Italy, Spring
A curated packing list for your trip from Rome to Florence to the Amalfi Coast. Built for late-spring warmth, marble cathedrals, train days, and dinners that begin at nine.
Border & arrival
What customs and immigration expect.
On the ground
How life actually works once you arrive.
Schengen visa-free, ETIAS launches Q4 2026
US, UK, Canadian, Australian, and most EU citizens enter visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. ETIAS authorization (€20 fee, valid 3 years, free for under-18 and over-70) launches Q4 2026 with a 6-month transitional period. Passport must be valid 3+ months beyond your departure.
Colosseum opens 30 days ahead, sells fast
Timed-entry tickets to the Colosseum (Forum + Palatine Hill included) open exactly 30 days before your visit on the official site (colosseo.it). Guided, Arena, and Underground tours go in the first hour. Your slot also covers the Forum and Palatine for 24 hours.
Vatican opens 60 days ahead, sells 3-4 weeks before
Vatican Museums + Sistine Chapel tickets open 60 days before visit on museivaticani.va. Single-entry, fixed time slot. Often sell out 3-4 weeks ahead in late spring. Standard entry is €20 plus a €5 reservation fee, well worth it to skip the 2-hour walk-up line.
Coperto is the bread charge, not a tip
Most Italian restaurants add a "coperto" (cover charge, €1-4 per person) to the bill. This is not a tip; it covers bread and table service. Tipping on top is appreciated but never expected: round up the bill or leave a euro or two for genuinely good service.
Trenitalia and Italo connect everything
Both run high-speed trains between Rome, Florence, Milan, Venice, and Naples. Book on the apps 1-2 weeks ahead for the best fares (Trenitalia Frecce, Italo). Stamp paper tickets at the platform machines (regional trains only) before boarding to avoid a fine.
Type C, F, and L plugs at 230V
European-standard outlets plus the Italian Type L (three pins in a row). Type C and F adapters work in most newer hotels; older buildings still have Type L. UK and US travelers need an adapter; check voltage on hair tools (most are not dual-voltage).
Pre-Trip Checklist
Bookings, applications, and admin for the weeks before departure. Work backwards from your trip date.
- 6 weeks out
- 4 weeks out
- 2 weeks out
- 1 week out
- Day before
- Day of
Clothing
Italians dress well, even in tourist mode. Pack one notch up from "comfortable travel."
Shoes
Cobblestones eat thin soles. Marble is slick when wet. Bring real walking shoes.
Toiletries & Personal Care
Pharmacies (farmacie) are everywhere with a green cross. Pack travel sizes.
Health & Medications
Italian pharmacists give real medical advice and dispense more than US/UK pharmacies. A small kit covers most travel issues.
Documents & Money
Cards work nearly everywhere. Cash for tips, small markets, and the Roman souvenir-stand bargain.
Tech & Electronics
Type C/F adapters cover most rooms; older Italian outlets need Type L.
Luggage & Organization
Italian trains have small luggage racks. Hotel rooms in historic buildings can be tiny.
Comfort & In-Transit
Long flights, scenic train rides. Make peace with both.
Weather & Climate Gear
Late spring brings warm sun and brief showers. The Amalfi Coast is hotter and brighter.
Cultural & Activity-Specific
Churches, dinners, and Italian style each ask something specific.
Safety & Precautions
Italy is safe; pickpockets work tourist crowds in Rome, Florence, and Naples especially.