Insider’s Guide to Italy
Info
Language: Italian
Documents: Passport, No visa
Money: Euro
Where to Go:
The St. Regis Florence
Rome
- Don’t Miss: A vintage Fiat 500 tour through the city – a great way to explore the Eternal City!
- Stay:
- Westin Excelsior Rome: Walking distance from the Spanish Steps, this hotel is perfect for families.
- Hotel Eden: Reopening in 2017 after a year of renovations, this hotel has a prime location in the Old City of Rome.
Florence
- Don’t Miss: Shopping in the markets – from leather goods to handcrafted items, the markets are the perfect place to find authentic souvenirs!
- Stay:
- St. Regis Florence: Watch the Champagne Ritual in the Winter Garden Bar and then eat dinner at the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant Enoteca Pinchiorri.
- Hotel Savoy, a Rocco Forte Hotel: Located on the Piazza Repubblica, the hotel is in a central location and offers a children’s program.
Venice
- Don’t Miss: A mask-making class with a Venetian maestro
- Stay:
- Hotel Danieli: The rooftop restaurant la Terrazza offers incredible views of Venice – the perfect place to enjoy your complimentary breakfast!
- The Gritti Palace: Take a class at the Gritti Epicurean School – you’ll wow your friends and family at home with your new skills.
A bedroom in the stunning Katara Suite at the Excelsior Hotel Gallia in Milan.
Milan
- Don’t Miss: A viewing of Da Vinci’s Last Supper – just be sure to get a reservation well in advance.
- Stay:
- Excelsior Hotel Gallia: Located across from the Milan Centrale train station, this newly renovated hotel has an amazing aperitivo.
- Hotel Principe Di Savoia: After a day of shopping, relax in Club 10 Fitness & Beauty Center’s heated rooftop pool.
Como
- Don’t Miss: Exploring the lake from the water – we recommend a tour to learn history and spot celebrity villas!
- Stay:
- Hotel Grand Tremezzo: Indulge at the hotel’s T Spa, which was named Best Spa by Virtuoso in 2016!
- Palazzo del Vice Re: a five-bedroom boutique property perfect for a large multigenerational family or a quiet romantic escape.
Amalfi Coast
- Don’t Miss: a panoramic drive on the coast – just don’t try to drive! Get a driver who can manage the windy roads and show you the hidden spots.
- Stay:
- Caesar Augustus: This stunning Relais & Chateaux property has the best views of the sea on Capri.
- Belmond Hotel Caruso: The infinity pool is perched on the cliff overlooking the coast – one of the best views you can get from a pool!
The view from the Caesar Augustus in Capri – who’s ready to go?
Puglia
- Don’t Miss: A bike tour along the coast or around the Baroque city Lecce.
- Stay:
- Borgo Egnazia: With three pools, a cookery school, water sports center, and kids clubs, this is the perfect Italian resort for the whole family.
Sicily
- Don’t Miss: A concert in the Greek Theater – Madonna, Elton John, and Sting are just a few of the people who have performed at this 3rd Century theater.
- Stay:
- Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo: This hotel opened in 1873 as the first hotel in Taormina. Enjoy fresh, regional cuisine as you enjoy unparalleled view of Mount Etna from the hotel restaurant.
A mask-making class in Venice is a must!
- Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo: This hotel opened in 1873 as the first hotel in Taormina. Enjoy fresh, regional cuisine as you enjoy unparalleled view of Mount Etna from the hotel restaurant.
Tipping:
- Dining: Round total up for good service
- Hotel: €1 per bag for porter; €2 per day for housekeeper
- Cab: Round up to nearest Euro
- Private driver: €40/full day
- Private Guide: €40/full day
Dining
What to eat:
- Risotto alla Milanese
- Prosciutto
- Bistecca alla florentina
- Bruschetta al Pomodoro
- Spaghetti alla carbonara
- Carciofi alla Romana
- Insalata caprese
- Burrata
- Marinara pizza
- Wine – of course!
See our Italy Dining & Tipping Guide here!
Know Before You Go:
- Be sure to bring a wrap or sweater to cover your shoulders when visiting churches. Also, don’t wear shorts or short skirts/dresses.
- Ask before taking photos in museums, art galleries, and churches. Some don’t allow flash photography and some don’t allow any photos.
- To avoid looking like a tourist, don’t order a cappuccino after 11 AM.
Getting Around
- Italy’s rail network is an easy way to get from city to city. Purchase tickets and seat reservations in advance, and enjoy the experience!
