Do I need a Passport and a Visa to travel to Italy?

Yes, all travelers are required to present a valid passport for international travel. Your passport should be valid for at least six months after the travel date. USA and Canadian citizens are not required to have any visa to travel to Italy under most circumstances. Always verify with the local Consulate or Embassy to make sure that the rules have not changed.

Can I drive in Italy?

Of course you can drive in Italy. We invented the Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati and the Vespa scooters. We drive on the same side of the road as in USA and most of the road signs are equal to the ones here.

Can I rent a car?

Italian laws require car renters to be at least twenty-one years old with a valid credit card. Additional insurance is also required for renters under the age of twenty-five.

How early should I make my travel plans to Italy?

As soon as possible because Italy is very popular. People from all over the world come to enjoy the food, the culture and the Italian beauties. Don’t Wait! This will also ensure the best airfares and hotels availability.

How long will it take to fly to Italy?

Depending from which North American city you fly from, it can take as little as only six hours. Italy is six hours ahead of the East coast and nine hours from the West coast.

Do I need to speak Italian in Italy?

In Italy, most have learned English and other foreign languages so don’t worry if your Italian is not perfect. Speak softly and waive your hands trying to express what you are looking for. Not only will you have fun doing this, but you’ll also be surprised that a sign is worth a thousand words!

Where can I find a wheelchair in Rome? Do you have wheelchair accessible tours?

In Italy, most have learned English and other foreign languages so don’t worry if your Italian is not perfect. Speak softly and waive your hands trying to express what you are looking for. Not only will you have fun doing this, but you’ll also be surprised that a sign is worth a thousand words!

Is Rome a dangerous city? Are there neighborhoods I should avoid?

Italy has a very low violent crime rate. Petty crime, on the other hand, is a problem. As you’ve certainly read elsewhere, pick-pocketers are quite common. Here are some tips that will assist you in picking out the pick-pockets, and keeping your wallet as safe as yourself:

    1. Always maintain your personal space. Do not let a stranger come into close or personal body contact with you when possible.

    2. Watch out for any beggars with newspapers and/or pieces of cardboard: this is a dead give away that they are pick-pockets. They use the cardboard as a devious device to cover their operations. Generally, they place the cardboard over your purse, and while you are distracted and their hands are covered, they dig for your wallet.

    3. Do not pull out large amounts of money while using public transportation. The subway and certain bus routes can literally be the thieves’ den, so take precautions while using these great transportation services.

Pickpockets don’t really choose their victims by their ethnic origin. They will generally prey on weaker, slower, or more distracted people. Families with children, confused tourists, or older people are pretty popular, therefore, traveling with your mother might make you a pretty good target. But be confident, look alert! Keep your valuables well hidden. Finally, don’t be afraid to meet the gaze of someone you find suspicious and look as though you know exactly what he or she is thinking.

How do I get around the city using public transportation?

The bus system is extremely extensive, the Metro system a bit less so, but is still one of the easiest and quickest ways of getting around town.

Further Questions?

Feel free to contact us with your questions or concerns at info@passero.com.