Here’s a collection of practical advice and insider tips from people who have successfully moved to Italy. Their experiences cover a range of topics, from navigating Italian bureaucracy to settling into the Italian lifestyle, and offer valuable insights for anyone planning to move to Italy.
Advance moves can save you time and money on removal costs.
Using the Advance Moves quick quote system can significantly save you time and money when moving house Internationally. Just click on the link for your instant online quote and then compare quotes from up to the 5 best removal companies already pre-selected to match your moving requirements. Get the best deals on international removals today.
1. Learn Basic Italian Before You Go
Advice from Lucy, a designer from London: “Learning even a bit of Italian before arriving makes a huge difference. Italians are friendly, and they appreciate it when you try to speak their language. Plus, many bureaucratic processes are easier if you understand basic phrases.”
Tip: Apps like Duolingo or Babbel are great for beginners, and local language classes can help once you arrive.
2. Understand Italian Bureaucracy
Advice from Tom, a retiree who moved to Tuscany: “Prepare for a slower pace when dealing with paperwork and official processes. Bureaucracy in Italy can be frustrating if you’re used to more streamlined systems. Patience is key.”
Tip: If you’re handling legal matters or visas, consider hiring an Italian relocation specialist or an immigration lawyer to help with documentation, translations, and local requirements.
3. Prioritize Health Insurance and Residency Permits
Advice from Sarah, who moved with her family to Milan: “Sorting out health insurance was one of our top priorities. We applied for the Tessera Sanitaria (health card) and registered with the SSN (Italian National Health Service) early on, which made life so much easier.”
Tip: Make sure you apply for your Permesso di Soggiorno (residence permit) within eight days of arrival if you’re staying longer than 90 days. For health services, you’ll need a Codice Fiscale (Italian tax number), which is also necessary for other essentials like opening a bank account.
4. Choose the Right Region Based on Your Lifestyle
Advice from Daniel and Emma, a young couple who moved to Florence: “Every Italian region is unique. If you love a slower, countryside vibe, consider Tuscany or Umbria. For those who prefer vibrant city life, Milan or Rome may be ideal.”
Tip: Research regions based on lifestyle, climate, and cost of living. Websites like Numbeo and Idealista can provide valuable information about living costs and property prices.
5. Be Prepared for Cultural Differences
Advice from James, a tech worker in Rome: “Italian culture emphasizes family and work-life balance, which is great once you adjust to it. But it also means things might not always be on a strict schedule—especially around holidays. Shops close in the afternoons, and everything is slower-paced.”
Tip: Embrace the relaxed Italian lifestyle. Italians value socializing, so take advantage of aperitivo (pre-dinner drinks) as a way to meet people and enjoy the culture.
6. Get to Know Local Food and Markets
Advice from Maria, a chef who moved to Bologna: “Italy has amazing food, and every region has its specialties. Shopping at local markets is not only cheaper, but it’s also a way to immerse yourself in Italian life and eat fresher.”
Tip: Visit local markets to try regional foods and interact with locals. You’ll get fresh, seasonal produce and probably save money compared to supermarkets.
7. Budget Wisely for Your New Life in Italy
Advice from Ben, a freelancer who moved to Naples: “Italy can be affordable, but big cities like Milan and Rome are pricey. Don’t underestimate costs for heating and utilities, especially in winter.”
Tip: Consider regional cost variations. For example, southern Italy tends to have lower living costs compared to northern cities. Also, explore Italian banking options like Unicredit and Intesa Sanpaolo for local banking or N26 for an easy-to-use mobile bank account.
8. Take Advantage of Expat Communities
Advice from Rachel, who moved with her family to Rome: “Joining expat groups online and in-person made a big difference. We got recommendations, advice, and support from other expats who’d gone through similar experiences.”
Tip: Platforms like Internations or Facebook groups for expats in Italy can be great for meeting others, sharing advice, and even exchanging goods or services. Many cities also have English-speaking meetups.
9. Expect to Adapt to Housing Differences
Advice from Alex, a teacher who moved to Venice: “Italian apartments can be smaller than what we were used to in the UK, and sometimes don’t come furnished. Heating and air conditioning aren’t as standard as they are in northern Europe, so check what’s included.”
Tip: If you’re renting, clarify what’s included in the rental agreement and prepare for smaller spaces. Websites like Immobiliare.it and Idealista are useful for browsing rentals and buying options.
10. Embrace the Italian Lifestyle
Advice from Olivia, a writer who moved to Sicily: “Life here is about slowing down and enjoying the little things. Italians take the time to enjoy meals, relax with friends, and focus on family. Living here has taught me a lot about work-life balance.”
Tip: Try to adapt to the Italian approach to life. Take advantage of the relaxed pace and enjoy Italy’s beautiful landscapes, history, and culture.
Advance moves can save you time and money on removal costs.
Using the Advance Moves quick quote system can significantly save you time and money when moving house Internationally. Just click on the link for your instant online quote and then compare quotes from up to the 5 best removal companies already pre-selected to match your moving requirements. Get the best deals on international removals today.
These tips reflect the experiences of people who have already taken the leap to move to Italy. Adapting to Italian customs, learning the language, and understanding the local systems can go a long way in making your move to Italy a rewarding experience.
For more information visit the Advance moves info page on Moving to Italy from UK. Advance moves also has a blog page full of useful tips on moving house overseas. Advance moves sponsors the supermotoland race team.