What You Need to Know About Traveling to Italy in 2021

Italy evokes images of grapevines blanketing the hills of Tuscany, ancient towns spread out across the Amalfi Coast, or the serene canals in Venice lined by opulent marble palaces. Whether looking for a delectable wine tasting of Barolo in Piedmont or interested in viewing Michelangelo’s David in Florence, you can once more discover Italy’s endless charisma, history, and beauty.

“With true Italian warmth and hospitality, all of Italy awaits with open arms to welcome back tourists,” says Debra, a travel specialist for Italy. “Those who venture over on the first planes back will experience an unforgettable opportunity to appreciate Italy’s most iconic sites with the ease of fewer tourists, especially Venice, Florence, Cinque Terre, Rome, and the Amalfi Coast.”

The summer season is an ideal time to visit, though there is good reason to wait a few months. “I recommend July, September, and October. These, in my opinion, are the best periods because the weather is ideal and not too crowded,” says Michela, an Italy travel specialist. “Italy will be open, and we can't wait to welcome back our American tourists...Deciding to travel in 2021 will give you a unique chance to explore Italy practically crowd-free.”

Italy can dazzle you with its surprising diversity, in addition to revealing some of the world’s most anticipated wonders, from the Colosseum to Pompeii, da Vinci’s “The Last Supper” to the fairytale houses in Alberobello. “It’s expected that travelers will be able to move freely about the country, visiting museums, restaurants, shops, and other cultural establishments with reservations being required to ensure entry,” Debra adds.

Related: Best Luxury Tours to Italy for 2021-2022 | Best Time to Visit - Italy

Few countries in the world can display the splendor inherent in Italy’s culture, architecture, and scenery. It is a destination that can create a longing in those who wish to return and desire in those eager to experience their first visit. “The major cities like Venice, Florence, Milan, and Rome will be better suited to manage things as they have the resources to do so,” says Robert, an Italy travel specialist. “But smaller towns and regions have fewer visitors over a greater area and so may provide a more normalized experience.”

With so many possibilities, you can wander the trails of Cinque Terre, explore the historic walls of Lucca, or venture into the catacombs of Rome. Italy travel specialist Alexandra says, “They are trying to vaccinate all inhabitants of the small islands to make some Covid-free zones. Definitely the Amalfi Coast, Ischia, Procida, Capri. the Aeolian Islands, but also Tuscany.” The natural beauty from the islands to the countryside can immerse you in an entirely different perspective of Italy’s glamour, grandeur, and natural beauty.

The splendor of Italy easily spreads from countryside to cityscape, and 2021 gives you a unique opportunity to experience the culture and history with fewer crowds. “I would mix the cultural cities with small villages and countrysides,” says Michela. “I like Val d'Orcia in Tuscany, Prosecco hills in Veneto, Italian Lakes, and the evergreen Amalfi Coast. These are a perfect Italian mix.”

With ideal weather throughout the summer and fall, Italy offers fantastic outdoor options. “I also recommend activities in the open air, like biking, hiking, kayaking, boat tours, picnics at the farms and wineries are just a few,” adds Alexandra.

Related: Things to Do - Italy | Best Family Destinations in Italy

As countries reopen and we all anticipate traveling once more, logistics and health requirements are becoming routine in popular destinations around the world. Working with a local travel specialist can make the entry requirements and travel logistics easier to manage. They can also help you navigate perceived challenges. “The travel bans we currently have to US travelers will be lifted in mid-June. But a Green Certificate will be required,” says Alexandra.

When considering if you are allowed to visit Italy, Alexandra says you must observe the following requirements, “Be fully vaccinated with both doses, have recovered from Covid-19 and show proof of immunity, or bring a negative Covid-19 test taken no more than forty-eight hours before traveling. In regards to the negative test,” Alexandra says, “I suggest you take one twenty-one days before traveling and, if negative, wear a mask and keep social distancing until you do their Covid test forty-eight hours before travel.”

The various regions across Italy are eager to welcome back travelers. “The Covid passport Italy has created will go a long way toward opening doors for travelers and locals alike,” adds Robert. “The final domino will be reached when all Italians are vaccinated, and all mask and spacing regulations end. For now, some will likely remain in place in areas with large crowds.”

While everyone awaits the official announcement and plans for what is ahead, our travel specialists are in constant communication. “We speak with everyone from medical doctors to hotel owners, to restaurateurs to guides and government officials almost daily,” says Robert, “As a whole, Italy is ready to open and welcome visitors again.”

Related: Countries Open to American Travelers

Italy is one of the world’s most popular destinations and gives travelers the opportunity to view Renaissance masterpieces up close, learn the art of making pasta from the warmth of a grandmother’s kitchen, and explore the historical wealth of the Vatican on display in the gardens and galleries. With so many captivating possibilities, from trekking Via Francigena to skiing in the Dolomites, it is easy to feel Italy’s undeniable pull.

“If you are planning to travel in 2021, whether summer and beyond, I recommend planning sooner rather than later,” recommends Robert. “Italy is the most sought-after European destination for US travelers, and when news comes down that travel is once again permitted, the response will be overwhelming. We have been working with travelers for many months who are in the starting blocks waiting for permission to get out there again and that now that we are on the verge, they will be off and running.”

When considering when to travel to Italy, many properties are nearly filled to capacity from postponed 2020 trips and new reservations for future travel. “We are experiencing a great surge of people excited to travel and booking their trips from the end of June 2021, well into 2023,” adds Debra. “We suggest you succinctly think through and reserve all accommodations, transportation, tickets, experiences, and restaurant reservations in advance to guarantee you get to do and see exactly what you are dreaming of.”

Your Zicasso travel specialist is uniquely positioned to design your itinerary and assist you in finding the right accommodations for you. Now more than ever, the difference a travel specialist can make to your vacation is significant. With local connections and insider knowledge, your travel specialist can leverage it all to create a spectacular vacation experience.

Related: How to Plan Your Trip in 3 Easy Steps | Why a Travel Specialist is a Must

Italy is an inspiring place to visit. Every trip can feel uplifting after exploring the cultural riches, enjoying the distinctive style, and indulging in a seemingly endless feast from Venice to Naples, Turin to Otranto. It is a landscape that answers dreams, from golden valleys to alpine majesty. “Italy is ready and organized now to safely welcome back travelers,” Debra says. “Eat the most delicious food and drink fabulous wine while visiting the unspoiled countryside and picturesque coastline.”

By working with an Italy travel specialist, you will have access to unparalleled experience and local knowledge to help guide you through all travel possibilities, both known and unknown. With twenty-four-seven accessibility in case of unforeseen challenges, you can have the Italy trip you always dreamed of safely and efficiently. A local travel specialist can also ensure that you have easy access to getting your Covid-19 test before returning to the United States, a requirement for all travelers over the age of two.

Italy is home to the Roman Empire and the Renaissance, pasta bolognese and Parmesan cheese, decadent wines, and inspiring beaches. From angular coastal cliffs to hanging vineyards, dramatic monasteries, to artisan beauty, Italy is an entirely new world of experiences you can discover. “The world has endured a very difficult time, and we are now able, at last, to enjoy those parts of life that make it all worthwhile,” adds Robert.

For more ideas as you consider your plans, find inspiration with our Italy Travel Guide. You can also speak with an Italy travel specialist by filling out a Trip Request or by calling our team at 1-888-265-9707.