Solo Travel in Italy: Tips for a Smooth Journey

There’s something really special about traveling alone – no compromises, no set plans, just you, your curiosity, and a whole world waiting to be explored. And honestly, if you’re going to do it anywhere, Italy is one of the best places to go solo. 

I’ve visited Italy alone many times and I’ve personally found the country very easy to navigate. The train system is extensive and there are plenty of hostels and walking tours if you want to meet other solo travelers. I’ve never felt uncomfortable dining alone there – in fact, it’s nice to just sit in a cafe with a glass of wine and a bowl of pasta watching the world go by. 

With its art, history, jaw-dropping landscapes, and most notably – the food – Italy is one of those destinations you should visit at least once in your lifetime. So if you’re planning to visit solo, here’s everything you need to know to make your trip smooth, safe, and seriously unforgettable.

What It’s Like to Travel Solo in Italy

First things first—Italy is great for solo travelers. The people are friendly, the cities are easy to navigate, and there’s a deep appreciation for beauty, food, and good conversation everywhere you go. Even if you don’t speak the language, a smile and a few basic phrases can take you a long way. And most people speak some English anyway, so I never really found the language barrier an issue. 

You’ll never really feel alone. Italians are social and warm, and even if you’re dining solo or wandering through a museum, no one’s going to look at you like you’ve got two heads. In fact, being on your own often makes it easier to meet people.

Of course, like anywhere, it helps to be prepared. So let’s talk about where to go and how to do it right.

Staying Connected (and Safe)

When you’re traveling solo, staying connected is key. Whether it’s checking train times, using Google Maps to find your Airbnb, or texting your mom to say you’re alive (hi Mom!), your phone becomes your lifeline.

Instead of fiddling with physical SIM cards or hunting for sketchy café Wi-Fi, just grab one of these eSIM plans for Italy from Saily. It’s super easy – you activate it before or during your trip, no swapping or stores required. Just scan a QR code, and boom – you’re online.

Having a solid data connection also means you can translate menus, book last-minute trains, and make video calls from a random Tuscan hilltop. Trust me, it’s worth it.

Best Places to Visit Solo in Italy

There’s no shortage of amazing places in Italy, but some are especially solo-travel friendly. On my first trip to Italy I visited the big three – Venice, Rome and Florence – but on subsequent trips I’ve visited places like Lake Como and Positano.

The following destinations are easy to get around, full of things to do, and generally super welcoming.

Rome

Rome: A Chaotic, Beautiful, Ancient & Modern Wonderland

Think of Rome as the ultimate mash‑up of old‑school drama and neon pop‑culture—like a sprawling family reunion where everyone is fluent in tongue‑twisting architecture and breakfast pastries.

What to Do Right Off the Bat

• Colosseum: Stroll in, take a selfie with the iconic arches, and pretend you’re a gladiator… or just enjoy the epic vibes.
• Trevi Fountain: Toss a coin, make a wish, and keep an eye out for that inevitable “there’s a kid who tried to throw a banana” story.
• Trastevere at Night: Walk through cobblestone lanes, breathe in the fragrant pizza aroma, and maybe find a new friend on a shared espresso.

The Macabre Greatness of Carbonara

Have you ever dreamed of eating an entire birthday cake made of mozzarella? Cardboard? No. Carbonara! Picture this: each forkful gives your body weight an approval stamp—only if you belong to the foodie club. Trust us, this isn’t a diet plan; it’s a ceremonious feast.

Why You Might Want to Stay Longer

Rome is a living puzzle—there’s always a hidden corner waiting to surprise you. Think of it as a labyrinth full of treasures you can discover at your own pace. With walking tours galore, you won’t feel lost; you’ll feel connected. It’s the perfect place to make friends if you crave company.

TL;DR

Visit the ancient Colosseum, splash your wish at Trevi, wander Trastevere’s night‑time vibes, devour a hefty carbonara, and embrace every twisty, modern, or nostalgic moment Rome throws at you.

