Due to several queries regarding how much we have spent on our Italy trip and what are the procedures, I will be writing my final blog on our trip to give my readers an idea of how much they should save if they plan to take a trip to Italy and how they could have a hassle free trip.
We flew Emirates from Dubai because hubby needed to collect skyward miles from Emirates. Besides, we still think Emirates is so far the best airline we have ever flew on. You can check cheaper alternatives with other airlines and this varies depending on the season.
Hotel bookings can be arranged through your local agency but you may also check Venere.Com, Trip Advisor and HolidayCity for options and comments. There are very affordable options listed in the following websites.
When we applied for our visas, we went to the Consulate along Al Mina Road in Dubai. We were asked to provide employment certificates, no objection letter from our employer, 6 month bank statement, copies of confirmed airline booking and copies of hotel bookings there. There is a form which needs to be filled up and submitted. Cost is around 400aed. Of course, if you are an American, European or some priveleged individual, you will require less or no documents at all.
In Rome, I advise you to get a Roma Pass. It is available in most train stations stores. The cost is around 23euros but you can ride all public transport in 3 days plus free entrances to two museums and discounts to other museums. This will save you time and money if you plan to go around Rome.
We booked our Vatican Museum tickets online. This allowed us to skip the line and save time too.
It is important that you dine in an Italian restaurant and get a taste of genuine Italian food. It is truly heavenly…
In an average restaurant, the cost for each meal say pizza and drinks will cost you around 10-25 euros. A gelato cone is around 2-3 euros. Yummmmmeeeeee!
Before flying back to reality, most tourists like us will need to buy souvenirs to bring back home. A fridge magnet and a keychain (two of the most common souvenirs) are sold at 2-3 euros each. A shirt is around 5-15 euros depending on the material and design.
Train tickets from Rome to Florence or Venice can also be purchased online in RailEurope.com but you can easily get these tickets there itself. You may check the costs and schedules from the website so you could estimate your train travel expenses.
If you do the math, you will have an idea of how much you will need to dispense when you travel to Italy. If you plan it well, every penny will be worth it!