean going from city to city, town to town, train travel is by far your best and cheapest option. Train stations are clean, tidy and well maintained, the trains run on time and are comfy. Basically, it's everything the British trains are not.
The price of a train ticket in Italy is incredibly cheap. You can travel for hours for only a few euros.
The ticket machines have other language options, including English, which is very helpful if, like me, your Italian is a little shaky. You can pay again by swiping or inserting your Revolut card.
The only issue with trains is that you have to get your ticket stamped at the station before boarding the train. The ticket alone is not enough. You will see little machines near the track which punch a small indentation in your ticket. Without this, you could get fined heavily.
Plane
The national airline of Italy is ITA Airways, which took over from Alitalia in 2021. However, that doesn't mean they're the best or the cheapest.
If you're backpacking Italy on a budget, or just don't want to waste money on flights, Ryanair is generally the cheapest internal airline within Italy. For comparison, I have just run a quick search on flights from Rome to Bari (southeast Italy) and on the same day, Ryanair is doing flights for €4.99 each way, whilst ITA prices are nearly €50 each way. It's a no-brainer.
Boats
All in all, Italy has over 450 islands, yet very few of these are inhabited, and even fewer have airports. Therefore, if you want to visit some of the islands, you will have to travel by boat. Having never travelled by boat in Italy, I cannot recommend one company over another. However, here are some of the companies and where they operate.
- Caremar and Alilauro operate between Naples, Capri, Casamicciola, Ischia, Pozzuoli, Procida and Sorrento.
- Toremar operates from Piombino and Livorno, south of Pisa on the mainland, to the islands in that vicinity, such as, Elba, Pianosa and Gorgona.
- SNAV and NLG operate internationally but also internally within Italy to Sicily, Capri, Sorrento and Sardinia.
The Budget
Like Spain, everyone assumes Italy is expensive, and yes, it can be. However, it doesn't have to be at all.
In fact, travelling between the cities is extremely cheap in comparison to backpacking around other European countries such as the United Kingdom. Similarly, you can eat away from the main tourist areas for very little money.
On the whole, spending can increase to astronomical figures whilst backpacking Italy, but, in truth, you can get by easily on a shoestring too.
So without further ado, our three Far Out budgets are;
The 'Backpacker' Budget
Your only objective is to keep travelling. The secret? Keeping costs at an all-time low. This is the budget for you.
Accommodation - If you're backpacking Italy on a complete shoestring accommodation is never going to be as cheap as it would be in the likes of Asia or South America. As far as budget goes, you'll be looking to spend around €14 (£12) a night. It is not going to be pretty, or somewhere to bring a date back to, but it will be clean, safe and have a wild atmosphere.
Foods - I don't need to tell you this, but I am going to manage your expectations anyway. You will not be eating at any fancy restaurants or enjoying gelato every afternoon. Breakfast will be cereal bought at the supermarket.
Lunch will be a slice of pizza for a couple of euros or a self-made sandwich with supermarket-bought ham, cheese and bread. Evening meals with be at cheap diners away from the tourist areas. But fear not, they will be delicious and cost around €7. That's a daily total for food of around €10 (£7.50).
Transportation - Luckily, transport in Italy is cheap. However, for you guys and your respective budgets, you'll be walking around every city you visit. Plus, it's good for your health anyway. Although, when it comes to travelling between the cities you're in luck. You'll be travelling by train, which is good. They're super cheap, reliable and very comfy. On average, you'll only need €6 (£5) a day. That is assuming you'll not be making these larger journies every day.
Drinks - Again, away from the main touristy areas, beer is relatively cheap. Sadly, though, not cheap enough for you to go out every night. But that doesn't stop you from enjoying a few supermarket-bought beers here and there. Treat yourself to a couple of them and your alcohol budget should roll in at €3 (£2.50) a day.
Overall - Your backpacker's daily budget for backpacking Italy, including three meals, will come to a grand total of €33 (£27.50).
The 'Travellers' Budget
You've saved for this trip, and you want the ultimate bang for your buck. Money is tight, but you want the best experience. We've got you covered.
Accommodation - Despite the budget still being tight, your funds do allow for slightly better accommodation. Instead of the 5.9 and 6.1 rated hostels, you can look at Hostelworld with a smile and aim for hostels rated 8 and above. This upgrade will cost you €17 (£14) a night. Baller!
