From navigating train strikes to learning why cappuccinos after lunch earn you side-eyes, here are the things I wish someone had told me before I packed my bags and moved to Italy.

When I first decided to move to Italy, I thought I had done my research.

I’d watched countless YouTube videos, read travel blogs, followed Italian influencers on Instagram, and spent years dreaming about strolling through Tuscan vineyards while effortlessly ordering espresso in perfect Italian. I visited religiously, building a community, starting a teaching business, and becoming a regular where it matters.

Then I got here.

And while Italy has been every bit as beautiful, delicious, and inspiring as I imagined, there were also plenty of surprises…some charming, some frustrating, and some that left me standing in a train station wondering what exactly had just happened.

If you’re planning a solo trip to Italy – or thinking about moving here yourselfhere are the things I wish I knew before traveling to Italy alone.

1. Italy Doesn’t Run on Your Schedule

As an American, I was used to convenience.

Need groceries at 10 p.m.? No problem.

Want to grab lunch at 3 p.m.? Easy.

Need customer service immediately? Someone will answer.

Italy has a different relationship with time.

Many small businesses close in the afternoon, restaurants often don’t open for dinner until 7:00 or 7:30 p.m., and things simply happen at a slower pace.

At first, I found this frustrating.

Now? I find it refreshing.

Italy constantly reminds me that life isn’t meant to be rushed.

What I Learned:

Build flexibility into your plans and don’t expect things to operate on an American timeline.

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2. Learning Basic Italian Changes Everything

Can you visit Italy without speaking Italian?

Absolutely.

Can you have a much richer experience if you learn some Italian?

Also absolutely.

Even simple phrases like:

• Buongiorno (Good morning)
• Grazie (Thank you)
• Per favore (Please)
• Parla inglese? (Do you speak English?)

go a long way.

People are generally much warmer and more patient when they see you’re making an effort.

Some of my favorite experiences happened because I attempted a conversation in imperfect Italian.

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3. Italian Style Is Less About Fashion and More About Effort

Before arriving, I assumed Italians spent fortunes on designer clothing.

The reality?

Most people simply know how to dress well.

You’ll notice:

• Well-fitted clothing
• Neutral colors
• Quality basics
• Comfortable but polished shoes

Meanwhile, Americans often stand out immediately because of oversized athletic wear, college sweatshirts, and flip-flops.

Nobody expects you to look like you’re walking a Milan runway.

But putting a little effort into your appearance goes a long way.

What I Wish I Packed:

• Fewer leggings
• More linen pieces
• A versatile jacket
• Comfortable but stylish walking shoes

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4. Dinner Is an Event, Not a Task

One of the biggest culture shocks was how seriously Italians take meals.

In the United States, meals are often squeezed between appointments.

In Italy, meals are the appointment.

Nobody is rushing you out the door.

Nobody is dropping the check five minutes after your plate arrives.

A dinner can easily last two or three hours.

And honestly?

It’s one of my favorite parts of living here.

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5. Cappuccino Rules Are Real (Sort Of)

Let’s talk about it.

Yes, Italians generally drink cappuccinos in the morning.

No, the police won’t arrest you if you order one after lunch.

But you may get a slightly amused look.

Once you understand that coffee in Italy is deeply connected to culture and tradition, these little customs start to make sense.

My advice?

Learn the customs, then order whatever makes you happy.

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6. Public Transportation Is Amazing—Until It Isn’t

One reason I chose Italy was the ability to travel without owning a car.

The train network is incredible.

I’ve traveled between cities for a fraction of what similar trips would cost in the United States.

But here’s what I didn’t understand:

Train strikes happen.

Often.

Welcome to Italy.

Transportation workers periodically strike, and while many essential services still operate, delays and cancellations are part of life.

What I Wish I Knew:

Always have a backup plan.

And never schedule an important international connection with zero buffer time.

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7. Italian Bureaucracy Is an Extreme Sport

Nobody prepared me for the paperwork.

Not the visa paperwork.