Florence

If you’re into art, wine, and romantic city views, Florence is the place for you. It’s small enough to explore on foot, full of museums and cute cafés, and perfect for solo strolls along the Arno River. You’ll also find some great day trips from here – like Pisa, Siena, and the Tuscan countryside.

Venice

Venice feels like a dream. No cars, just canals, colorful buildings, and maze-like alleys. It’s super peaceful if you visit early in the day or wander off the main tourist routes. Some say it’s a place for lovers, but honestly, it’s even more magical solo. You’ll get lost – and you’ll love it. Check out my itinerary for 2 days in Venice to get the most out of your visit.

Bologna

Not as touristy, but full of charm, Bologna is the foodie capital of Italy. The vibe here is more local, more laid-back, and the streets are covered in porticoes so you can stroll around rain or shine. It’s a great spot if you want fewer crowds and more authentic experiences.

Cinque Terre

These five little cliffside villages along the Ligurian coast are stunning. You can hike between them, hop on the local train, or just chill with a glass of wine and watch the sunset. It gets busy in summer, so shoulder season (spring or early fall) is the sweet spot.

Sorrento & the Amalfi Coast

If you’re in the mood to treat yourself, head south to Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast. It’s gorgeous, dramatic, and full of coastal charm. Base yourself in Sorrento for easy access to Positano, Capri, and even Pompeii.

Staying in Hostels as a Solo Traveler

If you want to meet people, save money, and get local tips, hostels are your best friend. Italy has plenty of amazing hostels that are clean, social, and way more stylish than the bunk-bed nightmares you might be imagining. I made some life long friends at a hostel in Rome who I still keep in touch with to this day.

Where to book:

Hostelworld: The OG for hostel reviews and backpacker vibes.

Booking.com: Great filters and often free cancellation.

Agoda: Sometimes has better deals than the others.

Look for hostels with:

Female-only dorms (if you’re a solo female traveler and that’s your comfort zone)

Lockers for valuables

Free breakfast (worth it)

Social activities like walking tours, pasta nights, or bar crawls

Popular picks:

The RomeHello – Super central, artsy, and social in Rome.

Plus Florence – Feels like a hotel, but still budget-friendly.

Anda Venice – Modern, stylish, and just a few steps from the station.

Train Travel in Italy: What You Need to Know

Trains are the easiest, safest, and most scenic way to travel solo around Italy. Seriously – skip the car rental stress and enjoy watching the countryside fly by with a cappuccino in hand.

Booking Sites:

All Your Train Options in One Place (Budget‐Friendly and Blunt)

Feeling a bit lost when picking a train service? Don’t worry – here’s the lowdown on the four stars you’ll see everywhere in Europe. Pick the one that tickles your fancy (or your wallet) and hop on!

• Omio: The “Seriously, let’s compare everything” platform. Think of it as a one‑stop shop that shows you every ticket, price, and schedule in a single glance. Wrap‑up all your travel options without hunting through a hundred websites. If you’re a serial browser, this is your new BFF.
• Trenitalia: The rail‑faithful, national provider that’s been running Italy’s trains for decades. They’ll get you from Rome to Turin, but the interface might feel like that old friend who still puts the map on the rim of your glasses. A solid choice if you want a guaranteed seat in the .docx version of an Italian train schedule.
• Italo: The slick private speedster that’s all about delivering a “fast and fancy” experience. Their fares often come with flash sales that make you feel like you’ve just snagged a silver‑ticket souvenir from a carnival. If you love to travel in luxury and want your booking in a chic, modern layout, mega‑high‑speed is your best bet.
• Rail Europe: The globetrotting train platform that’s perfect for those who plan to hop from one country to the next. Think of it as the travel planner “I’ve got all the units, just put them in the blender.” If multi‑country travel’s on your agenda, this is the one to let you “cardio‑train” across borders.

Bottom line? Pick your vibe, check the deals, and go. All trains are waiting – just pick the right ticket and let the journey begin!

