Frequent Asked Questions

Q: What should I pack and how many pieces of Luggage should I take?

A: Comfortable, non-slip, walking shoes, small backpack, light rain gear, bathing suit, small camera and film, hat and sun protection. Neck pouches, money belts and pants with multiple pockets (to help avoid the crafty fingers of pickpockets in large centers). Padded shorts for biking. Dress tends to be tastefully casual throughout Italy. Remember to keep a cardigan or long sleeve shirt for entering churches or places of worship. No shorts or short skirts.

Ciao Tours “highly” recommends only one moderately sized piece of luggage that you can pull and one carry-on bag per person. Check with your airlines for weight restrictions. Domestic or European flights have strict weight restrictions compared to International flights.

Q: What type of travel insurance do I need?

A: Medical is mandatory for all Ciao Tours Packages. We highly recommend trip cancellation and interruption. Ciao Tours can provide a quote or contact your local insurance provider. Follow the link to our travel insurance page for more information. www.travelinsurance.ca/

Q: Currency and Bank Cards

A: The Currency in Italy is the Euro Dollar and is known as the Euro. You can withdraw money from most Bank Machines with your Bank or Credit Card if you have a Four Digit Pin Code or a Plus logo on the back of your card.

Q: How do I make a call from North America to Italy?

A: Dial the international code 011 then the country code 39 and then the phone number of the place you are trying to reach in Italy ex. 011.39.339.123.456

Q: How do I make a long-distance call from Italy to North America?

A: Dial the international code for N.America 001 then the area code and number you of the person you are trying to reach. Ex. 001.250.426.8088

Q: Do I need a Visa to enter Italy?

A: No a valid Canadian Passport is all you require for a stay of up to 3 months. But make sure that it will not be expiring before or during your travels.

Q: Do I need to leave a gratuity or Tip?

A: Approximately 10% in restaurants. If menu states “servizio incluso” do not leave tip. For Guides and Drivers a small gratuity is always appreciated and if the service meets or exceeds your expectations.

Q: I heard that it costs more to sit down at a Cafe, is this true?

A: Yes there is a slight service charge for sitting down to drink or eat at a local cafe or Bar as they are called in Italy. If you want to avoid this extra charge you can drink or eat standing up at the counter.

Q: Can I hail a Taxi?

A: Taxis are not hailed in Italy. There is a law against this. You must find a designated Taxi Stand usually located outside of the airport, train station or bus station and then take the first one available in line. You may also call one to arrive to your hotel, but beware that they will start the meter from the time the request is placed. Therefore the meter will be running by the time you get into the Taxi. Also extra charges will be applied if the driver must assist you with your bags.

Q. Is it difficult to drive in Italy?

A: No not at all. Italians drive on the left side of the road and rely on landmarks instead of street signs. A GPS is always an asset however not mandatory. Ciao Tours provides general driving directions in all our final itineraries.