Must-Have Apps for Exploring Italy:

CityMapper - this will help you get around Paris or you can use Google Maps.

Google Translate - this will help for some menus. 

WhatsApp - this is a widely used app throughout Europe to communicate with International guests. Your hotel and tour operators are usually on this.

FreeNow - Taxi app that works like Uber

Training in Italy: Italy has a great rail system.  You can easily buy rail tickets in and out of most cities.  ItaliaRail

Public Transportation in Rome: Tips on youtube

Driving in Italy: 

• International Drivers Permit
  An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for car rentals abroad, as some companies require it. AAA can provide one. 
• Avoid ZTL Zones 
  Historic downtown areas often have restricted driving zones (ZTLs), resulting in fines sent to your rental company weeks later. To avoid these charges, park outside ZTLs and use walking or public transport.

A smart phone is pretty essential to travel these days and a lot of phone providers are starting to include International calling.  T-Mobile includes international service.

Otherwise, these providers provide a daily pass option. 

Verizon: Travel Pass @ $12 / day

AT&T:   International Day Pass @ $12 / day

Good to Know:

When you don’t plan to use your phone, keep your phone in airplane mode and use hotel / restaurants wifi to access the internet.  Also make sure to turn off Data Roaming in your device settings.

Using Your Debit Card It is very easy to find ATMs at the airport or around town. I recommend using your debit card to withdraw local cash for tipping tour guides, small entrance fees, or using public restrooms.

• Pro-Tip: Be sure to notify your bank of your travel dates so they don't flag your card for suspicious activity.

Credit Card Best Practices

• Fees: Check if your card charges a 3% foreign transaction fee. If it does, you may want to use a different card to save on costs.

• Tap to Pay: Most merchants prefer "Tap to Pay." Ensure your physical cards have this capability or load them into your digital wallet (Apple Pay or Google Pay) on your phone.

• Choose Local Currency: If a card machine asks if you want to pay in U.S. Dollars or the local currency (Euros/Swiss Francs), always choose the local currency. This ensures you get the best exchange rate from your bank rather than a marked-up rate from the merchant.

As in most of Europe, its appropriate but not mandatory, to leave a few Euros as a tip for those providing services, whether a restaurant, porters or other providers. For exceptional service 5-10% is acceptable. Locals may tip more modestly and if you feel unsure, ask one!

Here is a link to our travel gear recommendations  we have purchased through Amazon.

Most important: 

• Europe travel adapter
• Compression cubes

Purses/Bags:

Large cities, unfortunately, can be hotspots for pickpockets. To minimize the risk in tourist-heavy areas, consider using a front-facing purse or a money belt that zips securely. This will help keep your valuables safe and sound while you explore.

Luggage:
I recommend packing one checked bag and a comfortable backpack as your carry-on. Simplifying your luggage will make navigating airports, trains, and city streets much easier. Always include an extra set of clothes and any essential medications in your carry-on as a precaution against lost luggage.