🇮🇹 Italy

Italy is a symphony of regional cultures united by a love of food, family, and beautiful living. Each region speaks its own dialect and has distinct culinary traditions. Italian culture revolves around 'la famiglia' (family), 'la piazza' (the town square as community center), and taking time to savor life's pleasures. The concept of 'bella figura' (making a good impression) influences daily interactions, from dressing well to maintaining warm social connections.

Coffee Culture: Cappuccino only before 11 AM, never after meals - espresso is post-dinner. Dining Times: Lunch 12:30-2:30 PM, dinner after 8 PM, restaurants may close 3-7 PM. Dress Code: Italians dress elegantly, avoid shorts/flip-flops in churches and upscale areas. Greetings: Warm handshakes, close friends kiss both cheeks. Strikes: Transportation strikes common, check schedules.

Italian society prioritizes relationships and enjoying life over strict schedules. 'Passeggiata' (evening stroll) brings communities together. Regional identity is fierce - Milanese, Romans, and Sicilians have distinct personalities. Food is sacred - never rush meals, and pasta is always eaten with a fork only. Family Sunday lunches can last 4+ hours. Gesturing is part of communication - hands tell half the story.

Spring (April-May): Perfect weather, fewer crowds, Easter celebrations, temperatures 15-25°C. Summer (June-August): Hot and crowded, beach season, many locals vacation in August, 25-35°C+. Autumn (September-October): Ideal weather returns, harvest season, comfortable temperatures 18-27°C. Winter (November-March): Mild in south, cold in north, fewer tourists, ski season in Alps, 5-15°C.

High-Speed Trains: Trenitalia and Italo connect major cities, book early for discounts. Local Trains: Regional trains for smaller towns, validate tickets before boarding. Metro: Rome, Milan, Naples have subway systems. Car Rental: Great for Tuscany/countryside, avoid driving in historic city centers (ZTL zones). Buses: FLIXBUS for budget long-distance travel.

Budget Travel (€35-60/day): Hostels €15-30, pizzeria/trattoria meals €8-18, local transport €1.50-2.50, free churches and piazzas. Mid-Range (€60-120/day): Mid-range hotels €50-100, restaurant meals €25-45, attractions €8-20, some taxi use. Luxury (€120+/day): Luxury hotels €100-300+, fine dining €50-150+, private tours, premium experiences. Northern cities more expensive.

Italian is the main language with strong regional dialects. Essential phrases: 'Per favore' (please), 'Grazie' (thank you), 'Scusi' (excuse me), 'Parla inglese?' (Do you speak English?), 'Il conto, per favore' (the check, please). English common in tourist areas and among younger people. Learning basic Italian phrases shows respect and often leads to warmer interactions.

Italy is generally safe with friendly people. Watch for pickpockets near tourist attractions, especially Rome's Colosseum and Florence's Duomo. Avoid unlicensed street vendors. Don't leave valuables visible in cars. Emergency numbers: 112 (general), 113 (police). Tap water is safe. Pharmacies (farmacie) are abundant - green cross signs indicate open pharmacies.

Euro (€) is the currency. Cards accepted in most places, but small family restaurants may prefer cash. ATMs widely available. Typical costs: Espresso €1-1.50, Pizza slice €1.50-3, Pasta dish €8-15, Metro ticket €1.50, Mid-range hotel €50-100/night. Tipping not expected but rounding up or leaving small change appreciated for good service.