Setting the Scene for Your Italian Adventure 

Are you an adventure traveler yearning for the picturesque landscapes and historic charm of Italy? Dreaming of hiking through the rolling hills of Tuscany, exploring the rugged coastlines of Cinque Terre, or wandering along the Path of Gods in Amalfi? For hikers and adventure seekers, Italy offers a unique blend of challenging trails and spectacular scenery that promises an unforgettable experience. This comprehensive guide will take you through everything you need to know about traveling to Italy from the US and Canada and getting around once you’re there—perfectly tailored for self-guided hiking and biking adventurers like you.

Traveling to Italy 

The Best Ways to Travel to Italy from the US 

Flying to Italy from the US can be done directly or with layovers, depending on your home gateway and budget.  

Direct flights are available to Rome, Milan, Venice, Florence and Naples from major cities including: 

• Atlanta (ATL)  
• Boston (BOS) 
• Charlotte (CLT) 
• Chicago (ORD) 
• Dallas (DFW) 
• Detroit (DTW) 
• Los Angeles (LAX) 
• Miami (MIA) 
• New York (JFK) 
• Philadelphia (PHL) 
• San Francisco (SFO) 
• Washington D.C. (IAD) 

You can often find cheaper options through European hubs such as London, Paris, or Frankfurt. And once you're there, for those looking to reduce their airtime, you can consider alternative modes of transport to take you the rest of the way to Italy. While it may be more time-consuming, traveling by train or bus through Europe can be a scenic and enjoyable experience. Check out some flight-free travel options. 

Choosing Flights from the US to Italy 

Italy is well-connected with international flights from the US. Major airlines such as Delta, American Airlines, and United offer direct flights to various Italian cities. Depending on your destination within Italy, you might land in Rome, Milan, Venice, or Florence. Rome's Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport (FCO) is the busiest and often the most convenient entry point for travelers planning to explore multiple regions. 

The Best Ways to Travel to Italy from Canada 

Traveling to Italy from Canada can be done directly or with layovers, depending on your home gateway and budget. 

Direct flights are available to Rome and/or Milan from major cities including: 

• Montreal (YUL) 
• Calgary (YYC) 

Choosing Flights from Canada to Italy 

Italy is easily accessible with numerous international flights from Canada. Major airlines such as Air Canada, WestJet, and Alitalia offer direct flights to Italian cities like Rome and Milan. Depending on your destination within Italy, you might land in Venice, Florence, Rome or Milan. Rome's Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport (FCO) is the busiest and often the most convenient entry point for travelers planning to explore multiple regions. 

Best Airports for Each Region 

Choosing the right airport can save you time and money. For exploring Northern Italy, Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) is ideal. If you’re heading to the central regions like Tuscany, Cinque Terre or Umbria, Rome's Fiumicino Airport (FCO), Pisa (PSA) or Florence (FLR) will be your best bet. For Southern Italy and the islands, Naples International Airport (NAP) and Palermo (PMO) and Catania-Fontanarossa (CTA) airports in Sicily are the most convenient.  

Refer to the Travel & Transfers section on the individual trip pages on our website for more details on the best way to get to the start of your Macs Adventure trip.

Preparing for the Journey 

Visa Requirements and Travel Documents 

Before you start packing your bags, ensure you have all the necessary travel documents.

• Visa Requirements: 
  • US Citizens: No visa required for stays up to 90 days. Check the US Department of State website for the most up-to-date rules and regulations. 
  • Canadian Citizens: Also exempt from visa requirements for stays up to 90 days. Check the Canadian Government website for the most up-to-date rules and regulations.
• Passport Validity:
  • US Citizens: Six months validity recommended, at least 3 months validity beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen area. Check your passport validity.
  • Canadian Citizens: Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you expect to leave the Schengen area. Check your passport validity. 

You’ll be required to show your passports at each accommodation and it’s wise to keep photocopies of your important documents, including your passport and travel insurance, with you at all times. 

Check the US Department of State website or the Canadian Government website for the most up-to-date rules and regulations.   

Packing Essentials for All Seasons 

Packing for Italy can be tricky due to its diverse climate. If you’re hiking or biking, comfy and durable footwear is a must. In the summer, lightweight and breathable clothing will keep you cool, while in the spring and fall, layering is key. Don’t forget essentials like a rain jacket, sunscreen, a universal power adapter, a portable battery pack to keep your devices charged and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated on your adventures. Many Italian towns and cities are dotted with mountain spring water fountains that are safe to drink from – no need to buy the bottled stuff! 

Check out our hiking packing guide or our biking packing guide for a more thorough, in-depth checklist.