Restaurants - Hopefully, your hostel will put on a free brekkie. If not, it's cereal, yay...
Much like the backpackers' budget, lunch is going to be something cheap, easy and on the go - very un-Italian. Of course, this does leave more of your food budget for dinner.
Having only spent a few euros so far, you can treat yourself to a restaurant once or twice a week. But try to keep your spending to between €10 to €15.
That's a food budget of up to €19 (£16) a day, and that's a good-sized food budget for Italy.
Transportation - Follow the backpackers, and they'll guide you to the train station. Jump on the train and enjoy a comfy and very well priced ride. Trains are so cheap in Italy you'd be silly not to use them. Therefore, assuming you're not moving between cities daily, it's a budget of €6 (£5) a day.
Drinks - Knock yourself out and hit the town - just don't go too hard. Stick to local beers and away from the touristy areas, and you'll be able to enjoy a few each night. Let's give you a total of €10 (£8.30) a day for alcohol...
Overall - Your travellers' daily budget for backpacking Italy, including three meals, will come to a grand total of €52 (£43.30).
The 'Daddies Credit Card' Budget
Your trust fund is finally available, and your Instagram followers need to see where you are in the world this week. You farted the other day, and a private jet came out. We haven't forgotten you.
Hotels - Ok, you little Kardashian wannabees, I have found you somewhere rather spectacular. Somewhere the likes of me can only dream of. Hotel Cala di Volpe on the Italian island of Sardinia. The sea views and five star luxury days will only set you back a mere €1,870 (£1,558) a night in the height of summer.
I'm not jealous at all, but take me with you, I can be your poor normal friend!
Restaurants - Now that you've had a good night's sleep, it's time to hit up my favourite topic, food. The Glass Hostaria in Rome will show you fine dining at its best for a very reasonable price of €120 (£100) per person, excluding drinks. Therefore I'm going to call it €160 (£133) per person.
Transportation - Obviously, I don't know too much about this, as I just grab the train, it's a few euros, why wouldn't you? That aside, I have found Moveolux, who offer private jets, helicopters, yachts, classic cars, motorhomes etc. Prices aren't on the website, which means it's perfect for you. I'm going to guess at a couple of G's a day €2,000 (£1,666).
Drinks - A short skip north of Verona is the Azienda Agricola Quintarelli Giuseppe vineyard, and they do tasting sessions. However, you will also discover a cheeky bottle valued at €1,550 (£1,291) a bottle. Grab a couple, and that's your night sorted. Total €3,100!
Overall - Your daddies' credit card daily budget for backpacking Italy, including three meals, will come to a grand total of €7,130 (£5,940) a day. Damm.
The Best Things To Do When Backpacking Italy
Explore the Watery Canals of Venice
The remarkable city of Venice has long been a favourite with tourists, and it's easy to see why.
The maze of canals that run between the romantic facade is simply magical, and you can't help but smile. It's raw, unpolished and yet remains ornately pretty. The graceful buildings, refined and elegant architecture glistens against the watery paths throughout the city, and from this perspective, it's even more beautiful.
You've all seen films, now it's your turn to experience the city, the canals, and fall in love all over again. What better way to see a city than this.
Visit the Colosseum in Rome
Having seen the Colosseum up close and personal, I can only imagine what it must have been like when it was built back in 80AD.
Most of the world were living in mud huts, but in Rome, the Colosseum was alive and kicking. It must have been a frightening experience to see as a spectator, let alone as a gladiator, or animal, forced to fight in the arena.
Even with today's knowledge, understanding, materials and machinery, the Colosseum would be an impressive feat of engineering, so how they managed it back then is a miracle.
Walking around the different levels, learning about the architecture, the design and what went on within its very walls was incredible. You simply have to experience the Colosseum whilst backpacking Italy, especially if you're already in Rome.
Eat Italian Food
I know I bang on a lot throughout the blog about Italian foods, but they are so good that I feel it's justified. As a result, I have added it to my top three things to experience whilst backpacking Italy.
No matter if you're walking the streets with Gelato or a slice of pizza or sitting down for a three-course meal, the mouthwatering flavours are something to savour.
