YOU’RE JOINING US IN ITALY!
Now what..?
We know planning a trip is never easy. Planning a trip around an event? Oof! Even Harder! We are hoping this page will help you with the process.
TRAVEL INFORMATION
When should I fly in? - U.S. Guests
Our wedding and reception will be on Thursday the 19th of June. However, festivities will start on Tuesday the 17th of June. (more information can be found under our Itinerary tab). If you wish to partake in all of the events we would recommend flying out of the US on Monday the 16th at the latest. This will get you to Italy on Tuesday the 17th. Remember, when you fly from the United States you will land in Europe on the next calendar day.
Where should I fly in?
The closest, easiest, and recommended airport is in Florence (Firenze Amerigo Vespucci). This is also a very small airport and therefore not always the cheapest(but sometimes it is!).
If you fly into Roma Fiumicino there will be a small train that will take you directly to Roma Termini train station, from there you can take a high speed train to Firenze Santa Maria Novella.
If you fly into Milano Malpensa, Milan has a subway system that can take you from the airport to Milano Centrale train station. From Milano Centrale you can take a train to Firenze Santa Maria Novella.
If you fly into Bologna-Guglielmo Marconi. There will be a tram that can take you to Bologna Centrale train station and from there you can take the train to Firenze Santa Maria Novella.
Can I rent a car in Italy with U.S. Driver’s license?
You can! Italy has amazing public transportation so you might find you don't need a car. If you do decide to rent one, remember that the default car in Italy is a manual so be sure to specify an automatic if you can't drive stick.
Can I get an Uber or Lyft?
Nope! These rideshare apps are not available in Italy. You can get a taxi but always ask for the price of the ride before hopping in!
Where should I stay? - U.S. Guests
For your convenience we have exclusively reserved Il Borgo di Villa Castelletti Hotel.
This hotel is at the same location as the wedding villa. We have it exclusively reserved for Tuesday, June 17- Friday, June 20. All rooms will need to be booked and paid through us. (Jennifer 309-337-0812) If you are planning on arriving earlier than Tuesday and would like to stay at this hotel, please let us know so that we can make arrangements. Since we do not have exclusivity before the 17th rooms will not be guaranteed, therefore please let us know as soon as possible.
How do I get to the Hotel/Villa from the Florence airport?
We will be providing a shuttle service on Tuesday the 16th. There is also a taxi stand right outside of the airport. You will need to take the first taxi in the line. Finally, you can always take the tram into the city center and then catch a regional train going to “Signa”.
How do I get in touch with the Shuttle Service?
Once more details have been worked out, we will be providing a phone number that you will be able to call.
Will my phone work in Italy?
Most phone carriers have travel plans that you can use. Or you can always buy a SIM card from a phone company in Italy.
How can I get Euros?
If you contact your bank, they should be able to get euros for you. If you want to get euros while in Italy you can use your card with an ATM. Make sure to AVOID the blue and yellow ATMs as they will overcharge you.
Do U.S. Citizens need a Visa to go to Italy?
Sort of! Starting in 2025 US citizens need to apply for ETIAS to enter Italy and other Schengen countries. This is done online and cost less than $10.
Do Albanian Citizens need a Visa to go to Italy?
Nope!
Are there any apps I should download?
If you don't already have "Google Maps", this is great not only for walking directions but can also help you navigate the public transportation!
"Google Translate" allows you to download languages so you will be able to translate even if you do not have service.
“Whatsapp” is a great way to communicate. In Europe or not!
If you want to use the rail system while you're here, you can download "Italo Treno" and "Trenitalia" Trenitalia trains will stop in almost all towns whereas Italo are highspeed trains that only make stops in larger cities.
"The Fork" this app allows you to make dinner reservations. A lot of restaurants will offer discounts when you make a reservations using this app. However, not all restaurants can be found on the app.
Will my outlets work in Italy?
United States outlets will not work. You will need to get an outlet adaptor for you device chargers.
Is it safe to walk around Florence at night?
Florence is very safe! Even at night the streets are well lit up. The only thing to watch out for are possible pickpockets near the train station and around popular attractions.