Italy

Climate and When to Vacation in Italy:

Italy enjoys a predominantly Mediterranean (mild) climate with a colder Alpine climate in the mountains to the north and a hot and dry climate in the south. Italy's coast are pleasant almost all year. Much of Italy is very hot in summer and summer is the height of vacation season. Probably the best seasons to visit Italy are late spring and early fall.

More about Italy's Climate and When to Go on Wandering Italy

Regions of Italy:

Italy is divided into 20 regions with 18 on the mainland and two islands, Sardinia and Sicily. Although they are all Italian, each region still holds some of their own customs and traditions and there are many regional food specialties.

Italian Currency and Time Zone:

Italy uses the euro, the same currency used in most of Europe. 100 euro cents = 1 euro. At the time the Euro was adopted, its value was set at 1936.27 Italian Lire (the previous unit of currency).

Italy's time is 1 hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+1)

Entering Italy:

Non-EU visitors to Italy need a valid Passport. The maximum length of stay is 90 days. For longer stays, visitors will need a special permit. Visitors from some countries may be required to have a visa to enter Italy. EU visitors can enter Italy with only a national identity card.

See Italy Visa Requirements and How Long Can I Stay in Europe? for more information.

Religion in Italy:

The main religion is Catholic but there are some small Protestant and Jewish communities and an increasing Muslim immigrant population. The seat of Catholicism is Vatican City, the Pope's residence. In Vatican City you can visit St. Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the extensive Vatican Museums. Vatican City Travel Essentials

Major Travel Destinations in Italy:

The top travel destinations in Italy include the 3 cities of Rome (Italy's capital), Venice, and Florence, the region of Tuscany, and the Amalfi Coast.