How to save money traveling in Italy: Top tips and tools to save money when visiting

Thinking about visiting Italy but worried it might be too expensive? Don’t let that stop you! Italy is a dream destination, and with the right tips, it’s possible to explore this beautiful country without spending a fortune. Planning a trip to Italy can be affordable with proper budgeting and travel strategies.

If you’ve been wondering how to save money traveling in Italy, this guide is here to help. From finding the best time to visit to scoring cheap flights, affordable places to stay, and low-cost ways to see the sights, you’ll find everything you need to plan a budget-friendly trip.

Whether it’s your first time in Italy or you’re returning to see more, these simple tips will help you enjoy the best of Italy while keeping your costs under control. Let’s get started!

Best time to travel to Italy on a budget

Visit Italy at the right time to save money while traveling. Let’s break down the secrets to hitting that sweet spot where costs are low, but the experience is priceless.

Visit during the shoulder or low season

Did you know that visiting Italy in spring (April-May) or fall (September-October) offers the best balance of cost, weather, and crowd levels? It’s true! Not only will you enjoy the mild weather perfect for sightseeing, but you’ll also save significantly on flights and accommodations compared to the summer rush, making it an ideal time to travel to Italy cheap.

Winter (November-March) takes the savings up another notch. Flights to Rome can drop as low as $600 roundtrip from the U.S. during these months, compared to $900+ during the summer. Plus, cities like Florence and Venice have a magical charm in winter—and fewer crowds mean more room to explore.

Book early for better deals

Booking in advance is your ticket to locking in lower prices. Whether it’s flights, hotels, or tours, planning early ensures you snag the best rates before demand drives up costs. 

For example, booking a high-speed train ticket between Rome and Florence a few weeks ahead can cost you just €30 instead of the last-minute price of €70.

Avoid peak tourist times

July and August are peak months for Italian tourism, and while the country’s allure is undeniable, prices skyrocket during these months. 

Hotel rates can increase by 30-50%, and crowds at popular landmarks like the Colosseum can feel overwhelming. If you can be flexible, avoid these months—and you’ll avoid the stress and hefty bills too.

Use AI in travel planning

Leverage the power of AI tools to make your travel planning more efficient and enjoyable. With the right applications, you can save time, find hidden gems, and optimize your budget.

• Use AI-Powered Itinerary Planners: AI-based tools can help you map out your trip, from selecting destinations to planning the most efficient travel routes. These tools also suggest lesser-known but budget-friendly attractions, allowing you to explore Italy like a local without overspending.
• Generate Custom Visuals for Trip Inspiration: Visualizing your dream trip can be incredibly motivating. Tools like Adobe Firefly’s let you create stunning visuals of Italian landmarks or vacation vibes effortlessly using an AI image generator in no time . It’s a creative way to get inspired and refine your travel plans.
• Get Personalized Flight and Accommodation Recommendations: AI platforms analyze your preferences and budget to recommend the best flights and places to stay. Whether you’re looking for a cozy Airbnb in Tuscany or an affordable hotel in Rome, AI can provide tailored suggestions to match your needs.

Finding affordable flights

Scoring a budget-friendly flight to Italy can be a game-changer for your travel plans. With a bit of flexibility and strategic planning, you can save hundreds of dollars on airfare.

Use budget airlines and compare airports

Flying into Italy’s secondary airports is a great way to cut costs. Budget airlines like Ryanair, easyJet, and Vueling often offer one-way tickets from European cities for as little as €20-€50. For instance, flying into Bergamo (near Milan), Pisa, or Bologna can be much cheaper than Rome or Venice. 

Once you arrive, Italy’s efficient train network makes it easy to reach your final destination. For transatlantic travelers, flights to Milan are often less expensive than Rome. For example, a New York-Milan flight in May may cost $850, compared to $1,500 for a New York-Rome ticket.

Use flight deal tools and flexible dates

Flexibility with travel dates can significantly impact ticket prices. Tools like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Hopper allow you to search for the cheapest fares across an entire month. 

Typically, flying midweek (Tuesday or Wednesday) or during off-peak hours, such as early morning or late night, offers the best deals.

Combine flights and hotels

Consider booking flight-and-hotel packages on platforms like Expedia or Booking.com. 

Often, these bundles offer hidden discounts that can save you hundreds of dollars. For instance, a package might cost the same as a standalone flight, with the hotel effectively included for free.

Saving money on transportation

Getting around Italy doesn’t have to be expensive if you carefully consider transportation costs. With a well-connected network of trains, buses, and public transportation, there are plenty of ways to travel efficiently and affordably.

Use public transport

Italy’s public transport system is a budget traveler’s best friend. City buses, trams, and metros are reliable and inexpensive. 

In Rome, a €7 daily pass offers unlimited rides on buses, trams, and the metro, while similar passes are available in cities like Florence and Milan. 

Venice offers an ACTV Daily Pass for €25, which grants unlimited access to the waterbuses, an affordable alternative to costly gondola rides.

Avoid renting cars unless necessary

Car rental in Italy can be costly, with average weekly rates exceeding $500, plus the added expenses of fuel (around €1.80 per liter), tolls, and parking.

Car rentals often provide flexibility for exploring locations beyond train routes but come with additional considerations such as traffic fines and insurance coverage. Trains and buses often cover the same routes for a fraction of the cost and eliminate the stress of navigating Italian roads. However, if your itinerary includes rural or remote areas like Tuscany’s countryside, a car might be more convenient.

Take advantage of train deals

Italy’s train network is extensive and caters to all budgets. High-speed trains like Frecciarossa or Italo offer fast, comfortable travel between cities but can be expensive when booked last minute. By booking in advance, fares from Florence to Milan can drop from €56 to as low as €30. For regional travel, regional trains are even cheaper, though they take longer and are ideal for reaching smaller towns not serviced by high-speed lines.