Markets provide a great backdrop for fresh, often local, ingredients, and I highly recommend visiting at least one of them during your time in Italy. You'll find wonderful treats on offer throughout and an atmosphere to match.
You hear people say that they're a dessert person or a starter and a main only - well not here. When in Rome, you do things the Italian way, and that's, demolish all three exquisite courses with a smile on your face.
Pizza, pasta, gelato, ham, cheese or bread, this is ingredients and cooking on another level. I talk more about specific Italian dishes here.
Preparing To Backpack Italy
Suggested Itineraries
Coming soon.
Itinerary one
8 Days
Coming Soon
Day 1 - Coming Soon
Itinerary two
10 Days
Coming Soon
Day 1 - Coming Soon
Itinerary three
14 Days
Coming Soon
Day 1 - Coming Soon
Speaking Italian
I'm going to be honest with you - my Italian is lacking in all departments.
Luckily, a vast number of Italians do speak English, and some go further, also speaking German and French too. This shouldn't mean we rely on them speaking to us in anything other than Italian. After all, we are in Italy.
I've always found that even a willingness to try goes a long way, and that's true here in Italy too. Hence, why I've created a little table with the basics. Enjoy!
| English | Italian | Greg's Pronunciation Breakdownâ„¢ |
|---|---|---|
| hello | Ciao | chow |
| bye | addio | adi-o |
| my name is... | Il mio nome è | il me or no me |
| yes | si | see |
| no | no | no |
| ok | okay | o-kay |
| please | Per favore | per fav-ore |
| thank you | grazie | grat-zi |
| sorry | scusate | scuz atay |
| how much? | quanto | quanto |
| excuse me | Scusami | scuz-a-me |
| what? | che cosa? | kick-azza |
Visas and Borders
Visas
Good news, Italy is a member of the Schengen agreement along with 25 other nations in Europe. This agreement grants freedom of movement between the countries, and importantly, cost and worry-free.
Therefore, if you are a national of any of the following countries, you are free to enter Italy as often as you like.
Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
Similarly, if you are from a Schengen country, which is also part of the EU, you can work and study in Italy without a visa. Anyone outside of the EU will need to obtain a work visa to work in Italy.
At the end of 2022, Shengen Counties plan to introduce an ETIAS Visa Waiver form. It stands for European Travel Information and Authorisation System and will cost €7. Free if you're under 18 or over 70. Everyone outside of the Schengen agreement will have to get one, and it will be valid for three years.
However, for now, nationals of the following countries can travel to Italy for up to 90 days visa-free within 180 day period:
Albania, Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Barbados, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Brunei Darussalam, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominica, El Salvador, Estonia, Federated States of Micronesia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Grenada, Guatemala, Honduras, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Japan, Kiribati, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania Luxembourg, Macau, Macedonia, Malaysia, Malta, Marshall Islands, Mauritius, Mexico, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Norway, Palau, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Republic of Cyprus, Romania, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Samoa, San Marino, Serbia, Seychelles, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Solomon Islands, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Timor-Leste, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tuvalu, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay, Vanuatu, Vatican City, Venezuela
Outside the countries I have mentioned, I'm afraid you will have to apply for a visa to enter Italy.
Borders
Four countries have land borders with Italy. They are France, Switzerland, Austria and Slovenia, all of whom are Schengen counties. Therefore you will have no issues crossing the borders.
Within Italy, there are also two city-states, The Vatican and San Marino, where, again, moving between the borders is hassle-free.
If, however, you are arriving in Italy via the sea, you are more than likely to arrive at one of these twelve major ports.
- Ancona - Just south of San Marino on Italy's northeast coast.
- Bari - In the southeast of Italy.
- Civitavecchia - A short skip north of Rome on the northwest coastline.
- Genoa - In the heart of the city of Genoa in northwest Italy.
- Livorno - On the outskirts of Pisa in northwest Italy.
- Messina - The main port linking Sicily and the mainland, in the northeast of the island.
- Naples - In the city of Naples on Italy's stunning west coast.
- Palermo - On the north coast of Sicily.
- Portofino - On the outskirts of Genoa, in the northwest of Italy.
- Portovenere - Northwest coast above Pisa.
- Trieste - As far northeast as you can go by boat near the Slovenian border.
