Travel in Italy
Getting There: A good travel agent can be worth their weight in gold. We recommend Linda Spiegler at Portfolio Travel (202-966-4111 ext 12). We have also had good experiences using Orbitz.
Documentation: It's a good idea to always have your passport or some sort of identification with you. If you leave your passport in a safer place, have a photocopy with you. The authorities have the right to check your papers at any time. Hotels require your passport in Italy.
Entry Requirements: U.S. Citizens and foreign nationals need a valid passport to enter Italy. You'll need a visa only if you plan to stay for more than 90 days.
Train Travel: More often than not you can wait and purchase your train tickets in Italy. If you want to get them ahead of time, or simply check the schedules, visit the TrenItalia site, but it's only in Italian. People have been happy with Rail Europe too. Trains can usually be booked no more than two months in advance in Italy.
Driving: Getting an international driver's license is a good idea, but for trips of fewer than 90 days you may drive with a valid U.S. driver's license. You must be at least 18 years old to drive in Italy. For gauging distances and route planning, Michelin's web site is good.
Money: Since Italy changed from the Lira to the Euro, it has become a little harder to exchange dollars. You can still find some banks and post offices where you can change money, but your saftest bet is using your bank card in an ATM. Make sure you test it and have the pin before you leave home.
