North Italy vs South Italy: Which one should you visit next
Are you planning an Italy vacation and unsure what to choose between North Italy vs South Italy? Sure, it is still the same country, but there are so many differences you might want to consider to make the best decision.
More than ten years ago, I moved to Italy for my studies, and ever since, I have gone back almost every year on many occasions. I couldn’t stop exploring and ticking things off my bucket list, from the colorful villages in the North to the cobbled streets in the South and everything in between.
Because I’ve been to all these places and seen the differences first-hand, I am here to help you make the best decision. We will look at everything from transportation, accessibility, food, attractions, accommodation, weather, etc.
If you don’t have enough time to see the north and the south on a longer itinerary, this is your perfect guide for choosing the first one to visit.
PS: I will consider Central Italy (e.g., Tuscany, Cinque Terre) to be part of the North.
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Table of Contents
- North Italy vs South Italy: Which one should you visit next?
- Accessibility: how easy is it to get there?
- Getting around: how easy is it to travel around?
- Affordability: Which one is more affordable?
- Beaches and coastline
- Food: where do you eat better?
- Weather and best time to go
- North Italy vs South Italy: Safety
- Things to do
- What is North Italy known for?
- What is South Italy known for?
- Is North Italy richer than South Italy?
- Conclusion
North Italy vs South Italy: Which one should you visit next?
Accessibility: how easy is it to get there?
North Italy
With many major airports in this region, North Italy is more accessible than Southern Italy.
There are so many flights to and from places like Venice or Milan that getting there will not be difficult.
South Italy
Even though there aren’t so many major cities in the southern part of Italy, you can still find ways to get there.
Flying into Rome, the ancient capital, is a great option since it is perfectly located in the middle of the peninsula.
Other cities with great international connections are Naples, Bari, and Palermo in Sicily.
Getting around: how easy is it to travel around?
North Italy
It is relatively easy to get around North Italy. Public transportation such as trains, buses, and trams are widely available and offer convenient travel. The country’s extensive rail network means you can reach many cities in the north without switching transport modes.
Additionally, domestic flights connect major destinations in northern Italy, such as Milan, Venice, Turin, and Genoa.
Also, once you arrive at your destination, most cities have local bus networks or bike-sharing services that make it easy to explore the area.
Whenever I traveled to the northern part of the country, I relied on public transportation and the well-kept railway system. Most cities are linked by trains, and it is easy to organize a Northern Italy itinerary by taking the train.
You should book your ticket ahead of time, especially during high season. Also, when taking the regional train, you should not forget to validate your ticket before getting on.
South Italy
If you plan to visit Southern Italy, getting around can be exciting and challenging. From the ancient cobblestone streets of Rome to the Amalfi Coast’s winding roads, navigating this beautiful region can be intimidating. But with some preparation and knowledge, you’ll find it easy to get around in Southern Italy.
Whether you rent a car or use public transportation, there are many ways to explore the stunning cities and towns throughout this part of Italy.
While Rome, Naples, Sorrento, and the Amalfi Coast are easy to navigate by train and public transportation, other parts of southern Italy will require you to rent a car.
Driving around Puglia or Sicily might scare you initially, but it is not as hard as it seems, and it sure makes a big difference for your vacation.
Trust me; if I can do it, you can too!
Extra tips: Use Omio to book your train and bus tickets in advance. You can also get the best price for renting a car by booking it online ahead of time on Discover Cars.
Affordability: Which one is more affordable?
North Italy
The northern half is generally quite affordable, especially compared to other parts of Europe. Accommodation costs are generally reasonable, and there are many budget-friendly options available for travelers on a tight budget.
Food and dining out can be expensive in some areas but reasonably priced. Try to avoid eating at restaurants close to major tourist attractions (such as Piazza San Marco in Venice)—the further away from popular destinations, the friendlier the prices will be.
Shopping for souvenirs or other goods can also be relatively affordable, depending on where you shop and what you choose. Supermarkets, public markets, and small shops are available in any big or small city, and that’s where you will find authentic goods at the right price.
North Italy is generally an affordable destination for travelers of all budgets, but it can be a bit pricier than South Italy.
South Italy
Traveling to South Italy can be relatively affordable, depending on your budget and destination.
Many popular destinations, such as Naples, Rome, and Sicily, offer great value for money. Accommodation and food can be cheaper than in certain parts of the north.
However, many of the beautiful beaches and towns on the Amalfi Coast tend to be more expensive, but there are still ways to save money if you want to see the Amalfi Coast on a budget.
Beaches and coastline
North Italy
The northern part of Italy is not necessarily known for its beautiful beaches and blue water. Most beaches (apart from the beach in Rimini and a few others) are not sandy, and the water is deep at the shore.
That being said, you can find stunning rocky coves and rugged cliffs in this area.
The northern coast is famous for some of the most beautiful and colorful villages, such as Portofino or the Cinque Terre.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a summer holiday at the beach, North Italy might not be the best choice.
South Italy
The beaches of South Italy are some of the most breathtakingly beautiful in the world. With crystal clear waters, white sand beaches, and stunning coastal views, it’s easy to see why they’re a popular tourist destination.
