Cycling
Cycling is a wonderful way to experience Italy. It offers you the chance to get off the beaten path and interact with locals. Cycling is a national pastime in Italy and, as a result, you will see many cyclists on the roads. Although Italians drive fast, they are respectful toward cyclists and are used to sharing the road. When choosing your route, stay on the small roads, avoiding the highways known as autostrade. Consider taking a train with your bicycle if you need to travel long distances. Bikes are not permitted on the fast Intercity and Eurostar trains. However, the slower regionale/inter-regionale trains accept them. Be sure to equip yourself with a helmet, lights and panniers. Stop en route to enjoy gourmet meals and quaint bed and breakfasts, otherwise known as pensione.
Hiking
Destinations such as the Dolomites or the Cinque Terre in Tuscany offer travelers the chance to hike from point A to point B. This is a distinctive way to immerse yourself in Italian culture and get away from the hassle of renting a car or spending hours on a train. Mountain areas, such as the Dolomites, have a system of mountain huts where hikers can enjoy tasty meals and rustic accommodations. There is no need to carry a tent, food or stove. Simply carry a small daypack with clothes and spend a week hiking through the mountains. In places like Cinque Terre, hike from town to town staying in bed and breakfasts that are off the beaten path.
Driving
An excellent system of motorways, or autostrade, link the major cities of Italy. However, before renting a car, keep in mind that Italians drive on the opposite side of the road from the U.S. In addition, they typically drive fast and aggressively. For some travelers, driving can be a stressful experience. Others find it exhilarating. Often, it can be quicker to take a train from one major city to another.
Public Transport
Italy has extensive rail and bus systems that reach from one end of the country to the other. It is possible to travel just about anywhere using public transportation. Both systems are relatively inexpensive and efficient, and they are often more relaxing than navigating the roads by car. Since train travel is inexpensive, most people opt to travel by train rather than bus.
The Eurostar and Intercity trains are fast, efficient and modern. Rural towns and villages are serviced by regionale and inter-regionale trains. However, service on these trains is often slow, and the trains are not as modern. Unless you are traveling from one major city to another, a train ride in Italy often requires changing stations and boarding different types of trains. Be warned that Italian trains are often late.
Flying
Alitalia is Italy's national airline and offers domestic services between most of the major cities. The main airports are Rome, Pisa, Milan, Naples, Palermo, Catania and Cagliari. Smaller airports also exist throughout the country. However, unless you are flying from north to south, it is typically quicker and cheaper to take a train, bus or drive. More information can be found online at alitalia.com.
