Italy: what to know before you go

Italy remains one of the most popular destinations, and with popularity comes a growing set of rules worth knowing in advance.

The tourist tax

It is charged in almost every large city, paid at the hotel on arrival, and not included in the price of a tour. The amount depends on the hotel category and the city.

Historic centres

Venice, Florence and Rome restrict traffic and group tours during certain hours. Tickets for the popular museums and galleries are best bought weeks ahead — on the day there are often none at all.