Dreaming of that trip to Italy, but not sure how you’ll afford it? Wondering how to travel to Italy cheap? Discover ways you can save money while traveling Italy on a budget.
Italy is on the top of so many travelers’ bucket lists, and between its ancient history, famous art, and great food, it’s easy to see why. And while Italy is not the most expensive vacation, the cost of accommodations, food, transportation, and activities can definitely add up if you’re not careful. If you think that a dream trip to Italy is out of your budget, these tips will help you save money while still having the trip you always imagined. Let me show you how to travel Italy on a budget.
Italy on a Budget FAQ
Absolutely! Italy can be enjoyed without breaking the bank. There are plenty of ways to cut costs while still experiencing the beauty and charm of this amazing country. From budget-friendly accommodations to delicious street food, you can make the most of your Italian adventure without draining your wallet.
The budget really depends on your travel style, but on average, you can get by comfortably with around 50 to 70 euros per day. This should cover your accommodation, meals, local transportation, and a bit of sightseeing. Of course, you can always tailor it to your preferences – if you’re a fan of gelato or fancy a splurge on a special dinner, just adjust accordingly.
If you’re watching your pennies, head south! Southern Italy, including regions like Calabria and Sicily, tends to be more budget-friendly than the northern counterparts like Milan or Venice. You’ll find affordable accommodations, mouthwatering street food, and often fewer crowds, giving you a more authentic and economical Italian experience.
Consider visiting Italy during the shoulder seasons – April to June or September to October. During these months, you can enjoy pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and lower prices on accommodations. Avoid the peak summer months if you can – not only will you save money, but you’ll also have a more relaxed and enjoyable trip without battling hordes of tourists at every iconic site.
Save Money Getting to Italy
One of the biggest ways to save on your trip to Italy is to get a good deal on flights. Flights will usually be cheaper during the off-season, like fall and spring, and flying in mid-week, instead of on the weekend, can also save you a good deal of money.
Look at all the major airports in Italy, rather than restricting yourself to only the city you want to visit Italy. Many cities are just a short and inexpensive train ride away from each other, so flying into Milan and then taking the train to Venice, for example, may be a little more cost-effective, and if you can fit that into your schedule, it’s a great way to see more than just one city.
Location, Location, Location
Staying at the most popular locations in Italy like Rome, Venice, Florence, Cinque Terre, and the Amalfi Coast, are not going to be cheap. Don’t be afraid to explore other, lesser-known parts of the country. They may just surprise you. There are so many great hidden gems all over Italy! You’ll have a more authentic experience outside tourist areas.
Save Money on Accommodations in Italy
If you’re on a tight budget, accommodation is probably where you’ll be able to find your biggest savings. The cost difference between a luxury hotel and a small vacation rental can be in the hundreds and even thousands of dollars.
My best tip is to stay just outside the city center. The closer you get to the more touristy part of the cities, the more expensive hotels and vacation rentals and hotels will be.
It may be a hassle to trek into the different Italian cities each day, but you’ll also get a more authentic experience during your stay. Having more locals and fewer tourists near your accommodations may also mean better, and more authentic food.
Save Money on Food in Italy
One of the biggest draws of Italy for many people is the food! From pasta to panini to pesto to pannacotta to pizza, Italian food is unforgettable, and there are so many great places to eat in Italy without totally blowing your budget. You’d be surprised and what amazing food you can discover, even at the grocery store.
The best way to avoid overpaying for food is to get away from the highly trafficked tourist areas. A restaurant with a view of the Colosseum in Rome is going to cost a lot more than one several blocks away.
Watch out for a coperto charge, which is an extra cost for sitting in the restaurant to eat. It’s usually only a few Euros per person, but it can really add up, especially if you have a big group. The coperto charge will usually be listed on a menu, but be sure to ask if you’re not sure.
You can always pop into a forno, or bakery, for pastries or a slice of focaccia or pizza for only a few Euros. If you’re traveling with kids, this will be the easiest and most budget-friendly way to feed the littles.
Another way to save money while dining out in Italy is to drink tap water. As a tourist, you will generally automatically be given bottles of drinking water, but if you’re comfortable with tap water, then go for it.
Save Money on Transportation in Italy
You can save a good deal in Italy by being smart with your transportation costs. The good news is that train travel in Italy is excellent and affordable. Many budget travelers choose trains as their main transportation option rather than car rental. You can get almost anywhere by train quickly and efficiently.
Most people will tell you to buy a rail pass to save you the hassle of booking separate train tickets, but if you know where you’re going ahead of time, purchasing individual tickets is easy, and can actually save you a lot of money if you’re willing to do the cost comparison ahead of time. Another great way to save on the Italian trains is by using the regional trains vs. the high-speed trains.
Save Money on Activities in Italy
There are a lot of tour options in Italy that can be a great way to see the country, but they do come at a cost, especially if you do several. It’s easy to explore Italy on your own without a tour guide. And even if you do want a tour guide, many cities in Italy offer free walking tours.
Aside from free walking tours, there are also a lot of great free or discounted entry online museum guides that will walk you through Italy’s most famous museum and offer descriptions of many works of art.
Visit Gardens
The majority of gardens in Italy are free and open to the public. Visit the Bobboli Gardens in Florence or the Borghese Gardens in Rome. They’re both free and a great way to experience your time Italy on a budget.
I recommend writing up your budget before planning your trip to Italy. Knowing exactly what you have available to spend will help you as you book your transportation, accommodations, and activities, and even think about where and what you plan to eat. The great thing about Italy is that you don’t need to have a luxury trip to experience a beautiful, authentic Italy.
how to plan a trip to Italy on a budget
The best way to plan a cheap trip to Italy is to do some serious planning. Research cheap flights, budget airlines, trains, budget hotels, and free things to do in Italy. I highly recommend downloading our Italy Planner, which you can find here. A great way to save money on traveling to Italy is to use rewards travel. We have some great resources and recommendations here.
Traveling to Italy on a budget is possible, you just need to do your homework. I hope this has helped!
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