Not the residency paperwork.

Not the tax code paperwork.

The paperwork for the paperwork.

As a traveler, you’ll probably avoid most of this.

As a student or expat?

Prepare yourself.

Bring copies of everything.

Then bring copies of those copies.

Then make digital copies too.

You’ll thank me later.

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8. Politics Shows Up in Everyday Conversations

Many Americans avoid discussing politics with strangers.

Italy is different.

Politics often comes up naturally during conversations.

From immigration and tourism to labor strikes and regional issues, people are generally more comfortable expressing opinions openly.

My biggest lesson?

Listen more than you talk.

You can learn a lot about a country by understanding what matters to the people who live there.

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9. Every Region Feels Like a Different Country

Before moving here, I thought of Italy as one culture.

Now I know it’s dozens of cultures.

The food changes.

The dialects change.

The traditions change.

The architecture changes.

The pace of life changes.

The experience of living in Florence is completely different from living in Naples, Palermo, Bologna, or Milan.

One of the best things you can do is get beyond Rome, Florence, and Venice.

Some of my favorite memories have happened in places most tourists never visit.

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10. Solo Travel in Italy Is Easier Than You Think

Before I arrived, I worried about eating alone.

Exploring alone.

Traveling between cities alone.

I worried people would notice.

The truth?

Nobody cares.

Italy taught me that solo travel isn’t lonely.

It’s freedom.

Freedom to linger over a glass of wine.

Freedom to spend four hours in a museum.

Freedom to change your plans because you discovered a tiny village you’ve never heard of.

Some of my most meaningful experiences happened because I was alone and open to them.

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11. The “Dolce Vita” Is Real—But Not in the Way You Think

When people imagine Italy, they picture vineyards, sunsets, Vespa rides, and endless pasta.

Those things exist.

But the real Dolce Vita isn’t luxury.

It’s presence.

It’s sitting in a piazza with nowhere to be.

It’s lingering over coffee.

It’s walking home at sunset.

It’s prioritizing relationships over productivity.

Moving here has taught me that a good life isn’t necessarily a busy life.

And honestly, that’s the lesson I didn’t know I needed.

Final Thoughts

Italy is beautiful.

It’s chaotic.

It’s inspiring.

It’s occasionally frustrating.

And it’s one of the most rewarding places I’ve ever traveled.

If you’re planning your first solo trip to Italy, my advice is simple:

Come with an open mind.

Expect things to be different.

Let go of the need to control every detail.

Because the moments you’ll remember most often happen when your plans don’t.

And trust me—that’s where the magic begins.

Have you traveled to Italy solo, or are you planning your first trip? Share your questions and experiences in the comments below—I love connecting with fellow travelers navigating Italy for the first time.

So you’ve explored the Colosseum, wandered through Trastevere, and eaten your weight in pasta—now it’s time to see what lies beyond Rome.

The good news? Some of Italy’s most beautiful, underrated destinations are just a short train ride away.

This guide covers:
Off-the-beaten-path towns
Easy train access (no car needed!)
Inclusive, easy-paced travel ideas
A dreamy seaside escape

Andiamo!

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Why Take Day Trips from Rome?

Rome is incredible, but stepping outside the city gives you:

• Fewer crowds
• Lower prices
• More authentic local experiences
• A deeper connection to Italian culture

And yes, you can do all of this without renting a car.

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1. Sulmona — A Sweet Escape in Abruzzo

Welcome to one of the most underrated towns in the Abruzzo region.

Sulmona is famous for:

• Confetti (sugar-coated almonds, often shaped like flowers)
• Medieval architecture
• A relaxed, local vibe

What to Do:

• Stroll through the historic center
• Visit artisan confetti shops
• Grab lunch in a quiet piazza

Travel time: ~2–2.5 hours by train
Why it’s worth it: You’ll feel like you discovered a secret Italy

Inclusive tip:
Flat streets and a slower pace make this ideal for travelers who prefer less intense walking days.

