Italy is a country of magic and beauty that takes you on a journey through time, where cultures and history blend with stunning natural landscapes to create an unforgettable experience. From the historic streets of Rome to the luxurious fashion stores in Milan, Italy offers tourist destinations that suit all tastes and interests. If you are planning to discover this wonderful country, Wadi Al Safar will be your ideal partner for a unique tourism experience, providing you with everything you need for comfort and guidance. In this article, we will take you on a tour of the most prominent tourist attractions in Italy, let you choose the best times to visit this wonderful destination, and reveal the secrets of traveling there in easy and safe ways.

When is the best time to visit Italy? Spring, Summer, or Autumn?

Italy has a warm Mediterranean climate most of the time, but the choice between spring, summer, and autumn depends on your personal preferences and the atmosphere you want to experience:

Spring (March – May): Spring is one of the best times to visit Italy. The country enjoys mild weather, and flowers are blooming in gardens and natural areas. Tourist spots are also less crowded compared to summer. Spring is the perfect time to explore historic cities like Rome and Florence or wander through Italian villages.
Summer (June – August): Summer in Italy is the peak tourist season. Temperatures are high, but this season is perfect for those who love beaches and festivals. Coastal cities like Amalfi and Sardinia are crowded with visitors. However, you must be prepared for crowds and high prices.
Autumn (September – November): Autumn is an ideal period to visit Italy if you want mild weather and a calm atmosphere. Tourist crowds have thinned out compared to summer, making it easy to enjoy quiet tours in major cities like Milan and Venice.

What are the most prominent tourist attractions in Italy? Like Rome, Florence, Venice, and the Dolomites?

Italy includes many wonderful tourist attractions that are worth visiting:

Rome: Italy’s historic capital is home to a collection of famous ancient landmarks. You should start your tour at the Colosseum, then visit St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museum. Piazza Navona and the Roman Forum are also among the most prominent places that cannot be missed.
Florence: The heart of Italian Renaissance art. The Uffizi Gallery and Michelangelo’s David statue are among the city’s most prominent landmarks. The Florence Cathedral and the beautiful Tuscan landscapes also offer a wonderful blend of art and history.
Venice: The floating city that offers a magical experience through its famous canals and bridges. St. Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge are among the city’s most prominent landmarks.
Dolomites: The Italian Dolomites mountains are an ideal destination for lovers of winter sports or outdoor walking. They offer stunning natural landscapes and are a great place for skiing and hiking.

What is cultural tourism in Italy? Like historic villages and the revival of local heritage?

Italy is not only a country of major tourist attractions but also includes many unique cultural experiences:

Historic Villages: Such as San Gimignano and Assisi, which offer visitors a chance to discover Italian rural life. The traditional houses, narrow streets, and ancient atmosphere make these villages perfect places to escape the crowds.
Revival of Local Heritage: Italy is known for its traditional festivals like the Venice Carnival and the Venice Film Festival. You can also discover regional cuisines and learn about traditional cooking methods that change from one region to another, from pasta in Naples to pizza in Rome.

How many days are enough for tourism in Italy for a family or young people? And what is the suggested itinerary?

For families: It is best to spend 7 to 10 days to cover the most prominent landmarks in Italy. You can divide the time between major cities like Rome and Florence, and then head to Venice and Milan. Be sure to allocate time to discover small towns and rural areas, such as visiting Tuscany or the Dolomites regions.
For young people: If you are traveling with friends or alone, 5 to 7 days may be enough to visit the main cities and experience the nightlife in the major cities.

Suggested itinerary:

Day 1-2: Arrive in Rome, visit the Colosseum, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Vatican Museum.
Day 3-4: Move to Florence to enjoy the Uffizi Gallery and David. You can also visit nearby Tuscany.
Day 5-6: Visit Venice to wander its famous canals and visit St. Mark’s Square.
Day 7-8: Head to Milan to enjoy shopping and visit the Milan Cathedral.

Is Italy safe for Saudis?

