Site Search: Find What You’re Looking For

Leon Gregori is a writer, traveler, and co founder of Closer Lives, sharing travel experiences, poetry, lifestyle insights, and creative storytelling. Leon Gregori | Full-Time Traveler, Poet, Author & Co-Founder of Closer Lives About Me Four years ago, I traded the conventional for the unconventional, leaving behind a static life to embrace the world as my home. What began as a leap of faith into full-time travel has become a way of life rooted in location independence, alternative living, and a constant curiosity about people, places, and perspective. Along the way, Jenn and I built Closer Lives, not just as a travel blog, but as a creative space where storytelling, poetry, and lived experience come together. It is where movement meets reflection. Through immersive blogs, poetry, and unfiltered vlogs, we share the journey in real time, documenting not only where we go but also how the journey shapes us. Quick Navigation Blogs Book Instagram Poetry Collections My poetry spans different eras of my life. Each collection reflects a distinct emotional and creative chapter. Out of the Shadows Poetry written before I met Jenn, shaped by searching, heartbreak, identity, and survival. View the Collection Aftermath Poetry written after meeting Jenn, where love, reflection, and emotional clarity began to take root. View the Collection Not sure where to start? Choose the collection that reflects where you are right now. Poetry & Lifestyle Blogs Carving a Canyon | When Love Quietly Changes Everything Written in 2019, Carving a Canyon reflects how love can arrive quietly, carving new paths through the soul and reshaping everything when you least expect it to. POETRY The Only Working Guide to Using Ezoic on a Wix Website Wix users struggle with Ezoic because the official instructions simply do not work. This guide explains the real fix, the hidden steps, and how we finally got ads live on our site. LEON GREGORI From Reward to Burnout: Has Instagram Already Died for Creators? Six years on Instagram has shown me its decline - from creativity and community to exhaustion and silence. Has the platform already died for creators? SOCIAL MEDIA How to Easily Identify People Not Following You Back on Instagram - WITHOUT Third-Party Apps Find out who’s not following you back on Instagram with these easy methods. No sketchy apps—just clean, safe tips to manage your followers and keep your profile clutter-free. SOCIAL MEDIA How to Recover a Deactivated or Disabled Instagram Account: Step-by-Step Guide Lost access to your Instagram account? This guide covers everything from appeal links to live chat with Meta. Learn what works, what doesn’t, and how to avoid being disabled again. SOCIAL MEDIA Fusion – A Poem About Two Souls Becoming One Through Love & Energy “Fusion” is a poem about soul-deep connection—the moment two energies collide, merge, and transform into something greater. A tribute to love that’s not found, but remembered and returned to. POETRY 1 2 3 My Debut Poetry Book Out of the Shadows - from darkness to light 288 pages | 7 chapters | 67 poems I have been writing poetry since my mid-teens and find it natural to express myself through the written word. I am from the UK but am now a full-time traveling digital nomad after meeting my amazing fiancé Jenn on Instagram, as part of my journey as an author. My writing has always been unpredictable and without structure; it is freestyle from completely random moments when I feel compelled to write. My content is mainly long-form and focuses on love, heartbreak, and life. My book centers on genuine experiences in love, heartbreak, and life. Its main focus is the understanding and healing that is needed with such intense emotions. I express in a rhythmic manner leaning more toward creative writing, although poetry is the general category! The pieces featured are presented chronologically across seven chapters. They are based on my psychological and emotional journey through life, trials and tribulations, and everything in between. They capture the turbulence and growth experienced ever since I first put pen to paper; my tortured mind and my awakening through understanding and recovery. I want to help and heal, to take my readers from darkness to light. To step Out of the Shadows! How to Buy PAPERBACK Available on Amazon Worldwide BUY NOW KINDLE Now available on Kindle & Kindle Unlimited BUY NOW POTHI Available exclusively on India's largest publishing platform BUY NOW What People Are Saying George - Amazon I am truly humbled and amazed at the talent of the writer of this book of poetry. Leon's honesty and courage in his writing give you a privileged insight into the rollercoaster of his emotions and the emotional experiences of his life so far. He bares his soul as he takes you through the highs and lows of love and the trials and tribulations of life. Skillfully written and inspirational. Well worth the wait. Emfraz - Amazon Leon Gregori takes us on a rollercoaster of emotions in this beautiful honest selection of poems. Autobiographical content of his life spread over many years means we are taken on a journey of highs and lows throughout not only his life but his life of love too. Emotion poured out onto pages in a way that has the power to make you heart warm, and tears fall. I found reading this a truly humbling read, and what a beautiful poet he is! I will always be dipping in and out of this book always for inspiration! Desirée Heltzel-Baylin - Amazon What a pleasure to read such a wonderful book of poetry by Leon. It’s evident from the beginning he took his time and poured his heart into writing his book. His writing style is unique and grabs the readers attention with his poetry making his debut book one to remember and a coffee table conversation piece. You’ll want to keep Leon in mind for his future endeavors as he’s an up and coming poetry superstar. Join the Journey on Instagram

Access our Link Hub with quick links to travel guides, resources, tools, videos, and helpful pages across the Closer Lives site. Closer Lives Link Hub Travel. Create. Connect. Come Closer! Hi, we're Jenn & Leon – full-time travelers, bloggers, content creators & founders of Closerlives.com. Explore Closer Lives with quick access to our blog, travel resources, lifestyle emporium, country guides, newsletter, and social channels. EXPLORE OUR WORLD Visit Our Blog FREE Country Guides Travel Hub Poetry Watch Us on YouTube Lifestyle Hub TRAVEL SMARTER Travel & Lifestyle Emporium Essential Travel Resources Save up to 10% on eSIMs Travel Insurance Hotel Deals NordVPN for Safer Travel Daily Drop Credit Cards CONNECT WITH US Follow Us on Pinterest Follow Jenn & Leon on Instagram Subscribe for Latest News COME ON CLOSER Our Story Meet Leon Jenn's Grey Hair Journey Meet Jennifer Work With Us Write for Us Contact Us

Discover the travel essentials we trust after 4+ years on the road. From eSIMs and insurance to booking tools, these are the services that keep life simple while traveling. Travel Essentials Plan, book, connect, and travel with confidence We’ve tried it all, from SIM cards that failed at the worst moments to ATMs that swallowed our cards. Some services left us stranded, while others became non-negotiable essentials. This page shares the tools that stuck; the booking sites, apps, and services we rely on to plan, connect, and move around the world with fewer headaches. How We Manage Travel Finances Simple, secure, and built for life abroad Banking abroad used to mean constant stress — cards blocked without warning, surprise fees at ATMs, and hours wasted on calls to banks back home. Over the years, we’ve built a system that works: a mix of travel-friendly cards, travel nous, and digital security. Together, this means we can pay confidently, move money easily, and protect our accounts wherever we are. 💡 Good to know: Always carry a backup card in a separate place, just in case one gets lost or blocked. ADVERTISEMENT Tools We Use Booking, transport, and connectivity made easy From our first flight searches to the final airport ride, these are the platforms that simplify travel planning and execution. Trusted Housesitters Stay in homes worldwide while caring for pets Free accommodation for house/pet sitting. Thousands of listings in the US, UK & more. Annual membership unlocks unlimited sits. A budget-friendly way to travel long-term. Join Trusted Housesitters Sign up to THS with our link and get 25% off your annual membership Expedia All-in-one booking with strong rewards Flights, hotels, cars, cruises Bonus points on packages Gold status perks like upgrades Excellent customer service Book With Expedia SAVE CAD 30 when you spend CAD 230 Vrbo (Vacation Rentals) Find unique stays for your next trip Wide range of vacation homes and rentals. Great for families, groups, or long stays. Verified hosts and secure booking process. Better value than hotels for extended trips. Go to Vrbo Over 2 million bookable vacation rentals across an array of rental property types Google Flights Flexible flight search with price tracking Calendar view to spot cheaper dates Price alerts for chosen routes Explore the map for “anywhere” inspiration Great first stop before booking Find Flights See prices on the date calendar 6 months in advance 12Go Easy booking for buses, trains, and ferries 12,000+ destinations worldwide Clear timetables and comparisons QR code tickets, no printing Handy member dashboard Book With 12Go Book in advance for great deals Klook Tours, tickets, and activities made simple Great for hard-to-DIY trips Licensed guides and vetted operators Frequent promo codes Huge coverage across Asia and beyond Book With Klook Get 5% off of your first booking on the Klook app with code: BetterOnApp | Get 5% off of your first Hotel booking on the Klook app with code: HotelOnApp Turo Peer-to-peer car rentals with flexibility Economy to luxury vehicles Often cheaper than agencies Long rentals up to 6 months Contactless pickup options Book With Turo Sign up and save 30% off your first private car hire booking with Turo GigSky eSIM Instant global data with no SIM swap Works in 190+ countries Buy plans directly in the app Hotspot sharing included Saved us in Langkawi when local SIMs failed Get 10% off GigSky SAVE 10% on your first order over $4 with code: CLOSERLIVES10 Holafly (eSIM + Subscription Plans) Unlimited data with simple subscriptions Coverage in 200+ countries with one eSIM Choose monthly or yearly unlimited data plans Use hotspot sharing for laptops and tablets Cancel anytime, no long-term commitment Get Holafly eSIM SAVE 5% on your first order using code: CLOSERLIVES5 Hotels.com Stay anywhere, earn rewards along the way Thousands of hotels and resorts worldwide. Collect nights & earn free stays with Rewards. Flash deals and last-minute discounts. Simple booking and cancellation policies. Book Hotels A one-stop shopping source for hotel pricing, amenities and availability Booking.com Huge selection with last-minute hotel deals Genius rewards unlock discounts Budget to luxury stays Easy filters and cancellation options Good for spontaneous bookings Book on Booking.com Book accommodations, flights, rental cars, and other travel services worldwide Airbnb Unique stays and long-term discounts Over 30 bookings for us in 3 years Safety protections for renters Wide variety from rooms to villas Discounts for monthly stays Book on Airbnb We have enjoyed over 50 bookings, and have had fantastic experiences almost every time Kiwi.com Smart routing and budget flight options Mix airlines for cheaper trips Price alerts for flexibility Often best for short-haul flights Watch out for add-on upsells Book With Kiwi If you are a budget traveler looking for the most affordable flight options, Kiwi is the place to be SafetyWing (Nomad Insurance) Affordable health insurance for travelers Covers medical care in 180+ countries. Flexible monthly subscription, cancel anytime. Includes COVID-19 and emergency coverage. Built for nomads and remote workers. Get SafetyWing Insurance Global medical and travel coverage for when you get sick or injured abroad, for nomads and remote workers GetYourGuide Book experiences and tours with ease Explore activities in 150+ countries. Skip-the-line tickets for major attractions. Verified reviews and licensed local guides. Flexible cancellations for peace of mind. Go to GetYourGuide Find the best activities with the help of over 8 million trusted reviews Wanderlog Plan trips, map stops, and track bookings One place for flights, stays, sights Price-drop hotel alerts Calendar syncing Collaborative planning offline Use Wanderlog With Wanderlog's all-in-one hotel search, you never need to switch tabs again Saily (eSIM) Affordable data for global travelers Connect in 200+ countries instantly Easy setup, flexible local and regional plans Competitive pricing for light and heavy data 5% discount available with our affiliate code Get Saily ESIM SAVE 5% on your first order using code: SPECIAL5 Simbye (eSIM) Instant mobile data in 190+ countries No physical SIM swap needed. Affordable regional and global plans. Easy setup through the Simbye app. Great option for flexible, short-term trips. Get Simbye eSIM SAVE 10% on your first order Need Connectivity? Compare the Best eSIMs Find the right eSIM for your travels We’ve tested multiple providers on the road — GigSky, Saily, Holafly, and more. To help you choose, we built a full comparison page covering features, pricing, and our personal picks. See Our eSIM Comparison Free Country Guides Plan smarter with our growing library of guides Every destination has its quirks, from SIM cards and transport to customs and currency. Our free country guides bring all the essentials together, plus our stories and tips from the road. Explore Country Guides Find Hotels for Your Next Trip Book smarter with our interactive hotel maps We’ve partnered with Stay22 to bring you hotel and apartment options close to the places you actually want to be. Our maps compare prices across platforms so you can find the right stay at the right price — without endless searching. Browse Hotels Here Helpful Reads From Our Blog How we plan, book, and connect on the road We’ve written extensively about connectivity and planning. These posts share our real experiences, from SIM card struggles to the apps we now consider travel staples. Why GigSky eSIMs Are Essential for Travel Travel light and stay connected with GigSky eSIMs. With coverage in 190+ countries, instant setup, and no roaming charges, it’s the must-have digital travel essential. Find Out More The Future of Travel: Simbye eSIM Forget roaming charges and lost SIMs. Simbye eSIM makes travel connectivity seamless, secure, and affordable. It's perfect for remote workers, and global explorers alike. Find Out More 15 Top Apps & Websites for Full-Time Travel From money-saving apps to easy-to-use booking tools, here’s our curated list of resources we’ve tested and loved across over our 4+ years of full-time travel. Find Out More Explore More Travel Resources Four categories, all built from tools we trust Shopping Curated gear, lifestyle products, and our own Travel & Lifestyle Emporium. Shop Now Earn Online While Traveling How we teach, create, and monetize content while living your dream. Monetize Your Travels Banking & Money-Saving Tools Cut fees, stay secure, and manage money abroad with confidence. Discover Banking Tools Resource Hub Your starting point for everything: top picks, categories, helpful reads & more. Get Your Essentials Stay Connected Tools, tips, and inspiration direct to your inbox Our fortnightly newsletter shares travel resources, deals, and the products we use to make life on the road easier. Join us for behind-the-scenes updates and curated finds. Email* SUBSCRIBE Please add me to the mailing list. Work With Us Partner with Closer Lives and reach a global audience We collaborate with travel platforms and booking services that make journeys smoother. If your product belongs in the toolkit of modern travelers, let’s connect. Get in Touch Some of the links on this page are affiliate links. This means if you click through and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission — at no extra cost to you. We only recommend resources we’ve personally used or genuinely believe will add value to your travels. These partnerships help us keep Closer Lives running, so thank you for supporting our journey. ℹ️ Read our Affiliate Disclosure Join Our Community Jenn & Leon at Closer Lives Closer Lives was created to bring people, places, and stories closer together. Through travel, culture, history, poetry, and personal experience, we share the moments that shape how we see the world, and ourselves. If you enjoy thoughtful travel guides, real experiences, and creative storytelling, you’re in the right place. You can also explore our Travel & Lifestyle Emporium , featuring inspirational travel pieces designed by us and shipped worldwide.

Get to know who we are, our story, values, and what drives Closer Lives, from travel and creativity to community and shared experiences. Welcome to Closer Lives: Your Guide to Travel, Alternative Living, and Honest Storytelling At Closer Lives, We Explore More Than Maps. We Journey Through Mindsets Closer Lives is where thoughtful travel, intentional living, and real stories come together. We’re Jenn & Leon, full-time travelers sharing practical travel resources, destination guides, and personal experiences to help you explore the world with confidence and curiosity. After leaving the traditional 9-to-5 behind, we built a life shaped by freedom, creativity, and a desire to live differently. Our journey includes everything from long-term travel and digital nomad life to embracing personal transformation—like Jenn’s empowering grey-hair journey, which has become one of the most unexpected parts of our story to inspire others. What We Do We turn real travel experience into useful guides, smart resources, and everyday inspiration. We create detailed travel guides, honest reviews, itinerary ideas, and helpful tips for traveling smarter, saving money, and embracing a more flexible, alternative lifestyle. Through our Travel & Lifestyle Emporium, we curate products and resources we personally use—from travel gear to digital tools—to help you plan your next adventure with ease. Everything we publish has one goal: to make travel more accessible, meaningful, and doable for anyone who wants to step outside the conventional path. Read More Our Engagement Story Discover Aphrodite’s Rock, the legendary birthplace of the goddess of love, and our engagement spot! Find out more about our story, how it all happened, and all you need to know about visiting this incredible location (and also Leon's ancestral homeland). Who We Are Two curious minds, one shared path, shaped by travel, creativity, and lived experience. Together we bring backgrounds in coaching, teaching, writing, retail leadership, and creative entrepreneurship. These experiences shape the way we share our journey: practical advice when you need guidance, reflective storytelling when you need connection, and plenty of real-life insight from years spent living on the road. Jenn’s experience going grey has become a core part of our lifestyle storytelling—proof that growth and self-belief can come from the most personal places. Leon’s passion for creativity and exploration fuels our content, from travel hubs to social media guides. What We Believe That travel, curiosity, and self-belief can reshape how you live your life. Our guiding principals: Travel is a catalyst for growth Freedom comes in many forms Learning never truly ends Stories connect us in powerful ways Alternative living is possible for anyone, with the right tools, resources, and encouragement Meet Jenn & Leon More from Jenn Jennifer David Jenn is a former blogger in her 40s, has spent much of her life raising children (both her own and others), and is the founder of many projects. She is a former funeral director and a certified death, life, confidence, and mindfulness coach. Jenn could be a perpetual student of the humanities and is a big fan of culture and astrology (she's a Scorpio). She abides by the rule of living life to the fullest and finding one's true calling and purpose in life through manifestation and the power of belief. Oh, and she is a big fan of cuisine (who isn't!) She is also the intense but laid-back one. More from Leon Leon Gregori Leon is in his 30s (he's a cancer), has never married, and has no children (before meeting Jenn and her famjam). He formerly worked in retail and antiques/reclamation in the UK before leaving it all behind to join Jenn in Canada. Leon is a published author, a fan of Brandy, KFC, Subway, and loves history, architecture, football (Arsenal), pool (billiards), technology, and politics. He is the polite but particular one! Leon also runs our website in the background, constantly learning and evolving to help deliver the best user experience. What We Offer At Closer Lives, we blend creativity, exploration, and connection into everything we do. Here's how we bring you closer to the world and yourself. Closer Lives Emporium Our online store features travel-inspired designs and positivity-packed products. From fun apparel to vibrant suitcases, each item is thoughtfully designed by us, with love from the road. Explore the Emporium Explore Our Socials Catch our latest travel vlogs, lifestyle reflections, and poetic snapshots. Join us visually as we share what it means to live freely and curiously. Go to Social Media Hub Guides & Destinations Explore our Travel Hub for in-depth country guides, top destinations, and insider tips to plan smarter and travel deeper. Find inspiration, resources, and everything you need for your next journey. Go to Travel Hub Travel & Lifestyle Blog Dive into our slow travel guides, real-world tips, and behind-the-scenes stories. We share raw experiences, itineraries, advice, and more. Our blog is your go-to hub for inspiration, destination ideas, and life on the move. Visit the Blog Closer Lives Community A space to connect with fellow travelers, digital nomads, and alternative lifestyle enthusiasts. Groups are a place for advice, real talk, and shared stories from people living life on their terms. Go to Groups Essential Resources Find trusted tools, services, and money-saving tips to make travel simpler, safer, and more affordable. From eSIMs to insurance and beyond — everything you need to stay connected and prepared on the road. Go to Resource Hub Coming Soon: Digital Nomad Training Courses Ready to work from anywhere? We're building a practical course packed with honest guidance and real experience to help you take the leap into location-independent living. Coming Soon Stay Connected Sign up to get our fortnightly newsletters with the latest blog posts, product drops, exclusive sales, travel tips, and even a behind-the-scenes look at our adventures as full-time travelers. Subscribe to the Newsletter Interested in Ways to Work Together? Check out our collaboration resources to learn more, or reach out to us via email. Work With Us Write for Us Media & Partnerships Email Us

Explore Europe through our first shared journeys, from Scotland and England to Cyprus, Paris, and road trips across the continent, shaped by real experience. Europe: Romance, Road Trips & Milestones Across the Continent Your Guide to the Old Continent Europe is where our story truly began. Our first real adventure together took us through Scotland and England, followed by Cyprus, where we got engaged at Aphrodite’s Rock. We celebrated that milestone in Paris, then set off on a road trip across multiple European countries. After time away, we returned to Europe in 2022 to explore more of the continent, deepening our connection to its cities, culture, and history. This page brings together our personal experiences, destinations, and practical insights from travels that shaped everything that followed. Quick Navigation Highlights Guides Our Story Facts Blogs FAQs Resources YouTube About Us Countries Visited (14) Share This Guide Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link AFFILIATE PROMOTION Highlights from Our Journey A visual snapshot of the places, culture, and experiences that shaped our travels across Europe. VIEW MORE HIGHLIGHTS Country Guides Essential travel tips, practical planning, and real experiences from the road. Check out our comprehensive Country Guides with all you need to know before you go, including our latest posts, must-see places, interesting facts, and key information about health & safety, transport, local customs, cuisine, connectivity, visa information, useful links, and much more! LOAD MORE GUIDES ADVERTISEMENT Interesting Facts Here Are 15 Interesting Facts About Europe. Some May Just Surprise You! 1. Vatican City is the Smallest Country in the World: This independent city-state covers just 0.44 square kilometers and is the spiritual center of the Catholic Church. 2. French Fries Were Actually Invented in Belgium: Despite their name, fries originated in Belgium, where they remain a popular street food often enjoyed with mayonnaise. 3. Iceland Has No Mosquitoes: Thanks to its unique climate and geography, Iceland is one of the few places on Earth without mosquitoes. 4. The Netherlands Has More Bicycles Than People: Cycling is deeply embedded in Dutch culture, with over 22 million bikes for a population of around 17 million. 5. Europe Is Home to over 200 Languages: With about 750 million people across 50 countries, Europe’s linguistic diversity is vast and vibrant. 6. Europe Produces 75% of the World’s Potatoes: The continent’s climate and soil make it ideal for potato cultivation, a staple food across many nations. 7. Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia Has Been Under Construction for Over 140 Years: Set to be completed around 2026, this iconic basilica’s build time surpasses that of the ancient Egyptian pyramids. 8. Denmark Has Over 7,000 Government-Approved Baby Names: However, certain names like Jakobp, Ashleiy, Anus, Monkey, and Pluto are banned. 9. Wales Is Home to one of the Longest Place Names in the World: Llanfairpwllgwyngyll is a famously long village name, challenging even locals to pronounce. 10. In Switzerland, Certain Activities Are Illegal on Sundays: Mowing lawns, hanging laundry, and washing cars on Sundays are prohibited to preserve peace and quiet. 11. Europe Was Named After a Phoenician Princess: The continent’s name comes from Europa, a figure in Greek mythology who was abducted by Zeus. 12. Clinking Glasses to Toast Is Banned in Hungary: This tradition is forbidden due to historical tensions after the 1848 war with Austria, where Austrians celebrated their victory by clinking glasses. 13. Bulgaria has the Oldest Country Name in Europe: Dating back to 681 AD, Bulgaria’s name is the oldest still in use on the continent. San Marino is Europe’s oldest country, founded in 301 AD. 14. Eleven European Countries Still Have Monarchies: These include the UK, Spain, Sweden, Belgium, Denmark, the Netherlands, Norway, Monaco, Luxembourg, Liechtenstein, and Andorra. 