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2. L’Aquila — History, Resilience & Mountain Views

Also in Abruzzo, L’Aquila offers a powerful mix of history and rebuilding after the 2009 earthquake.

What to Expect:

• Beautiful piazzas
• Renaissance architecture
• Fewer tourists than almost anywhere else

Highlights:

• Basilica di Santa Maria di Collemaggio
• Local cafés with mountain views

Travel time: ~1.5–2 hours
Vibe: Peaceful, reflective, and culturally rich

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3. Cisterna di Latina — A Hidden Gem Close to Rome

Just a short ride from Rome, this town is often overlooked, and that’s exactly why you should go. I’m biased, after discovering this adorable city and it’s incredible people while working there for a week last summer!

Why Visit:

• Authentic, non-touristy atmosphere
• Easy, quick escape from city chaos
• A glimpse into everyday Italian life

Things to Do:

• Wander the historic center
• Enjoy a slow lunch at a local trattoria
• Explore nearby countryside areas

Travel time: ~30–40 minutes
Perfect for: A low-effort, high-reward half-day trip

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4. Orvieto — A Cliffside Dream

Okay, this one is slightly more known—but still feels magical and not overwhelming.

Perched on volcanic rock, Orvieto is one of Italy’s most stunning small towns.

Must-See:

• Orvieto Cathedral (the façade is unreal)
• Underground tunnels beneath the city
• Panoramic countryside views

Travel time: ~1 hour
Accessibility note: Funicular available to reach the top (no exhausting uphill climb!)

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5. Anzio — A Seaside Escape 🌊

Craving ocean air? This is your spot.

Anzio is a relaxed coastal town with:

• Sandy beaches
• Fresh seafood
• A laid-back vibe

What to Do:

• Spend the day at the beach
• Eat seafood by the water
• Walk along the harbor

Travel time: ~1 hour
Best for: A chill, sun-soaked reset from city sightseeing

Solo + comfort tip:
Beach clubs often offer loungers and umbrellas—perfect for a comfortable, stress-free experience.

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6. Viterbo — Medieval Charm Without the Crowds

This town feels like stepping into a movie set – but without the tourist chaos.

Highlights:

• Medieval quarter (San Pellegrino)
• Thermal baths nearby
• Quiet, atmospheric streets

Travel time: ~1.5–2 hours
Why go: It’s everything you want Tuscany to feel like… without the crowds or price tag

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Sample Day Trip Itineraries

Easy Half-Day:

• Cisterna di Latina
• Lunch + stroll + back to Rome

Full Day Adventure:

• Orvieto or Viterbo
• Explore + long lunch + scenic views

Nature + Culture Combo:

• L’Aquila or Sulmona (Abruzzo)

Relax & Recharge:

• Anzio (beach day)

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Tips for Taking Day Trips by Train in Italy

• 🚆 Use Trenitalia or Italo for booking
• ⏰ Travel early to maximize your day
• 💺 Choose reserved seating when possible
• 🧃 Bring snacks + water
• 🧘‍♀️ Build in downtime—these places are meant to be enjoyed, not rushed

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See More Than Just Rome

Rome is the gateway, but these day trips are where you’ll:

• Slow down
• Connect with local culture
• Discover places most travelers miss

And honestly? These are the moments that make your trip unforgettable.

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Coming Up Next on Curves and a Carry-On

• A full Abruzzo travel guide (because you will want to go back)
• Coastal Italy itineraries beyond the Amalfi Coast
• How to travel Italy by train like a pro

Buon Viaggio, Bella!

If you’ve already checked off the Colosseum and tossed your coin into the Trevi Fountain, it’s time to experience a different side of Rome—one that feels more local, more soulful, and honestly… more you.

Welcome to the other side of the Tiber River—where cobblestone streets, ivy-covered buildings, and authentic Roman life await.

This guide is your go-to for exploring Trastevere, plus a few lesser-known neighborhoods that are rich in culture, safe, and perfect for curious travelers.

