FOOD: Avoid tourist filled areas for eating
Often, smaller, local areas will have cheaper and more authentic food.
Always check the coperto (service charge) at restaurants and cafes, as they might charge you without warning.
Make your own picnic with some fresh bread and cheese from the local supermarket/bakery.
Traveller’s tip: when in Rome, head to Trastevere for genuine Italian food at more local prices.
EXPLORING: Ways around tourist traps
Don’t pay for a space on the beach - often there will be a small section of public beach (spiaggia libera), so have a look around. Although it may be slightly busier, it’s still the same beach!
When exploring Italy’s cultural gems don’t forget to present your ID -16-25 year olds from the EU receive discounts in most galleries/museums/attractions.
Don’t be fooled by the market prices - you can haggle. State your price firmly (or just below the actual price you’d happily pay) and they will almost certainly reduce their original request. At the end of the day, they want to sell their products!
As well as avoiding carrying large sums of money around with you, you should also avoid using your debit/credit card to withdraw cash, as this will incur fees. The solution? A Travel Money Card, which you can get hold of at any post office. It can be used in stores and at ATMs, and you can top it up as you travel, all free of charge.
VIAGGI