15. The Czech Republic has the Most Castles in Europe: With a total of 932 castles, it holds the record for the highest number of castles on the continent. Blogs & Guides Thoughtful travel stories, practical guides, and real experiences from the road. Durres, Albania: Roman Ruins, Seaside Aperols, and Why This Coastal City Is One to Watch We didn’t plan to fall for Durrës, Albania, but Roman ruins, relaxed beaches, old trains, and local life quickly changed our minds. Here’s why this coastal city is one to watch. ALBANIA Balat, Istanbul – A Month Among Colorful Streets, Cobblestones & Café Culture What started as a layover became a month-long love affair with Balat. Explore Istanbul’s most colorful district through our eyes; history, cafés, and an everyday charm that will never leave you. TURKIYE Falling for France: Why This Country Captured Our Hearts and Curiosity From our unforgettable Paris engagement to exploring France’s iconic landmarks, dive into fascinating facts, food, and travel tips that showcase why France is a country so close to our hearts. FRANCE Turkey Road Trip – From Black Sea to Ancient Civilizations Our 2000 km Turkey road trip took us from Batumi’s border to Cappadocia, Derinkuyu, Göbekli Tepe, Erzurum, and more. Driving tips, our itinerary, and top highlights along the way. TURKIYE Bodrum & Kos Birthday Getaway – Our Full Itinerary and Experience From Bodrum’s ancient harbor to the tranquil island of Kos, this two-country birthday getaway blends culture, seaside charm, and history for the perfect Aegean escape. GREECE Mavromatis Taverna, Kos – Celebrating Leon’s Birthday with Authentic Greek Flavors Celebrate authentic Greek cuisine at Mavromatis Taverna in Kos. Family-owned for 55+ years, this beachfront spot offers sunset views, hearty portions, and attentive service. GREECE 1 2 3 4 5 AFFILIATE PROMOTION Travel Resources We rely on a set of trusted tools for transport, connectivity, insurance, and bookings while traveling full-time and living location-independent. TOURS Discover Experiences Worth Doing We book guided tours, activities, and local experiences through trusted platforms that make exploring easier and more rewarding. Explore Tours & Experiences HOTELS Find the Right Place to Stay From short stays to longer slow-travel bases, these platforms help us find accommodation that fits our style, budget, and location needs. Book Top Hotels TRANSPORT Book Transport With Confidence Compare trains, buses, ferries, and flights in one place. We use these tools to plan routes, check prices, and get around smoothly. Find Transport Options INSURANCE Protect Your Journey Unexpected things happen on the road. We rely on flexible travel insurance that covers health, delays, and long-term travel realities. Get Travel Insurance CONNECTIVITY Stay Connected Wherever You Go Reliable internet matters when you travel full-time. These eSIM and connectivity tools keep us online without local SIM hassles. Stay Connected Abroad MONEY & TOOLS Manage Money on the Road From spending abroad to saving on fees, these tools help us manage finances securely while traveling across countries. Browse Money Tools Over our many years of full-time travel, we've booked countless accommodations, flights, and activities while also navigating the world of earning online. These are the tools we rely on to plan and book our adventures, and now, you can too! Featured Offer More Travel Resources GigSky eSIM: World Mobile Data International eSIM Data Plans. Local Prices. No Roaming. Fastest Networks. Available in over 200 countries, with GigSky you’ll have cellular data the moment you arrive. Save 10% on your first order with code CLOSERLIVES10 GET YOUR ESIM Save Big on Your Next Adventure 🌍 Save, Earn, and Explore with Closer Lives : Carefully curated tools and deals to help you travel smarter, earn on the go, and live more freely... wherever life takes you. ✈️ Find Cheaper Flights & Transport : Compare routes, unlock deals, and book flights, trains, and buses without the stress. 🏨 Accommodation for Every Travel Style : From budget hostels to luxury stays, find great prices, flexible bookings, and free cancellations. 🎟️ Book Tours, Tickets & Experiences with Ease : Skip queues, plan ahead, and secure unforgettable experiences wherever you’re heading. 🏡 Rent or List with Confidence : Access millions of vacation rentals worldwide. Perfect for both travellers and property owners. 🗺️ Plan Smarter with Trusted Reviews & Comparisons : Read real reviews, compare prices, and book with confidence using the world’s leading travel platforms. 🩺 Insurance Built for Nomads & Long-Term Travel : Flexible global coverage designed for extended trips, remote work, and life on the move. 💻 Earn Online While You Travel : Teach, create, sell, or scale. Explore tools for online teaching, drop-shipping, shopping, and international banking. Please note that at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission from purchases made through these links. Read our Affiliate Policy . All Resources & Offers Frequently Asked Questions Common questions we get asked about Europe. Do I need a Schengen visa to visit Europe? That depends on your nationality. Most non-EU visitors need a Schengen visa, which allows entry to 29 countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. The UK, Ireland, and Türkiye have their own visa systems, while countries like Albania and North Macedonia have independent policies. Our country guides (https://www.closerlives.com/travel-hub/destinations/europe)outline the requirements for each nation and include official government links to apply. When is the best time to visit Europe? Europe offers something special in every season. Spring (April–June) brings wildflowers, festivals, and fewer crowds. Summer (July–August) is perfect for coastal escapes and open-air dining, while autumn (September–October) lights up vineyards and historic cities in golden hues. If you prefer snow-covered landscapes, December–February offers magical Christmas markets and alpine adventures. We share seasonal guides throughout our European blogs.(https://www.closerlives.com/travel-and-lifestyle-blog/categories/europe) Is traveling in Europe expensive? Traveling in Europe can be expensive depending on your destination and travel style. Western Europe (France, Germany, Italy) is pricier, but budget-friendly options like Albania, North Macedonia, and Portugal can balance costs. Use public transport, local bakeries, and Airbnb stays to stretch your budget. Check our Travel Resources for accommodation tools and exclusive deals. We balance stays between boutique hotels and budget guesthouses, all listed on our hotels page. What’s the best way to travel between European countries? Europe’s connectivity is one of its biggest advantages. You can hop from Paris to Amsterdam by high-speed train, fly from Rome to Athens in under two hours, or take scenic road trips through Bavaria or the Scottish Highlands. We often use 12go (https://booking.closerlives.com/en)for rail travel and budget airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet for quick flights. Road trips (https://www.closerlives.com/travel-and-lifestyle-blog/tags/road-trips)are perfect if you enjoy flexibility, but just remember to check toll road rules and parking zones. Do I need a new SIM card for each country? No, one of the best perks of the European Union is free roaming across member states. You can use a single SIM in multiple countries without changing data plans. For non-EU countries like Türkiye or Albania, an eSIM is often easier. We recommend Holafly (https://holafly.sjv.io/closerlives)for unlimited data and GigSky ()if you prefer flexible regional coverage (use code CLOSERLIVES10 for 10% off). You can compare more providers in our Best eSIMs for Travel (https://www.closerlives.com/travel-hub/best-esims-for-travel)guide. What’s the best way to manage money while traveling through Europe? Card payments are widely accepted, but it’s wise to carry some local currency for small towns and markets. Avoid airport exchanges and instead use multi-currency cards like Wise (https://wise.com/invite/ihpc/jenniferd2026)for real exchange rates and free ATM withdrawals up to your limit. If you’re traveling for longer, open a Wise account before you leave home; it’s one of our top money-saving travel tools. Also, consider credit cards (https://pro.dailydrop.com/register?via=6awooq)with travel-focused benefits, earn points, miles, and cashback. What cultural customs should I know before visiting Europe? Europe is incredibly diverse, but respect and courtesy go a long way everywhere. Dress appropriately when visiting churches, greet locals politely, and avoid loud behavior in quiet public spaces. In southern countries, dinner is often eaten late; in northern Europe, punctuality is prized. Always learn a few local words; “thank you” and “hello” are universal ice-breakers. What are some must-see destinations in Europe? Our highlights include Rome’s Colosseum, Venice’s canals, Paris’s art scene, and Edinburgh’s historic skyline. In Eastern Europe, Ohrid’s lakeside charm and Albania’s Riviera are stunning and underrated. We also loved exploring Bodrum’s coast in Türkiye and the castles of Wales, all featured in our Europe blogs.(https://www.closerlives.com/travel-and-lifestyle-blog/categories/europe) YouTube Discover the world with us. Join the Jenn & Leon YouTube channel. Europe Sign in How to take the bus from Tirana, Albania to Lake Ohrid, North Macedonia BORDER CROSS 4K TRAVEL VLOG! Closer Lives: Jenn and Leon Play Video Share Whole Channel This Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied Search videos Search video... All Categories All Categories Travel & Events Now Playing How to take the bus from Tirana, Albania to Lake Ohrid, North Macedonia BORDER CROSS 4K TRAVEL VLOG! 08:36 Play Video Now Playing Germany’s Most Beautiful City? 🇩🇪 Exploring Schwerin & Its Fairytale Castle 22:04 Play Video Now Playing Is Lake OHRID the BEST lake holiday destination in the Balkans? 21:07 Play Video Now Playing Our First Impressions of Tirana, Albania! We were SHOCKED! 14:58 Play Video As entrepreneurs and full-time slow travelers, our goal is to see as much of this beautiful planet as we can! By subscribing to our channel, you will get notified of our latest videos, so you will never miss out! Our Engagement Story Discover Aphrodite’s Rock, the legendary birthplace of the goddess of love, and our engagement spot! Find out more about our story, how it all happened, and all you need to know about visiting this incredible location (and also Leon's ancestral homeland). Read Our Story Jenn & Leon at Closer Lives Closer Lives was created to bring people, places, and stories closer together. Through travel, culture, history, poetry, and personal experience, we share the moments that shape how we see the world, and ourselves. If you enjoy thoughtful travel guides, real experiences, and creative storytelling, you’re in the right place. You can also explore our Travel & Lifestyle Emporium , featuring inspirational travel pieces designed by us and shipped worldwide. Join Our Community

Explore France through our travels in Paris and Versailles, from iconic landmarks to quieter moments, shaped by real experience and personal milestones. France Through Our Eyes: Romance, History & Road Trip Highlights Your Guide to the Land of Love France holds a special place in our travel story. We spent time in Paris celebrating our engagement, exploring the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Sacré Cœur, and the city’s neighborhoods on foot. We also visited Versailles, walking through the palace and gardens that reflect France’s deep history and grandeur. This page brings together our firsthand experiences, destination highlights, and practical insights from traveling through France during a meaningful chapter of our journey. Quick Navigation Highlights Discover YouTube Facts Blogs FAQs Essentials Resources About Us Share This Guide Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link AFFILIATE PROMOTION Highlights from Our Journey A visual snapshot of the places, culture, and experiences that shaped our travels across France. VIEW MORE HIGHLIGHTS Discover Where we’ve been in France: Real places we’ve personally visited, photographed, and written about. Interactive Map Top Hotels in France Our Interactive Map & Guide to France Check out all the places we visited in France with our interactive map from Wanderlog . Tap any of the numbers for more information, including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews, and more. Find the Best Deals on Top Hotels in France Use our interactive map to explore hotel options in France from trusted platforms such as Booking.com , Vrbo , Expedia , GetYourGuide , and Hotels.com . Powered by Stay22, the map lets you zoom in and out to see where properties are located, helping you choose accommodation that suits your route, budget, or preferred neighborhood. Top Activities in France, Worth Booking Ahead Some experiences in France are better booked in advance, especially iconic sites like the Louvre Museum and Versailles Palace. These are a few trusted tours we’d personally recommend. Paris: Eiffel Tower Entry Ticket with Optional Summit Access Enjoy access to the Eiffel Tower and admire the breathtaking views from the selected floor of the iconic structure. Spend as much time as you like at the tower and explore the different levels at your own leisure. View Tour Details Versailles: Skip-the-Line Tour of Palace and Gardens Access Get an immersive guided tour of the breathtaking Versailles Palace. Skip the lines with exclusive access and see the lavish State Apartments, the King’s Bedroom, and the Hall of Mirrors on this 90-minute tour. View Tour Details Paris: Louvre Museum with host & history of Mona Lisa Entry ticket to the Louvre Museum, with an introduction to the Mona Lisa by a host, along with a guide to the vast treasures of the museum. After, you will be free to enter the museum and explore at your leisure. View Tour Details Powered by GetYourGuide Interesting Facts Here Are 15 Interesting Facts about France. Some May Just Surprise You! 1. France is the Most Visited Country in the World: Over 89 million people visit annually, drawn by its history, food, fashion, and art. 2. Paris Has Its Own Statue of Liberty: Located on the Île aux Cygnes, it was a gift from American expatriates to France in 1889. 3. The Eiffel Tower Was Meant to Be Temporary: Originally built for the 1889 World’s Fair, it was supposed to be dismantled after 20 years — now it's the global symbol of France. 4. The French Eat 30,000 Tons of Snails a Year: Escargot is a delicacy in France, often served with garlic and parsley butter. 5. The Catacombs Hold the Bones of 6 Million People: A haunting yet fascinating underground labyrinth beneath Paris, originally created to mine stone, then repurposed to solve a cemetery overflow in the 18th century. 6. France has 45 UNESCO World Heritage Sites: From Mont-Saint-Michel to the Palace of Versailles, France is a cultural powerhouse. 7. French Was the Official Language of England for 300 Years: After the Norman conquest of 1066, French was the language of the English elite for centuries. 8. The Louvre is the World’s Largest Art Museum: Home to the Mona Lisa, The Louvre in Paris houses over 380,000 objects, though only a fraction is on display. 9. France is the Birthplace of Cinema: The Lumière brothers debuted the first commercial film screening in 1895 in Paris. 10. There Are Over 1,500 Types of French Cheese: Charles de Gaulle once famously asked, "How can anyone govern a country with 246 kinds of cheese?" The number has only grown. 11. French People Greet with “La Bise”: Cheek kissing is a standard greeting — the number of kisses varies by region. 12. French Law Requires Bakers to Price Bread Fairly: To protect tradition and ensure everyone has access to bread, the price of baguettes is often regulated. 13. France is a Leader in High-Speed Rail: The TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse) can reach speeds of over 300 km/h, connecting major cities in record time. 14. Wine Production is a Way of Life: France produces about 7–8 billion bottles of wine annually, with regions like Bordeaux, Champagne, and Burgundy known worldwide. 15. The French Revolution Changed Global Politics: The 1789 revolution overthrew the monarchy and sparked movements for democracy across the world. ADVERTISEMENT Blogs & Guides Thoughtful travel stories, practical guides, and real experiences from the road. Falling for France: Why This Country Captured Our Hearts and Curiosity From our unforgettable Paris engagement to exploring France’s iconic landmarks, dive into fascinating facts, food, and travel tips that showcase why France is a country so close to our hearts. FRANCE Best Cities in Europe for Food Lovers on a Budget Eat your way across Europe without breaking the bank. From Lisbon’s fresh seafood to Naples’ pizza and Kraków’s pierogi, discover the best cities for budget-friendly food lovers. EUROPE Solo Travel: Top Destinations for Adventurous Independent Travelers Dreaming of solo travel? Discover the world’s top destinations for independent explorers—safe, exciting, and unforgettable places that are perfect for your next solo adventure. TRAVEL ADVICE Travel Essentials Travel Information for France: Practical Tips & Things to Know Before You Go . Connectivity Cuisine Culture & Customs Currency General Info Health & Safety Language Places to Visit Transport Visa Info Weather Internet, SIMs, Dial Code & Plug Sockets Staying connected in France is relatively easy thanks to widespread 4G/5G networks, affordable prepaid SIM cards, and reliable broadband infrastructure. Public Wi-Fi is common in cafes, hotels, and train stations, but quality can vary. Save 50% on NordPass Premium NordPass is more than an intuitive password manager – it helps both businesses and individuals easily secure and monitor access to their online accounts and sensitive information. GET NORD PASS Special deal: 70% off NordVPN The most advanced VPN with additional features. One of the fastest VPNs globally. Secures up to 10 devices using a single account. Helps you avoid phishing, scams, and malware threats. GET NORDVPN Internet Service Providers (ISPs) in France France has a well-developed broadband and fiber-optic network. The following ISPs are among the most popular: ● Orange : France’s largest provider, known for extensive coverage and reliable service. ● SFR : Offers both mobile and home internet; strong in urban areas. ● Bouygues Telecom : Competitive prices, decent rural coverage. ● Free : Budget-friendly with solid urban network speeds. 💡 Tip: Fiber-optic broadband is widely available in cities, offering speeds up to 1 Gbps. Rural areas may still rely on ADSL. Mobile Phone Options for Tourists Tourists have several flexible mobile options: ● Orange Holiday SIM : 20GB data, EU-wide use, includes calls/texts. Ideal for short trips. ● Bouygues My European SIM : Great for EU-wide data and affordable rates. ● SFR La Carte : Prepaid options with bonus credit and decent coverage. ● Free Mobile Plan : Unlimited calls/texts and 25 GB+ data at low cost. 💡 Tip: SIMs are available at airports, train stations, convenience stores, and tobacco shops (tabacs). Some kiosks may ask for ID to activate. 💡 eSIMs are a convenient option for newer phones. They’re ideal for short stays and can be activated online before or upon arrival. Be sure your phone is eSIM-compatible. If you have an unlocked phone, international eSIM providers are an easy way to stay connected: ● GigSky : Quick setup, reliable data plans, and good for frequent travelers. ● Saily : Flexible and budget-friendly eSIM options, great for short-term trips. ● Holafly : Designed with travelers in mind, offering instant eSIM activation and fair pricing. 🔗 COMPARE & BUY ESIMS France Dial Code To call France from abroad, use the following format: ● International Dialing Format: +33 followed by the 9-digit French number (drop the first 0) Example: +33 6 12 34 56 78 (mobile number) ● France Exit Code (to call out from France): 00 Example: To call the UK from France, dial 00 44 XXXX XXXXXX ● Local Calls Within France: Dial the full 10-digit number starting with 0 💡 Tip: Mobile numbers in France typically start with 06 or 07, and landlines vary by region (01–05). Plug Sockets in France France uses Type C and Type E power plugs: ● Voltage: 230 V ● Frequency: 50 Hz ⚠️ Voltage Safety Tip: Voltage in France is higher than in North America (120V), so check your electronics for 220–240V compatibility or use a voltage converter. 🔌 Adapters Needed: Most modern universal adapters support both Type C and E. Double-check for grounding compatibility with Type E sockets. Power outlets are recessed — slim adapters work best. French Cuisine French cuisine is renowned worldwide for its elegance, diversity, and cultural importance. Whether you're dining in a Michelin-starred restaurant or browsing a rural market, food in France is an experience rooted in tradition and regional pride. Each area offers its own specialties — from the buttery pastries of Paris to the robust stews of the southwest. Staples ● Baguette: The iconic French bread: crisp on the outside, soft inside. A daily essential. ● Cheese: France boasts over 400 varieties, including Camembert, Brie, Roquefort, and Comté . ● Wine: Each region produces distinct wines: Bordeaux, Burgundy, Champagne, Alsace, and the Loire Valley are top names. ● Butter & Cream: Especially revered in northern France for cooking and baking. 💡 Tip: Visit a local fromagerie to sample cheeses by region — many offer tastings! Meat Dishes ● Coq au Vin: Chicken braised with wine, mushrooms, onions, and garlic. ● Boeuf Bourguignon: Slow-cooked beef stew in red wine, a specialty of Burgundy. ● Duck Confit (Confit de Canard): Tender duck leg slow-cooked in its own fat. ● Steak Frites: A brasserie classic: grilled steak with crispy fries. 💡 Tip: Many traditional dishes are cooked in wine or butter — check menus for lighter options if needed. Other Specialties ● Ratatouille: A Provençal vegetable stew, often served with bread or rice. ● Quiche Lorraine: Savory tart filled with eggs, cream, and bacon. ● Bouillabaisse: A rich fish stew from Marseille, usually served with rouille and bread. ● Tartiflette: Alpine comfort food with potatoes, reblochon cheese, bacon, and onions. 💡 Menus often include a "plat du jour" (dish of the day), offering great value for lunch. Dutch Desserts ● Crème Brûlée: Silky vanilla custard topped with crunchy caramelized sugar. ● Éclair: Choux pastry filled with cream and glazed with chocolate. ● Tarte Tatin: Upside-down caramelized apple tart. ● Macarons: Delicate meringue cookies with flavored filling, best from specialist patisseries. 💡 Tip: Many cafés offer a dessert + coffee combo called a “café gourmand” — perfect for sampling mini sweets. Food Delivery Food delivery is available in most cities and towns: ● Uber Eats : Widely available in major cities. ● Deliveroo : Operates in over 200 French towns. ● Frichti : Known for fresh, home-style meals in Paris. 💡 Tip: Smaller towns may rely on local delivery apps or direct restaurant takeaway. From rustic bistros to gourmet restaurants, France serves up one of the richest food cultures in the world. With an emphasis on quality, seasonality, and presentation, every meal is a celebration of taste. Whether you're sipping wine on a vineyard terrace or grabbing a warm crêpe from a street cart, prepare to fall in love with French cuisine. France Culture & Customs France is a nation where art, philosophy, food, and fashion converge with deep-rooted traditions and a strong sense of national identity. The French take pride in their culture, from their language to their long lunch breaks, and place high value on intellectual conversation, style, and quality of life. Understanding the cultural nuances will enrich your experience and help you connect more authentically with locals. Family & Social Interactions French families often maintain strong, lifelong connections. While nuclear families are most common , extended relatives are regularly involved in important occasions. Parenting emphasizes manners, education, and independence. Respect for elders is deeply ingrained. Socially, interactions begin formally : first names and casual speech are not used until a rapport is built. Hospitality may seem reserved at first, but once welcomed into someone’s circle, relationships are warm and sincere. 💡 Tip: Make the effort to use formal greetings like “Bonjour, Madame” or “Bonsoir, Monsieur” — it’s a mark of respect that won’t go unnoticed. Religion & Customs France’s secularism (laïcité) is protected by law, keeping religion out of public institutions. Cultural remnants of Catholicism persist in holidays, architecture, and family traditions. France is religiously diverse, with practicing Christians, Muslims, Jews, Buddhists, and a significant number of secular citizens. Religious attire is restricted in public schools and government offices, but private religious practice is respected. 💡 Tip: Many national holidays are Christian in origin, even if widely celebrated by secular communities, such as Easter Monday or All Saints’ Day. Daily Life & Traditions Daily life in France balances work, leisure, and socializing. The rhythm is slower outside big cities. Locals linger over meals, take time for conversation, and often stroll in the evenings. Markets are central to community life, especially in small towns, where people shop for fresh bread, cheese, and produce daily. Public holidays and school breaks are respected almost religiously, and family vacations are often planned around them. Dining remains sacred . Lunch is not just a quick bite but a social ritual, particularly in rural regions. 💡 Tip: Many small businesses close between 12 pm–2 pm and often all day Sunday. Plan errands and travel with this in mind, especially in the south. Etiquette Etiquette is a pillar of French social behavior. People value discretion, sophistication, and a sense of formality. ● Be Punctual: Arriving late to a dinner party or being overly loud in public may be viewed as rude. ● Greetings: A light handshake is customary in business; friends and family often greet with two, sometimes four, kisses (la bise), varying by region. ● Table manners: Keep hands visible on the table (not in your lap), eat at a leisurely pace, and never ask to split the bill in formal settings. ● Shopping: Always greet shopkeepers; ignoring them can be seen as dismissive. 💡 Tip: Silence and subtlety are often valued more than assertiveness. Keep your tone respectful and your volume moderate. Celebrations France has a rich calendar of public holidays, national events, and regional fêtes that reflect its cultural and historical identity. ● Bastille Day (14 July): Commemorates the French Revolution with military parades, fireworks, and street parties nationwide. ● Fête de la Musique (21 June): A nationwide free music celebration transforming cities into open-air stages. ● Christmas & New Year: Marked with festive décor, foie gras, vin chaud, and Christmas markets (especially in Alsace). ● Easter (Pâques): Celebrated with chocolate bells and eggs, often hidden for children to find in gardens. ● Beaujolais Nouveau Day: Celebrated each November with wine tastings and traditional meals. ● Regional fêtes: From the lavender festivals in Provence to oyster fairs in Brittany, local pride runs deep. 💡 Tip: Many regions close businesses during local festivals. Check the calendar in advance for any unique events where you're staying. France’s cultural richness lies in its layered traditions, nuanced etiquette, and deep appreciation for life’s finer details, from food to art to conversation. Whether sharing a meal with locals or navigating social norms with grace, embracing these cultural subtleties will deepen your experience and connection to this captivating country. Currency in France France uses the euro (€), a widely accepted and easily exchangeable currency across the European Union. Travelers will find cash and card payments both commonly used, though some small businesses still prefer cash for lower-value transactions. Get a Fee Free Transfer of 800 CAD Save when you send, receive, and spend worldwide. Send 50+ currencies fast, free from hidden fees and exchange rate markups. SEND MONEY Spend $20 in 30 days & get $20 cash back Open a Canadian KOHO Bank account as a new user using our code: LBJDEPD4 SIGN UP Denominations The Euro is available in both coins and banknotes. ● Coins: €0.01, €0.02, €0.05, €0.10, €0.20, €0.50, €1, €2 ● Banknotes: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, €500 (though larger notes may be refused in shops) 💡 Tip: High-value banknotes like €200 and €500 may be declined by shops, especially in rural areas. Stick to smaller denominations when possible. 🔗 Convert Your Currency Here Exchanging Currency Currency exchange services are available at airports, train stations, and tourist centers. Banks generally offer better rates than kiosks, but many travelers prefer withdrawing euros directly from ATMs for convenience and competitive exchange rates. 