Guide To Italy

Italy is a vibrant destination full of culture and natural beauty. It is well known for its cuisine, fashion, arts scene, stunning coasts, mountains and lakes.

The climate in Italy is very typical of Mediterranean countries - it has hot dry summers and in some regions in the south of the country, there is no rainfall throughout the whole of the summer season.

Every major city in the county has a number of local museums that are worth visiting. In Florence, there is the Uffizi Museum, which is known as one of the greatest museums in the world.

The Egyptian Museum in Turin is also a must see, as it holds the second-largest Egyptian collection in the world - behind Egypt's own Cairo Museum.

Levels of crime in Italy are generally low but tourist hotspots do tend to experience higher levels of petty crime. Tourists are always advised to be vigilant and to take special care when using public transport or in crowded areas.

In Rome, tourists are advised to take particular care around the main railway station, Termini, on the 64 bus, which goes to and from St Peter's Square, and when unloading baggage from airport or city coaches. It is advisable to only carry what is needed for the day and leave important documents in hotel safes.

Holidaymakers who wish to drive in Italy require a valid UK or EU driving licence and insurance. Those who are driving vehicles that belong to other people may also be required to have written permission from the registered owner.

In the cities of Venice and Florence, tourists should make sure that they observe public notices about conduct at all times. Dropping litter may be punishable by a fine and it also an offence to sit on steps or courtyards and eat or drink near churches and public buildings in Florence.