9 Things a Woman Should Pack for a Trip to Italy
by Darya Boronilo
Italy is the world’s fashion capital, and being among the stylish locals, you’ll want to plan what you’ll wear in Italy ahead of time. After all, Italians are known for their refined fashion sense! When packing for a trip to Italy, it’s important to balance style with comfort. In this article, you’ll find nine things to add to your packing list for those looking to see the sights in the major cities; we’ll follow up with some tips and ideas on seeing the sites off the beaten path in the coming weeks.
However, comfort should be a priority during any trip. The best packing strategy would be to pick comfortable, practical items, versatile for various occasions. With our packing tips, you will have a stylish and memorable trip. Here’s our guide on what to pack for Italy so that you always feel great and ready for any occasion. But above all, when following our advice, you can shine with style and grace throughout your journey, wherever it takes you!
Essential Clothing Items
Comfortable Shoes for Exploring
Comfort is key when exploring Italy’s many iconic landmarks. From the Colosseum and Trevi Fountain to St Mark’s Square and the Leaning Tower of Pisa, many of the most famous places are in pedestrian zones, meaning you could have a lot of ground to cover. Make sure your feet are up to the task by wearing comfortable shoes. This way, you can focus on enjoying the sights and sounds of Italy without worrying about anything else. Avoid heels if possible, and choose flats or comfortable boots. Enjoy walking through the Roman Piazza Navona, Milan’s Duomo, or Palermo’s Street Markets wearing your favorite sneakers.
An Evening Dress to Impress
If you’re planning on experiencing the best of Italian culture in the evening, you’ll need a lovely dress. A little black dress is always a good choice. Italy is a land of renowned opera, impressive exhibitions, exclusive dining options, and possible “black tie” affairs.
Put on your elegant dress and plan to visit La Scala in Milan, where some of the world’s most famous opera singers have graced the stage. Such a dress will also be a good choice for an aperitivo with friends at one of the fancy rooftop bars in Rome. Or wear it to dine al fresco in Venice while watching the sunset over the canals.
A Cashmere Sweater for Confidence During Any Adventure
There’s no item more essential to a cold-season wardrobe than a light yet warm sweater that works with all your outfits. Cashmere sweater fiber is incredibly soft and warm, making it perfect for chilly weather. It also has a luxurious feel, making it a popular designer clothing choice.
So, choose your ideal sweater and feel confident about any adventure. It’s warm enough to wear during your ski vacation in the Dolomites and light enough to layer under a coat when you’re in Rome.
A Versatile Pair of Jeans
Whether taking the train into the city or going for a leisurely stroll, jeans are comfortable and easy to wear. They also go well with various tops, making them versatile and stylish. And if you’re planning a romantic evening out, there’s no need to worry. Jeans can be dressed with the right accessories to create a fashionable and elegant look. So, pick your favorite pair of stylish jeans and go to explore Christmas markets in Rome, indulge in gourmet adventures in Bologna, or marvel at art masterpieces in Florence.
An Eye-Catching Coat to Keep you Warm
As the temperatures drop and golden leaves blanket the ground, you might find yourself longing for a stroll through the cozy Italian streets. While the days may be sunny, the evenings can be chilly, and you’ll want to be prepared. So, if you’re planning a trip to Italy, pack an impressive, stylish coat or jacket to keep you warm.
Now you are ready to enjoy the slightly crisp air and soft sun rays while sipping a cup of coffee or hot chocolate at one of the iconic Roman cafes.
A Hat to Add Elegance
There’s no doubt that a stylish hat can add a touch of elegance to any outfit. But in Italy, hats are more than just fashion accessories – they’re also a practical way to protect yourself from the sun.
Whether you’re strolling through the elegant streets of Turin or taking in the sights of Tuscany, you’ll see plenty of people wearing hats. In the colder period, those can be handmade hats of wool that perfectly match autumn outfits. So, if you want to stay warm, shield yourself from the sun, and look exceptionally good in your photos from vacation, don’t forget your hat!
Sunglasses for a Touch of Glamour
In Italy, stylish sunglasses are a must-have item. They are not only for shielding your eyes from the bright Mediterranean sun but also an essential accessory. They can easily add a touch of glamour to your outfit. Whether you prefer classic black frames or trendy Cat-Eye styles, there’s sure to be a pair of glasses that will suit your taste. So don’t forget to get your shades when packing for your trip to Italy.
A Silk Scarf for a Movie Star Look
A scarf is the perfect style accent for any outfit. Plus, it keeps you warm when the temperatures start to drop. When it comes to Italian style, scarves are an essential accessory. They are perfect for dressing up a casual outfit or adding style to a more formal look.
Whether you choose a silk scarf or a wool one, make sure to have a few different colors and styles on hand to match your wardrobe. Style your bright silk scarf with sunglasses for that perfect Coastal Italian look! Now that you look like a movie star, head to Portofino for an appropriately glamorous weekend!
A Camera to Capture all Your Favorite Memories
When packing for your trip to Italy, don’t forget to bring your camera! You’ll want to document all your unique experiences in this beautiful country. From the picturesque alpine landscape of Piedmont to the colorful street markets in Sicily, there’s so much to capture!
Modern phones are equipped with powerful cameras and multi-faced tools that compete with compact cameras. They are better if you don’t want to carry heavy equipment or another device you have to keep track of. So, choose the device that suits you best, but above all, don’t forget to live in the moment!
Enjoy the present: feel the smell of your pasta topped with fresh basil, distinguish the shades and textures of the vegetables at the street market, observe how grapes and olives are ripening, and answer to the warm smiles around you. Let your camera highlight the happy memories you really lived!
Enjoy the Exciting Packing Process
Packing for a new adventure can be an exciting process as it brings you closer to the cherished moment of arriving at the destination, exploring the unknown, and getting to know new people and cities. And with some planning, you can ensure that packing for your trip to Italy will be both enjoyable and stylish.
If you’re considering some “me” time in Italy, pop over and have a look at our Solo-Female Travel Guide!