💡 Tip: Avoid exchanging cash at airports unless absolutely necessary. Fees and exchange rates are often unfavorable. Payment Options for Foreigners ● Most shops, restaurants, and hotels accept Visa and Mastercard, with contactless payments increasingly common. ● American Express is less widely accepted. ● Mobile payment platforms like Samsung Pay, Apple Pay, and Google Pay are supported, especially in urban areas. ● Some small businesses may apply a surcharge for card payments under €10. 💡 Tip: Always carry a small amount of cash — some bakeries, cafés, or market vendors may still be cash-only, particularly outside major cities. Additional Information for Tourists ● ATMs (Distributeurs automatiques) are widespread and multilingual, especially near banks, train stations, and tourist hubs. ● Tipping is not mandatory. Service is typically included in restaurant bills, but rounding up or leaving small change is appreciated. ● Prepaid travel cards are available but may have higher fees than standard debit cards. ● Receipts: Keep receipts for VAT refunds if you're making large purchases as a non-EU resident. 💡 Tip: Some French ATMs ask if you'd like to be charged in your home currency — always select "charge in euros" to avoid poor exchange rates from Dynamic Currency Conversion. Reputable Banks in France for Exchanging Currency or Using ATMs France’s major banks are reliable for withdrawing cash and exchanging currency. Most have ATMs (called distributeurs) that accept international cards and offer multilingual interfaces. ● BNP Paribas: One of France’s largest banks with a wide ATM network and efficient international services. ● Société Générale: Reliable for both banking and currency exchange, especially in cities and business districts. ● Crédit Agricole: A strong rural presence, making it convenient for travelers in the countryside or smaller towns. ● La Banque Postale: Offers currency exchange services and ATMs in post offices across the country. ● Crédit Mutuel: Known for lower ATM fees and useful options for tourists in regional areas. 💡 Tip: Use ATMs attached to physical bank branches for increased security and easier help if something goes wrong. Avoid standalone machines in tourist zones, which may charge higher fees. Information About France POPULATION Approximately 68 million people live in France, making it the second-most populous country in the EU after Germany. CURRENCY Euro (EUR / €). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, especially Visa and Mastercard. CAPITAL Paris (2 million) is the capital and largest city, known globally for its culture, fashion, cuisine, and iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum. SPEED / DISTANCES Urban Areas: 50 km/h Rural Roads: 80 km/h Dual Highways: 110 km/h Motorways: 130 km/h. Many autoroutes are toll roads. TIME ZONES Central European Time (CET), UTC+1. Daylight saving time (late March to late October) shifts to Central European Summer Time (CEST, UTC+2). ALCOHOL AGE The legal age for purchasing and consuming alcohol is 18. ID checks are rare in eateries but common in stores & clubs. DRIVING France drives on the right-hand side of the road. Roads are well-maintained, and speed cameras are common. SMOKING AGE The legal age to buy tobacco products is 18. Smoking is banned in all enclosed public places, inc. cafes, restaurants, and train stations. Health & Safety in France Navigating health and safety in France is relatively straightforward thanks to the country’s advanced infrastructure and high standards of care. From world-class hospitals to well-organized emergency services, France prioritizes both resident and visitor well-being. Still, it’s worth understanding how to access care, what to watch out for, and how to stay safe during your travels. Global response, rescue & evacuation services Emergency medical evacuation, extraction, and crisis response worldwide. Get expert support in remote, high-risk, or hard-to-reach destinations. GET RESCUE COVERAGE Health insurance for nomads & travelers Global medical & travel coverage for when you get sick or injured abroad. Get essential or full health coverage. Buy anytime, anywhere. LET'S GET YOU INSURED Medical Care France has one of the most respected healthcare systems in the world, with high-quality hospitals, clinics, and emergency care available throughout the country. While public hospitals (hôpitaux publics) are well-equipped and affordable, private clinics (cliniques privées) may offer quicker service. EU citizens can access public healthcare with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), while non-EU travelers are advised to carry comprehensive travel insurance. Pharmacies (chemists) are widespread and often marked by a green cross. Pharmacists in France are highly trained and can advise on minor ailments and medications. 💡 Tip: Carry your EHIC/GHIC card if you're from the EU/UK. Non-EU tourists should consider comprehensive travel insurance with medical coverage. General Health ● Tap water is safe to drink across France, even in rural villages and mountain regions. ● Food hygiene standards are high, and outbreaks of foodborne illness are rare. ● Vaccinations are not required for entry, but routine immunizations (e.g., MMR, DTP) should be up to date. ● Public toilets can sometimes be scarce, so carry tissues and hand sanitizer when exploring smaller towns or the countryside. ● Pharmacies are typically open Monday to Saturday, but in cities, you’ll always find a designated pharmacie de garde open after-hours or on Sundays. Look for posted notices on doors or ask locals. ● Insect bites can be common in summer, especially near water. Consider carrying insect repellent if visiting regions like the Camargue or Dordogne. 💡 Tip: In summer, especially in southern France, be cautious of heatwaves (canicules). Stay hydrated and check local advisories. Safety & Security France is generally considered safe , but like any major travel destination, it’s wise to remain vigilant, particularly in large cities. Pickpocketing is the most common issue, especially in metro stations, tourist hubs like the Eiffel Tower, and during festivals or public events. 💡 Be cautious when approached by strangers asking for signatures or donations near landmarks — these can be scams or distraction techniques used by pickpockets. Police presence is strong, and officers are approachable. That said, certain neighborhoods in cities like Marseille or the northern suburbs of Paris can feel less safe after dark. 💡 For nightlife safety, never leave your drink unattended in bars or clubs, and consider using a ride-hailing app for late-night returns instead of walking or waiting at isolated metro stops. Rural France, by contrast, is exceptionally calm and secure. During major protests (manifestations), avoid gathering points such as Place de la République in Paris or city centers in Lyon and Nantes. Demonstrations can escalate quickly, even if they begin peacefully. 💡 Tip: Always keep an eye on your belongings in public places. Use a cross-body bag and avoid displaying expensive items like cameras or jewelry. Safety Resources ● Tourist Police (Police Municipale): Present in many tourist cities and trained to assist foreign visitors. ● Emergency Shelters: Available in cities during extreme weather conditions or civil unrest. ● Local Pharmacies: A first point of contact for minor injuries or non-urgent health issues. 💡 Tip: The “Système d’Alerte et d’Information des Populations (SAIP)” app provides real-time emergency alerts and is worth downloading before your trip. Emergency Numbers France uses a single emergency number system for ease of use: ● 112: General emergency line (works EU-wide) ● 15: Medical emergencies (SAMU) ● 17: Police ● 18: Fire brigade ● 114: Emergency SMS number for people with hearing or speech difficulties 💡 Callers can dial 112 from any phone, including mobiles without a SIM card. Additional Tips ● Keep a digital and printed copy of your passport and travel insurance details. ● Most cities have CCTV in tourist areas — useful in case of incidents. ● For extended stays or remote travel, consider a SafetyWing or SafetyCard medical insurance policy with international support. ● In mountainous regions (e.g., Alps or Pyrenees), take out mountain rescue insurance, as standard travel insurance may not cover these emergencies. ● Public protests (manifestations) are relatively common. While usually peaceful, it's best to avoid large gatherings to stay safe. 💡 Tip: Consider SafetyWing or similar travel insurance to cover healthcare, cancellations, and theft, especially for longer stays. Language in France Language in France is more than just a means of communication. It’s a symbol of national identity, cultural pride, and heritage. The French take their language seriously, and while many locals speak English in tourist-heavy areas, making the effort to speak even a little French is often met with appreciation. Understanding the linguistic landscape will help you navigate France more confidently and respectfully. Official Language French is the sole official language of France, enshrined in its constitution. It’s used in all official documentation, legal proceedings, government institutions, and public education systems. From street signs to news broadcasts, French dominates public life. Dominant Spoken Language French is the first language of nearly the entire population. English is commonly spoken in major cities like Paris, Lyon, Marseille, and Strasbourg — especially among younger generations and in tourist-facing roles. In rural areas or smaller towns, French may be the only language spoken. 💡 Tip: A simple “Bonjour” (hello), “S’il vous plaît” (please), or “Merci” (thank you) can go a long way when interacting with locals. Regional Variations France is home to several regional languages, many of which reflect the country’s diverse cultural roots. While standard French remains the dominant language, the following are still spoken, especially by older generations or taught in schools as part of regional heritage: ● Breton: A Celtic language spoken in Brittany. ● Alsatian: A Germanic dialect in Alsace near the German border. ● Occitan: Used in Southern France, also known as “Langue d’Oc.” ● Corsican: Related to Italian, spoken on the island of Corsica. 💡 In regions like Brittany and Corsica, you’ll often see bilingual signs with French and the local language. ● Basque: A language isolate spoken in the French Basque Country. ● Catalan: Found in the Pyrénées-Orientales, near the Spanish border. ● Franco-Provençal (Arpitan): A Romance language spoken in eastern France. 💡 Tip: Some dialectal pronunciation differences also exist, such as the Parisian “r” being more guttural than in other regions. Nevertheless, these variations are rarely so strong as to create confusion. History of the French Language French evolved from Latin after the fall of the Roman Empire, with heavy influence from Frankish (a Germanic language) and Gaulish (a Celtic language). During the Middle Ages, French gained prestige and eventually became the language of the aristocracy, diplomacy, and later the law. Standardized French, based largely on the Parisian dialect, became the national language by the 19th century and was spread globally through France’s colonial empire. Stability for Future Generations French is fiercely protected by institutions like the Académie Française, which regulates grammar and vocabulary and resists excessive borrowing from English. Public campaigns promote language purity, and laws such as the Toubon Law require French to be used in advertising and official settings. 💡 Despite this, bilingualism is increasing in France, with English being taught from an early age in schools. Many French people now navigate comfortably between languages, especially in urban areas. Places to Visit in France France offers an extraordinary variety of landscapes, cities, and cultural treasures. From romantic riverbanks and medieval castles to rugged coastlines and vineyard-covered hills. Whether you’re seeking history, cuisine, art, or breathtaking natural beauty, there’s no shortage of memorable stops across the country. Here are eight key destinations that showcase the richness of France: ⪢ Paris : The iconic capital is a global symbol of culture, fashion, and history. From the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre, and Montmartre to the Latin Quarter, every neighborhood (or arrondissement) reveals a different facet of the city’s charm. 💡 Tip: Book museums and major attractions in advance. Time slots fill quickly, especially in summer. ⪢ Nice : Located on the French Riviera, Nice blends Mediterranean flair with elegant old-world architecture. Stroll the Promenade des Anglais, visit the Matisse Museum, or take day trips to Monaco and Cannes. 💡 Tip: Visit in shoulder season (spring or autumn) for warm weather without the summer crowds. ⪢ Strasbourg : Famed for its half-timbered houses and canals, Strasbourg sits on the border with Germany, reflecting both French and German influences. It’s home to the impressive Strasbourg Cathedral and hosts one of Europe’s oldest Christmas markets. 💡 Tip: Explore the historic district of La Petite France on foot or by boat for the best views. ⪢ Lyon : France’s culinary capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lyon features Roman ruins, Renaissance architecture, and famous bouchons (local eateries) serving traditional fare. 💡 Tip: Try the city’s signature dish, quenelles de brochet (pike dumplings), for an authentic experience. Find the Best Deals on Top Hotels in France ⪢ Bordeaux : This elegant southwestern city is the heart of France’s wine country. Discover neoclassical architecture, the innovative Cité du Vin wine museum, and vineyards stretching in every direction. 💡 Tip: Many wineries require advance booking for tastings and tours so be sure to plan ahead. ⪢ Mont-Saint-Michel : A medieval abbey perched atop a rocky island, Mont-Saint-Michel is one of France’s most breathtaking sights. It becomes an island at high tide, making timing your visit a unique part of the experience. 💡 Tip: Wear waterproof footwear, as the surrounding sands can be muddy during tidal changes. ⪢ Chamonix-Mont-Blanc : Nestled in the Alps near the borders of Italy and Switzerland, Chamonix is a premier destination for skiing, hiking, and mountaineering. It also offers spectacular views of Mont Blanc, the highest peak in Western Europe. 💡 Tip: Even non-hikers can take the Aiguille du Midi cable car for panoramic alpine views. ⪢ Carcassonne : Step back in time in this fortified medieval town, complete with watchtowers, ramparts, and cobblestone streets. The UNESCO-listed citadel feels like something out of a storybook. It is especially magical at sunset. 💡 Tip: Summer visitors can catch reenactments, light shows, and medieval-themed festivals. Transportation in France France has one of the most efficient and diverse transportation systems in Europe. From high-speed trains to scenic river cruises, getting around the country is generally smooth and reliable, whether you're city-hopping or exploring rural wine regions. Sign up and save 30% off your first private car hire Turo is the world’s largest car sharing marketplace, from a community of trusted hosts across the US, UK, Canada, Australia & France. GO TO TURO SAVE $30 CAD when you spend $230 Book your first trip with Expedia as a NEW USER, be it for a hotel, car rental or flight and get a $30 discount, no strings attached! BOOK NOW Air Travel France has several major international airports, including Charles de Gaulle (CDG) in Paris, Orly (ORY), and Nice Côte d’Azur (NCE). Domestic flights are also available to connect major cities, though train travel is often faster and more sustainable. 💡 Tip: For intercity travel within France, the TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse ) often beats flight times when factoring in airport procedures. Buses Budget-friendly bus services such as FlixBus , BlaBlaBus , and Ouibus connect both big cities and lesser-known towns. While slower than trains, they’re often cheaper and offer flexible stops. 💡 Tip: Book early for the best prices as some trips start as low as €5 with early-bird deals. Private Taxis Taxis are widely available in cities, airports, and tourist areas. They are metered, but make sure it’s running to avoid overcharges. In rural areas, taxis may need to be booked in advance. 💡 Tip: Taxis in Paris charge extra for luggage, night rides, and pickup from train stations — confirm fees before starting. Motorbikes & Scooters In larger cities like Paris and Marseille, electric scooter rentals (like Lime and Dott) and motorbike hires are widely used. They're ideal for short commutes and avoiding traffic. Helmets are mandatory for motorbikes and recommended for scooters. 💡 Tip: Watch out for cobbled streets in older towns! Trains The French rail network is world-class. High-speed TGV lines connect major cities (e.g., Paris to Lyon in under 2 hours), while regional TER and Intercités trains serve smaller towns and rural areas. Bookings are available through SNCF . 💡 Tip: Consider buying a France Rail Pass if you plan to take multiple long-distance train journeys. Shared Taxis & Rideshares Popular apps like BlaBlaCar let you share rides with locals going the same way, often for less than a train or bus. Uber operates in most major French cities, and Bolt is also gaining traction. 💡 Tip: Shared rides are a great way to meet locals and save on long-distance routes — just check user reviews. Cruises & Ferries France’s rivers, especially the Seine, Rhône, and Loire, are popular for scenic cruises. Coastal ferries connect mainland France to Corsica, the UK, and other European destinations. 💡 Tip: Book ahead in summer — ferry routes fill fast. For day trips, double-check return times. Car Rentals Renting a car is a great option for exploring the countryside, wine regions, and small towns. Major rental agencies are located at airports and train stations. A valid EU or international license is required. 💡 Tip: France drives on the right, and speed limits vary by weather conditions — lower in the rain. Tips for Driving in France ● Drive on the right-hand side of the road. ● Seat belts are mandatory , and mobile phone use is prohibited while driving. ● Many highways (autoroutes) are toll roads: carry coins or a card for payment. ● Roundabouts are common, and right-of-way rules differ from other countries. When in doubt, give way. 💡 Tip: Parking can be difficult in cities. Look for underground garages or park-and-ride options on the outskirts. Tips for Using Public Transport in France ● Metro systems in cities like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille are efficient — grab a multi-day pass if staying longer. ● Validate your bus/train tickets before boarding regional trains or buses, or risk a fine. ● Always keep your ticket until the end of your journey — ticket checks are common. 💡 Tip: Download city-specific transit apps or Google Maps for accurate route planning and real-time updates. Visa Requirements for France France is part of the Schengen Area, which allows border-free travel between 27 European countries. Depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit, entry requirements may vary. Visa Options Visitors to France will generally fall into one of these visa categories: ● Short-Stay Visa (Type C): For tourism, family visits, business, or transit for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period within the Schengen Zone. ● Long-Stay Visa (Type D): For stays over 90 days — common for study, work, or family reunification. ● Transit Visa: Required for some nationalities passing through a French airport without entering France. 💡 Tip: Citizens of the EU, EEA, and Switzerland do not need a visa or passport to enter France — just a valid national ID card. Types of Visa ● Tourist Visa (Type C): For leisure and short travel. Requires hotel bookings, travel insurance, proof of funds, and a return ticket. ● Business Visa: For conferences, meetings, or contracts. Requires an invitation letter and business documentation. ● Student Visa (Type D): Must show enrollment in a French institution, housing proof, and financial means. ● Working Holiday Visa: Available to select countries (e.g., Australia, Canada, New Zealand). Offers limited work rights while traveling. ● Spouse/Family Visa: For visiting or joining family in France. 💡 Tip: France also offers a Talent Passport for highly skilled professionals in arts, tech, and academia — ideal for long-term stays. General Visa Application Requirements To apply for a Schengen visa to France, most applicants must submit: ● Completed and signed visa application form ● Valid passport (with at least two blank pages, issued within the last 10 years) ● Recent passport-sized photos (meeting Schengen photo criteria) ● Proof of travel itinerary (proof of flights and accommodation) ● Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or host invitation) ● Proof of financial means (e.g., bank statements or sponsorship letter) ● Travel medical insurance (with a minimum €30,000 coverage across Schengen) ● Visa fee payment (€80 for adults, €40 for minors aged 6–12; free for children under 6) 💡 Tip: Applications can be submitted at your local French consulate or through the official France-Visas website: france-visas.gouv.fr Additional Things to Keep in Mind ● France is part of the Schengen zone , so your days in France count toward the total 90 days allowed in Schengen. ● Starting in 2025, ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) will become mandatory for visa-exempt travelers from countries like the US, UK, Canada, and Australia. ● Visa processing times vary: apply at least 15 working days in advance, but ideally 3–4 weeks before travel. ● Your first port of entry into the Schengen Area should be France if you're using a French visa. ● Overstaying your visa can result in fines, bans, or denial of future visas. ● Some non-Schengen nationalities must show proof of onward travel and accommodation even if visa-exempt. ● Double-check entry policies if you're arriving by land from non-Schengen countries like the UK or via ferry services. 💡 Tip: Use the Schengen Visa Calculator to track your days and avoid overstaying. Please note that these are general requirements, and specific documentation and criteria may vary depending on your circumstances and the visa category you are applying for. This information is also subject to change at any time and has been obtained through research. We always recommend you visit the official website of France Immigration for the most up-to-date and detailed information regarding visa requirements. French Weather & Climate France enjoys a diverse climate due to its varied geography. From the sunny beaches of the Mediterranean to the snow-capped Alps and the temperate Atlantic coast. While seasons follow a typical European pattern, regional differences can significantly affect your experience. Seasons ⪢ Spring (March–May) Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes make this a great time to explore cities and countryside alike. Expect occasional rain and cool nights. 💡Tip: Look out for cherry blossoms in parks and Easter festivals in charming villages. ⪢ Summer (June–August) Warm to hot across most of the country, especially in southern France, where temperatures can exceed 30°C (86°F). Coastal areas fill up with tourists. 💡 Tip: Best enjoyed with a trip to Provence or the French Riviera, so book in advance to avoid inflated prices. ⪢ Autumn (September–November) A favorite season for many travelers. Expect fewer crowds, golden vineyards, and comfortable weather, though October can be rainy. 💡 Tip: Locals often celebrate grape harvests with wine festivals across Bordeaux, Burgundy, and Alsace. ⪢ Winter (December–February) Coldest in the northeast and mountainous areas, with snow common in the Alps and Pyrenees. Milder in the west and south. 💡 Tip: An ideal time for Christmas markets in Strasbourg or skiing in Chamonix and the French Alps. Regional Variations ● Northwest (Normandy & Brittany) : Oceanic climate, mild summers, cool, wet winters. ● Northeast (Alsace, Lorraine) : Continental climate, cold winters, hot summers. ● Central & Paris Region: Temperate, warm summers and brisk winters. ● Southeast (Provence & Côte d'Azur): Mediterranean climate, hot, dry summers, and mild winters. ● Southwest (Occitanie, Bordeaux): Mix of oceanic and Mediterranean, warm, humid summers and mild winters. ● Alpine Regions: Mountain climate, cold and snowy in winter, cool and sunny in summer. 💡 Tip: Expect snow in ski towns from December to March — perfect for winter sports. Annual Rainfall Varies significantly by region: ● Paris averages 111 days of rainfall annually. ● Lyon receives more intense but shorter downpours. ● Nice sees mostly dry summers and wetter autumns. 💡 Tip: Pack a compact umbrella year-round — rain can be unpredictable in the north and west. Humidity ● Generally moderate across France, though coastal areas (especially Brittany and Normandy) tend to be more humid. ● Interior and southern regions experience drier summers. 💡 Tip: In the south, stay hydrated and use sun protection as UV levels can be very high. Best Time to Visit France is a year-round destination, but spring and autumn strike the best balance of pleasant weather, manageable crowds, and affordability. ● April to June: This is one of the most popular times to visit, especially for cities like Paris, Lyon, and Bordeaux. Spring brings blooming gardens, outdoor café culture, and cultural festivals. 💡 Great for sightseeing and photography. The days are longer, and iconic landmarks are less crowded than in peak summer. ● September to early November: The fall season offers warm days and cool evenings, plus the added bonus of autumn foliage and grape harvest events in wine regions. 💡 A prime time for food and wine lovers. Enjoy seasonal menus and fewer tourists. ● July and August: While the weather is ideal for coastal escapes and festivals like Bastille Day (July 14), it’s peak tourist season. Expect high prices and crowded attractions. 💡 Many locals leave the cities during August, especially in Paris, so some restaurants and shops may be closed. ● December: France shines in winter with festive markets, sparkling decorations, and cozy alpine towns. 💡 Best enjoyed with mulled wine at a Christmas market in Strasbourg or Colmar. ● January to March: Ideal for budget travelers or snow enthusiasts. Ski resorts in the Alps and Pyrenees are in full swing, while cities are quieter and more affordable. 💡 Consider visiting Paris in January or February for museum-hopping without the long queues. Be Prepared ● Always check the forecast: Weather can vary dramatically between northern cities like Lille and southern towns like Nice. A sunny day in Paris doesn’t guarantee the same in Normandy or the Alps. ● Pack for microclimates: Coastal areas may be humid and breezy, while inland regions can be dry or experience sudden rain. Layers and a travel umbrella are your best friends. ● Sun protection is key: Even outside summer, UV levels can be high, especially in the south. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. ● Winter doesn’t mean shutdown: While some attractions in rural areas close in the off-season, major cities remain lively year-round — just bundle up appropriately! BACK TO TOP (this section) Travel Resources We rely on a set of trusted tools for transport, connectivity, insurance, and bookings while traveling full-time and living location-independent. MONEY & TOOLS Manage Money on the Road From spending abroad to saving on fees, these tools help us manage finances securely while traveling across countries. Browse Money Tools CONNECTIVITY Stay Connected Wherever You Go Reliable internet matters when you travel full-time. These eSIM and connectivity tools keep us online without local SIM hassles. Stay Connected Abroad TOURS Discover Experiences Worth Doing We book guided tours, activities, and local experiences through trusted platforms that make exploring easier and more rewarding. Explore Tours & Experiences HOTELS Find the Right Place to Stay From short stays to longer slow-travel bases, these platforms help us find accommodation that fits our style, budget, and location needs. Book Top Hotels TRANSPORT Book Transport With Confidence Compare trains, buses, ferries, and flights in one place. We use these tools to plan routes, check prices, and get around smoothly. Find Transport Options INSURANCE Protect Your Journey Unexpected things happen on the road. We rely on flexible travel insurance that covers health, delays, and long-term travel realities. Get Travel Insurance Over our many years of full-time travel, we've booked countless accommodations, flights, and activities while also navigating the world of earning online. These are the tools we rely on to plan and book our adventures, and now, you can too! Featured Offer More Travel Resources GigSky eSIM: World Mobile Data International eSIM Data Plans. Local Prices. No Roaming. Fastest Networks. Available in over 200 countries, with GigSky you’ll have cellular data the moment you arrive. Save 10% on your first order with code CLOSERLIVES10 GET YOUR ESIM Save Big on Your Next Adventure 🌍 Save, Earn, and Explore with Closer Lives : Carefully curated tools and deals to help you travel smarter, earn on the go, and live more freely... wherever life takes you. ✈️ Find Cheaper Flights & Transport : Compare routes, unlock deals, and book flights, trains, and buses without the stress. 🏨 Accommodation for Every Travel Style : From budget hostels to luxury stays, find great prices, flexible bookings, and free cancellations. 🎟️ Book Tours, Tickets & Experiences with Ease : Skip queues, plan ahead, and secure unforgettable experiences wherever you’re heading. 🏡 Rent or List with Confidence : Access millions of vacation rentals worldwide. Perfect for both travellers and property owners. 🗺️ Plan Smarter with Trusted Reviews & Comparisons : Read real reviews, compare prices, and book with confidence using the world’s leading travel platforms. 🩺 Insurance Built for Nomads & Long-Term Travel : Flexible global coverage designed for extended trips, remote work, and life on the move. 💻 Earn Online While You Travel : Teach, create, sell, or scale. Explore tools for online teaching, drop-shipping, shopping, and international banking. Please note that at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission from purchases made through these links. Read our Affiliate Policy . All Resources & Offers Frequently Asked Questions Common questions we get asked about France. Do I need a visa to visit France? France is part of the Schengen Area. Travelers from the EU, UK, US, Canada, Australia, and many other countries can enter visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Stays longer than this require a visa. 👉 See more in our Visa Requirements section(https://www.closerlives.com/travel-hub/destinations/europe/france-country-guide#travel-essentials). What is the best time of year to travel to France? Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) are ideal, with pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer (July–August) is popular but busy, especially in Paris and the Riviera. Winter (December–February) is best for visiting the Alps and Christmas markets. 👉 See more in our Weather & Climate section(https://www.closerlives.com/travel-hub/destinations/europe/france-country-guide#travel-essentials). Is France safe for tourists? France is generally safe, but petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur in major cities like Paris, especially near attractions and on public transport. Stay alert in crowded areas and keep valuables secure. 👉 See more in our Health & Safety section(https://www.closerlives.com/travel-hub/destinations/europe/france-country-guide#travel-essentials). What currency is used in France, and how can I pay? France uses the euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, with contactless payments common. ATMs are easy to find, though some small shops and rural markets may prefer cash. 👉 See more in our Currency section(https://www.closerlives.com/travel-hub/destinations/europe/france-country-guide#travel-essentials). How can I stay connected in France (Wi-Fi, SIM, eSIM)? Wi-Fi is available in hotels, cafes, and many public places. Leading mobile providers include Orange, SFR, and Bouygues. Prepaid SIMs and eSIMs are convenient options for visitors. 👉 See more in our Connectivity section(https://www.closerlives.com/travel-hub/destinations/europe/france-country-guide#travel-essentials). What transport options are available for getting around France? France has an excellent transport system. High-speed TGV trains connect major cities, regional trains and buses serve towns, and metros make city travel easy. Car rentals are popular for exploring the countryside and wine regions. 👉 See more in our Transport section(https://www.closerlives.com/travel-hub/destinations/europe/france-country-guide#travel-essentials). What are some must-visit places in France? Paris is a must, with the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Montmartre. Beyond the capital, highlights include the Loire Valley castles, the French Riviera, Provence’s lavender fields, Normandy, and the French Alps. 👉 See more in our Places to Visit section(https://www.closerlives.com/travel-hub/destinations/europe/france-country-guide#travel-essentials). What cultural customs should I know before visiting France? Politeness is valued. Always greet with a “Bonjour” when entering shops or restaurants. Tipping is appreciated but modest (rounding up or adding 5–10%). Dining is seen as an experience, so meals may last longer than in other countries. 👉 See more in our Culture & Customs section(https://www.closerlives.com/travel-hub/destinations/europe/france-country-guide#travel-essentials). Can I drink tap water in France? Yes, tap water is safe to drink throughout France, including in Paris. Restaurants often provide free tap water if you ask for “une carafe d’eau.” Bottled water is also widely available. 👉 See more in our Health & Safety section(https://www.closerlives.com/travel-hub/destinations/europe/france-country-guide#travel-essentials). Do I need to speak French when visiting? While many people in major cities and tourist areas speak English, learning basic French phrases is highly appreciated and can improve your experience. In rural areas, English is less common, so even a little French goes a long way. 👉 See more in our Language section(https://www.closerlives.com/travel-hub/destinations/europe/france-country-guide#travel-essentials). AFFILIATE PROMOTION YouTube Discover the world with us. Join the Jenn & Leon YouTube channel. Popular Videos Sign in Popular Videos Play Video Share Whole Channel This Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied Search videos Search video... All Categories All Categories Travel & Events Now Playing What Really Happens When You Visit China for the First Time? 12:54 Play Video Now Playing Our INCREDIBLE FIBA World Cup Experience! Philippines vs China 2023 GILAS PILIPINAS for the WIN 🏆 4k 13:15 Play Video Now Playing FIRST CLASS Vande Bharat Express Indian Train Travel 🇮🇳 New Delhi to Agra 24:24 Play Video Now Playing FIRST TIME trying RAMLY BURGER in KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA 🇲🇾 Is it really the BEST in THE WORLD!? 14:42 Play Video As entrepreneurs and full-time slow travelers, our goal is to see as much of this beautiful planet as we can! By subscribing to our channel, you will get notified of our latest videos, so you will never miss out! Country Guides Essential travel tips, practical planning, and real experiences from the road. Check out other comprehensive Country Guides with all you need to know before you go, including our latest posts, must-see places, fascinating facts, and key information about health & safety, transport, local customs, cuisine, connectivity, visa information, useful links, and much more! LOAD MORE GUIDES Our Engagement Story Discover Aphrodite’s Rock, the legendary birthplace of the goddess of love, and our engagement spot! Find out more about our story, how it all happened, and all you need to know about visiting this incredible location (and also Leon's ancestral homeland). Read Our Story Jenn & Leon at Closer Lives Closer Lives was created to bring people, places, and stories closer together. Through travel, culture, history, poetry, and personal experience, we share the moments that shape how we see the world, and ourselves. If you enjoy thoughtful travel guides, real experiences, and creative storytelling, you’re in the right place. You can also explore our Travel & Lifestyle Emporium , featuring inspirational travel pieces designed by us and shipped worldwide. Join Our Community

Explore Germany through our travels to Hamburg, Cologne, and Schwerin, discovering historic cities, waterways, architecture, and local life. Germany Unpacked: Trains, Castles & Cultural Deep Dives Your Guide to the Land of Beer & Bratwurst Germany offered us a mix of history, structure, and everyday life that felt distinctly its own. We explored cities like Hamburg and Cologne, spending time along waterways, historic streets, and cultural landmarks, before visiting Schwerin and its striking lakeside setting. From modern urban spaces to quieter historic towns, this page brings together our firsthand experiences, destination highlights, and practical insights from traveling through Germany. Quick Navigation Highlights Discover YouTube Facts Blogs FAQs Essentials Resources About Us Share This Guide Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link AFFILIATE PROMOTION Highlights from Our Journey A visual snapshot of the places, culture, and experiences that shaped our travels across Germany. VIEW MORE HIGHLIGHTS Interesting Facts Where we’ve been in Germany: Real places we’ve personally visited, photographed, and written about. Schwerin Interactive Map Top Hotels in Germany Schwerin Castle Our Interactive Map & Guide to Germany Check out all the places we visited in Germany with our interactive map from Wanderlog . Tap any of the numbers for more information, including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews, and more. Find the Best Deals on Top Hotels in Germany Use our interactive map to explore hotel options in Germany from trusted platforms such as Booking.com , Vrbo , Expedia , GetYourGuide , and Hotels.com . Powered by Stay22, the map lets you zoom in and out to see where properties are located, helping you choose accommodation that suits your route, budget, or preferred neighborhood. Top Activities in Germany, Worth Booking Ahead Some experiences in Germany are better booked in advance, especially iconic sites like Nuremberg or experiences like Oktoberfest. These are a few trusted tours we’d personally recommend. Nuremberg: City Walls Tour—Tunnels & Secret Passages Discover why Nuremberg was never conquered on this city walking tour with a local guide. Explore its defensive city walls along with the underground corridors at the Imperial Castle. View Tour Details Oktoberfest Munich: Large Beer Tent Entry+ Lunch/Dinner Celebrate Oktoberfest like a local with beer, music, and true Bavarian spirit. Feel the energy of the beer tent as the band plays and everyone sings along. Enjoy cold beer, roast chicken, and festival moments. View Tour Details From Munich: Neuschwanstein & Linderhof Castle Visit the majestic castles, Neuschwanstein and Linderhof. Discover Ludwig's childhood home of Hohenschwangau Learn the history behind each turn from your guide or audio guide. View Tour Details Powered by GetYourGuide Interesting Facts Here are 15 interesting facts about Germany. Some may just surprise you! 1. Germany Has Over 1,500 Types of Sausages: From bratwurst to currywurst, Germany’s sausage culture is rich, regional, and a delicious part of daily life. 2. Berlin Has More Bridges Than Venice: With over 1,700 bridges, the German capital is surprisingly watery, crisscrossed by rivers, lakes, and canals. 3. Germany is known as "Das Land der Dichter und Denker," Meaning “The Land of Poets and Thinkers.” It's home to Goethe, Schiller, Kant, Nietzsche, and many more intellectual heavyweights. 4. The Autobahn Has No Speed Limit in Some Sections: While safety rules still apply, parts of Germany’s famed highway system allow for unrestricted speeds — a dream for car lovers. 5. Oktoberfest Isn’t in October: Munich’s legendary beer festival actually starts in late September and ends in early October. 6. Germany is the EU’s Most Populous Country: With over 83 million residents, Germany is the largest country in the EU by population. 7. Germany is a Federal Republic with 16 States: Each "Bundesland" has its own parliament, culture, and in some cases, even dialects. 8. Christmas Markets Originated in Germany: The tradition dates back to the 14th century and continues to spread worldwide. Dresden and Nuremberg host two of the most famous. 9. Recycling Is an Art Form: Germany’s Pfand system rewards you for returning bottles and cans, and separates waste into multiple color-coded categories. 10. The Hamburger Originated in Hamburg: Though the American burger took it global, its name traces back to Germany’s northern port city. 11. Beer is Legally Protected by the Reinheitsgebot: The 1516 Beer Purity Law limited ingredients to water, hops, and barley — a standard still celebrated in many German breweries. 12. Germany Has the Most Zoos in the World: With more than 400 registered zoos, wildlife parks, and aquariums, it’s a surprisingly animal-loving nation. 13. You Can Ride Double-Decker Regional Trains: The DB Regio trains are not only efficient — they’re a fun and scenic way to travel the country in style. 14. The Berlin Wall Fell in 1989: It's a fall marked the end of the Cold War and the reunification of East and West Germany — a moment that changed Europe forever. 15. Castles Are Everywhere: With over 20,000 castles, palaces, and ruins, Germany offers a castle for every mood — romantic, dramatic, or fairy-tale perfect like Schwerin. ADVERTISEMENT Blogs & Guides Thoughtful travel stories, practical guides, and real experiences from the road. Is Full-Time Travel Really as Good as It Sounds? Is full-time travel as perfect as it looks? We reveal the freedom, flipsides, and lessons from four years on the road, with tips, tools, and personal stories from our journey. LIFESTYLE Schwerin Castle: A Fairy-Tale Fortress, One of Germany’s Most Beautiful Castles Discover Schwerin Castle, a stunning lakeside palace in northern Germany. With fairy-tale turrets and royal history, it’s often hailed as one of the most beautiful castles in all of Europe. GERMANY Traveling Full-Time as Digital Nomads: Our Journey & Top Tips We share how we swapped office life for full-time digital nomad living: remote work routines, gear must-haves, packing strategies, and lessons learned along the way. TRAVEL ADVICE Travel Essentials Travel Information for Germany: Practical Tips & Things to Know Before You Go. Connectivity Cuisine Culture & Customs Currency General Info Health & Safety Language Places to Visit Transport Visa Info Weather Internet, SIMs, Dial Code & Plug Sockets Germany has a strong digital infrastructure, especially in urban areas, though rural connectivity can occasionally be patchy. Most hotels, cafés, and public spaces offer Wi-Fi, and mobile data coverage is widespread across the country. Whether you’re navigating Berlin’s U-Bahn or hiking in Bavaria, staying connected is easy with a local SIM or eSIM . Save 50% on NordPass Premium NordPass is more than an intuitive password manager – it helps both businesses and individuals easily secure and monitor access to their online accounts and sensitive information. GET NORD PASS Special deal: 70% off NordVPN The most advanced VPN with additional features. One of the fastest VPNs globally. Secures up to 10 devices using a single account. Helps you avoid phishing, scams, and malware threats. GET NORDVPN Internet Service Providers (ISPs) in Germany Germany has several reliable ISPs offering stable connections, especially in major cities. ● Deutsche Telekom : The largest ISP, with wide coverage and fast speeds. ● Vodafone Germany : Offers competitive broadband packages and fiber connections. ● 1&1 Internet : Popular for affordable DSL and fiber plans. ● O2 (Telefónica) : Known for bundling mobile and broadband deals. 💡 Tip: Free Wi-Fi is common in hotels, but less so in cafés. Look for signs like “Kostenloses WLAN” or ask for the password at reception. Mobile Phone Options for Tourists Tourists can easily pick up prepaid SIM cards or eSIMs at airports, convenience stores, or mobile shops. Plans usually include data, local calls, and EU roaming. ● Telekom (MagentaMobil Prepaid) : Great coverage, but on the pricier side. Premium network for travelers exploring rural or remote areas. ● Vodafone CallYa : Balanced pricing and coverage, often includes EU roaming. A solid middle-ground option with generous data packages. ● O2 Prepaid : Affordable and flexible, but coverage may dip in remote areas. Best for city stays or budget travelers. 💡 Tip: Tip: Always bring ID when buying a SIM as registration is mandatory. 💡 Need an eSIM instead? Providers like GigSky, Saily, and Simbye offer tourist-friendly eSIMs that work seamlessly across Germany and beyond. ● GigSky : Quick setup, reliable data plans, and good for frequent travelers. ● Saily : Flexible and budget-friendly eSIM options, great for short-term trips. ● Holafly : Designed with travelers in mind, offering instant eSIM activation and fair pricing. 🔗 COMPARE & BUY ESIMS Germany Dial Code To call Germany from abroad, use the following format: ● International Dialing Format: +49 followed by the local number (drop the leading zero) Example: +49 30 12345678 (Berlin number) ● Italy Exit Code (to call out from Germany): 00 Example: To call the U.S. from Germany, dial 00 1 XXX XXX XXXX ● Local Calls Within Germany: Dial the full number, including the area code Example: 030 12345678 (within Berlin) 💡 Tip: Mobile numbers in Germany usually start with 015, 016, or 017. Plug Sockets in Germany Germany uses the Type C and Type F plug sockets, which are standard across most of continental Europe. ● Voltage: 230 V ● Frequency: 50 Hz ⚠️ Voltage Safety Tip: If your device is from the U.S., Canada, or Japan, check that it supports 230V to avoid damage. Power strips with surge protection are helpful if you're using multiple devices. 🔌 Adapters Needed: Type C adapters work in most EU countries — bring a universal one if you're visiting multiple destinations. German Cuisine Germany’s cuisine is hearty, regional, and deeply rooted in tradition. From sizzling sausages to warm pretzels and rich stews, German food reflects the country’s agricultural heritage and cultural diversity. Each state brings its own specialties to the table, making it a deliciously varied experience for travelers. Staples Bread, potatoes, and cabbage are staples in most German meals. ● Bread (Brot) – Germany has over 300 varieties, including rye (Roggenbrot), sourdough (Sauerteig), and seeded loaves. 💡 Best enjoyed fresh from a bakery — Brötchen rolls are a daily breakfast staple. ● Potatoes (Kartoffeln) – Boiled, mashed, fried, or made into dumplings (Klöße), potatoes are ever-present. 💡 Locals often enjoy Reibekuchen (potato pancakes) with a side of applesauce. ● Cabbage (Kohl) – Especially red cabbage (Rotkohl) and sauerkraut, often served with meats. 💡 Good to know: German sauerkraut is milder and sometimes cooked with apples or wine. Meat Dishes Germany is famous for its meats, particularly pork, and countless types of sausages. ● Schnitzel – Breaded and fried meat cutlet (usually pork or veal). 💡 Try it Jäger-style with a creamy mushroom gravy — a comfort food classic. ● Bratwurst – Grilled sausage made from pork or beef. 💡 Regional note: Nuremberg’s are small and spiced, while Thüringer versions are long and smoky. ● Sauerbraten – A pot roast marinated in vinegar and spices, often served with red cabbage and dumplings. 💡 This is considered by many as Germany’s national dish — best tried in a cozy Gasthaus. ● Leberkäse – A baked loaf of finely ground meat, often served in a bread roll with mustard. 💡 Don’t be misled by the name — it usually contains no liver or cheese! Other Specialties Beyond meat, Germany offers a variety of regional favorites: ● Spätzl – Soft egg noodles from Swabia, usually served with cheese and fried onions (Käsespätzle). 💡 A great vegetarian option — rich, cheesy, and satisfying. ● Maultaschen – Pasta pockets filled with meat, spinach, and herbs, sometimes dubbed "Swabian ravioli." 💡 Traditionally eaten during Lent to “hide” meat from God. ● Flammkuchen – A thin, crispy flatbread topped with cream, onions, and bacon — especially popular in the southwest. 💡 Think of it as Germany’s rustic answer to pizza. German Desserts Sweet treats are taken seriously in Germany, with cakes and pastries a cultural norm. ● Black Forest Cake (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte) – Layers of chocolate sponge, cherries, and whipped cream. 💡 Look out for bakeries using real Kirsch (cherry brandy) for an authentic touch. ● Apfelstrudel – A flaky apple pastry dusted with sugar and cinnamon. 💡 Though Austrian in origin, it's beloved across Bavaria and the south. ● Berliner – Jelly-filled doughnuts, often enjoyed on New Year's Eve or during Carnival. 💡 In Berlin, ask for “Pfannkuchen” instead — same treat, different name. Food Delivery Food delivery is widely available in German cities, with a growing mix of international and local fare. ● Popular Apps: Lieferando (Just Eat), Uber Eats , and Wolt ● Options: Everything from Döner kebabs and currywurst to Thai curries and vegan wraps 💡 Good to know: Traditional restaurants may not deliver. For takeout, look for casual eateries and street food. Germany’s cuisine is a celebration of comfort, tradition, and bold flavor. Whether you're indulging in beer garden classics or nibbling artisan bread, you’ll quickly discover that German food is far more diverse than stereotypes suggest. German Culture & Customs German culture values punctuality, structure, and a deep sense of regional identity. While modern and progressive in many aspects, traditional customs, festivals, and a strong work ethic continue to shape everyday life. Whether navigating formal interactions or joining a raucous beer fest, understanding German cultural norms can make your visit more enriching and respectful. Family & Social Interactions Family remains the cornerstone of German society, though modern households often consist of smaller units. Independence is encouraged from a young age, with children taught to be responsible and self-sufficient. 💡Tip: Extended family gatherings are more common during holidays and special occasions rather than weekly routines. Friendships may take time to form , but once established, they are long-lasting and loyal. Public displays of affection are moderate, and personal space is valued. Religion & Customs Christianity is the dominant religion, with Catholicism strong in the south and Protestantism more common in the north. There’s also a significant secular population, and Germany legally protects freedom of religion. Major Christian holidays like Easter and Christmas are widely celebrated, with festive markets and traditional foods marking the seasons. 💡 Tip: Churches often host community events — stepping into a service or concert can offer cultural insights. Daily Life & Traditions Seasonal traditions are big , from the Oktoberfest celebrations to cozy winter customs like St. Nicholas Day (Dec 6th) and Advent calendars. The typical German day starts early: Businesses and bakeries often open by 7 a.m. and close by early evening. Sunday is widely observed as a rest day, with shops closed and noise regulations in effect. 💡 Tip: Plan your grocery shopping ahead; even supermarkets are usually shut on Sundays. Etiquette ● Punctuality is highly valued. Arriving even five minutes late without notice can be seen as disrespectful. ● Formality is the norm in professional and first-time interactions — use “Sie” instead of “du” until invited otherwise. ● Greetings are typically a firm handshake with direct eye contact. ● Dining follows a structured etiquette: wait for “Guten Appetit” before starting, and keep both hands visible on the table. ● Shoes off indoors is common in homes — bring socks without holes! 💡 Tip: Don’t assume first-name usage — Germans may take time before switching to informal terms of address. Celebrations Germany’s calendar is filled with festive events rooted in tradition and seasonal cycles: ● Oktoberfest (September–October): The world’s largest beer festival in Munich, but similar celebrations occur elsewhere. ● Karneval/Fasching: A colorful pre-Lenten celebration with costumes, parades, and parties, especially in Cologne and Mainz. ● Christmas Markets: Nearly every city and town hosts a Weihnachtsmarkt in December with mulled wine, ornaments, and gingerbread. ● Tag der Deutschen Einheit (Oct 3): National Unity Day, celebrating reunification. 💡 Tip: Dress the part at festivals — locals often wear traditional dirndl or lederhosen during Oktoberfest! Germany’s customs reflect a society that balances formality with festivity. Embrace the blend of old and new, from handshakes and hearty traditions to spirited parades and lively beer halls, understanding cultural cues will deepen your travel experience. Currency in Germany Germany uses the euro (€), shared by 19 other EU countries. While modern payment options are widespread, cash still plays a surprisingly important role in daily transactions, especially in smaller towns or local shops. Travelers should be prepared to carry a mix of cash and cards for smooth spending. Get a Fee Free Transfer of 800 CAD Save when you send, receive, and spend worldwide. Send 50+ currencies fast, free from hidden fees and exchange rate markups. SEND MONEY Spend $20 in 30 days & get $20 cash back Open a Canadian KOHO Bank account as a new user using our code: LBJDEPD4 SIGN UP Denominations The euro is available in both coins and banknotes. ● Coins: €0.01, €0.02, €0.05, €0.10, €0.20, €0.50, €1, €2 ● Banknotes: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, €500 (though larger notes are rarely used in day-to-day purchases) 💡 Tip: €100+ notes may not be accepted in many smaller venues, so carry smaller denominations for ease. 🔗 Convert Your Currency Here Exchanging Currency Currency exchange is available at airports, train stations, major banks, and exchange offices. However, rates at airports and hotels tend to be less favorable. Many travelers find better value in withdrawing euros directly from ATMs using a travel-friendly debit card. 💡 Tip: Bring a card with no foreign transaction fees to avoid unnecessary charges. Payment Options for Foreigners ● Credit and debit cards (especially Visa and Mastercard) are accepted in most urban shops, restaurants, and hotels ● Cash (Bargeld) remains king in many cafes, kiosks, and small businesses. ● Some places only accept EC cards (German debit cards). Carrying cash ensures you won’t get stuck. 💡 Tip: Always ask “Kartenzahlung?” (Card payment?) before assuming you can tap or swipe. Additional Information for Tourists ● ATMs (Geldautomaten) are widely available in cities and towns. ● Tipping is customary in restaurants , typically 5–10%, often rounded up rather than written on a receipt. ● Public toilets may charge a small fee — carry coins! ● Digital wallets like Samsung Pay, Apple Pay, and Google Pay are accepted in major cities but not everywhere. 