- Venice - In northeast Italy.
Let me know if this section has been helpful in the comments below. Thanks
What to Pack
It's always difficult knowing what to pack, and it's no different when you're backpacking Italy. After all, Italy has sunny warm Mediterranean beaches and the snowy cold Alps. That said, below are a few of my top suggestions that I have found essential in Italy.
However, don't forget to check out my What to Pack Blog for the full backpacking list.
If you think I've missed something please let me know in the comments at the bottom of the page, and I will take a look into them.
Our Top Pick for Backpacking Italy is...
Something Smart
Backpacking normally means wearing the same clothes day after day. However, things are a little different in Italy. The way you look is important, even if you're backpacking.
Part of the Italian culture is about walking with a swagger and knowing you look on point. Your hair is perfect, your clothes are freshly pressed, and you accessorise properly. All of this matters if you want to make an impression, and you do.
Make sure you have something to impress, be it a suit jacket, a great pair of shoes, that nice watch or a freshly trimmed beard. You'll be surprised how it can help you open doors here in Italy.
Best of the Rest
Clothing and Shoes ∼
When backpacking Italy, you will be covering a lot of miles on foot. Therefore, the first item of clothing I suggest is a decent pair of walking shoes. I use these Karrimor's and I love them. They're super comfy, waterproof, and have dealt with city life as well as wet boggy mountainous terrains.
If you plan to head up into the alps for a ski session or just want to know what it's like up there, then you'll need a warm cosy coat. As always, when it comes to keeping warm in colder climes, it's worth spending that bit extra to get quality. Northface is the only company I trust to keep me warm and cosy in the cold.
If you are in Italy for the ski season, you'll need the full rundown of kit. You'll know better than me what that is, as I cannot ski yet!
For those of you backpacking Italy for the warmer side of life, it's swim shorts, t-shirts, flip-flops and lightweight comfy clothing. Just remember to keep it fashionable. Feel free to accessorise with some stylish polarised sunglasses too.
It's all about that look.
Electronics ∼
Italy is, undoubtedly, one of the most beautiful countries in the world, with more to see and photograph than almost anywhere else in the world. Given this, you're going to want something better than your phone for some pictures. Nowadays I use a Nikon D500, and I take it everywhere.
Ultimately, I don't need to tell you to take your phone, you'll have that in your hand. But to keep it and your camera running in Italy, you will need to charge it. Italy runs on a 230v supply and uses a type C plug (the two round pins). If your appliances don't use that, get yourself a travel adapter. I always recommend my iBlockCube. It's phenomenal and will charge any of your appliances across 150 countries.
Toiletries ∼
Being a first-world European country, you can purchase all sorts of toiletries in Italy. My advice is to bring the essentials that you want, but if you do forget something, don't worry, Italy will have it.
That said, whenever I'm in a hot country, I always pack suncream. I've always found Nivea to be a reliable brand, but if you have one you like, pack it.
Bags ∼
Having tried many travel bags, there are only two brands I'd happily recommend. Ordinarily, that's either Osprey or Berghaus.
Ideally, if you're planning on doing a lot of exploring, you'll want a day bag as well. Nothing flash or big, just comfortable and somewhere you can put a water bottle, a bite to eat, that phrasebook, and the essentials.
Female Travellers ∼
As a male, I cannot speak for you. But, I do try to be inclusive.
I've spoken to a number of my female traveller friends about their experiences whilst backpacking Italy. And, as with other western European countries, they couldn't think of any issues. They do, however, recommend packing what you think you'll need, but if you run out, you will find what you need in Italy.
As mentioned, for a more in-depth rundown on each product and a full what to pack list, check out this blog.
Travel Insurance
All in all, backpacking Italy is as safe as it gets. That is unless you plan to ski down a black run from the top of the Alps, you absolute nutter.
However, that doesn't mean you shouldn't get insurance - because you should.
Insurance isn't just there for injuries on the slopes. It's there for flight cancellations, loss or damage to your valuables, or even being a victim of crime. Admittedly, any of those could happen anywhere. So, sadly, and I hate saying it, you need insurance wherever you go, including Italy.
The only point I will make that is fairly specific to north Italy is this. If you do plan to ski, make sure you inform your insurance company. It will add to your insurance cost, but it won't be as much as if you injure yourself skiing and haven't got the correct cover. It is not worth chancing it.
