Traveling to Italy doesn't have to take a toll on your wallet. In fact, anyone can travel to Italy on a budget as long as they plan ahead, make wise financial decisions and know exactly how to catch the best deals. Check out these tips that will help you save money while vacationing in Italy.

Travel in the off-season. Italy is most crowded during the summer months so avoid the crowded season and aim to visit around fall or spring. This time of year is not only less packed with tourists, but often provides cooler weather and cheaper prices on sight-seeing destinations.

Skimp on dinner and eat a big breakfast and lunch. Dinner in Italy tends to be expensive. Enjoy a few dinners, but when possible eat your major meal at lunch time when prices are more modestly set. Also take advantage of the continental breakfast if your hotel offers one and feel free to grab an extra roll or two for the road. If your hotel does not offer free breakfast, eat at a cafe or bistro where you can take your leftover food with you.

Shop at the grocery store. If you purchase food at the grocery store, you will save money and gain insight into the Italian way of life. Food is less expensive when bought at the grocery store and by shopping there you will have the opportunity to mingle with the locals.

Use public transportation. Italy makes it easy on its citizens and guests with its comprehensive public transportation system. Take advantage of the trains, subway, public buses and water buses (called vaporetti). This is cheaper than renting a car or taking a taxi to your destination.

Lodge outside of the major cities. Staying near the airport or large cities (Rome or Venice, for example), is far more expensive than staying on the outer edge of the city. You'll receive better value for your money and the short traveling distance is worth the extra money you will save.

Stay in a hostel if you're feeling up to it. You can find beds for less than $50 a person and you will meet other travelers from all over the world. Many hostels offer private rooms with bathrooms en suite, so look around to find the best hostel for your budget.

About the Author

Wendy Rose Gould is a professional journalist who has contributed to "Glamour" magazine and the Huffington Post, among other publications. After internships at the "Indianapolis Business Journal," "Kiwanis International" and "NUVO Newsweekly," she earned BA degrees in journalism and philosophy from Franklin College in 2008. Gould specializes in lifestyle topics.

Photo Credits

  • Alexey Arkhipov | Dreamstime.com
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