💡 Tip: It’s common to hand cash directly to service staff and say the total with tip included, e.g., “Zwanzig, bitte” for a €17 bill you want to round to €20. Reputable Banks in Germany for Exchanging Currency or Using ATMs ● Deutsche Bank: Major national bank with English-friendly services ● Commerzbank: Broad ATM network and reliable exchange rates ● Sparkasse: Regional savings banks with widespread ATM access ● Postbank: Bank services are integrated into many post offices 💡 Tip: Use ATMs located at banks rather than random kiosks to avoid hidden fees and unfavorable rates. Information About Germany POPULATION Germany is the most populous country in the European Union, with over 84 million residents. CURRENCY Euro (EUR / €). Most places accept card payments, but cash is still common—especially in smaller towns or at local bakeries and kiosks. CAPITAL Berlin (3.5 million) is the capital and largest city, known for its arts scene, history, and landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate. SPEED / DISTANCES Urban areas: 50 km/h Rural roads: 100 km/h Autobahn: No universal limit, but 130 km/h is recommended. Many cars flash their lights before overtaking on the Autobahn—stay to the right unless overtaking. TIME ZONES Central European Time (CET), UTC+1. Daylight saving time (late March to late October) shifts to Central European Summer Time (CEST, UTC+2). DRIVING Drive on the right-hand side. Seat belts are mandatory. Children under 12 must use car seats. A valid license from the EU, UK, U.S., Canada, Australia, and many others is accepted for short visits. ALCOHOL AGE Beer & wine: Legal from age 16 Spirits & hard liquor: Legal from age 18 SMOKING AGE Legal from 18. Smoking is banned indoors in most public places, though many venues have designated smoking areas. Health & Safety in Germany Germany offers a high level of personal safety and some of the best healthcare facilities in Europe. While it's generally a worry-free destination for travelers, being prepared can help you handle minor health issues or emergencies with confidence From navigating medical services to understanding local safety practices, here’s what you need to know before you go. Global response, rescue & evacuation services Emergency medical evacuation, extraction, and crisis response worldwide. Get expert support in remote, high-risk, or hard-to-reach destinations. GET RESCUE COVERAGE Health insurance for nomads & travelers Global medical & travel coverage for when you get sick or injured abroad. Get essential or full health coverage. Buy anytime, anywhere. LET'S GET YOU INSURED Medical Care Germany’s healthcare system is efficient , modern, and ranked among the best globally. Public and private hospitals are well-equipped, with highly trained staff. Tourists can access emergency services without prior appointments, although costs may vary based on your insurance coverage. Pharmacies (Apotheken) are the first stop for minor ailments and over-the-counter medication. Pharmacists are well-trained and can often advise in basic English. Doctors (Hausärzte) generally require an appointment, but some walk-in clinics operate in larger cities. Look for a green cross to identify licensed pharmacies. For after-hours needs, signs on the door will list the nearest emergency pharmacy. Look for the red “A” symbol to find an official German pharmacy. A rotating system ensures that one pharmacy per district remains open 24/7. 💡 Carry your EHIC card (EU travelers) or ensure your travel insurance covers medical care, as healthcare isn’t free for non-residents. General Health Germany has strict food safety and hygiene regulations, making it unlikely to encounter issues from local food or drink. Tap water is clean and safe to drink throughout the country. If you’re traveling with children or have allergies , supermarkets provide clear ingredient labeling and pharmacies stock high-quality, child-friendly medication. 💡 Tip: Bring prescriptions in original packaging and a letter from your doctor for controlled medications. Customs may check your meds at the border. Safety & Security Germany is generally very safe , with low violent crime and a strong police presence. Tourist areas , however, can be hotspots for opportunistic pickpocketing, particularly in cities like Berlin, Frankfurt, and Cologne. Transport hubs (train stations, trams) are known for petty theft. Large gatherings (markets, parades, festivals) require extra awareness. Always zip your bag and keep it in front of you on public transport or in crowded areas. 💡 Germany has strict laws on personal conduct — drunkenness, public disorder, or skipping tram fares may result in fines or police involvement. Safety Resources Germany has reliable and multilingual emergency services. Most operators speak English, especially in urban areas. ● 112: EU-wide emergency number (ambulance, police, fire) ● 110: German police emergency line ● 116 117: For non-urgent medical help (English service may vary ● Apotheken Notdienst: Emergency pharmacy locator: aponet.de 💡 Tip: Install the Notfall-ID or 112 Where ARE U app for quick emergency contact options. Emergency Numbers ● 110: Police ● 112: Fire & Ambulance ● 116 117: Medical Help (non-emergency) ● +49 30 19240: Poison Control (Berlin) Additional Tips ● Sundays and public holidays see most pharmacies and clinics closed. Always check in advance or visit a Notaufnahme (ER) in urgent cases. ● Smoking is banned inside public buildings and many transport hubs. You may smoke in designated outdoor areas only. ● Jaywalking is frowned upon in Germany, and crossing on a red pedestrian light can result in both social scolding and fines, even with no cars in sight. ● Be mindful of bike lanes, often painted red or marked separately from sidewalks. Pedestrians may be warned or fined for obstructing them. 💡 Tip: Consider SafetyWing or similar travel insurance to cover healthcare, cancellations, and theft, especially for longer stays. Language in Germany Germany is a linguistically rich country, with a standardized national language and a strong tradition of regional dialects. While most young people and city dwellers speak English, learning a few local phrases can go a long way in rural areas and for building rapport with locals. Official Language German (Deutsch) is the official language of Germany and is used in all administrative, legal, business, and educational settings. 💡 Even though it’s the official language, paperwork and signage in tourist areas are often available in English for ease of travel. Dominant Spoken Language High German (Hochdeutsch) is the standardized form taught in schools and spoken nationwide. It’s what you’ll hear on national news, read in newspapers, and learn in language classes. 💡 Tip: If you learn just a few Hochdeutsch phrases like Guten Tag (Good day) and Danke (Thank you), locals will appreciate the effort, especially outside major cities. Regional Variations Germany’s dialects are deeply tied to regional identity and can vary dramatically: ● Bavarian (Bairisch): Strong southern dialect that can be hard to follow even for native speakers. ● Swabian (Schwäbisch): Spoken in southwest Germany, melodic but often joked about. ● Saxon (Sächsisch): Eastern German dialect with a nasal quality. ● Low German (Plattdeutsch): Historically used in the north; less common today. 💡 Tip: Locals may switch to Hochdeutsch if they notice you're confused, but many are proud of their dialects and happy to explain phrases. History of the German Language The modern German language evolved from various West Germanic dialects. Martin Luther’s translation of the Bible in the 1500s helped unify written German, making it accessible across regions. 💡 Many expressions and idioms used today have medieval or religious roots, adding character to everyday speech. Stability for Future Generations While regional dialects are fading among youth , Hochdeutsch remains secure thanks to a strong national curriculum and cultural reinforcement. Some schools also offer elective courses in dialects or local traditions. 💡 German TV and streaming content are often dubbed — even foreign shows — helping reinforce language use across generations. Places to Visit in Germany Germany blends fairy-tale scenery with modern cities, rich heritage, and world-class infrastructure. Whether you're drawn to medieval castles, urban buzz, or natural wonders, there's a region to suit every traveler. ⪢ Berlin : Germany’s capital is a cultural powerhouse with a turbulent history and vibrant present. Key landmarks include the Berlin Wall, Brandenburg Gate, and Museum Island. 💡 Tip: Many top sites are walkable from Alexanderplatz. Grab a WelcomeCard for discounts on transport and attractions. ⪢ Munich : Known for Oktoberfest, Bavarian beer halls, and historic architecture like Nymphenburg Palace, Munich offers traditional charm and modern flair. 💡 Tip: Visit Englischer Garten, one of the largest urban parks in the world, and spot surfers on the Eisbach river! ⪢ Hamburg : This port city is famous for its canals, nightlife, and maritime history. The Elbphilharmonie concert hall and Speicherstadt warehouse district are architectural highlights. 💡 Tip: A harbor boat tour at sunset offers the best views of Hamburg’s skyline ⪢ Cologne : Dominated by its towering Gothic cathedral, Cologne also offers Roman ruins, quirky museums, and a lively carnival culture. 💡 Tip: Try a Kölsch beer in its birthplace, served in small, cold glasses and continually refilled unless you place your coaster on top! Find the Best Deals on Top Hotels in Germany ⪢ The Black Forest : A hiker’s paradise and the inspiration behind the Grimm Brothers’ tales, this forested region is full of trails, waterfalls, and spa towns like Baden-Baden. 💡 Tip: Visit Triberg for cuckoo clocks, and don’t miss tasting the famous Black Forest cake. ⪢ Neuschwanstein Castle : A fairy-tale fortress nestled in the Alps, Neuschwanstein inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle. It’s Germany’s most photographed landmark. 💡 Tip: Book tickets online in advance to avoid long queues, especially in summer. ⪢ Dresden : Rebuilt after WWII, Dresden stuns with baroque architecture like the Frauenkirche and Zwinger Palace, alongside a buzzing arts scene. 💡 Tip: A walk along Brühl’s Terrace gives great river views and insight into the city’s revival story. ⪢ Heidelberg : With Germany’s oldest university, a romantic hilltop castle, and a charming old town, Heidelberg is a top choice for couples and history lovers alike. 💡 Tip: Take the historic funicular to the castle for sweeping views of the Neckar River valley. Transportation in Germany Germany offers one of Europe’s most efficient, modern, and traveler-friendly transport systems. From high-speed trains to reliable city networks, getting around is straightforward and convenient. Sign up and save 30% off your first private car hire Turo is the world’s largest car sharing marketplace, from a community of trusted hosts across the US, UK, Canada, Australia & France. GO TO TURO SAVE $30 CAD when you spend $230 Book your first trip with Expedia as a NEW USER, be it for a hotel, car rental or flight and get a $30 discount, no strings attached! BOOK NOW Air Travel Major hubs include Frankfurt Airport (FRA), Munich (MUC), and Berlin Brandenburg (BER). Budget carriers like Eurowings and Ryanair also serve smaller airports. Book early for budget flights, as many routes are cheaper than trains for longer distances. 💡 Tip: Germany has strict carry-on size and weight limits, especially on budget airlines. Double-check your airline’s policy to avoid costly airport fees, and weigh your bag in advance if flying Ryanair, Eurowings, or Wizz Air. Buses FlixBus and BlaBlaCar Bus offer affordable intercity options. Many routes are overnight, making it easy to cover long distances on a budget. 💡 Tip: Bus stations can be tucked away. Always double-check the pickup location before heading out. Private Taxis Metered taxis are widely available in cities. Apps like Free Now or Bolt are common alternatives to Uber (which has limited presence). 💡 Tip: Taxis are reliable but pricey. Short rides can cost €10–15. Always ask for a receipt. Motorbikes & Scooters Motorcycles are popular for scenic drives like the Romantic Road or the Black Forest High Road. Well-maintained roads and biker-friendly routes make Germany ideal for touring. 💡 Tip: Always wear a helmet (required by law) and check that your travel insurance covers motorbike rental and use. Trains Deutsche Bahn (DB) runs a vast network of regional and intercity trains, including the high-speed ICE trains. ● ICE: Fast, long-distance with seat reservations. ● RE / RB: Slower regional trains stopping at small towns. ● S-Bahn: Suburban networks in larger cities. 💡 Tip: Consider the Deutschland-Ticket for unlimited regional travel at a flat monthly rate (€49). Shared Taxis & Rideshares Services like BlaBlaCar are popular for long-distance ride-sharing. Local carpool apps exist in larger cities and university towns. 💡 Tip: Shared rides often cost less than trains and offer flexibility but depend on individual drivers’ schedules. Cruises & Ferries Germany’s river cruise network is popular, especially along the Rhine and Danube. Ferries also operate to islands like Sylt or Rügen and across Lake Constance. 💡 Tip: Consider a short Rhine cruise between Koblenz and Rüdesheim; it’s scenic and manageable in a day. Car Rentals Rentals are widely available, especially at airports and train stations. You’ll need an international driving permit (IDP) if your license isn’t in German or English. 💡 Tip: Some areas (like Munich or Stuttgart) have low-emission zones. Look for a “Umweltplakette” (environmental sticker) requirement. Tips for Driving in Germany ● Germany’s Autobahn has stretches with no speed limit, but the recommended speed is 130 km/h. Stick to the right lane unless overtaking. ● Speed cameras are common, even in rural areas and on highways. Fines are mailed to foreign drivers, and rental companies may charge an admin fee. ● Parking can be tricky in city centers. Use “Park + Ride” lots near train stations when staying outside major cities. ● Don’t drink and drive. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%, and 0.00% for new drivers (under 2 years of experience or under 21). ● Roundabouts are frequent. Always yield to traffic already inside the circle, and use turn signals when exiting. Tips for Using Public Transport in Germany ● Validate your paper ticket before boarding trains or trams. ● Most city metros (U-Bahn), trams, and buses operate on an honor system, but inspectors do random checks. ● Apps like DB Navigator , BVG (Berlin) , or MVV (Munich) help plan routes. 💡 Tip: Many cities offer 24-hour or group day passes which are ideal for couples or families. Visa Requirements for Germany Germany is part of the Schengen Area, meaning many travelers can enter visa-free for short stays. However, your nationality, travel purpose, and length of stay will determine your exact requirements. Visa Options Germany offers several visa pathways depending on the type and duration of your visit: ● Visa-exempt travelers (e.g., from the EU, U.S., UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan) can stay for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. ● Short-stay Schengen visa (Type C): Allows stays up to 90 days in a 180-day period for tourism, business, or family visits. ● Long-stay visa (Type D): Required for stays longer than 90 days (e.g., work, study, or family reunification). ● Airport Transit Visa: Needed by some nationalities when transiting through a German airport, even without leaving the terminal. 💡 Tip: Holders of a valid Schengen visa can travel freely within the 27 Schengen countries during its validity period. Types of Visa ● Tourist Visa: For leisure travel or visiting friends/family (Schengen Type C). ● Business Visa: For attending meetings, conferences, or business negotiations (Type C). ● Student Visa: For those accepted into a German educational institution (Type D). ● Work Visa: For employment with a German company, including job seeker and skilled worker visas (Type D). ● Freelancer Visa: Designed for self-employed professionals or artists planning to work independently. ● Family Reunion Visa: For joining a spouse, parent, or child residing in Germany (Type D). ● Research/Academic Visa: For researchers, scientists, or professors conducting academic work. ● Medical Treatment Visa: For receiving specialized treatment in Germany. 💡 Tip: Some visa types may require prior approval from the local immigration office (Ausländerbehörde) in Germany. General Visa Application Requirements For most visa types, you’ll need: ● Valid passport (minimum 3 months validity beyond your intended departure) ● Passport-sized photos (2) ● Proof of travel (flight reservations) ● Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or host invitation) ● Proof of financial means (bank statements, income proof) ● Travel medical insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage) ● Documentation showing the purpose of your visit (e.g., letters of invitation, proof of enrollment) 💡 Tip: Submit your application in person at your nearest German embassy or consulate. Appointments and early planning are essential. Additional Things to Keep in Mind ● Germany is part of the Schengen zone , so your days in Germany count toward the total 90 days allowed in Schengen. ● Multiple Entry Schengen Visas are available if you have a valid reason and good travel history. ● ETIAS (Electronic Travel Information and Authorization System): Travelers from visa-exempt countries (e.g., the US, UK, Canada, Australia) will need to apply online for ETIAS starting in 2025. ● Travelers from visa-exempt countries will need to apply for authorization before entering. ● Border officials may still request documentation even if you’re visa-exempt. 💡 Check processing times carefully – some visas may take several weeks or more, depending on the type and your nationality. 💡 Tip: Use the Schengen Visa Calculator to track your days and avoid overstaying. Please note that these are general requirements, and specific documentation and criteria may vary depending on your circumstances and the visa category you are applying for. This information is also subject to change at any time and has been obtained through research. We always recommend you visit the official government website, Germany Visa , for the most up-to-date and detailed information regarding visa requirements. German Weather & Climate Germany has a temperate seasonal climate influenced by Atlantic weather systems, mountainous regions, and continental air masses from the east. Expect four distinct seasons with moderate variations — cold winters, warm summers, and frequent changes in between. Seasons ⪢ Spring (March–May) The weather slowly warms up, with average temps between 10°C and 20°C (50–68°F). Trees blossom, and outdoor life resumes. 💡 Best for fewer crowds and enjoying blooming parks like Tiergarten in Berlin or Englischer Garten in Munich. ⪢ Summer (June–August) Average highs range from 20°C to 30°C (68–86°F), with longer daylight hours and popular festivals across the country. 💡 Locals flock to lakes, rivers, and beer gardens, so pack light clothes but always carry a light jacket for sudden rain. ⪢ Autumn (September–November) A scenic season of golden leaves and mild days, averaging 10°C to 18°C (50–64°F). 💡 Tip: Perfect time to explore wine regions or attend Oktoberfest in Munich. ⪢ Winter (December–February) Cold and often snowy in the south, with temperatures ranging from -5°C to 5°C (23–41°F). Coastal areas remain milder. 💡 Germany’s Christmas markets are legendary. Just pack thermals, gloves, and waterproof boots. Regional Variations ● Northwest (e.g., Hamburg, Bremen): Oceanic climate, cooler summers and wetter winters due to North Sea influence. ● Central Germany (e.g., Frankfurt, Cologne): Moderate temperatures with more stable year-round weather. ● Southern Germany (e.g., Munich, Bavaria): Colder winters with snow, especially near the Alps. ● Eastern Germany (e.g., Berlin, Dresden): More continental, with hotter summers and colder, drier winters. 💡 Tip: Always check local forecasts. Weather conditions can shift dramatically, especially in hilly or alpine areas. Annual Rainfall Rain is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year. Expect around 700–1,200 mm (27–47 in) annually, with summer storms and consistent drizzle in colder months. 💡 Tip: Carry an umbrella or rain jacket, especially if visiting Hamburg or the Black Forest region. Humidity Humidity levels in Germany are generally moderate, ranging from 60%–80%. Expect higher humidity in coastal and lowland regions, particularly in summer. 💡 Tip: If you’re sensitive to humid heat, plan outdoor activities earlier in the day during July and August. Best Time to Visit Germany is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your interests: ● May to October: Ideal for sightseeing, festivals, and outdoor adventures. ● December: Best for winter wonderlands, festive vibes, and Christmas markets. ● March or November: Shoulder months with fewer tourists and lower prices. 💡 Tip: If visiting during Oktoberfest (late Sept–early Oct), book accommodations months in advance — especially in Munich. Be Prepared Germany’s weather can change rapidly, even within the same day, so packing with flexibility in mind is key. ● Layering is essential: Bring breathable base layers, a warm mid-layer like a fleece or sweater, and a waterproof outer shell. Even summer evenings can be cool. ● Don’t underestimate rain: A compact umbrella and a lightweight rain jacket are must-haves year-round. 💡 Many regions, especially the north and the Black Forest, experience spontaneous downpours. ● Footwear matters: Comfortable, waterproof walking shoes will serve you well on cobbled streets, hiking trails, or urban explorations. ● In winter, pack thermals, gloves, a hat, and lined boots, especially if visiting Bavaria or the Alps where snow is common. ● In summer , bring sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat) as UV levels can be surprisingly high even on overcast days. 💡 Public transport, festivals, and small towns all run on punctual schedules, so checking forecasts in advance helps you plan and dress accordingly. BACK TO TOP (this section) Travel Resources We rely on a set of trusted tools for transport, connectivity, insurance, and bookings while traveling full-time and living location-independent. TOURS Discover Experiences Worth Doing We book guided tours, activities, and local experiences through trusted platforms that make exploring easier and more rewarding. Explore Tours & Experiences HOTELS Find the Right Place to Stay From short stays to longer slow-travel bases, these platforms help us find accommodation that fits our style, budget, and location needs. Book Top Hotels TRANSPORT Book Transport With Confidence Compare trains, buses, ferries, and flights in one place. We use these tools to plan routes, check prices, and get around smoothly. Find Transport Options INSURANCE Protect Your Journey Unexpected things happen on the road. We rely on flexible travel insurance that covers health, delays, and long-term travel realities. Get Travel Insurance CONNECTIVITY Stay Connected Wherever You Go Reliable internet matters when you travel full-time. These eSIM and connectivity tools keep us online without local SIM hassles. Stay Connected Abroad MONEY & TOOLS Manage Money on the Road From spending abroad to saving on fees, these tools help us manage finances securely while traveling across countries. Browse Money Tools Over our many years of full-time travel, we've booked countless accommodations, flights, and activities while also navigating the world of earning online. These are the tools we rely on to plan and book our adventures, and now, you can too! Featured Offer More Travel Resources GigSky eSIM: World Mobile Data International eSIM Data Plans. Local Prices. No Roaming. Fastest Networks. Available in over 200 countries, with GigSky you’ll have cellular data the moment you arrive. Save 10% on your first order with code CLOSERLIVES10 GET YOUR ESIM Save Big on Your Next Adventure 🌍 Save, Earn, and Explore with Closer Lives : Carefully curated tools and deals to help you travel smarter, earn on the go, and live more freely... wherever life takes you. ✈️ Find Cheaper Flights & Transport : Compare routes, unlock deals, and book flights, trains, and buses without the stress. 🏨 Accommodation for Every Travel Style : From budget hostels to luxury stays, find great prices, flexible bookings, and free cancellations. 🎟️ Book Tours, Tickets & Experiences with Ease : Skip queues, plan ahead, and secure unforgettable experiences wherever you’re heading. 🏡 Rent or List with Confidence : Access millions of vacation rentals worldwide. Perfect for both travellers and property owners. 🗺️ Plan Smarter with Trusted Reviews & Comparisons : Read real reviews, compare prices, and book with confidence using the world’s leading travel platforms. 🩺 Insurance Built for Nomads & Long-Term Travel : Flexible global coverage designed for extended trips, remote work, and life on the move. 💻 Earn Online While You Travel : Teach, create, sell, or scale. Explore tools for online teaching, drop-shipping, shopping, and international banking. Please note that at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission from purchases made through these links. Read our Affiliate Policy . All Resources & Offers Frequently Asked Questions Common questions we get asked about Germany. Do I need a visa to visit Germany? Germany is part of the Schengen Area. Travelers from the EU, UK, US, Canada, Australia, and many other countries can visit visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Longer stays require a visa. 👉 See more in our Visa Requirements section(https://www.closerlives.com/travel-hub/destinations/europe/germany-country-guide#travel-essentials). What is the best time of year to travel to Germany? Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) are ideal, with mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer is great for festivals but can be busy, while winter is magical for Christmas markets and skiing in Bavaria. 👉 See more in our Weather & Climate section(https://www.closerlives.com/travel-hub/destinations/europe/germany-country-guide#travel-essentials). Is Germany safe for tourists? Germany is very safe, with low crime rates and excellent public services. Pickpocketing can occur in busy tourist areas and on public transport, so keep belongings secure. 👉 See more in our Health & Safety section(https://www.closerlives.com/travel-hub/destinations/europe/germany-country-guide#travel-essentials). What currency is used in Germany, and how can I pay? Germany uses the euro (EUR). Cards are widely accepted, but some smaller shops and restaurants may prefer cash. ATMs are readily available, and contactless payments are increasingly common. 👉 See more in our Currency section(https://www.closerlives.com/travel-hub/destinations/europe/germany-country-guide#travel-essentials). How can I stay connected in Germany (Wi-Fi, SIM, eSIM)? Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels and cafes. Major mobile providers include Telekom, Vodafone, and O2, offering reliable coverage. SIM cards and eSIMs are convenient for short-term visitors. 👉 See more in our Connectivity section(https://www.closerlives.com/travel-hub/destinations/europe/germany-country-guide#travel-essentials). What transport options are available for getting around Germany? Germany’s Deutsche Bahn trains connect cities quickly, with regional trains and buses serving smaller towns. U-Bahn and S-Bahn networks make urban travel easy. Renting a car is great for exploring scenic routes like the Romantic Road. 👉 See more in our Transport section(https://www.closerlives.com/travel-hub/destinations/europe/germany-country-guide#travel-essentials). What are some must-visit places in Germany? Highlights include Berlin’s historic landmarks, Munich’s Marienplatz and Oktoberfest, Cologne Cathedral, Hamburg’s harbor, the Black Forest, and Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria. 👉 See more in our Places to Visit section(https://www.closerlives.com/travel-hub/destinations/europe/germany-country-guide#travel-essentials). What cultural customs should I know before visiting Germany? Punctuality is highly valued. A firm handshake is the usual greeting. Tipping (around 5–10%) is appreciated, and cash is often preferred for small amounts. Recycling and environmental awareness are important. 👉 See more in our Culture & Customs section(https://www.closerlives.com/travel-hub/destinations/europe/germany-country-guide#travel-essentials). Can I drink tap water in Germany? Yes, tap water in Germany is very safe to drink. In restaurants, bottled water is often served by default, so ask for “Leitungswasser” if you’d like tap water. 👉 See more in our Health & Safety section(https://www.closerlives.com/travel-hub/destinations/europe/germany-country-guide#travel-essentials). What festivals and events is Germany famous for? Germany is known for its lively festivals, including Oktoberfest in Munich, the Christmas markets across the country, and Cologne’s Carnival. Cultural events such as the Berlin Film Festival and Wagner Festival in Bayreuth are also world-famous. 👉 See more in our Culture & Customs section(https://www.closerlives.com/travel-hub/destinations/europe/germany-country-guide#travel-essentials). AFFILIATE PROMOTION YouTube Discover the world with us. Join the Jenn & Leon YouTube channel. Germany’s Most Beautiful City? 🇩🇪 Exploring Schwerin & Its Fairytale Castle Play Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied As entrepreneurs and full-time slow travelers, our goal is to see as much of this beautiful planet as we can! By subscribing to our channel, you will get notified of our latest videos, so you will never miss out! Country Guides Essential travel tips, practical planning, and real experiences from the road. Check out other comprehensive Country Guides with all you need to know before you go, including our latest posts, must-see places, fascinating facts, and key information about health & safety, transport, local customs, cuisine, connectivity, visa information, useful links, and much more! LOAD MORE GUIDES Our Engagement Story Discover Aphrodite’s Rock, the legendary birthplace of the goddess of love, and our engagement spot! Find out more about our story, how it all happened, and all you need to know about visiting this incredible location (and also Leon's ancestral homeland). Read Our Story Jenn & Leon at Closer Lives Closer Lives was created to bring people, places, and stories closer together. Through travel, culture, history, poetry, and personal experience, we share the moments that shape how we see the world, and ourselves. If you enjoy thoughtful travel guides, real experiences, and creative storytelling, you’re in the right place. You can also explore our Travel & Lifestyle Emporium , featuring inspirational travel pieces designed by us and shipped worldwide. Join Our Community

