Some time ago, I asked you to send me your questions and curiosities about Italy and the Italian language. Here are the answers to the most interesting ones!
I clarify foreigners’ doubts about the Bel Paese
1. An Italian City to Discover (Not Obvious!) and Why?
If you are looking for a unique destination, Matera is the perfect place! Famous for its Sassi (Sassi), ancient dwellings carved into limestone rock, it has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Matera offers a journey through history, with charming alleys and enchanting views. Besides its fascinating history, the city boasts breathtaking landscapes, a vibrant cultural scene, and a traditional Lucanian cuisine that you must try!
Among other things, it has also hosted several foreign film sets!
2. Are there any programs or apps to live with Italians during a stay in Italy?
Yes! Here are some solutions to immerse yourself in Italian life:
- Short-term rentals: Platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, and HomeAway allow you to rent rooms or apartments from private individuals.
- Couchsurfing: A community that connects travelers with hosts willing to accommodate them for free, ideal for an authentic experience.
- Exchanges and volunteering: Programs like Workaway, WWOOF Italy, and HelpX offer food and accommodation in exchange for help in various fields.
- Events and international communities: Many Italian cities organize meetings and events for foreigners, perfect for meeting Italians and experiencing local culture.
3. How to Volunteer in Italy as a Foreigner?
If you want to dedicate part of your stay to volunteering, here are some options:
- Caritas and Italian Red Cross: They offer social assistance activities and help for those in need.
- Workaway, WWOOF Italy, and HelpX: Allow you to participate in projects in exchange for food and accommodation.
- European Solidarity Corps and European Voluntary Service: Programs dedicated to cultural exchanges and volunteering.
- Local associations: Present in many Italian cities, they deal with assistance to the elderly, support for refugees, and environmental projects.
4. Which Trains Are Best for Traveling in Italy?
If you want to travel in Italy by train, these are the best options:
- High Speed (Frecciarossa and Italo): Ideal for quick trips between major cities like Milan, Rome, Florence, and Naples. Tickets can be purchased online on Trenitalia and Italo.
- Regional trains: Perfect for short and economical routes between smaller cities. Tickets available at train stations, authorized tobacconists, and online.
- Intercity and InterCity Night: A good compromise between speed and price, available for purchase online and at the station.
Tickets can be purchased online, via app, or directly at the station.
Learn more about the differences between Italian trains by reading our article on the topic.
5. Why is Breakfast Sweet in Italy?
The habit of having a sweet breakfast has ancient roots, dating back to Roman times and the Renaissance. The influence of Mediterranean tradition and the evolution of tastes have solidified this practice.
Today, the Italian breakfast includes croissants, cookies, tarts, and cappuccino, a true morning ritual for millions of Italians!
6. Where Does the Italian Tradition of Eating in Courses Come From?
The Italian meal is structured in antipasto, primo, secondo, dolce, caffè, and ammazzacaffè, a tradition that has been established over the centuries.
Each region has its specialties, making every meal a true journey into Italian culinary culture. Besides food, the course meal is a moment of sharing and conviviality, kept alive by Italian families.
7. Is it Possible to Cross Italy by Train from North to South?
Yes! The Italian railway system offers several solutions:
- Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, and Italo: High-speed trains that cover long distances quickly.
- Regional and Intercity trains: More economical options for less hurried trips.
- Long-distance buses: Companies like FlixBus connect cities and regions at affordable prices.
Tickets can be purchased online, at stations, or through dedicated apps.
8. Is it Worth Visiting the Cinque Terre? How Long to Stay?
The Cinque Terre are a wonder of Liguria, with their colorful villages, breathtaking landscapes, and hiking trails. Visiting this place during Chinese New Year can be a great idea, as it is less crowded compared to summer.
How long to stay? We recommend 2-3 days to explore each village at a leisurely pace and enjoy the unique views without rushing.
Discover what to do in the Cinque Terre: read our article and watch our vlog!
9. Cities to Visit to Get to Know the Italian People
If you want to fully discover Italian culture, you must visit cities that represent the different souls of the country. Here are some must-see stops for your first trip:
- Rome: The “Eternal City” is an open-air museum, with the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, and a cuisine that will win you over with carbonara and supplì.
