Frequently asked questions  about our group tours of Italy

Not at the moment if you are just a tourist going over on holiday, but watch this space, because things can change quite quickly. Currently, Australians are not required to obtain a visa to enter Italy for a vacation, as it is subject to the Schengen Convention, through which 26 European countries have established common entry and exit requirements that allow travellers to move freely between member countries without having to go through border controls or have visas for each country.

Before you go to Italy, however, you should check the Australian Government’s Smart Traveler website (http://smartraveller.gov.au/Countries/europe/southern/Pages/italy.aspx). You could also contact the nearest Embassy of Italy for up-to-date information. Remember, however, you will need a valid passport, with at least 6 months remaining before expiry.

Whilst we are an Australian company, we have guests from countries all around the world, so no matter where you live, you can enjoy a Viaggio Italia Travel tour. This is because our small group tours are land only. All tours begin in Europe - almost always in Italy - so all you need to do is arrive and we will be there to greet you.

The prices for our tours are provided in Australian dollars (AUD) and - as our international guests will attest - it's easy to make payments whatever your home currency.

We can also set up a time to talk - either over the telephone or via Skype - regardless of the time zone in which you live. We are happy to discuss any aspect of our tours or our booking arrangements with you. Just email us at admin@viaggioitaliatravel.com.au or give us a call on (from Australia) 0423 283 9271 or for international calls +61 423 283 927.

We usually release the names of our hotels about 4-6 months prior to the tour commencing as this is the time at which we confirm the hotel booking, however you can find information about our selection process, and see photographs of the selected hotels, here. They have been personally chosen from over 400 2-4 star hotels we have inspected on the basis of their location, facilities, management and cleanliness.

From our personal experience, nothing has occurred in our years of travelling to Italy that would make us feel unsafe. Violent crime is reported as low in Italy, and most tourists will not be bothered by safety concerns other than petty crime. We've found that taking precautions - especially not carrying large amounts of cash, protecting our passports and credit cards, and being vigilant at transport hubs - means we feel as safe if not safer than when we are at home. Recent terrorist attacks have occurred in neighbouring countries but while tourists should exercise a reasonable level of caution, there is a significant police presence near key tourist sites. The best advice is to monitor the Australian Government's Smart Traveller website to keep across any developments that may be of interest.

All you need to do is complete the online Viaggio Italia Travel Booking Form for each member of your party. It's all explained on our Bookings webpage.

When we receive your Booking Form, we will forward an invoice for your deposit. It will explain the options for paying the deposit.

Deposits can be paid by cash, direct deposit, bank transfers and cheques for all payments. Credit cards and payments via Paypal or TransferWise are accepted however fees may apply. But we feel the easiest way to pay is via direct deposit, which generally doesn't incur fees and is quick and easy to process. Our bank details can be found here, and you should use your invoice number as the payment reference.

Mind you, if you have any worries or questions about the process, just give us a call or send an email to info@viaggioitaliatravel.com.au.

We provide advice about luggage on our What to pack section. We request clients bring no more than one medium-sized suitcase and a second carry-on case or backpack. If you have any questions about what you should bring, please ask.

We won't 'spam' you, but in the months leading up to your tour we will send a number of emails containing information to help you prepare for your trip. This will include information about the local weather, news from Italy and other practical bits and pieces so that when you arrive you are able to make the most of your Italian experience. At the same time, you might have some questions so please be comfortable about asking anything. If you've met me, you'll know we are committed to having happy clients who want to return again and again with us to Italy and are happy to answer any questions that come to mind.

You will receive an invoice for the balance of your tour payment about three months prior to the tour commencing.