Types of Trains:

Frecciarossa / Frecciargento / Frecciabianca: High-speed and comfy. Great for Rome–Florence, Milan–Naples, etc.

Italo: Also high-speed, usually a bit cheaper if you book early.

Regionale: Slower, cheaper, local trains—no seat reservations.

Intercity: Long-distance trains that stop at more places.

Pro Tips:

Validate paper tickets before boarding (look for green or yellow machines at the station).

Book high-speed trains in advance for the best prices.

Get to the station 15–20 minutes early – platforms can change last-minute.

Always keep your ticket handy – conductors do check.

Safety Tips for Solo Travelers in Italy

Italy is generally safe, but solo travelers should still be smart. Here’s what’s worked for me and countless others:

Pickpocketing is real. Especially in crowded places like train stations, metros, and tourist hotspots. Use a crossbody bag with zippers and keep it in front of you.

Don’t flash valuables. Leave fancy jewelry and expensive bags at home.

Trust your gut. If something feels off, walk away.

Stick to well-lit streets at night and avoid empty alleyways in unfamiliar areas.

Keep emergency contacts and your accommodation info easily accessible.

Dining Solo in Italy? Absolutely.

Eating Alone in Italy: A Hidden Delight

Don’t let the word “solo” make you feel guilty about that extra pizza slice. In Italy, eating by yourself isn’t just okay—it’s celebrated. If you’re sipping a glass of local wine or digging into a creamy risotto, you won’t be noticed by anyone who’s busy enjoying their dish.

Why Being the Only Person at the Table Works

While Italy is all about “slow food” and savoring every bite, the locals have a reputation for being friendly and welcoming. Some waiters will even go the extra mile to make you feel special.

Quick Tips Before You Order

• Take a seat outdoors when the weather cooperates. The best seat? The one with a view of the café’s bustling patrons.
• Order a carafe of house wine—cheers to the little moments.
• Keep a book or journal handy if you feel a bit awkward. The pages will keep you company, and the silence will become a companion.

If You’re Not Feeling Solo

Italy’s menu is full of handy spots to eat on the fly. From gelato shops that offer a sweet escape between stops to casual places serving pizza by the slice, you can dive into local flavors without committing to a full-sized table.

Eat, enjoy, repeat—solo style. It’s not just fine; it’s deliciously fun.

Making Friends Along the Way

Even if you’re traveling solo, you don’t have to be solo all the time. Italy has tons of group tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, and walking tours – many of them super affordable and full of other solo travelers.

Sites like GetYourGuide, Viator, and Airbnb Experiences are great for booking activities and meeting like-minded people. I also really like Walks of Italy for walking tours of popular cities. 

What to Pack for Solo Travel in Italy

Packing light is the move – especially when you’re the only one lugging your suitcase up a five-floor walk-up in Rome. Stick to a backpack or rolled cabin bag that you can easily manouvre around Italy’s cobbled streets. Prioritize versatile pieces and things that keep you comfy and safe.

Essentials:

Passport + copies (digital + physical)

Unlocked phone for your eSIM plan

Credit cards, debit card, and some euros

Travel insurance info

Plug adapter (Italy uses Type C, F, or L plugs)

Reusable water bottle

Headphones + charger

Light backpack or cross body bag

Clothes:

Comfortable walking shoes

Sandals, low heels or comfy espadrilles

Linen or cotton outfits for hot days

One nicer outfit for dinners or nightlife

Swimsuit if you’re hitting the coast

Light jacket or scarf (also handy for churches)

A Final Word

Italy has a well-trodden tourist trail and is one of the most visited cities in the world, making it very easy to get around as a solo traveler. You’ll learn how capable you really are, how magical it feels to sit alone with a glass of wine in a buzzing piazza, and how freeing it is to plan each day on your own terms.

You’ll get a little lost (in the best way), eat things that ruin you for life (hello, real mozzarella), and come home with stories that belong entirely to you. 

I wouldn’t hesitate to pack my bags and travel solo through Italy, and neither should you!