- Florence: The heart of the Renaissance, with artistic masterpieces like Michelangelo’s David and the Uffizi Gallery. Don’t miss a glass of Chianti and a Florentine steak!
- Naples: A genuine and authentic city, famous for pizza, Vesuvius, and its incredible music scene.
- Palermo: The Sicilian capital blends Arab and Norman influences, offering vibrant markets, Baroque churches, and dreamlike street food.
10. Puglia: Places You Can’t Miss
Puglia is one of the most fascinating regions in Italy, rich in breathtaking landscapes, historic towns, and postcard-perfect beaches. Here’s what you absolutely cannot miss:
- Alberobello: Unique in the world for its trulli, the characteristic houses with conical roofs, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- The Itria Valley: A succession of charming white villages like Ostuni, Locorotondo, and Cisternino.
- Lecce: The “Florence of the South,” famous for Lecce Baroque, its imposing churches, and vibrant atmosphere.
- Polignano a Mare: A village suspended on cliffs that plunge into the crystal-clear sea.
- Otranto: A historic city with dreamy beaches and a cathedral with unique mosaics.
- The Gargano: Untouched nature, forests, lakes, and the Tremiti Islands, a paradise for sea lovers.
Read our article about what to do in Polignano a Mare.
One place to learn Italian
Join the LearnAmo Academy11. Living and Working in Italy: How to Do It?
If you have an Italian passport, your move will be easier. However, there are some aspects to consider:
- Finding a job: Check job offer websites, placement agencies, and participate in job fairs.
- Rights and duties: Inform yourself about Italian labor laws, taxes, and social security contributions.
- Housing: Look for rental homes through real estate agencies or online sites.
- Integration: Learning Italian (if necessary) and participating in social and cultural life will help you settle in more quickly.
Discover Jobs for Graduates and Non-Graduates to Do in ITALY!
12. 15-Day Itinerary in Italy: An Unforgettable Tour
If you have 15 days to visit Italy, here’s a tour that will allow you to discover its wonders in a dynamic and engaging way.
Days 1-3: Rome
- Visit the historical monuments such as the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Pantheon.
- Participate in a food tour to try typical dishes.
- Stroll in the evening through the illuminated squares and fountains.
Days 4-6: Tuscany
- Discover Florence and its artistic wonders.
- Participate in a Tuscan cooking class.
- Explore the vineyards of Chianti by bicycle or Vespa.
Days 7-9: Amalfi Coast
- Visit Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello.
- Hike along the scenic coastal trails.
- Take a boat tour to discover hidden caves and coves.
Days 10-12: Sicily
- Explore Palermo and its markets.
- Taste local delights: arancini, cannoli, and granita.
- Hike on Etna and visit Taormina.
Days 13-15: Venice
- Navigate through the canals of Venice.
- Participate in a Venetian mask-making class.
- Enjoy a sunset gondola ride.
13. What is Life Like in Italy?
Living in Italy means immersing yourself in a vibrant culture, filled with good food, art, and a strong connection to the community.
- Italian cities offer history, lively markets, and animated squares.
- Culinary culture is a pillar of daily life.
- Italians love socializing and traditions.
- There are challenges like the cost of living and the job market.
But overall, Italy offers a unique experience that balances culture, beauty, and a passion for life.
Discover the advantages and disadvantages of living in Italy.
14. Where Can I Find Festivals, Dance Events, and Meet Gigi D’Agostino, Giorgio Prezioso, and Many Others?
If you are a fan of dance music and want to attend the best festivals and events in Italy, and maybe meet artists like Gigi D’Agostino and Giorgio Prezioso, here are some useful resources:
Specialized Websites
There are numerous online portals dedicated to promoting musical events and festivals in Italy. Among the most reliable are:
- Resident Advisor
- GoToEvent
- Festicket
These sites allow you to search for events based on date, music genre, and location.
Social Media
Follow the official pages of your favorite artists and major festivals on social platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Here, information about upcoming events and tours is often published in advance.
