Look Less Like a Tourist

There’s so much to explore when travelling to Italy, so much to consider.  If you’re interested in the slow travel movement of slowing down and savoring your time in fewer places, becoming part of the fiber of the places your visit, these tips will help you to look less like a tourist.  Thanks to Travel & Leisure magazine for this article.  Look for the Duomo of Orvieto in the article!

I won’t repeat all ten tips, but I’ll highlight a couple that I remind guests of Adventures in Italy to be aware of.

Don’t underestimate the weather.  People always ask what the weather will be like when they are in Italy.  Honestly, even the “usual” temps are not so usual anymore!  Best bet, as with most travel, dress in layers.  The temperature can often change 10 degrees from morning to mid-day so if you’re an early riser you definitely need more layers than someone who will only be out in the middle of the day.  My personal tip, I always carry a scarf with me.  Good for covering up in churches, and good for a light layer if the wind picks up.

Don’t dress like you’re going to the gym.  Europeans tend to dress more conservatively than we do in North America.  Nothing makes you stick out more than gym wear!  You don’t need to be fancy, think casual Friday instead of beach holiday and you’ll blend right in.

Don’t forget to carry some euros.  Most towns have a local outdoor market once or twice a week.  These vendors definitely deal in cash.  Your morning cappuccino is much easier to purchase quickly with a one or two euro coin.  You don’t need much, but having a few coins on hand will mark you as someone who knows what’s what.

Train tickets and attraction opening hours.  Same for both, check early and book in advance.  Different attractions have different days of the week that they are closed, and if you want to avoid not getting TO somewhere (train ticket) or not getting IN somewhere (opening hours) don’t wait until the last minute to book.

notoriously long lines for entrance into the Duomo in Florence

Check out the rest of the article for more tips.  And if you want to learn more about Adventures in Italy, read these previous posts:

Join us in Orvieto in 2026

Orvieto Scavenger Hunt

Pasta Making

Michelle Logue leads cultural and creative adventures in Orvieto, Italy. With a mandate to provide “travel that transforms,” Adventures in Italy gives guests an immersive experience. After more than 20 years of return trips, Orvieto has become a welcoming home base surpassing the typical Italian vacation.

Adventures in Italy operates trips in May and September. Find out more about tours and special offers by following Adventures in Italy on Facebook and Instagram and visit www.adventuresinitaly.ca

Slow Travel Tours is an affiliation of small-group tour operators who offer personalized trips in Italy, France and other European countries.