Explore Italy through our time in Rome and Venice, from ancient landmarks to city streets, shaped by a whirlwind layover and slow exploration. Italy: Ancient Icons, Pizza, Pasta & 14 Hours in the Eternal City of Rome Your Guide to the Land of La Dolce Vita Italy has always held a special pull for us, even before we explored it together. We experienced Rome during an intense fourteen-hour layover, packing in some of the city’s most iconic sights, including the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and the Victor Emmanuel II Monument. We later slowed the pace in Venice, spending days exploring the city on foot, crossing bridges, wandering narrow streets, and taking in its unique rhythm without rushing. This page brings together our firsthand experiences, destination highlights, and practical insights from time spent exploring Italy in very different ways. Quick Navigation Highlights Discover YouTube Facts Blogs FAQs Essentials Resources About Us Share This Guide Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link AFFILIATE PROMOTION Highlights from Our Journey A visual snapshot of the places, culture, and experiences that shaped our travels across Italy. VIEW MORE HIGHLIGHTS Discover Where we’ve been in Italy: Real places we’ve personally visited, photographed, and written about. Rome Interactive Map Top Hotels in Italy Rome 1 Day Itinerary Our Interactive Map & Guide to Italy Check out all the places we visited in Italy with our interactive map from Wanderlog . Tap any of the numbers for more information, including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews, and more. Find the Best Deals on Top Hotels in Italy Use our interactive map to explore hotel options in Italy from trusted platforms such as Booking.com , Vrbo , Expedia , GetYourGuide , and Hotels.com . Powered by Stay22, the map lets you zoom in and out to see where properties are located, helping you choose accommodation that suits your route, budget, or preferred neighborhood. Top Activities in Italy, Worth Booking Ahead Some experiences in Italy are better booked in advance, especially iconic sites like the Colosseum and Pompeii. These are a few trusted tours we’d personally recommend. Vatican: Museums & Sistine Chapel Entrance Ticket Take a stirring journey through art and religious history with skip-the-ticket-line entry to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel. Avoid the long ticket lines and then enjoy your visit at your own pace. View Tour Details Rome: Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill Tour Explore the monumental amphitheater in the heart of Rome, showcasing the greatness of ancient Roman engineering. Learn about the gladiator combats, sea battles, wild animal hunts, and other events. View Tour Details Pompeii: Entry Ticket and Guided Archaeologist Tour A group tour through the captivating ruins of Pompeii, which was buried in 79 AD by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. This 2-hour walking tour is led by an expert archaeologist and experienced local guide. View Tour Details Powered by GetYourGuide Interesting Facts Here are 15 interesting facts about Italy. Some may just surprise you! 1. Rome Has a Country Inside It: Vatican City, the smallest country in the world, is entirely surrounded by the city of Rome and serves as the seat of the Catholic Church. 2. Italy Has More UNESCO World Heritage Sites Than Any Other Country: With over 50 cultural and natural sites, Italy leads the world in UNESCO listings — from ancient ruins to Renaissance cities. 3. The Colosseum Could Hold Over 50,000 Spectators: This iconic Roman amphitheatre hosted gladiator battles and public events nearly 2,000 years ago — and you can still walk through it today. 4. Venice Is Built on 118 Islands: The floating city rests on a network of wooden piles and canals instead of roads, making it one of the most unique cities in the world. 5. Italians Invented the Piano: Bartolomeo Cristofori created the first piano in the early 1700s, changing the course of music forever. 6. Italy Has Three Active Volcanoes: Mount Etna, Stromboli, and Vesuvius are all still active, with Vesuvius famously destroying Pompeii in 79 AD. 7. Pasta Comes in Over 350 Shapes: From penne to pappardelle, each region has its own pasta traditions — and rules for which sauce goes with what. 8. Italy Was Not a Unified Country Until 1861: Before unification, Italy was a patchwork of kingdoms, duchies, and republics with distinct languages and customs. 9. The Leaning Tower of Pisa Took Nearly 200 Years to complete. Construction began in 1173, but due to wars and poor engineering, it wasn't finished until the 14th century, with its famous tilt intact. 10. Italian is a Romance Language Rooted in Latin: Modern Italian evolved directly from Latin, and remains one of the closest languages to the ancient Roman tongue. 11. Gelato Isn’t Just Ice Cream: Italian gelato has less air and fat than ice cream, giving it a denser, silkier texture and more intense flavor. 12. Italy has the World’s Oldest University: The University of Bologna was founded in 1088 and is still operating today, making it the oldest in continuous use. 13. Florence was the Birthplace of the Renaissance: Home to artists like Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci, Florence sparked an explosion of creativity and innovation that shaped the modern world. 14. Italian Fashion Reigns Worldwide: Milan is a global fashion capital, and Italian brands like Gucci, Prada, and Versace are household names. 15. Italian Coffee Culture Has Unwritten Rules: No cappuccinos after 11 a.m., quick espresso shots at the bar, and an unspoken pride in the art of coffee making define this ritual. ADVERTISEMENT Blogs & Guides Thoughtful travel stories, practical guides, and real experiences from the road. Best Cities in Europe for Food Lovers on a Budget Eat your way across Europe without breaking the bank. From Lisbon’s fresh seafood to Naples’ pizza and Kraków’s pierogi, discover the best cities for budget-friendly food lovers. EUROPE Is Full-Time Travel Really as Good as It Sounds? Is full-time travel as perfect as it looks? We reveal the freedom, flipsides, and lessons from four years on the road, with tips, tools, and personal stories from our journey. LIFESTYLE Rome in a Day: How We Spent 14 Hours on a Layover from Fiumicino Airport Only have one day in Rome? We explored the Colosseum, Vatican, and more on a 14-hour layover from Fiumicino Airport — with tips, history, and gelato too. ITALY Travel Essentials Travel Information for Italy: Practical Tips & Things to Know Before You Go. Connectivity Cuisine Culture & Customs Currency General Info Health & Safety Language Places to Visit Transport Visa Info Weather Internet, SIMs, Dial Code & Plug Sockets Staying connected in Italy is relatively easy, with widespread 4G/5G coverage in cities and tourist areas, plus free Wi-Fi in many hotels, cafes, and public spaces. Whether you're exploring historic towns or remote villages, mobile service is generally reliable, although mountain and rural areas may have patchy reception. Save 50% on NordPass Premium NordPass is more than an intuitive password manager – it helps both businesses and individuals easily secure and monitor access to their online accounts and sensitive information. GET NORD PASS Special deal: 70% off NordVPN The most advanced VPN with additional features. One of the fastest VPNs globally. Secures up to 10 devices using a single account. Helps you avoid phishing, scams, and malware threats. GET NORDVPN Internet Service Providers (ISPs) in Italy These are the major ISPs offering home and mobile internet throughout Italy: ● TIM : Italy’s largest and oldest telecom provider; excellent nationwide coverage. ● Vodafone Italia : Strong urban network, good 5G in cities, and decent rural performance. ● WindTre : Known for competitive prices and wide availability. ● Iliad : Popular low-cost provider with growing infrastructure and solid coverage in populated areas. ● Fastweb : Offers bundled internet/mobile services and uses WindTre’s mobile network. 💡 Tip: Urban areas tend to have great coverage and fast speeds. In remote villages or mountainous zones, speeds may drop. Consider using an eSIM or physical SIM with a strong provider like TIM or Vodafone. Mobile Phone Options for Tourists You’ll find plenty of mobile options in Italy, from prepaid SIM cards to flexible eSIM plans: ● TIM Tourist SIM : Includes calls, texts, and generous data for around €20–30. ● Vodafone Holiday SIM : Specifically designed for travelers; easy to activate at Vodafone stores. ● WindTre Prepaid Plans : Budget-friendly with good data options for short visits. ● Iliad Welcome Offer : A popular low-cost plan with lots of data, but may need ID registration in-store. 💡 Tip: Most Italian SIMs require a passport ID for purchase. Shops at airports and train stations offer tourist-friendly activation, or use an eSIM to skip the lines. 💡 eSIMs are a convenient option for newer phones. They’re ideal for short stays and can be activated online before or upon arrival. Be sure your phone is eSIM-compatible. If you have an unlocked phone, international eSIM providers are an easy way to stay connected: ● GigSky : Quick setup, reliable data plans, and good for frequent travelers. ● Saily : Flexible and budget-friendly eSIM options, great for short-term trips. ● Holafly : Designed with travelers in mind, offering instant eSIM activation and fair pricing. 🔗 COMPARE & BUY ESIMS Italy Dial Code To call Italy from abroad, use the following format: ● International Dialing Format: +39 followed by the local number. Example: +39 06 6988 1234 (06 = Rome area code) ● Italy Exit Code (to call out from Italy): 00 Example: To call the US from Italy, dial 00 1 305 123 4567 ● Local Calls Within Italy: Always include the area code, even for local numbers. (e.g., 06 6988 1234 for a call in Rome) 💡 Tip: Italian phone numbers keep their area code even when dialing from within the same city. Plug Sockets in Italy Italy uses Type C, F, and L plugs. Most sockets fit Type C (Europlug) or Type L (Italian three-prong). ● Voltage: 230 V ● Frequency: 50 Hz ⚠️ Voltage Safety Tip: If you're coming from North America or other 110V regions, check that your electronics are dual voltage. Use a voltage converter for sensitive devices. 🔌 Adapters Needed: Carry a universal travel adapter that supports Type C and L plugs to cover all sockets. Italian Cuisine Italian cuisine is one of the world’s most beloved, defined by fresh ingredients, regional diversity, and a deep-rooted respect for tradition. From north to south, each part of the country offers its own signature dishes, reflecting local produce, history, and climate. Expect to enjoy slow meals, seasonal menus, and recipes passed down for generations. Staples ● Pasta: A cornerstone of Italian cooking, with varieties like spaghetti, penne, fettuccine, and orecchiette. ● Bread: Freshly baked daily and served with most meals. Try ciabatta, focaccia, and pane toscano. ● Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is a culinary essential, drizzled on bread, salads, and nearly everything else. ● Tomatoes, garlic, and herbs: Found in many classic sauces and dishes across the country. 💡 Tip: In Italy, pasta is a first course (primo), not a side dish. It is usually followed by a meat or fish second course (secondo). Meat Dishes ● Ossobuco alla Milanese: Slow-cooked veal shank in broth and white wine, served with risotto. ● Saltimbocca: Thin veal slices with prosciutto and sage, often found in Rome. ● Porchetta: Roast pork stuffed with herbs and garlic, commonly sold at street food stalls. ● Bistecca alla Fiorentina: A thick, grilled T-bone steak, a Tuscan specialty. 💡 Tip: Each region specializes in specific meats, from wild boar in Umbria to lamb in Sardinia. Other Specialties ● Risotto: Creamy rice dish made with stock and wine; try Risotto alla Milanese (saffron) or seafood risotto in Venice. ● Pizza Napoletana: The original pizza with soft, chewy dough and simple toppings like tomato, mozzarella, and basil. ● Polenta: A cornmeal-based dish served creamy or grilled, popular in northern Italy. ● Arancini: Deep-fried rice balls stuffed with meat, cheese, or vegetables; a Sicilian street food icon. ● Parmigiana di Melanzane: Layers of fried eggplant, tomato sauce, and melted cheese, baked to perfection. Dutch Desserts ● Tiramisu: A layered dessert of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone, and cocoa. ● Cannoli: Tube-shaped pastry shells filled with sweet ricotta, from Sicily. ● Panna Cotta: Creamy vanilla custard often served with berry sauce. ● Gelato: Rich and flavorful Italian-style ice cream, found in every town. ● Panettone & Pandoro: Sweet breads traditionally eaten around Christmas and New Year. 💡 Tip: Italians often end their meal with a digestivo like limoncello, grappa, or amaro. Food Delivery Food delivery is available in most cities and tourist towns. Popular apps include: ● Deliveroo : Widely used for restaurants, including mid-range and gourmet options. ● Just Eat : Common across Italy, especially in northern regions. ● Glovo : Also offers delivery of groceries and essentials. 💡 Tip: Smaller towns may not have food delivery services. Enjoy the local trattorias and pizzerias instead. Italian cuisine is not just about food; it’s about community, culture, and care. Whether dining at a local osteria or sampling street food in a bustling piazza, every bite tells a story. Slow down, savor the flavors, and embrace the passion behind each plate. Italy Culture & Customs Italy’s culture is a captivating mix of art, history, tradition, and a passion for life. From ancient Roman legacies to Renaissance masterpieces, Italy’s influence on global culture is immense. Italians take pride in their regional identities, strong family ties, and deep-rooted customs that influence daily life, festivals, and social norms. Family & Social Interactions Family is the cornerstone of Italian life . Households often include extended relatives, and Sunday lunches are a cherished tradition. Social bonds are strong; friends, neighbors, and acquaintances are treated like family. Personal space is smaller than in some cultures; greetings often include kisses on both cheeks ( especially in the south). 💡 Tip: Don’t be surprised if locals ask personal questions — it’s usually a sign of warmth and interest, not intrusion. Religion & Customs Italy is predominantly Roman Catholic , and religious traditions still shape many aspects of life. Churches are abundant , often central to town life, and still hold regular mass. Major holidays such as Christmas , Easter, and All Saints’ Day are widely celebrated, with processions and feasts. 💡 Tip: Dress modestly when visiting churches — shoulders and knees should be covered, especially at iconic sites like the Vatican. Daily Life & Traditions Mealtimes are structured. Lunch (1–2 pm) is the main meal, while dinner starts around 8 pm. The passeggiata (evening stroll) is a beloved ritual, especially in small towns, where locals walk, chat, and socialize. Small shops and family businesses are still prevalent, so don’t expect everything to run 24/7. 💡 Tip: Plan around riposo (afternoon closures) in smaller towns, when many shops shut between 1 and 4 pm. Etiquette Politeness and presentation matter . Say “Buongiorno” (good morning) or “Buonasera” (good evening) when entering shops or restaurants. Dress well; even casual attire is usually stylish and neat. Tipping is appreciated , but modest rounding up or adding 5–10% is sufficient. Don’t ask for ketchup on pasta or cappuccino after lunch; these are seen as cultural faux pas. 💡 Tip: When toasting, always make eye contact and say, “Salute!” Celebrations ● Carnevale (February): Famous for masks, costumes, and parades, especially in Venice. ● Ferragosto (August 15): A national summer holiday rooted in Roman tradition. Many Italians go on vacation. ● Palio di Siena (July/August): A thrilling horse race around Siena’s historic square. ● Festa della Repubblica (June 2): Italy’s national day, marked by military parades and civic ceremonies. ● Christmas Markets (December): Northern Italy shines with festive lights, food, and artisan crafts. ● Local Saint Festivals: Every town or village honors its patron saint with music, food, and fireworks. 💡 Tip: If you're visiting during Ferragosto, book transport and accommodation in advance as the country nearly shuts down. Italian culture is expressive, warm, and steeped in history. Whether you're joining a local festival, enjoying a quiet passeggiata, or navigating social nuances, embracing Italian customs will add depth and delight to your journey. Currency in Italy Italy uses the euro (EUR) as its official currency. While digital payments are widely accepted, cash remains important, especially in small towns, family-run establishments, and open-air markets. It's a good idea to keep a mix of payment options handy as you travel. Get a Fee Free Transfer of 800 CAD Save when you send, receive, and spend worldwide. Send 50+ currencies fast, free from hidden fees and exchange rate markups. SEND MONEY Spend $20 in 30 days & get $20 cash back Open a Canadian KOHO Bank account as a new user using our code: LBJDEPD4 SIGN UP Denominations The euro is available in both coins and banknotes. ● Coins: €0.01, €0.02, €0.05, €0.10, €0.20, €0.50, €1, €2 ● Banknotes: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, €500 (though larger notes may be refused in shops) 💡 Tip: Carry small change for public toilets, tips, and street vendors — many won’t accept cards or large notes. 🔗 Convert Your Currency Here Exchanging Currency Currency exchange is available at airports , train stations, banks, and exchange offices (cambio). Exchange rates at airports tend to be less favorable than in the city. ATMs (called bancomats) often offer better rates than physical exchange offices. 💡 Tip: Avoid exchanging money at kiosks advertising “no commission” — they often have hidden fees in the rate. Payment Options for Foreigners ● Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted in cities, restaurants, hotels, and shops. ● Contactless payment is common , especially in larger cities. ● American Express is less accepted; carry a Visa or Mastercard as backup. ● Some small businesses may apply a surcharge for card payments under €10. 💡 Tip: Always choose to be charged in euros, not your home currency, to avoid poor conversion rates (this is called Dynamic Currency Conversion, and it’s best declined). Additional Information for Tourists ● ATMs are widespread but may run out of cash during holidays or weekends in rural areas. ● Notify your bank before travelling to avoid issues with card blocks due to suspicious activity. ● Prepaid travel cards are available but may have higher fees than standard debit cards. ● Digital wallets like Samsung Pay, Apple Pay, and Google Pay are accepted in major cities but not everywhere. 💡 Tip: When taking taxis, confirm in advance whether card payment is accepted — some drivers prefer cash, even in cities. Reputable Banks in Italy for Exchanging Currency or Using ATMs ● UniCredit: One of Italy’s largest banks, offering widespread ATMs and strong international card support. ● Intesa Sanpaolo: Well-established with extensive national coverage and convenient urban branches. ● Banca Nazionale del Lavoro (BNL): Offers reliable ATM access and multilingual interfaces, especially in larger cities. ● Banco BPM: A prominent regional bank with good availability in northern and central Italy. ● Poste Italiane: Postal bank with ATMs and financial services available in post offices throughout Italy. 💡 Tip: Use ATMs attached to banks during business hours in case your card is retained — it’s easier to retrieve it than from a standalone machine. Information About Italy POPULATION Italy is home to approximately 59 million people, making it one of the most populous countries in Europe. CURRENCY Euro (EUR / €). Card payments are widely accepted, but cash is still preferred in small towns and markets. CAPITAL Rome, population 2.8 million. Known as the "Eternal City," it blends ancient ruins, Renaissance architecture, and modern Italian life. SPEED / DISTANCES Urban areas: 50 km/h Main roads: 90 km/h Highways: 130 km/h Speed cameras are common. Fines are issued to foreign drivers by email. TIME ZONES Central European Time (CET), UTC+1. Daylight saving time (late March to late October) shifts to Central European Summer Time (CEST, UTC+2). DRIVING Right-hand side. Roads are generally well-maintained, but city driving can be chaotic. Parking rules are strict and well-enforced. ALCOHOL AGE The legal age for purchasing and consuming alcohol is 18. ID checks are common in stores and clubs. SMOKING AGE The legal age to purchase tobacco is 18. Smoking is banned in indoor public spaces, transport, and near schools or hospitals. Health & Safety in Italy Italy is a generally safe destination with a well-regarded healthcare system and relatively low crime rates. Tourists rarely encounter major health concerns, though petty theft can occur in crowded places. With a bit of preparation and awareness, you can enjoy your travels worry-free. Global response, rescue & evacuation services Emergency medical evacuation, extraction, and crisis response worldwide. Get expert support in remote, high-risk, or hard-to-reach destinations. GET RESCUE COVERAGE Health insurance for nomads & travelers Global medical & travel coverage for when you get sick or injured abroad. Get essential or full health coverage. Buy anytime, anywhere. LET'S GET YOU INSURED Medical Care Italy has a public healthcare system (Servizio Sanitario Nazionale - SSN) that provides quality care. Emergency treatment is available at public hospitals regardless of your nationality. English-speaking doctors and clinics are available in major cities like Rome, Milan, and Florence. Pharmacies (farmacia) are well-stocked and recognizable by a green cross symbol. 💡 Tip: Carry your EHIC/GHIC card if you're from the EU/UK. Non-EU tourists should consider travel insurance with medical coverage. General Health ● Tap water is safe to drink across the country. ● No specific vaccinations are required for entry. ● Italy’s climate ranges from Alpine cold to Mediterranean heat — stay hydrated and dress appropriately for the region. ● Mosquitoes can be present in coastal and rural areas in summer, especially near wetlands. 💡 Tip: Pharmacies are the go-to place for over-the-counter medicine — most doctors don’t provide direct access to these. Safety & Security Italy is a safe country , but pickpocketing and scams are common in tourist hotspots like Rome, Naples, and Venice. Violent crime is rare , but always keep valuables secured and avoid deserted areas late at night. Use caution at major train stations and public transport, where theft is more frequent. Avoid engaging with people offering “free gifts” or unsolicited help near ATMs and landmarks. 💡 Tip: Use a cross-body bag, never hang your purse on chair backs, and keep your phone out of your back pocket in public. Safety Resources ● 112 is the general emergency number across Italy (handles police, fire, and ambulance). ● Polizia di Stato (State Police): handles criminal matters. ● Carabinieri: a military police force often stationed in rural areas and smaller towns. ● Tourist Police units operate in major cities to assist visitors with issues like lost documents or theft. 💡 Tip: Download the “112 Where ARE U ” app for real-time emergency contact in English — especially useful if you don’t speak Italian. Emergency Numbers ● 112: General emergency line (works EU-wide) ● 118: Medical emergency ● 113: Police ● 115: Fire brigade ● 116: Roadside assistance (ACI) Additional Tips ● Keep a digital and printed copy of your passport and travel insurance details. ● Most cities have CCTV in tourist areas — useful in case of incidents. ● Always validate train tickets before boarding to avoid fines. ● If you’re driving , be aware of ZTL zones (limited traffic areas) — fines are issued for unauthorized entry. 💡 Tip: Consider SafetyWing or similar travel insurance to cover healthcare, cancellations, and theft, especially for longer stays. Language in Italy Italy’s language is as expressive and vibrant as its culture. While standard Italian unites the country, a rich patchwork of regional dialects, co-official languages, and historical roots creates a linguistic landscape that’s both fascinating and complex. Whether you're navigating ancient cities or rural villages, language is a key part of the Italian experience. Official Language The official language of Italy is Italian, spoken by the vast majority of the population. It is used in government, education, media, and daily life throughout the country. Dominant Spoken Language Standard Italian , based on the Tuscan dialect, is widely spoken and understood. Most signage , transport announcements, and official information are in Italian. 💡 Tip: Learning a few basic Italian phrases — like “grazie” (thank you) or “per favore” (please) — goes a long way with locals. Regional Variations Italy is home to a rich tapestry of regional dialects and languages, some of which differ significantly from standard Italian: ● Neapolitan, Sicilian, Venetian, and Milanese are widely spoken locally. ● In areas like South Tyrol , German is co-official. ● French is spoken in Aosta Valley , and Slovene in parts of Friuli Venezia Giulia. 💡 Tip: While most Italians understand standard Italian, in rural areas or among older generations, local dialects may be preferred. History of the Italian Language Modern Italian evolved from Latin , particularly the Tuscan dialect popularized by Dante, Petrarch, and Boccaccio. After unification in the 19th century , Italian was adopted as the national language to bring cohesion to a country previously divided by region and dialect. Stability for Future Generations Italian is firmly entrenched in education and media , and efforts are also being made to preserve regional dialects through cultural programs. English is increasingly taught in schools, especially in larger cities. 