Italy is one of the most iconic travel destinations in the world, and it remains a bucket-list trip for many travelers each year. But how much should you actually expect to spend if you’re planning to visit in 2026? The answer depends on your travel style, duration, and choice of cities, but this guide breaks down realistic budgets to help you set expectations and plan confidently.
🧾 Average Daily Costs in Italy
Here’s a quick breakdown of average daily spending per person:
- Budget Traveler: $75–$120/day
- Mid-Range Traveler: $150–$250/day
- Luxury Traveler: $300+/day
These estimates include lodging, meals, transport within Italy, and activities — but exclude international flights.
✈️ Flights to Italy in 2025
Roundtrip flights to Italy from major U.S. cities tend to range between $700 and $1,200 for economy tickets. Prices are typically cheaper in the winter and shoulder seasons (March–May, October–November).
Use our Trip Budget Calculator to get real-time estimates based on your departure city and travel dates.
Ready to book? Compare flight prices to popular Italian destinations:
🏨 Accommodation Costs
Italy offers a wide range of places to stay, including hostels, agriturismos, boutique hotels, and Airbnb-style apartments.
| Type | Average Nightly Cost |
|---|---|
| Hostel (Shared Room) | $30–$60 |
| Budget Hotel | $60–$100 |
| Mid-Range Hotel | $120–$180 |
| Luxury Hotel | $250+ |
Find great hotel deals in Italy’s top destinations:
🍝 Food & Drink Budget
Eating well in Italy doesn’t have to be expensive. Local trattorias, markets, and pizzerias offer affordable and delicious options. A cappuccino might cost $1.50–$2.50, and a hearty pasta lunch could run $10–$15.
Daily Food Budget:
- Budget: $20–$30
- Mid-Range: $40–$70
- Luxury: $100+
Pro tip: Save money by eating like a local — grab a cornetto and cappuccino for breakfast, enjoy an aperitivo hour with free snacks, and shop at local markets for picnic supplies.
🚄 Transportation Within Italy
Getting around Italy is easy and affordable thanks to an excellent rail network and public transit systems.
- High-speed trains: $20–$70 per route
- Regional trains: $8–$25
- Car rental: $40–$60/day (excluding gas and tolls)
In big cities like Rome or Florence, local transport is easy and affordable — metro tickets are about $1.50 each. Consider getting a multi-day pass if you’re staying in one city for several days.
🎟 Sightseeing & Attractions
Many churches, plazas, and museums are free or donation-based. Paid attractions (e.g. the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, Uffizi Gallery) typically cost between $10–$25. You might also book guided walking tours for $25–$80 depending on the length and exclusivity.
Book top-rated tours and activities in Italy:
🛒 Hidden Costs to Watch For
Don’t get caught off guard by these extra expenses:
- City taxes added per night (usually €2–€5 per person)
- Advanced booking fees for popular museums
- Tipping: Not required, but rounding up is common and appreciated
- Coperto charge: Many restaurants add a €1–€3 cover charge per person for bread and table service
📊 Sample Total Budget (1 Week in Italy)
Here’s what you can expect to spend for a 7-day trip to Italy, including flights:
| Travel Style | Total Budget |
|---|---|
| Budget | $1,200–$1,500 |
| Mid-Range | $2,000–$2,500 |
| Luxury | $3,500+ |
These estimates are for solo travelers. Couples can often save on accommodation by sharing rooms, while families may need larger accommodations and have higher food costs.
💡 Tips for Saving Money in Italy
- Travel during shoulder season (April–May or September–October) for better prices and fewer crowds
- Book trains and museums in advance to secure lower prices
- Stay in smaller towns and take day trips to major cities
- Eat your main meal at lunch when many restaurants offer fixed-price menus
- Get a refillable water bottle — tap water is safe and free throughout Italy
✅ Plan Your Italy Trip with Our Free Calculator
Skip the guesswork and get a personalized budget estimate in seconds. Use our Trip Budget Calculator to plug in your dates, cities, group size, and travel style for an accurate breakdown of what your Italy trip will cost.
The calculator factors in:
- Your departure city and flight costs
- Number of travelers (adults and children)
- Accommodation preferences
- Dining budget
- Activities and interests
- Ground transportation needs
Get started planning your Italian adventure today!
🎯 Final Thoughts
Italy is an incredible destination that can fit almost any budget. Whether you’re backpacking through hostels or staying in luxury villas, the key to a successful trip is planning ahead and understanding the real costs involved.
Use the Trip Budget Calculator to create a customized estimate, then start booking your flights, hotels, and activities with confidence. Your Italian adventure awaits!