How to Travel Around Italy 

The Best Ways to Travel Around Italy 

Italy offers numerous ways to get around, each providing a unique perspective of the country. Trains are one of the most popular methods, offering scenic routes and efficient service. Buses are another cost-effective option, especially for reaching smaller towns and rural areas. For those looking for flexibility, renting a car allows you to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations at your own pace. 

Navigating Italy by Train 

Italy boasts an extensive train network that makes it easy to explore from region to region. There are three main categories of trains: regional, national, and high-speed. Regional trains offer a more leisurely way to journey through smaller towns and coastal areas, perfect for soaking in the scenery. National trains connect major cities at a steady pace, while high-speed trains are the star of the show, significantly reducing travel time. The fastest Frecciarossa trains zip between major hubs like Turin, Milan, Bologna, Florence, Rome, Naples, and Salerno. For slightly slower travel, the Frecciargento trains connect Rome to beautiful destinations like Venice, Verona, Bari, and even the southern regions of Lamezia Terme and Reggio Calabria. When at large train stations, remember to check the departure boards using your train number (instead of your arrival city) to find your platform. Also, double-check your ticket for the correct train car if you've reserved a seat—this little tip will make your travel experience as smooth as possible!

How to Buy Train Tickets in Italy 

Buying train tickets in Italy is straightforward. You can purchase tickets online through platforms like Trenitalia or Italo. We recommend downloading their app for paper-free travel and where you can validate your ticket prior to boarding (required to avoid fines). You can also purchase directly at the train station via automated ticket machines, which usually offer instructions in multiple languages, making the process easy for non-Italian speakers. Booking in advance can save you money and secure your seat, especially on popular routes. 

Navigating Bus Tickets and Local Transport 

For bus travel, websites like FlixBus and local operators provide schedules and ticketing options. Keep in mind that not all buses accept credit cards, so having some euros on hand is advisable. In cities, local transport options like trams, metros, and taxis are readily available. Apps like MyCicero can help you plan routes and purchase tickets for various modes of transport. You can also buy bus tickets from some local Tabacchi shops, which are similar to a 7-Eleven or a small convenience store.  

We always recommend checking for transportation strikes and ensuring your train tickets are valid before traveling. If there are any bumps in the road, our on-trip support team are only a phone call away to lend a hand with any last-minute changes. 

Taxis in Italy 

When it comes to hailing a ride in Italy, traditional taxis are your best bet, as Uber doesn’t operate in most of the country. Taxis are usually available at designated taxi stands, or you can call one to pick you up!  

Here are some top taxi app suggestions that are user-friendly and allow you to book rides conveniently from your smartphone. So, whether you're heading to a train station or exploring a new city, rest assured that getting around will be easy and hassle-free! 

• FreeNow: one of the most popular taxi apps in Italy, it operates in Milan, Naples, Rome, Turin, Catania, Palermo, and Cagliari.   
• ItTaxi: operating in over 95 cities across Italy, its drivers are very knowledgeable and can get you from A to B, no problem! 
• WeTaxi: Operating in over 20 Italian cities, it can find a taxi nearby based on your geolocation. 

The Cinque Terre Travel Card 

For those eager to explore the stunning coastal villages of Cinque Terre, our Cinque Terre hiking trips come with a 3-Day Cinque Terre Train & Trails Card included! This convenient card grants you unlimited access to the trains and hiking trails connecting the five picturesque towns: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, as well as the bordering villages of Levanto and La Spezia. With incredible views at every turn, you can easily hop from one charming village to the next, all while enjoying the incredible scenery. The card also includes benefits like discounted entry to local attractions and free use of some local buses, making it an empowering way to experience the beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site at your own pace. 

 
Sustainable Travel 

Responsible Tourism Practices 

Being a responsible tourist means respecting local cultures and minimizing your environmental footprint. Avoid single-use plastics, support local businesses, and follow the Leave No Trace principles when hiking. 

We’re working hard to lower our trip’s carbon emissions by collaboration with our local partners. Find out how we calculate our trip’s carbon score and discover more about our sustainable travel journey. 

Italy is a treasure trove of adventures waiting to be discovered. From its bustling cities to its tranquil countryside, there’s something for every type of traveler. By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your Italian escapades.  

Our Italian adventures are super popular and typically sell out 6-9 months in advance, so we recommend booking a call with one of our travel experts to plan your perfect hiking trip in Italy pronto! 

Remember, whether you’re biking through blissful Puglia, hiking through the Italian Alps or savoring gelato on the Amalfi Coast, Italy promises an adventure of a lifetime. Happy travels! 

To discover more about our Italy hiking and biking trips, head to our Guide to Hiking in Italy for tips, advice and inspiration.