💡 Tip: In tourist areas, younger Italians often speak English, but don’t expect fluency everywhere, especially in the countryside. Places to Visit in Italy Italy is packed with iconic destinations and hidden gems, from ancient ruins to romantic canals, alpine lakes to coastal villages. Each region has a distinct flavor, offering history, art, food, and natural beauty in abundance. Here are 8 of the most memorable stops around the country. ⪢ Rome : The Eternal City is a living museum of Roman ruins, Renaissance art, and religious history. Don’t miss the Colosseum, Vatican City, and Trevi Fountain. Great for history lovers and city explorers. 💡 Tip: Pre-book skip-the-line tickets for the Vatican Museums and Colosseum to save hours of waiting. ⪢ Venice : A floating city of canals, bridges, and Baroque architecture, Venice is one of a kind. Explore St. Mark’s Basilica, the Grand Canal, and Murano’s glass workshops. Ideal for romantic getaways or slow, scenic travel. 💡 Tip: Avoid peak midday crowds by exploring early morning or late evening. ⪢ Florence (Tuscany) : The birthplace of the Renaissance, home to Michelangelo’s David and Botticelli’s masterpieces. Visit the Uffizi Gallery, Duomo, and Ponte Vecchio. Perfect for art, architecture, and Tuscan cuisine. 💡 Tip: Climb Brunelleschi’s Dome for panoramic views over Florence. ⪢ Cinque Terre : Five colorful cliffside villages connected by scenic hiking trails and trains. Each village, Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, offers postcard views. Best for coastal walks, swimming, and fresh seafood. 💡 Tip: Wear sturdy shoes if walking the trails; some paths can be steep or uneven. Find the Best Deals on Top Hotels in Italy ⪢ Amalfi Coast : Dramatic cliffs, winding roads, and upscale seaside towns like Positano and Ravello. Combines natural beauty with luxurious vibes. Great for honeymoons and slow travel. 💡 Tip: Parking is limited, so consider using ferries or buses between towns. ⪢ Milan : Italy’s fashion capital also offers Gothic architecture and modern design. See the Duomo, shop the Galleria, or admire Da Vinci’s Last Supper. A mix of style, commerce, and culture. 💡 Tip: Book Last Supper tickets weeks in advance. Access is extremely limited. ⪢ Naples & Pompeii : Naples is gritty and historic and the birthplace of pizza, with Pompeii’s ruins just an hour away. Visit the Archaeological Museum, try a pizza napoletana, and explore Vesuvius. Ideal for history buffs and foodies. 💡 Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for Pompeii as it’s vast and uneven. ⪢ Lake Como : A picturesque lake ringed by mountains and charming towns like Bellagio and Varenna. Luxury villas, boat rides, and tranquil views abound. Favored by celebrities and ideal for relaxed, romantic escapes. 💡 Tip: Ferries are the best way to explore the towns. Opt for a day pass to hop on and off. Transportation in Italy Italy has a well-developed and affordable transport system that connects cities, towns, and rural areas. Whether you’re zipping through the country on a high-speed train or cruising coastal roads in a rental car, there are plenty of ways to explore. Here’s a guide to help you choose the best mode of transport for your Italian adventure. Sign up and save 30% off your first private car hire Turo is the world’s largest car sharing marketplace, from a community of trusted hosts across the US, UK, Canada, Australia & France. GO TO TURO SAVE $30 CAD when you spend $230 Book your first trip with Expedia as a NEW USER, be it for a hotel, car rental or flight and get a $30 discount, no strings attached! BOOK NOW Air Travel Italy is served by major international airports such as Rome Fiumicino (FCO), Milan Malpensa (MXP), and Venice Marco Polo (VCE), along with smaller regional airports like Pisa (PSA) and Bari (BRI). Budget carriers like Ryanair and easyJet operate frequent domestic and international flights. 💡 Tip: For internal travel, check budget airlines versus trains. Flying may be cheaper for long distances but less scenic. Buses Long-distance buses (FlixBus , Itabus ) offer cheap alternatives to trains. Local buses are common in towns and rural areas. Great for reaching places not well-served by train. Timetables can vary on weekends or holidays. 💡 Tip: For regional travel, apps like Omio or Rome2Rio can compare trains vs. buses at a glance. Private Taxis Taxis in Italy are regulated and typically use meters. Only use licensed white taxis with official markings. Fares are higher at night, on holidays, or for luggage. 💡 Tip: Taxis can’t always be hailed on the street. Look for a taxi rank or call ahead. Apps like FreeNow and appTaxi are helpful in cities. Motorbikes & Scooters A fun way to explore sunny coastlines or Tuscan villages. Rentals are available in major cities and tourist towns. Helmets are mandatory, and traffic can be chaotic in cities. 💡 Tip: Stick to quieter towns or the countryside if you're not confident riding in busy Italian traffic. Trains Trains are a top choice for getting around Italy efficiently and comfortably. High-speed trains (Frecciarossa , Italo ) connect major cities like Rome, Milan, Florence, and Venice. Regional trains are slower but connect smaller towns and rural areas. 💡 Tip: Book high-speed train tickets early online for discounts. Regional train tickets must be validated at machines before boarding. Shared Taxis Shared rides and minivans are common at airports and popular routes between cities. Often cheaper than regular taxis, especially for groups. May operate on a fixed schedule or require booking. 💡 Tip: Consider booking a shuttle for transfers to/from smaller airports where trains aren’t nearby. Cruises & Ferries Italy’s coastline and islands are well connected by ferries. Ferries link cities like Naples to Capri or Sicily and Genoa to Sardinia. Cruise ships dock in Venice (Marghera), Civitavecchia (for Rome), and Livorno (for Florence). 💡 Tip: Book ahead in summer. Ferry routes fill fast. For day trips, double-check return times. Car Rentals Renting a car is ideal for exploring the countryside, vineyards, and small towns. Most rentals are manual; automatic cars are available but cost more. Roads are well-maintained, but city driving can be stressful. 💡 Tip: Watch out for ZTL zones (limited traffic areas) in cities — fines for unauthorized entry are enforced by cameras. Tips for Driving in Italy ● Drive on the right-hand side of the road. ● Seat belts are mandatory , and mobile phone use is prohibited while driving. ● Toll roads (Autostrade) are common. Carry cash or use contactless payment. 💡 Tip: Check if your accommodation includes free parking. City parking is often limited and expensive. Tips for Using Public Transport in Italy ● Tickets are usually sold at tabacchi shops, kiosks, or machines. ● Validate your bus/train tickets before boarding unless they’re e-tickets. ● Transit strikes happen occasionally — have a backup plan if needed. 💡 Tip: Download city-specific transit apps or Google Maps for accurate route planning and real-time updates. Visa Requirements for Italy Italy is part of the Schengen Area, meaning many travelers can enter visa-free for short stays. However, depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to visit. Understanding your options and requirements ahead of time ensures a smooth entry into la bella Italia. Visa Options There are three main categories of travelers when it comes to entering Italy: ● Visa-exempt travelers (e.g., from the EU, U.S., UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan) can stay for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. ● Short-stay Schengen visa (Type C) for tourism, business, or family visits (max 90 days). ● Long-stay visa (Type D) for work, study, or residence beyond 90 days. 💡 Tip: Even if visa-free, you must still meet entry requirements like passport validity, travel insurance, and proof of onward travel. Types of Visa ● Tourist Visa (Type C): For sightseeing, leisure, or short personal trips. ● Business Visa: For meetings, conferences, or short-term professional engagements. ● Student Visa (Type D): For long-term study programs. ● Work Visa: Requires employer sponsorship and additional documentation. ● Family Visa: To join relatives already residing legally in Italy. ● Digital Nomad Visa: Not yet available for Italy, but under discussion. 💡 Tip: For digital nomads, consider using your 90-day visa-free period and traveling onward within the Schengen zone before returning. General Visa Application Requirements ● Completed visa application form ● Passport valid for at least 3 months beyond your intended stay ● Passport-sized photos (2) ● Proof of travel (flight reservations) ● Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or host invitation) ● Proof of financial means (bank statements, income proof) ● Travel medical insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage) ● Visa fee payment 💡 Tip: Submit your application 3–6 weeks in advance at the Italian consulate or embassy in your home country. Additional Things to Keep in Mind ● Italy is part of the Schengen zone , so your days in Italy count toward the total 90 days allowed in Schengen. ● ETIAS (Electronic Travel Information and Authorization System) is expected to launch in mid-2025. ● Travelers from visa-exempt countries will need to apply for authorization before entering. ● Border officials may still request documentation even if you’re visa-exempt. 💡 Tip: Use the Schengen Visa Calculator to track your days and avoid overstaying. Please note that these are general requirements, and specific documentation and criteria may vary depending on your circumstances and the visa category you are applying for. This information is also subject to change at any time and has been obtained through research. We always recommend you visit the official website of the Italy Immigration for the most up-to-date and detailed information regarding visa requirements. Italian Weather & Climate Italy’s climate ranges from alpine in the north to Mediterranean in the south, offering a variety of experiences year-round. Whether you’re dreaming of snow-covered Alps or sunbathing on the Amalfi Coast, Italy delivers a seasonal diversity that caters to every kind of traveler. Seasons ⪢ Spring (March–May) Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes make spring an ideal time to visit. Expect averages between 13°C and 20°C (55°F and 68°F). 💡 Tip: Pack light layers and comfortable walking shoes, as it's one of the best seasons for sightseeing without the summer crowds. ⪢ Summer (June–August) Hot and dry, especially in central and southern Italy. Temperatures often exceed 30°C (86°F), and popular destinations can be crowded. 💡 Tip: Avoid peak midday heat by planning indoor activities; book accommodation with air conditioning in advance. ⪢ Autumn (September–November) Pleasantly cool with fewer tourists. Northern Italy sees early rainfall, while the south remains warm through October. 💡 Tip: A great time for wine tasting and cultural festivals. Bring waterproof layers for the occasional downpour. ⪢ Winter (December–February) Cold in the north with snowfall in the Alps; mild and wet in the south. Cities like Rome and Florence can be chilly but manageable. 💡 Tip: Ideal for budget travel and winter sports. Consider visiting Christmas markets or skiing in the Dolomites. Regional Variations ● North Italy (e.g., Milan, Turin, Venice): Cold winters, often below 0°C (32°F); hot, humid summers. Snowfall is common in mountain regions. ● Central Italy (e.g., Rome, Florence): Moderate year-round; warm summers and cool winters. Rain is common in autumn. ● Southern Italy & Islands (e.g. Naples, Sicily, Sardinia): Mediterranean climate: hot, dry summers and mild winters. Excellent for off-season travel. 💡 Tip: If visiting rural areas or the countryside, expect a bit more snow in winter and sunnier days in summer. Annual Rainfall ● Rainfall is heaviest in autumn and early winter , especially in the north. ● Coastal areas like Cinque Terre or Amalfi can be prone to sudden showers and landslides in late autumn. Humidity Humidity levels in Italy vary significantly by region and season. In the north , especially around cities like Milan and Venice, humidity can spike during the summer months, making the heat feel more intense and sticky. The Po Valley region is particularly known for its muggy summers. In central and southern Italy , coastal cities such as Naples or Palermo also experience high humidity from June to September, although sea breezes can offer relief. Spring and autumn tend to be much more comfortable. 💡 Tip: Stay hydrated and wear light, breathable fabrics. Many historical buildings don’t have climate control, so plan breaks in shaded or air-conditioned spaces. 💡 Tip: If you're sensitive to heat and humidity, avoid inland cities in mid-summer and consider traveling in May or September instead. Best Time to Visit The best time to visit Italy depends on your interests, but most travelers agree that spring (April to June ) and autumn (September to early October ) offer the ideal balance of weather, crowds, and cultural events. ● Spring brings colorful landscapes , mild temperatures, and fewer tourists, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. ● Autumn offers a similar feel with added perks like harvest festivals, truffle season, and beautiful fall colors in the countryside. ⪢ Things to Consider ● May and September are sweet spots, warm but not too hot, with most attractions open and crowds still manageable. ● If you're heading to coastal areas like the Amalfi Coast or Cinque Terre, late spring or early autumn gives you good beach weather without peak-season pricing. ● For ski trips in the Dolomites or Alps , January to early March delivers the best snow conditions. ● Avoid August if possible; many locals take vacations, prices peak, and cities can be uncomfortably hot. Be Prepared ● Pack layers: Italy’s weather can shift between regions and altitudes. Bring a light jacket even in spring or summer if heading to the mountains. ● Beat the heat: Cities like Rome, Florence, and Milan can become stifling in July and August. Plan museum visits or sightseeing early in the morning or late afternoon. ● Rain gear is a must: Sudden showers are common in spring and autumn, especially in northern and coastal regions. A compact umbrella or a lightweight waterproof is smart to carry. ● Book accommodation with A/C: Especially important in the summer months. Many older buildings lack modern cooling systems. ● Coastal areas can get crowded: Consider shoulder seasons (May–June or September) for better weather and fewer tourists. BACK TO TOP (this section) Travel Resources We rely on a set of trusted tools for transport, connectivity, insurance, and bookings while traveling full-time and living location-independent. TOURS Discover Experiences Worth Doing We book guided tours, activities, and local experiences through trusted platforms that make exploring easier and more rewarding. Explore Tours & Experiences HOTELS Find the Right Place to Stay From short stays to longer slow-travel bases, these platforms help us find accommodation that fits our style, budget, and location needs. Book Top Hotels TRANSPORT Book Transport With Confidence Compare trains, buses, ferries, and flights in one place. We use these tools to plan routes, check prices, and get around smoothly. Find Transport Options INSURANCE Protect Your Journey Unexpected things happen on the road. We rely on flexible travel insurance that covers health, delays, and long-term travel realities. Get Travel Insurance CONNECTIVITY Stay Connected Wherever You Go Reliable internet matters when you travel full-time. These eSIM and connectivity tools keep us online without local SIM hassles. Stay Connected Abroad MONEY & TOOLS Manage Money on the Road From spending abroad to saving on fees, these tools help us manage finances securely while traveling across countries. Browse Money Tools Over our many years of full-time travel, we've booked countless accommodations, flights, and activities while also navigating the world of earning online. These are the tools we rely on to plan and book our adventures, and now, you can too! Featured Offer More Travel Resources GigSky eSIM: World Mobile Data International eSIM Data Plans. Local Prices. No Roaming. Fastest Networks. Available in over 200 countries, with GigSky you’ll have cellular data the moment you arrive. Save 10% on your first order with code CLOSERLIVES10 GET YOUR ESIM Save Big on Your Next Adventure 🌍 Save, Earn, and Explore with Closer Lives : Carefully curated tools and deals to help you travel smarter, earn on the go, and live more freely... wherever life takes you. ✈️ Find Cheaper Flights & Transport : Compare routes, unlock deals, and book flights, trains, and buses without the stress. 🏨 Accommodation for Every Travel Style : From budget hostels to luxury stays, find great prices, flexible bookings, and free cancellations. 🎟️ Book Tours, Tickets & Experiences with Ease : Skip queues, plan ahead, and secure unforgettable experiences wherever you’re heading. 🏡 Rent or List with Confidence : Access millions of vacation rentals worldwide. Perfect for both travellers and property owners. 🗺️ Plan Smarter with Trusted Reviews & Comparisons : Read real reviews, compare prices, and book with confidence using the world’s leading travel platforms. 🩺 Insurance Built for Nomads & Long-Term Travel : Flexible global coverage designed for extended trips, remote work, and life on the move. 💻 Earn Online While You Travel : Teach, create, sell, or scale. Explore tools for online teaching, drop-shipping, shopping, and international banking. Please note that at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission from purchases made through these links. Read our Affiliate Policy . All Resources & Offers Frequently Asked Questions Common questions we get asked about Italy. Do I need a visa to visit Italy? Italy is part of the Schengen Area. Travelers from the EU, UK, US, Canada, Australia, and many other countries can enter visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Longer stays require a visa. 👉 See more in our Visa Requirements section(https://www.closerlives.com/travel-hub/destinations/europe/italy-country-guide#travel-essentials). What is the best time of year to travel to Italy? Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) are the best times, with pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summers are hot and busy, especially in cities like Rome and Venice, while winter is great for skiing in the Alps. 👉 See more in our Weather & Climate section(https://www.closerlives.com/travel-hub/destinations/europe/italy-country-guide#travel-essentials). Is Italy safe for tourists? Italy is safe overall, but petty theft like pickpocketing is common in crowded areas, particularly in Rome, Florence, Milan, and on public transport. Stay alert in busy spots and train stations. 👉 See more in our Health & Safety section(https://www.closerlives.com/travel-hub/destinations/europe/italy-country-guide#travel-essentials). What currency is used in Italy, and how can I pay? Italy uses the euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, though some small shops and trattorias may prefer cash. ATMs are readily available throughout the country. 👉 See more in our Currency section(https://www.closerlives.com/travel-hub/destinations/europe/italy-country-guide#travel-essentials). How can I stay connected in Italy (Wi-Fi, SIM, eSIM)? Wi-Fi is available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants, though it may be slower outside major cities. Leading providers include TIM, Vodafone, and WindTre. eSIMs are a convenient option for travelers who need instant connectivity. 👉 See more in our Connectivity section(https://www.closerlives.com/travel-hub/destinations/europe/italy-country-guide#travel-essentials). What transport options are available for getting around Italy? High-speed trains connect major cities like Rome, Florence, Milan, and Venice. Regional trains and buses cover towns and villages. In cities, metros, buses, and trams are efficient. Renting a car is ideal for exploring the countryside. 👉 See more in our Transport section(https://www.closerlives.com/travel-hub/destinations/europe/italy-country-guide#travel-essentials). What are some must-visit places in Italy? Italy’s highlights include Rome’s Colosseum and Vatican City, Venice’s canals, Florence’s art treasures, Milan’s fashion district, the Amalfi Coast, Cinque Terre, and Tuscany’s vineyards. 👉 See more in our Places to Visit section(https://www.closerlives.com/travel-hub/destinations/europe/italy-country-guide#travel-essentials). What cultural customs should I know before visiting Italy? Italians value greetings, so say “Buongiorno” when entering shops or cafes. Dress modestly in churches, and note that many shops close in the afternoon for riposo (rest). Tipping is modest but rounding up the bill is appreciated. 👉 See more in our Culture & Customs section(https://www.closerlives.com/travel-hub/destinations/europe/italy-country-guide#travel-essentials). Can I drink tap water in Italy? Yes, tap water is safe to drink across Italy, and many cities have public drinking fountains (nasoni) where you can refill bottles. In some rural areas, bottled water is preferred, but generally tap water is safe. 👉 See more in our Health & Safety section(https://www.closerlives.com/travel-hub/destinations/europe/italy-country-guide#travel-essentials). What food and drinks should I try in Italy? Italy is famous for pizza, pasta, gelato, and espresso, but each region has its specialties; risotto in the north, seafood along the coast, and wines throughout the country. Aperitivo culture is also a must-try. 👉 See more in our Cuisine section(https://www.closerlives.com/travel-hub/destinations/europe/italy-country-guide#travel-essentials). AFFILIATE PROMOTION YouTube Discover the world with us. Join the Jenn & Leon YouTube channel. ITALY Exploring the beautiful country of ITALY! Sign in ITALY Exploring the beautiful country of ITALY! Play Video Share Whole Channel This Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied Now Playing What We Wish We Knew Before Venice: Real Tips from a 3-Day Stay 15:29 Play Video Now Playing Italy travel Vlog: How to see ROME in a DAY from the AIRPORT | EVERYTHING you need to know 12:06 Play Video As entrepreneurs and full-time slow travelers, our goal is to see as much of this beautiful planet as we can! By subscribing to our channel, you will get notified of our latest videos, so you will never miss out! Country Guides Essential travel tips, practical planning, and real experiences from the road. Check out other comprehensive Country Guides with all you need to know before you go, including our latest posts, must-see places, fascinating facts, and key information about health & safety, transport, local customs, cuisine, connectivity, visa information, useful links, and much more! LOAD MORE GUIDES Our Engagement Story Discover Aphrodite’s Rock, the legendary birthplace of the goddess of love, and our engagement spot! Find out more about our story, how it all happened, and all you need to know about visiting this incredible location (and also Leon's ancestral homeland). Read Our Story Jenn & Leon at Closer Lives Closer Lives was created to bring people, places, and stories closer together. Through travel, culture, history, poetry, and personal experience, we share the moments that shape how we see the world, and ourselves. If you enjoy thoughtful travel guides, real experiences, and creative storytelling, you’re in the right place. You can also explore our Travel & Lifestyle Emporium , featuring inspirational travel pieces designed by us and shipped worldwide. Join Our Community

Work with us on collaborations, partnerships, sponsored content, reviews, and creative projects built on real travel and lifestyle experience. Work With Us at Closer Lives At Closer Lives, we explore more than maps - we journey through mindsets At Closer Lives, we’ve built a platform around full-time travel, alternative living, and authentic storytelling. Through our blogs, videos, and lifestyle products, we connect with an engaged global community of readers and viewers who value mindful exploration and creative freedom. If you’re looking to reach a thoughtful, travel-minded audience through story-driven content that feels genuine, you’re in the right place. Mini Media Kit & Audience Snapshot A quick look at who we reach, what we create, and how your brand can connect through authentic, story-driven content. 94k Site monthly views 26k Blog monthly views 15 Domain Rating (DR) 15k + YouTube Subs 25k + Instagram followers Collaboration Types 🎬Dedicated YouTube Video: 500 USD minimum for a full 5- to 8-minute feature 🎞️ Integrated YouTube Segment: 300 USD for a 45- to 90-second brand inclusion ⭐ Sponsored Reviews: 250 USD for a permanent SEO article inc. images ✍️ Guest Post (You Provide): 100 USD with editorial review 📝 Guest Post (We Write): 200 USD, including SEO research and drafting 🔗 Link Insertion: 70 USD for a contextual 12-month do-follow placement 📣 Social Add-On: 50 USD per platform for Instagram, Facebook or Pinterest Write for Us Media & Partnerships Email Us For full policies and placement details, visit our Media & Partnerships page. Ways to Collaborate with Us We offer flexible, transparent partnerships — from guest posts and reviews to creative campaigns — crafted to align with your goals and our audience. Guest Post: Client Provided Price: $100 USD Includes: Editorial review, publication on the blog, and promotion. Content Scope: Unlimited word count, up to 10 high-resolution images provided by the client. Outbound Links: Maximum of 2 relevant, non-promotional links per article. Mandatory: Must be submitted and paid for via our official submission form. Guest Post: We Write Price: $200 USD Includes: Full-service content creation. Content Scope: Includes topic ideation, dedicated SEO research, professional drafting, and editorial review. Outbound Links: A maximum of 2 relevant, non-promotional links embedded by our team. Benefit: Guarantees alignment with our quality standards and maximizes publication speed. Link Insertion: (Existing Post) Price: $70 USD Service: We will contextually insert your link into an already published article that is relevant to your niche. Duration: The link insertion fee covers the administrative and editorial costs of adding and maintaining the link for a fixed 12-month period. Renewal fees apply after this duration. Policy Note: To maintain compliance with Google's guidelines, all inserted links are strictly reviewed for relevance and are designated as rel="sponsored" (policy-compliant). Requirement: Insertion is only possible if the link is contextually relevant to the existing article and the anchor text is approved by our editorial team. Sponsored Review Content: Honest, story-driven review of your product, service, or destination. Optimization: Search-optimized article, including high-quality images and screenshots (where applicable). Placement: Permanent blog placement with a policy-compliant, sponsored link (tagged with rel="sponsored"). Bonus: Includes promotion on one social platform of your choice. Prices are in United States Dollars, paid upfront via BACS, PayPal, Debit/Credit Card or Wise. Write for Closer Lives Share your voice, stories, and insights with our global community of travelers and creators. We welcome authentic, experience-led guest contributions. Are you passionate about travel writing and storytelling? Learn more about our guest blogging process, guidelines, and how to submit your proposal. We look forward to collaborating with talented writers like you! Write for Us Writer Guidelines Submission Form Our Reach at a Glance From 94K+ monthly site visits to over 15K YouTube subscribers and 2M+ views, our community continues to grow across platforms and continents. 94k Monthly site visits 15 Domain Rating (DR) 26k Blog monthly views 1k Email subscribers 15k + YouTube Subs - 2M views 250 + Blog posts 25k + Instagram followers 250 + Vlogs Trusted Partnerships & Collaborations We’ve worked with leading travel brands, ethical companies, and hospitality partners who share our commitment to meaningful storytelling. View Mini Media Kit The Story Behind Closer Lives From teaching online to exploring 40+ countries, our journey has evolved into a creative platform blending travel, storytelling, and connection. When we set off to travel full-time, teaching English funded our early adventures — but storytelling became the compass. From that spark, Closer Lives was born: a travel blog, YouTube channel, and creative hub built from our shared experiences across 40+ countries. We’ve since grown to 300K+ article views and 2M+ video views, collaborating with inspiring partners while staying true to authenticity and usefulness for our audience. Today, we continue to explore, write, film, and create — always with a focus on meaningful connections and mindful travel. Before We Collaborate A few practical notes to keep our collaborations transparent, aligned, and rewarding for both sides. Content must align with our values: travel, lifestyle, digital nomadism, ethical brands. We retain editorial control and may decline non-relevant submissions. Payments: upfront via BACS, Credit / Debit Card, PayPal or Wise. Prices in USD and subject to change. For full placement details, see our Media & Partnerships page. Common Questions About Collaborations A few quick answers to help you plan and get the most from your partnership with Closer Lives. How quickly do you respond to collaboration requests? We usually respond within 48 hours (business days). For time-sensitive campaigns, please mention “Urgent” in your subject line. Can you create custom packages or ongoing collaborations? Yes! We often tailor packages for repeat partners or multi-post campaigns. Just mention your goals when reaching out. Do you accept product exchanges or gifted stays? Occasionally — if the brand, destination, or product aligns perfectly with our travel niche and storytelling goals. All gifted collaborations must still follow disclosure guidelines. Will my collaboration include social media promotion? Social posts are optional add-ons for +$50 USD per platform. We’ll happily advise which platforms best fit your campaign. How long do published collaborations stay live? Posts and reviews remain live permanently unless they become outdated or the brand discontinues operations. We guarantee active links for at least 12 months. Can I request an update to a past collaboration post? Yes. Minor updates (like links or logos) can be made within the first 12 months at no extra cost. Have more questions? See our Collaboration FAQs → Ready to partner up? Send us your brief — we’ll confirm fit, outline deliverables, and share next steps. Media & Partnerships For sponsored content, link insertions, brand campaigns, and paid partnerships with Closer Lives. Share the essentials below, and we’ll reply by email within 48 hours. First name(Required) Last name(Required) Company/Agency (Required) Email(Required) We’ll respond by email. Continue to Partnership Details → We do not accept link swaps, PBN requests, or domain-list outreach. Automated mass emails may be silently discarded. Interested in other ways to work together? Check out our other resources to learn more, or reach out to us via email. Work With Us Write for Us Writer Guidelines Email Us

