How much does a trip to Italy cost?

Transport can be a significant part of the cost of a trip, especially if you choose for international trains or intercontinental planes. Within the European continent, however, all Italian cities are well connected to main European locations by low-cost airlines, which allow much more affordable prices. Finally, among the cheapest options are long-distance buses or regional or intercity trains.

Trains is one of the most comfortable options for traveling in Italy, but it can also be expensive, especially for long-distance or high-speed trains. However, there are cheap tickets available for off-peak travel or for travel booked in advance. Costs may vary depending on the type of transport chosen and the distance to be traveled. The average price for a Rome-Milan high-speed journey is €80; does this price seem high or low to you?

As we said above, long-distance buses are another good option, cheaper than the train. Many bus companies offering services at affordable prices, sometimes as low as a few euros across the country.

To get around the various Italian cities, you will have to calculate the price of local public transport such as trams, metro, and buses. Tickets can often be bought on board or at ticket offices and prices vary from city to city, but the average is €1.50 each way. Remember that Italian cities are not divided into zones like London or Paris, but instead, each ticket is valid on the entire transport network. Rome, Milan, and Naples have a metro and infrastructure network with payment by credit or debit card.

Last tips. Planning your trip in advance can also save you a lot of money on transport. If you go to Naples, you can take advantage of the Naples Pass to get access to the main means of transport in the city and Campania, as well as the most interesting tourist attractions.

As far as accommodation is concerned, it varies depending on the location and the type of accommodation chosen. The cheapest options are B&B, but there is no shortage of dormitories and hostels, especially in large cities. If, on the other hand, you choose luxury hotels, you will certainly know that costs can be very high, think of coastal resorts such as Capri, Sorrento, Portofino, Sardinia, or even mountain resorts such as Cortina d'Ampezzo. What is certain is that there are options for all budgets!

On Italian food, however, what you will know is that it is among the best known in the world for its quality and variety and that it can certainly be expensive in starred restaurants and very touristy places. In general, the cost of food in Italy depends on individual preferences and the type of meal you go for. 

There are many options in Italy to eat well without spending too much. The most expensive way to eat in Italy is to eat in restaurants, especially if you opt for fancy restaurants, although it is an experience that we recommend, in many cases, it is worth it. In all cities, however, osterias and traditional trattorias are offering typical regional dishes at affordable prices. Another option to save money on meals is to buy fresh food from local markets and cook it yourself, but if you are on vacation this is the option I would consider last. 

You have many options, such as fruit, vegetables, cheeses, and excellent cold cuts, which you can buy at affordable prices. For those looking to spend even less, there are many street food options available in several Italian cities: you can fill up on sandwiches, pizza by the slice, and gelato, which you can have at super affordable prices. And what do you do, not try everything?

Tourist activities, such as museums and excursions, can also be expensive. However, many tourist attractions are free or have affordable prices. For example, if you are an art lover, you can count on a wide number of churches, hermitages, and convents, most of which are free of charge. In places like this you can admire works by Caravaggio, Donatello, Giovanni Bellini, Carpaccio, Tintoretto, Raphael and so on.

Museums on the other hand, often charge a fee and become free on the first Sunday of the month or other special occasions, so keep an eye on the calendar. 

If you are under 18 years old, Italian state museums are always free, and up to 25 years old will cost €2. State libraries and archives will always be free for all citizens and visitors. 

In general, as you may have noticed, it is possible to travel in Italy on a budget if you plan carefully, in advance, and choose economical options.

Again, a tourist pass may be right for you. For example, if you are passing through Venice, you can use the Venice Pass to enjoy discounts and concessions for the main attractions.