Check that you've got the correct cover for everything you want to do whilst backpacking Italy. Honestly, you probably won't ever need to use it, but it's good to know it's there.
Backpacking Italy Ethically
When it comes to backpacking Italy ethically, there isn't much to go through other than the usual ethical backpacker issues.
Unlike Spain, there is no Pamplona Bull Run to talk about or mistreatment of animals, like in parts of Morocco, Thailand and Indonesia. Similarly, there isn't the need to mention the issues of plastics and waste as in Sri Lanka and India.
Yes, of course, anything we, as backpackers, can do to reduce our carbon footprint and reduce the number of plastics we use is great. But, from my experience, Italy is very good at this. I encountered little rubbish on the streets and a good number of bins throughout the towns. Likewise, food, especially meats and fresh ingredients were wrapped in biodegradable or recyclable waste.
Italy is tightening up on its pollution and environmental issues, and I like that a lot.
So, how can we backpack Italy more ethically?
The answer is to do with the historic artworks, sculptures and paintings on display. Every time these masterpieces come into contact with humans, we damage them.
Over the years and the thousands of hand-taps, coughs, breaths and sneezes, we are slowly corroding them. Try not to touch these majestic works and instead, admire them from a distance. That way, they'll be better preserved for the generations of travellers to come.
Safety
As I have alluded to above in the travel insurance section, Italy is a safe country to visit.
Firstly, I will point out that the Godfather, the Italian Mafia, related films and documentaries are not fantasy. It is a thing.
Within Italy, there are six major mafia groups, with the three oldest and most powerful being the Sicilian Mafia, the 'Ndrangheta from Calabria and the Camorra from Campania.
Whilst I point this out, they are not a threat to tourists unless you really fuck up, and I mean, shoot the boss's grandmother or something. Don't do that!
Outside of that, violent crime is at a very low level across Italy. In fact, according to crime figures, Italy is safer than the United Kingdom.
On the whole, the only crime that tourists are likely to face is pickpocketing around tourist destinations and markets. When in these locations, keep a hand on your phone, wallet and valuables. Another option is to put your zipped bag, with your valuables in, on your front. That way, you can see them at all times.
In regards to terrorism, Italy hasn't seen the large scale attacks that other prominent European countries, such as Spain, France and the United Kingdom have. That doesn't mean it won't happen, so be vigilant, and report anything suspicious to the Italian authorities.
In all fairness, the biggest threat to your safety whilst backpacking Italy is thinking you can ski, when you can't.
Brief History
In 2021, archaeologists discovered nine Neanderthal remains dating back from between 50,000 and 100,000 years ago. Although, the first Hominins in Italy are believed to date back 850,000 years ago.
Yet, the first 'proper' settlements of Italy occurred in the Etruscan period, between 900 - 800 BC. Some of these cities still exist, namely, Perugia and Chiusi.
Rome was founded in 753BC, later becoming the infamous Roman Empire. Over the next few hundred years, Rome defeated numerous other groups in Italy, such as the Samnites and numerous Greek tribes.
By 27BC Rome had engulfed Europe and had a new leader, Gaius Julius Caesar Octavianus (son of Julius Caesar). So began the Roman Empire which became one of the world's most powerful empires, controlling twenty-one per cent of the world's population.
The Empire fell in 476AD, allowing the Germanic Kings to take control. By the mid-6th century, Italy, once again, became divided into numerous kingdoms. These Kingdoms fought for many years in an ever-changing landscape that saw numerous Popes, Napolean, the rise of France, Prussia, The Ottoman and Russian Empires until the country was unified in 1815.
In 1870 Rome replaced Florence as the country's capital, and peace reigned within Italy until 1908 when a massive earthquake and tsunami killed between 80,000 and 150,000 in the Strait of Messina.
World War I arrived in Europe in 1914, with Italy fighting against their allies, the German and Austria-Hungary alliance playing a pivotal role in numerous battles in the Alps. However, when World War II broke out in 1939, Italy sided with the Nazis and invaded Greece in 1940.
After the war in 1946, Italy became a republic, and despite corruption, uprisings, assassinations and riots, it has become a country best known for its sports, history, composers, music and fashion.
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