How we recovered disabled Instagram accounts. Real steps, timelines, mistakes to avoid, and honest outcomes. Instagram Account Disabled Recovery – How to Fix & Appeal in 2026 Hi, it's Leon here 👋 I know how crushing it feels to suddenly find your Instagram account disabled. When it happened to me, I felt a mix of shock, anger, and helplessness. For many of us, Instagram isn’t just an app — it’s our creative outlet, our community, even our livelihood. Losing access can feel like losing a part of your identity. If you’re here, you’re probably staring at a login screen telling you your account has been disabled. I’ve been there, and I want to help you through it. While Instagram has removed some of the older recovery options, there are still paths back in. In this guide, I’ll share the updated recovery process for 2025, practical steps you can try right now, and tips to prevent this nightmare from happening again. FAQs Follower / Unfollower Tracking Back to Social Media Hub ADVERTISEMENT Why Instagram Accounts Get Disabled Back up your account details to protect against restrictions, hacks, or sudden loss. A simple habit can save your content and connections. 💡 Many accounts are disabled by mistake. If you know you haven’t violated rules, stay firm in your belief when trying recovery routes. ● Policy Violations: Content flagged for hate speech, nudity, harassment, or misinformation. ● System Mistakes: Automated AI systems wrongly flag harmless content. ● Suspicious Login Activity: Logging in from new countries, devices, or using public Wi-Fi without protection. ● Copyright Reports: Using media without rights can trigger an immediate ban. ● Fake or Impersonation Claims: Sometimes triggered by malicious reports. First Steps After Your Account Is Disabled When it happened to me, I wasted valuable time panicking. Looking back, here’s what I recommend doing first: Take Screenshots Always save the exact error messages you see. Check for Appeal Button Some users still see “Disagree with Decision” on their login screen. Use it immediately if it’s there. Log In From Different Devices Sometimes a desktop or another phone gives different recovery prompts. Stay Calm Don’t rush to create multiple appeals or accounts right away. 💡 Document everything; it helps if you need to reference timelines when contacting Meta support. The 2025 Recovery Options Since Instagram has suspended most old appeal forms, recovery now depends on three main paths: The Hacked Account Recovery Flow If you suspect foul play, such as your password being compromised, this is the best option for recovering your account. Go to Instagram Hacked Help Follow prompts to confirm your account type and username. If available, you may be asked for selfie verification or to confirm your email. 💡 This option works best if your account was disabled due to suspicious login attempts. Appeal Through the Login Screen Use different devices if not seen on the login page. Note that this opportunity usually only appears once, and decisions are final. When trying to log in, look for “Disagree with Decision” or “Request Review”. If it appears, use it right away. Explain that your account was wrongly disabled and that you follow the guidelines. 💡 This option isn’t always shown, so don’t panic if you don’t see it. Ensure the Instagram app is updated. All else fails: take the Meta Verified Route Create a new Instagram account. Alternatively, verify your Facebook account (linked to Instagram). Purchase Meta Verified — this gives you direct support channels with real humans at Meta. Use this to raise a ticket about your disabled account. 💡 While Meta Verified costs money, many users have found it’s the only way to get an actual response. 💡 While we are not affiliated with Meta in any way, we do offer free support, and the Meta Verified option has been the most successful in recovering accounts this year—if the disablement was a genuine error. My Experience With Recovery When my account was disabled, I tried everything: forms, appeals, waiting. Nothing worked until I leaned into the routes that actually connect you with support. That’s why I’m writing this guide — to save you the wasted time and stress I went through. If you want the full details of my personal journey, I’ve documented it in these posts: My Instagram Account Was Disabled: Here is How I Got it Back and How You Can Too! Instagram disabled your account? I’ve been there. This step-by-step guide shares how I fought back - and won. Real results, tips, and everything I wish I’d known from the start. Recover Your Account How to Recover a Deactivated or Disabled Instagram Account: Step-by-Step Guide Lost access to your Instagram account? This guide covers everything from appeal links to live chat with Meta. Learn what works, what doesn’t, and how to avoid a repeat. Your Steps to Recovery Preventing Future Lockouts Even if you get back in, prevention is key. Here’s what I wish I had done earlier: ● Enable Two-Factor Authentication: The best layer of protection. ● Avoid “Follower Tracker” Apps: These often trigger auto-bans. ● Use a VPN: Protects your logins, especially on public Wi-Fi. ● Keep Details Updated: Email and phone number linked to your account. ● Know the Guidelines: Don’t risk copyright or content flags. 💡 If Instagram is important to your work or business, consider Meta Verified as an insurance policy. Access to support is worth it. Get 73% off NordVPN's 2-year plan + 3 extra months If you manage Instagram from hotels, cafés, or airports, use a VPN to encrypt your connection and reduce risk on public Wi-Fi. Get NordVPN FAQs – Disabled Instagram Accounts Quick answers to the top questions about disabled Instagram accounts, and recovery. How can I protect my Instagram account from being disabled or hacked? Use a strong, unique password, enable two-factor authentication, regularly monitor your account activity, and avoid using third-party apps that violate Instagram's guidelines. Find out more (https://www.closerlives.com/blog/post/my-instagram-account-was-disabled-here-is-how-i-got-it-back-in-2022)on our blog. See our Frequently Asked Questions (https://www.closerlives.com/frequently-asked-questions)for other queries. How can Meta Verified help me get my Instagram account back? Meta Verified provides additional support and verification features. If your account is disabled and you are verified, you may receive priority in resolving the issue. What should I do if my Instagram account was hacked and I did not violate any guidelines? If you believe your account was hacked, use Instagram’s account recovery tools and report the issue through the Help Center.(https://www.instagram.com/hacked) Instagram will guide you through securing your account. What should I do after receiving the first Instagram account disabled message? Read the message carefully. Instagram typically provides a reason for disabling your account (i.e violating community guidelines). If you believe it was a mistake, proceed with appealing through the provided link on the app. See our Frequently Asked Questions (https://www.closerlives.com/frequently-asked-questions)for other queries. Will I be able to recover my disabled Instagram account? In most cases, if you didn’t violate any guidelines, there’s a good chance you can recover your account by appealing. However, if Instagram determines a severe violation, recovery may not be possible. If your appeal has been unsuccessful, Instagram will begin the deletion process. The deletion process is irreversible, and will take 30 days to complete from the date of Instagram's final decision. Why did Instagram disable my account? Instagram may disable accounts for various reasons, such as violating community guidelines, using automation tools, or unusual activity. Sometimes, accounts are mistakenly flagged or compromised. Generally, you will have 28 days to recover your account before the deletion process begins. Instagram only allows one appeal, and typically its decision is final. How long does it take to recover? Anywhere from a day to weeks. Meta Verified often speeds this up. Can every account be recovered? No, permanent bans for severe violations are rarely overturned. Do I need ID? Yes, often Instagram requires ID that matches your account info. What information does Instagram typically want to know during the appeal process? Instagram may ask for identification verification, details about why your account was disabled, or proof of identity if your account was hacked. They may also ask: 1. Which 3rd party apps, tools, or services have you connected with your IG account? 2. Has your account been compromised/hacked in the past few months? 3. What is the primary use of the account? 4. How many people have access to the account? How many actively use it day-to-day? 5. What are the most commonly used features of Instagram that you / your team uses on this account (search, messaging, commenting, etc.)? The important thing here is to be honest; Instagram will be able to see all of these things behind-the-scenes, so denying them could significantly harm your chances of regaining your account. What should I do if my Instagram ad account is disabled or has issues? Visit the Facebook Business Help Center to appeal or resolve issues related to your ad account. Ensure your account complies with all advertising policies. You can find out more information on how to do this here.(https://www.closerlives.com/blog/post/my-instagram-account-was-disabled-here-is-how-i-got-it-back-in-2022) How can I get help from Facebook Live Support for Instagram issues? Facebook Live Support can assist with Instagram-related issues. You can access this feature through your Facebook Business account or through the help section in your Instagram app. What should I do if I haven’t received a response from Instagram after 7 days? If you’ve waited more than a week without a response, you can try to reach out via Facebook Live Support (https://www.closerlives.com/blog/post/how-to-recover-a-de-activated-or-disabled-instagram-account)for further assistance. At this stage it would be worth considering opening a new account, where you can apply for Meta Verified (https://www.closerlives.com/blog/post/how-to-recover-a-de-activated-or-disabled-instagram-account)and access Instagram Live Chat. Note that there is no guarantee either of these options will either work or be available to you. What should I avoid doing while waiting for a response from Instagram? Do not create a new account or continue to engage with your current account during the appeal process. This may further complicate your case. What should I do after submitting an Instagram account appeal? After submitting an appeal, wait for Instagram’s response, which can take up to 14 days. As of 2025, Instagram has changed its policy to only allow one appeal. Decisions made after this are final and cannot be reversed. What are Instagram Disabled Account Appeal Forms, and how do I use them? Appeal forms were previously used to submit a request for Instagram to review your account’s suspension. In 2024, it appears that Meta / Instagram has removed the functionality of these forms. How can I contact Instagram regarding a disabled account? You can also contact Instagram on the app via Live Chat, however this is only available to Meta Verified users. It is also possible to contact Meta if you have a Business Account. You can appeal through Instagram directly on their website at: What if I don’t see an appeal option? Use the hacked flow or Meta Verified route. What if I never get a response? Sadly, some accounts aren’t restored. In that case, creating a new account may be the only option. 💡 Tip: If you can’t get your old account back, focus on securing your new one right from the start. Closing Thoughts I won’t sugarcoat it — recovering a disabled Instagram account is stressful and sometimes feels hopeless. I know because I went through it myself. But with persistence, patience, and the right approach, recovery is possible. My Instagram Account Was Disabled: Here is How I Got it Back and How You Can Too! Instagram disabled your account? I’ve been there. This step-by-step guide shares how I fought back - and won. Real results, tips, and everything I wish I’d known from the start. Recover Your Account How to Recover a Deactivated or Disabled Instagram Account: Step-by-Step Guide Lost access to your Instagram account? This guide covers everything from appeal links to live chat with Meta. Learn what works, what doesn’t, and how to avoid a repeat. Your Steps to Recovery Share Your Experience: Join Our Free Group We created this group because Instagram account recovery is confusing, stressful, and often exploited by scammers. This is a space for real support, real experiences, and honest guidance. View Group Additional Resources Whether you regain your old account or have to start fresh, remember: your creativity and voice matter more than the platform. If this guide helped you, I’d love for you to check out our Social Media Hub, where we share more resources to protect and grow your digital presence. Back to Social Media Hub Find Leon on instagram Get in Touch Subscribe for updates Subscribe to stay connected with our recovery support group, helpful updates, and shared experiences from people going through the same process. Email* SUBSCRIBE Please add me to the mailing list.

Watch our travel videos on YouTube, sharing real journeys, destinations, cruise life, culture, and behind-the-scenes moments from the road. Jenn & Leon on YouTube: Real Travel, Real Stories Inspiring Travel, Culture & Lifestyle Through Honest Vlogs from Global Adventures We explore more than maps; we journey through mindsets. Follow our full-time adventure across 44+ countries through honest, heart-driven vlogs. Subscribe on YouTube Visit our Store Meet Jenn & Leon – The Duo Behind Closer Lives 40+ countries ▪ FT travel since '21 ▪ 2.5m+ views ▪ 260+ videos We’re Jenn and Leon, a Canadian–British couple who left the 9–5 behind in 2021 to travel the world full-time. From meeting on a cruise ship in Australia to now filming our journey across 5 continents, our content brings together the raw and the remarkable. Our YouTube channel has grown to over 15,000 subscribers, 2.5 million views, and more than 260 videos, capturing stories that range from local food finds to luxury escapes, cultural insights to real-world travel advice. Whether you're a slow traveler, holidaymaker, digital nomad, or simply wanderlusting from home, you're welcome here. Watch Our Latest Videos ADVERTISEMENT Press Play: Top Pick Vlogs Our most popular vlogs, from trains to burgers and basketball to China! New here? These are some of the videos that helped grow our community. From first-time cultural experiences to epic food hunts and eventful train rides, they offer a taste of what we’re all about. Explore by Destination, Theme, or Mood Watch by destination, theme, or mood, travel your way. We’ve organized our 260+ videos into themed playlists so you can binge by vibe. Whether you’re planning a trip, dreaming of one, or just need a break, get started here. TURKEY THAILAND INDIA ENGLAND MEXICO GEORGIA EGYPT JAPAN View All Playlists YouTube FAQ Answers to the questions we’re asked most about travel and life on the road. What kind of videos do you share on YouTube? Our channel focuses on real-world travel experiences, blending budget vs. bougie travel, slow travel, and food and street eats with honest, story-led travel vlogs. More recently, we’ve also shared personal lifestyle content, including Jenn’s grey hair journey, which explores identity, confidence, and aging on the road. Whether we’re exploring a destination slowly, comparing costs and comfort levels, or documenting everyday travel moments, our goal is always to show what travel actually feels like, not just what it looks like. How often do you upload new videos? We typically upload biweekly, although our schedule can become more frequent depending on where we are and how busy our travel schedule is at the time. Because we travel full-time, our upload rhythm reflects real life on the road. Some weeks are quieter and reflective; others are packed with movement, filming, and spontaneous stories worth sharing. Where have you filmed your travel videos? So far, we’ve filmed across 40+ countries worldwide, with more than 75 combined trips across those destinations. Our videos span multiple continents and a wide range of travel styles, from long stays and repeat visits to short-term explorations. We often return to places we love, which allows us to share deeper insights beyond first impressions, especially when it comes to food culture, daily life, and how destinations feel over time. Do you work with brands, tourism boards, or destinations? Yes, we’re open to collaborations and have experience working with tourism boards, hotels, experiences, and travel-related products. We’ve partnered with brands such as GigSky (https://gigsky.pxf.io/6eJ7YN)on multiple occasions and have collaborated with companies like Timekettle, a translation device brand, alongside other travel-focused partners. All collaborations are approached with honesty and transparency. We focus on experiences and products that genuinely fit our travel style and audience, and we aim to create content that feels informative and authentic rather than scripted or overly promotional. How can viewers support your channel and work? The best way to support us is by subscribing to our YouTube channel,(https://www.youtube.com/@JennandLeon) watching our videos, and engaging through comments and shares. You can also: • Join our wider Closer Lives community(https://www.closerlives.com/community-groups) • Subscribe to our newsletter for thoughtful updates • Support our work through the Travel & Lifestyle Emporium,(https://www.closerlives.com/travel-and-lifestyle-emporium) where we share products designed by us Every bit of support helps us continue creating honest, experience-led travel content. Collaborate with Jenn & Leon Authentic storytelling for brands, places, and experiences worth sharing. We’ve worked with brands, tourism boards, hotels, and promoters across the globe. From sponsored stays to restaurant features and cultural experiences, we create honest, story-driven content that resonates with curious, conscious travelers. With over 2.5 million views, a growing subscriber base, and a track record of delivering high-quality visuals and narratives, we offer more than just visibility. We offer connection. Opportunities Include: Destination Campaigns Immersive storytelling that brings places to life through real experiences, culture, and local moments. Long-Form Travel Vlogs In-depth YouTube videos capturing destinations, journeys, and experiences in full narrative form. Brand & Product Reviews Honest, experience-led reviews of products and services we genuinely use while traveling. Travel Diary Series Multi-video stories that document a place, theme, or journey, ideal for deeper audience connection. Short-Form Features High-impact YouTube Shorts, Instagram Stories, and Reels designed for fast reach and engagement. Launches & Event Coverage Creative coverage for openings, experiences, tours, or campaigns that deserve lasting visibility. Over 2.5 million views, 15,000+ subscribers, and over five years of full-time travel storytelling. Looking to work with us? View our media kit for audience insights, past collaborations, and content formats. Media Kit Media & Partnerships Email Us It’s About More Than Just Places Less polish, more meaning, and travel as it really happens. We share the beauty and the chaos: visa mishaps, language stumbles, hidden cafés, and magical moments you’ll never find on a travel brochure. We create vlogs that feel like conversations. With thoughtful insights, a dose of humor, and a focus on how travel shapes our lives, our videos reflect both the external journey and the internal one. Watch Our Latest Videos See More Behind the Scenes Behind the curtain, real moments, and life between uploads. Follow us on Instagram for travel snapshots, Reels, and candid stories in real-time. Get inspired by the places we’re currently exploring, and see what didn’t make it into the vlog! Instagram Follow YouTube Subscribe Facebook Follow Pinterest Join Join Our Journey Travel together, stay connected, and be part of Closer Lives. Become part of the Closer Lives community. When you sign up, you’ll get access to member-only updates, behind-the-scenes stories, and a 20% welcome discount to our Travel & Lifestyle Emporium. Whether you're dreaming, planning, or living a nomadic life, you’ll find resources, encouragement, and shared experiences right here. Stories, updates, and travel insights, sent only when there’s something worth sharing. No spam. Just the good stuff. Email* SUBSCRIBE Please add me to the mailing list. Join Our Community Jenn & Leon at Closer Lives Closer Lives was created to bring people, places, and stories closer together. Through travel, culture, history, poetry, and personal experience, we share the moments that shape how we see the world, and ourselves. If you enjoy thoughtful travel guides, real experiences, and creative storytelling, you’re in the right place. You can also explore our Travel & Lifestyle Emporium , featuring inspirational travel pieces designed by us and shipped worldwide.

Explore our Travel Hub featuring country guides, destination overviews, travel resources, and practical planning tools shaped by real travel experience. Closer Lives Travel Hub Destinations, Tips & Essentials Welcome to your all-in-one Travel Hub—a gateway to seamless exploration. Whether you're looking for expert travel blogs, detailed country guides, or essential resources like transport booking, nomad insurance, and eSIMs, we’ve got you covered. Dive into our curated travel content and start planning your next adventure with confidence. Wherever you’re headed, let this page be your shortcut to hassle-free travel! ADVERTISEMENT Advice Get practical travel advice on budgeting, safety, packing, visas, and more. Learn from our experiences to travel smarter, stress-free, and with confidence. Get Travel Advice Blog Discover firsthand travel experiences, expert tips, and in-depth guides from our adventures across the globe. Plan your next trip with confidence. Read Travel Blogs Destinations Explore our destination guides covering cities, countries, and hidden gems worldwide. Find top attractions, must-know travel tips, and local insights. Explore Destinations eSIMs Stay connected on the go with the best eSIM options for travelers. Say goodbye to expensive roaming fees and enjoy seamless mobile data worldwide. Get an eSIM Guides Detailed guides for travelers exploring new countries. Learn about culture, transportation, local etiquette, and top attractions in every destination. See Country Guides Hotels Find the perfect place to stay with our hotel recommendations. Compare options, from budget stays to luxury retreats, in top destinations. Find a Place to Stay Cruise Experiences Cruises Explore our new Cruises page, where we share our personal cruise adventures—starting from when we first met on a ship—along with helpful tips, accessibility advice, food reviews, and honest comparisons like eSIM vs ship Wi-Fi. Whether you're a first-time cruiser or planning your next voyage, find inspiration and resources here. Instagram On Jenn and Leon Travel, we share captivating photos and insights from our adventures in destinations like the Philippines, Egypt, Turkey, and beyond. Jenn & Leon Travel Join Our Journey Sign up and get our latest blog posts, product drops, exclusive sales, travel tips, and even a behind-the-scenes look at our adventures as full-time travelers. Subscribe Nomad Insurance Stay covered wherever you roam with the best travel and nomad insurance options. Protect yourself from unexpected costs and travel with peace of mind. Get Travel Insurance Resources We built this hub to share what really works. These aren’t random affiliate links. They’re resources we use, rely on, and recommend for full-time travelers. Browse Travel Tools Transport Seamlessly book flights, trains, buses, and more to get where you need to go. Compare prices and find the best travel options to fit your journey. Search Transport YouTube Watch our latest travel videos for visual inspiration, destination walkthroughs, and practical travel tips to enhance your journey. Watch Travel Videos Join Our Community Jenn & Leon at Closer Lives Closer Lives was created to bring people, places, and stories closer together. Through travel, culture, history, poetry, and personal experience, we share the moments that shape how we see the world, and ourselves. If you enjoy thoughtful travel guides, real experiences, and creative storytelling, you’re in the right place. You can also explore our Travel & Lifestyle Emporium , featuring inspirational travel pieces designed by us and shipped worldwide.