Whether you’re solo, plus-sized, or just craving a deeper connection to the city, this is where Rome really opens up.

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Why Explore “the Other Side” of Rome?

Crossing the Tiber feels like stepping into a different rhythm.

Here, you’ll find:

• Fewer crowds (yes, really)
• More local restaurants
• Slower, more intentional travel experiences
• A deeper sense of Roman culture

It’s still lively—but less overwhelming than the historic center.

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Trastevere: Rome’s Most Charming Neighborhood

What Makes Trastevere Special?

Trastevere is effortlessly beautiful…think:

• Golden light reflecting on pastel buildings
• Laundry hanging between windows
• Street musicians echoing through narrow alleys

It’s romantic, a little chaotic, and full of life.

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Must-See Spots in Trastevere

Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere

One of the oldest churches in Rome, known for its stunning mosaics.

 Tip: Visit in the morning or late evening for a quieter experience.

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Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere

The heart of the neighborhood.

Grab a seat by the fountain and soak it all in. This is peak people-watching territory.

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Janiculum Hill (Gianicolo)

A short uphill walk that rewards you with one of the best panoramic views in Rome.

Accessibility note:
The hill is steep, so consider a taxi or bus if needed. The view is absolutely worth it.

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Where to Eat in Trastevere

This is food heaven.

Look for:

• Handmade pasta
• Seasonal Roman dishes
• Small, family-owned trattorias

Highly recommend Trattoria Da Enzo for Roman classics like fried artichokes (carciofi), Cacio e Pepe and Carbonara! It can be really busy, but they turn tables fast and the food is affordable and *chefs kiss.*

Inclusive tip:
Many spots are cozy (read: small tables). If you prefer more space, aim for outdoor seating or go during off-peak hours.

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A Traditional Roman Evening (You’ll Never Forget)

Dinner in Trastevere isn’t rushed.

It’s:

• Wine flowing slowly
• Conversations lingering
• Plates shared and savored

After dinner, wander aimlessly. That’s when the magic happens.

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Hidden Gems Near Trastevere (That Tourists Miss)

Testaccio — For Food Lovers

If Trastevere is charming, Testaccio is authentic.

This neighborhood is considered the birthplace of Roman cuisine.

What to do:

• Visit the local market
• Try traditional dishes like oxtail stew
• Explore non-touristy trattorias

Perfect if you want a deeper culinary experience without the crowds.

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Garbatella — Colorful & Quiet

This area feels almost like a small village tucked inside Rome.

Expect:

• Unique architecture
• Peaceful courtyards
• A slower pace

Solo traveler tip:
It’s safe, residential, and great for a relaxed afternoon stroll.

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Villa Doria Pamphili — Nature Escape

Rome’s largest park—and one of its best-kept secrets.

Perfect for:

• Picnics
• Walking breaks
• Escaping the city heat

Plus-size & comfort tip:
Flat paths and plenty of space make this a great low-pressure exploration option.

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Is Trastevere Safe?

Yes—with the same awareness you’d use anywhere.

Tips for staying comfortable:

• Stick to well-lit streets at night
• Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas
• Trust your instincts

Many solo female travelers (myself included) find Trastevere welcoming and easy to navigate.

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How to Spend a Perfect Day on This Side of Rome

Morning:

• Coffee + pastry in Trastevere
• Visit Basilica di Santa Maria

Afternoon:

• Explore Testaccio for lunch
• Relax in Villa Doria Pamphili

Evening:

• Sunset at Janiculum Hill
• Long dinner in Trastevere

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Final Thoughts: Slow Down & Stay Curious

Rome isn’t just about checking landmarks off a list.

On this side of the river, you:

• Wander more
• Discover more
• Feel more connected

It’s where the city becomes less of a destination—and more of an experience.

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Coming Up Next on Curves and a Carry-On 

• Hidden food spots in Trastevere you need to try
• A full Rome-to-Tuscany day trip guide
• Solo female travel tips for navigating Italy with confidence

Tanti Baci, Amore! Safe travels! XO