VISIT ITALY

Italy is famous for the Renaissance and the incredible artists it produced. Italy is famous for its tourism, its art cities and unique scenery. Italy is also known for its language, its opera, its fashion and its luxury brands. It is also known for its football team!

The women wear colorful embroidered skirts and bodices over light-weight chemises or blouses, with elaborate hats decorated with flowers or fruit. Men’s traditional clothing tends to be simpler, but doesn’t lack from attention to detail, with embroidery and metal buttons and pins.

Italian language, Italian Italiano, Romance language spoken by some 66,000,000 persons, the vast majority of whom live in Italy (including Sicily and Sardinia). It is the official language of Italy, San Marino, and (together with Latin) Vatican City.

Italy is officially a secular state. However, its religious and social landscape is deeply influenced by the Roman Catholic tradition. Indeed, the epicentre and government of the Catholic Church (the Vatican) and its leader (the Pope) are located in Rome.

The euro (EUR) is the main currency used in Italy. Visa and Mastercard credit cards are also accepted however it is recommended to call ahead and advise the credit card company of travel plans to avoid interruptions while on vacation.

Italy is part of the Schengen travel zone. Until the end of 2021, Canadian and US citizens do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days within the zone. The European Travel Information and Authorization System, or ETIAS, took effect from January 2022. The ETIAS negates the need for a tourist visa for both US and Canadian citizens. It instead requires incoming travellers to register and pay a small fee at least 15 days before arriving in Europe. Each authorization is good for up to 3 years, provided the authorized passport does not expire in that time. If a traveller changes or renews their passport, they will need to re-apply for new authorization under the ETIAS.

A passport is the only reliable and universally accepted identification document, and it proves that you have a right to return to your country. You are strongly advised to always carry a valid passport when travelling to any foreign destination. Crossing international borders can be complicated and sometimes requires many different kinds of documents. Being prepared is the key to easing your way through this process, so make sure you know what documents you need, where to get them, and which ones will make your crossing quick and easy. 

The summer months are both the most popular and busiest time to visit Italy, and with good reason. The warm weather makes the Amalfi coast a delight, while iconic cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice are in full swing. Visiting the country in the spring or fall months is an excellent alternative as the weather is very pleasant weather there are fewer crowds. The caveat here, and with winter, is that many regional gems close for portions of the spring and fall and much of the winter.

Italy is a destination that has something to offer to everyone. From mouthwatering cuisine, historical landmarks, and breathtaking natural surroundings, the country offers endless options for its visitors. Families with young children will have no challenges finding something to do as there are many excursions and activities to keep both parents and children interested and eager.

• Carry a passport for all trips outside your country.
• Be sure that your passport is still valid.
• Check that your passport is valid for 6 months beyond your date of entry.
• Scan a copy of your passport and email it to yourself or carry it a separate location 
• Leave a copy with a trusted friend or relative who is not travelling with you.
• Keep your passport safe while travelling.
• Do not leave it unattended in your luggage, vehicle, hotel or elsewhere.
• Carry it in your money belt, inside coat pocket or purse, or lock it in your hotel safe.