Italy is generally considered a safe tourist destination, but as in any country, it is advisable to follow some guidelines to ensure your safety:

Safety tips for travelers:

Beware of petty theft: In crowded tourist areas like the Colosseum and the Trevi Fountain, you may be vulnerable to pickpocketing. It is advisable to use front bags or money belts and avoid carrying large amounts of money.
Stay informed about local events: Follow local news through reliable media or apps, especially if any demonstrations or unexpected events occur.
Avoid dark or deserted areas: Like any big city, it is preferable to avoid wandering in unlit or empty areas, especially in the late night hours.
Respect local laws: Such as traffic laws, public etiquette, and regulations for tourist places.
Travel insurance: It is essential to obtain comprehensive travel insurance that covers accidents, injuries, luggage loss, and medical evacuation.

What is the ETIAS system? And does it affect Saudis?

The ETIAS system (European Travel Information and Authorization System) is an electronic system approved by EU countries to enhance border security.

Do Saudis need ETIAS? Yes, starting in the last quarter of 2026, Saudi citizens traveling to Italy and member states of the Schengen area will need to obtain an ETIAS authorization, instead of a traditional visa.

Requirements to obtain ETIAS:

Valid passport: It must be valid for at least 3 months after the date of arrival.
Valid email address: For communication and sending the authorization.
Payment of the application fee: Approximately 20 euros (fees may vary by age group).
Answer security and health questions: To ensure there are no security or health risks.

Application processing time: Most applications are processed automatically within minutes. However, some cases may take up to 30 days if further review or an interview is required.

ETIAS validity period: The authorization is valid for 3 years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.

Do Saudis need a visa to travel to Italy?

Yes, Saudi citizens need a Schengen visa to travel to Italy. Italy is part of the Schengen area, which means that a Saudi citizen must obtain a visa to enter the country. The visa allows its holder to enter Italy as well as the other member states of the Schengen area such as France, Germany, Spain, and others.

What are the Schengen visa requirements for Italy for a Saudi citizen?

The Schengen visa is a short-stay visa that allows its holder to stay in the Schengen area countries for a period not exceeding 90 days in a 180-day period. Here are the basic requirements to obtain a Schengen visa for Italy for a Saudi citizen:

Valid passport: The passport must be valid for at least 3 months after the date of arrival in Italy.
Personal photos: Recent personal photos must be submitted, according to the standards specified by the Italian consulate.
Flight ticket reservation: A round-trip flight ticket reservation must be submitted, with the arrival and departure dates specified.
Hotel reservation or proof of accommodation: Proof of a hotel reservation in Italy or a letter of invitation from an Italian party must be submitted if you will be staying with a friend or family member.
Travel insurance: Health insurance must be provided that covers the entire duration of the stay in Italy and the Schengen countries.
Proof of financial capability: Proof that you have the financial ability to cover the costs of travel and accommodation in Italy must be submitted, such as a bank statement or salary certificate.
Proof of employment or study: It is necessary to provide a letter from your employer or the educational institution you belong to that clarifies your current status.

How much is the Italian visa fee for Saudis? And what is its validity period?

Visa fee: The Schengen visa fee is usually 80 euros for Saudi citizens. The fees may differ slightly depending on the visa category (e.g., short-term or long-term visa).
Visa validity period: The validity of the Schengen visa is usually between 30 and 90 days, depending on the planned duration of your stay in Italy and other countries in the Schengen area.
- Short-term visas are usually valid for one month (30 days).
- Long-term visas may extend up to 90 days.

How long does it take to process a visa application for Italy? And what is the expected time frame?

Application processing time: The processing of an Italian visa application usually takes about 10 to 15 business days after submitting the required documents. In some cases, the duration may be longer if the consulate needs more time to review the applications or if there are holidays in the country.
Expected time frame: It is advisable to submit the Schengen visa application for Italy at least 3 weeks before your planned travel date. This ensures that you get the visa in a timely manner.
Note: Sometimes, processing can be expedited for an additional fee, depending on the Italian consulate.

Conclusion

Italy is a tourist destination like no other, with a blend of historical and cultural landmarks and amazing natural landscapes. If you are planning to visit this wonderful country, Wadi Al Safar is the ideal choice to ensure an unforgettable trip. Whether you want to explore the tourist attractions in Rome, enjoy the art in Florence, or immerse yourself in Italian culture in Milan, we are here to provide you with the best travel experience.

Do not hesitate to contact Wadi Al Safar now to book your next trip to Italy.