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 is chaotic, beautiful, ancient, and modern all at once. You could spend weeks here and still find hidden corners to explore. Visit the Colosseum, throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain, wander through Trastevere at night, and eat your bodyweight in carbonara. Bonus: it’s packed with walking tours, so it’s easy to meet people if you’re craving some company.
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:
- Omio: User-friendly and lets you compare all options in one place.
- Trenitalia: The national rail provider.
- Italo: Private high-speed train company, often has great sales.
- Rail Europe: Good if you’re planning multiple countries.
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.
Don’t be afraid to eat alone – it’s actually one of the best parts of solo travel. Italy is all about slow food and savoring the moment, and no one’s going to judge you for dining solo. In fact, some waiters will go out of their way to make you feel extra welcome.
Tips:
- Sit outside if the weather’s nice—hello, people-watching!
- Order a carafe of house wine and live your best life.
- Bring a book or journal if you feel awkward at first (you won’t for long).
If you don’t feel like dining solo, Italy also has plenty of gelato shops and casual restaurants where you can grab pizza by-the-slice and eat it on the go.
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!
