5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Traveling to Northern Italy

Hey there, fellow travelers! Ever found yourself wandering through a new country, wishing someone had given you the insider scoop before you packed your bags? That’s exactly how I felt on my journey through Northern Italy—a land of stunning landscapes, mouth-watering cuisine, and oh-so-much more. Here’s the real deal on what I wish I knew before setting off, along with some handy tips to help you enjoy your trip to the fullest!

1. The Late Night Lifestyle

The Surprise: In Italy, evenings start late! I found myself wandering hungry streets as restaurants don’t generally open before 7 PM, with prime dinner time rocking between 8:30 and 10:30 PM.

The Solution: Embrace the Italian aperitivo culture! Grab some snacks and a drink at a local bar around 6 PM. This not only gets you in sync with local dining times but also lets you mingle with the locals.

2. Gluten Galore

The Surprise: Italy's culinary scene is a dream, but it’s heavily woven with gluten. After a pasta-packed spree, my body was begging for something greener and leaner.

The Solution: Opt for accommodations with a kitchen. This was a game changer for me! Stock up on fresh local produce and whip up some veggie-rich meals to balance out those decadent pasta dinners.

3. Driving Misconceptions

The Surprise: Driving in Italy wasn’t the hair-raising horror I’d braced for! Sure, the cars are smaller and the roads curvier, but it’s all manageable.

The Solution: Rent a compact car to ease your way around those scenic bends. And remember, slower is often smoother—and definitely safer—when navigating unfamiliar territory.

4. Dolomite Dreams and Drives

The Surprise: 'Near the Dolomites' can be misleading. Many lodgings boast proximity to these majestic mountains, but the actual drive might involve a gut-wrenching two hours of twists and turns.

The Solution: Do your homework! Choose accommodations based on your specific hiking or sightseeing goals within the Dolomites, rather than just picking any place with 'Dolomite' in the description.

5. The Reservation Rule

The Surprise: Italy in summer is a hotspot for tourists, which means booking ahead isn’t just recommended, it’s essential—especially for popular spots.

The Solution: Plan and book your accommodations, car rentals, and even some key meals or excursions well in advance. This doesn’t just secure your spot; it often grants you a skip-the-line luxury that can make your trip that much smoother.

Wrapping It Up

Traveling through Northern Italy was like dancing through a painting—vibrant, vivid, and occasionally, a bit vertiginous! With each twist in the road, I learned something new, and with these tips, I hope you’ll feel prepped and pumped for your own Italian escapade.

So, grab that suitcase, throw in a sense of adventure (and maybe an antacid), and prepare to immerse yourself in the wonders of Italy. Trust me, it's worth every single unexpected turn!

Stay curious, stay adventurous, and as always—travel with heart!

Ciao for now,

Jess