Event Apps
Download Eventbrite or Bandsintown to discover the closest musical events to you. These apps allow you to:
- Filter events by music genre.
- Receive personalized notifications.
- Purchase tickets directly from the app.
Festival Websites
Visit the official websites of Italian festivals directly to get details about scheduled artists, dates, and locations.
15. Is it Easy to Get Around in Italian Cities?
Traveling in Italian cities is generally simple and convenient, thanks to a vast network of public transport. Let’s look at the available options:
Public Transport
Italian cities have buses, trams, subways, and suburban trains, with excellent coverage of urban areas. Major cities like Rome, Milan, Naples, and Turin have efficient subway networks.
You can purchase tickets at:
- Transport stations
- Tobacconists
- Dedicated mobile apps
Ease of Use
Public transport is well signposted and equipped with voice announcements for major stops. Additionally, many stops offer detailed maps and tourist information.
Cost
The price of transport varies from city to city, but in general, it is affordable. There are also daily or weekly passes, which provide significant savings compared to single tickets.
Car Rental: Yes or No?
Renting a car can be useful for visiting areas outside the city, but in large metropolises, it may not be the best choice due to:
- Heavy traffic
- High parking costs
- Limited traffic zones (ZTL)
If you mainly move around the city, public transport and car-sharing services are more convenient options.
16. Is the Cold in Turin Bearable?
Turin has cold but manageable winters. During the coldest months (December – February), temperatures can drop below zero, but the city is well-equipped to handle the cold.
What to Expect?
- Low temperatures, often around 0°C or lower.
- Possibility of snow, especially in the colder months.
- Moderate wind, which can increase the feeling of cold.
How to Cope?
With appropriate clothing (heavy jackets, scarves, and gloves), the cold will not be a problem and you can enjoy the city without difficulty.
Discover what to do in Turin!
16. Non-Touristy Places Not to Miss in Italy
If you want to discover the more authentic Italy, away from the most crowded tourist destinations, here are some must-see places:
Hidden Medieval Villages
Explore lesser-known but incredibly charming villages, such as:
- Montalbano Elicona (Sicilia)
- Civita di Bagnoregio (Lazio)
- Castelluccio di Norcia (Umbria)
These places offer an untouched atmosphere (atmosfera intatta), breathtaking views (panorami mozzafiato), and an immersion in Italian history (immersione nella storia italiana).
Natural Reserves and National Parks
For nature lovers, some of the most beautiful and less frequented parks are:
- Parco Nazionale dei Monti Sibillini (Sibillini Mountains National Park) (Marche)
- Parco Nazionale del Cilento e Vallo di Diano (Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park) (Campania)
- Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro (Zingaro Nature Reserve) (Sicilia)
Here you can enjoy breathtaking hikes (escursioni mozzafiato) and experience untouched nature (natura incontaminata).
Lesser-Known Art Cities
In addition to Rome and Florence, there are less-visited art cities rich in treasures:
- Mantova (Mantua) (Lombardia) – A UNESCO World Heritage Site (Patrimonio UNESCO), with incredible palaces and frescoes.
- Ascoli Piceno (Marche) – Elegant and with one of the most beautiful historic centers in Italy (centro storico tra i più belli d’Italia).
- Orvieto (Umbria) – Famous for its magnificent Duomo (Cathedral) and Orvieto Classico wine.
Underground Cities and Caves
Discover the hidden side of Italy by exploring the underground wonders:
- Matera (Basilicata) – The famous Sassi (Sassi), ancient dwellings carved into the rock.
- Grotte di Frasassi (Frasassi Caves) (Marche) – One of the most spectacular cave complexes in Europe (complessi di grotte più spettacolari d’Europa).
- Grotte di Castellana (Castellana Caves) (Puglia) – An incredible journey into the Apulian underground (sottosuolo pugliese).
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Exploring the Bel Paese off the beaten path allows you to experience unique and authentic moments. Discover the most BEAUTIFUL places to visit in Italy that NO ONE knows about! Take a look and let us know if you’d like to go there.
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