How to Plan a Trip to Italy: Guide for South African Travellers

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2min read

Published 23 August 2024

Flight Centre Author

Guest Blogger


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Planning a trip to Italy from South Africa is half the fun of the holiday. In fact, research has even shown that just planning a trip can make you happier… not that you needed to tell us twice! Italy has been a top trending destination for South Africans, and we’re noticing loads of us want to check out the rolling hills of Tuscany, the historic streets of Rome, and the romantic canals of Venice. So, how do you plan a trip to Italy which will go down in the books as one of your best holidays yet? We’ve got some expert advice for you. 


Contents


Starting Your Italian Adventure

The first thing to do is decide on the best time to visit. The ideal months are April to June and September to October when the weather is pleasant, and the tourist crowds are thinner. These months allow you to fully enjoy the outdoor cafes, picturesque piazzas, and breathtaking landscapes without the peak season rush. But obviously, if you have to work around school holidays, you might need to go in the peak season of July and August – just know that it can get very hot, even for us Saffas!

When planning, start by bookmarking key resources like Flight Centre's Italy travel page which offers comprehensive travel deals and insights. You can check out city-specific pages for Rome, and Venice to decide which cities you want to see. Your travel expert can work with you to recommend where you should go depending on your priorities and preferences. 

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Budgeting for Your Trip

On average, a two-week trip to Italy could cost around R40,000 per person, which includes airfare, accommodation, transportation, and meals. However, this is very much an estimate. The true cost can vary based on your travel style, the cities you choose to visit, and the type of experiences you wish to have. Luxury travellers might spend more, while budget travellers could enjoy Italy for less. If you want to get by on a smaller amount, chat to us about cost-saving tips like booking train tickets in advance, going out of season, finding flight deals, or choosing lesser-known regions to explore.

Crafting the Perfect Itinerary

How many days are enough when you plan a trip to Italy? The flights aren’t too long and there’s no jet lag to contend with, so it’s possible to do Italy in a week. But if you’re planning the perfect Italy trip, a 10 to 14-day itinerary allows you to explore multiple regions. Start with the classics like Rome, Florence, and Venice, of course. But also consider adding a few days in the Amalfi Coast or Cinque Terre too. If northern Italy appeals to you, an itinerary including Milan, Lake Como, and perhaps a side trip to the Italian Alps could be worthwhile too.

To get the best slice of La Dolce Vita, you’ll want to make time for some quintessential Italian experiences like wine tastings in Tuscany, a food tour in Bologna, or a private tour of the Vatican Museums to get a deeper understanding of Italian culture. You can plan and book these in advance to make sure you get the experiences you want, and booking skip-the-line or guided tickets can also help you save time and squeeze in a little more to your Italian itinerary. 

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Expert tip

Trains are a fantastic way to get around Italy as they take you to the heart of each city; and, unless you're in Tuscany, or around the lakes, driving in Italy is not for the faint-hearted!

Rachel

Destination Specialist

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Essential Travel Tips

  • Visa Requirements: As a South African, you'll need a Schengen visa to enter Italy. Apply at least a few months in advance to avoid any last-minute issues.
  • Getting Around: Italy's trains are a convenient and scenic way to travel between major cities. Consider renting a car if you plan to explore the countryside though.
  • Staying Connected: Invest in a local SIM card or an e-SIM to connect to the internet and be able to check maps and timetables.
  • Cultural Etiquette: Italians appreciate politeness; a few Italian phrases and a respectful approach in interactions go a long way.
  • Dining: Embrace Italian dining customs to the fullest! Enjoying long, leisurely meals and try out aperitivo in the early evening.

Ready to Book Your Next Holiday?

From Renaissance art to romantic cities, Italy offers holidaymakers the kind of experience that's hard to beat. Visit Flight Centre's Italy travel planning page to start planning your dream Italian getaway, or speak to a Flight Centre travel expert today to find the best flight deals and get more tailored advice on crafting your perfect Italian holiday.

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