A regional train from Rome to Florence costs about €23, compared to €45 on high-speed services. Trenitalia and Italo also offer deals such as same-day round trips and weekend discounts, perfect for short excursions.

Walk or bike

Most Italian cities are compact and pedestrian-friendly, making walking a pleasant and free way to explore. Many cities also have bike rental services, with costs as low as €10-€15 per day, offering a fun and budget-friendly way to see the sights.

Affordable accommodations

Finding comfortable yet affordable hotel rooms in Italy is easier than you might think. With a little planning and flexibility, you can secure a cozy place to stay without blowing your budget.

Stay outside major city centers

One of the simplest ways to save on lodging is to book accommodations outside the city center in nearby neighborhoods or less touristy areas. For example, instead of staying in Rome’s historic center, consider areas like San Giovanni, which is just a few metro stops away from the historic center and offers significantly cheaper hotels and guesthouses.

Similarly, staying in Monza instead of Milan, La Spezia instead of Cinque Terre, or Sorrento instead of Amalfi Coast can cut your costs by 30-50%. These locations often offer a more authentic local experience, and transportation connections to the main attractions are usually quick and convenient.

Opt for budget-friendly options

Many Italian cities are famous for their family-run pensions, agriturismos, and religious accommodations. Agriturismos, or farm stays, are particularly popular in rural areas like Tuscany, offering comfortable rooms and sometimes home-cooked meals at great prices.

Convents and monasteries provide a unique cultural experience, with basic yet clean accommodations starting as low as €30 per night. They may have curfews, but they’re perfect for quiet travelers.

Consider vacation rentals

If you’re traveling as a family or group, booking an apartment or house through platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo can save you money. Many rentals come with kitchens, allowing you to prepare some meals and reduce dining expenses. 

Look for rentals with longer-stay discounts; many hosts offer reduced rates for stays of a week or more.

Use booking platforms and deals

Sites like Booking.com and Expedia often have last-minute deals or packages combining flights and stays. Always check reviews and double-check the location to avoid unexpected travel costs to main attractions. Whether you choose a rustic farmhouse or a city apartment, Italy has budget-friendly options for every traveler.

Eating well on a budget

Italy is a food lover’s paradise, and with some money saving tips, indulging in its culinary delights doesn’t have to be expensive. With a few smart strategies, you can savor authentic Italian cuisine while keeping your wallet happy.

Embrace local food culture

Dining out doesn’t have to break the bank if you stick to local traditions. Many trattorias and osterias offer a menù del giorno (menu of the day), which typically includes a pasta course, a main dish, and a glass of wine or water for around €12-€15. This is a great way to enjoy a sit-down meal without paying a premium.

Street food is another fantastic option. In Rome, try a trapizzino (a stuffed pizza pocket), while Naples offers legendary slices of pizza for as little as €5. Don’t miss arancini (fried rice balls) in Sicily or a hearty piadina (flatbread sandwich) in Emilia-Romagna.

Save on drinks and snacks

When it comes to coffee, standing at the bar like the locals do will save you money. A cappuccino at the counter typically costs €1-€1.50, while sitting at a table could more than double the price. 

In the evening, embrace the Italian tradition of aperitivo, where for €8-€15 you’ll enjoy a drink and a selection of light snacks—sometimes enough to replace dinner.

Shop at local markets and supermarkets

Markets like Florence’s Mercato Centrale or Campo de’ Fiori in Rome are treasure troves for fresh, affordable food. Stock up on bread, cheese, cured meats, and fruit for a picnic lunch. 

Supermarkets such as Conad and Coop also offer pre-made meals and affordable wine. Not only does this save money, but it allows you to experience Italy like a local.

Budget-friendly sightseeing

Exploring Italy’s breathtaking sights and rich history doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. With some smart planning and local know-how, you can enjoy iconic attractions and hidden gems on a budget.

Use free and discounted opportunities

One of the best-kept secrets for saving money in Italy is the First Sunday of the Month initiative. On this day, many of Italy’s top museums and archaeological sites, including the Colosseum, Uffizi Gallery, and Pompeii, offer free entry. While it’s a popular day, arriving early can help you beat the crowds and maximize your savings.

Italy’s churches are another treasure trove of art and architecture that often require little to no cost. For instance, Rome’s Santa Maria del Popolo houses stunning Caravaggio paintings, while Florence’s Santa Croce is the resting place of Michelangelo and Galileo. A small donation is usually appreciated, but it’s optional.

Invest in city or tourist passes

Passes like the Rome City Pass, Firenze Card, or Venezia Unica bundle free or discounted access to multiple attractions and public transport. 

For example, the Roma Pass offers 48 or 72-hour options, including free entry to select landmarks, discounts on others, and unlimited metro and bus use. Just do the math to ensure the pass aligns with your itinerary.

Opt for free walking tours

Many cities, including Rome, Venice, and Florence, host free walking tours led by knowledgeable local guides. These tours are tip-based, making them an affordable way to learn about history and culture while exploring the city. Self-guided audio tours are another budget-friendly option for sightseeing at your own pace.

By combining these strategies, you can immerse yourself in Italy’s culture and history without overspending.

Final word

Traveling to Italy doesn’t have to be expensive. With these simple tips on how to save money traveling in Italy, you can enjoy everything this incredible country has to offer without overspending. From finding the best deals on flights and accommodations to exploring its famous sights on a budget, the tools are now in your hands.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today! Look for deals, pick your perfect travel dates, and get inspired to experience la dolce vita without breaking the bank. The sooner you start, the closer you’ll be to wandering Italy’s charming streets and savoring authentic pasta. Your Italian adventure is closer than you think—start saving now, and see how far your budget can take you!