From the Amalfi Coast to Calabria and Puglia, many gorgeous beach resorts offer visitors plenty of activities, such as swimming, fishing, sailing, and more.
So, if you’re looking for a unique holiday experience filled with sun-drenched days and balmy evenings, head south this summer.
Food: where do you eat better?
North Italy
Northern Italy is a paradise for food lovers. Home to some of the world’s most iconic dishes, this region offers an abundance of culinary delights that will tantalize your taste buds.
From classic Italian favorites like pizza and pasta to more unique regional specialties such as polenta and risotto alla Milanese, plenty of delicious options are available in northern Italy.
Head over to Bologna for spaghetti alla bolognese, mortadella, or tortellini in brodo. Stop in Modena and taste the balsamic vinegar. Spend a few days exploring Genoa and the Cinque Terre and tasting everything with pesto genovese, including the focaccia.
South Italy
Southern Italy is renowned for its delicious cuisine, consisting of various regional dishes that showcase the local produce available in this region. Previously known as “cucina povera”—the poor man’s food—dishes in the South have plenty of flavor and use only a few ingredients.
Its traditional recipes have been passed down through generations and are still enjoyed by locals today.
The flavors of Southern Italian cooking vary from one area to another, but some staples remain consistent throughout the region.
Dishes often feature fresh vegetables like tomatoes, eggplants, peppers, and olives and seafood such as anchovies, sardines, and squid – all cooked with fragrant herbs like oregano, basil, and parsley.
Pasta is also an important part of Southern Italian culinary culture; classic favorites include spaghetti with tomato sauce or pesto-based sauces made with olive oil.
Breads such as focaccia or pizza dough can accompany many meals, too!
Weather and best time to go
North Italy
The weather in North Italy varies throughout the year, with hot summers and cold winters. In the summer months, temperatures can reach up to 35°C (95°F), while during winter, they drop as low as -5°C (23°F). Rainfall is moderate year-round but tends to be higher in springtime and fall.
The best time of year to visit North Italy is from April through October, when temperatures are more comfortable, and there’s plenty of sunshine.
During this period, you will also have the chance to enjoy some of the region’s most famous attractions, such as Venice’s Grand Canal or Cinque Terre’s stunning coastline.
However, you can also visit the Dolomites during the cold season for winter sports.
South Italy
South Italy has a Mediterranean climate, with hot and dry summers and mild winters. The summer months of June to August are the most popular times for visitors when temperatures range from 25-35°C (77-95°F).
However, these months can also be quite humid. Due to the sea breeze, coastal areas tend to be cooler than inland regions.
Winter is generally milder in comparison but may bring rainier weather with it. December to February are usually the wettest months of the year in South Italy, although snowfall occurs mainly on higher ground, such as in Naples or Rome.
For those looking for more temperate weather without extreme heat or coldness, spring and autumn might be ideal times to visit – April through May and September through October, respectively.
North Italy vs South Italy: Safety
Traveling to Italy is generally considered safe, although some areas (e.g., Calabria, regions of Sicily, or Naples) should be avoided due to crime.
Additionally, visitors should exercise caution when visiting large cities such as Naples and Rome, which experience higher levels of petty crime than other parts of Italy. Always use common sense when visiting a larger city, keep your belongings close, and pay extra attention when using public transportation.
I have traveled alone or with a friend or mother to places like Rome, Naples, and even Sicily or southern Italy and never felt unsafe. We avoided dark streets, avoided going around at night, always kept our belongings in sight, and had no issues.
Also, no matter where you choose to travel, don’t leave valuables inside, even in the car’s trunk when renting a car. Moreover, don’t leave your belongings unattended at the beach, no matter where you are.
Overall, Italy is a relatively safe destination for tourists.
Is North Italy safer than South Italy?
All in all, considering that all the places considered to be dangerous are in South Italy, we could say North Italy is safer. However, that doesn’t mean you cannot travel safely in the South. Choose the right destinations, use common sense, and you will be fine.
When I was studying in Trieste, people would always tell me nothing happened there, and I would go alone at night on the streets without any worry. I might not have done that in Naples or Sicily, but I would go during the day without a care.
Things to do
North Italy
North Italy is full of amazing sights and experiences that will leave you feeling like you’ve traveled back in time. From the ancient ruins of Rome to the romantic canals of Venice, there’s something for everyone in this part of the world.
Here are some of the top things to do when visiting North Italy: explore Milan’s Duomo Cathedral and take a gondola ride through Venice; visit Florence and see Michelangelo’s David; hike up Mount Cervino or enjoy skiing on its slopes; wander around Lake Como or take a boat cruise across it; go wine tasting at Valpolicella vineyards; hike from one colorful village to the other in Cinque Terre; rent a car and drive around Tuscany; taste the most delicious food in Bologna.
With so much to offer, North Italy truly has something for everyone!
South Italy
South Italy is a region of beauty and history, and there are plenty of things to do for the adventurous traveler or those looking to step back in time. From exploring ancient ruins and historical sites to taking in stunning views from high mountains or serene beaches, you won’t be disappointed.
Eat pizza in its hometown, explore the Ancient Ruins of Pompeii, drive along the Amalfi Coast in an ancient car, take a boat tour of the Bay of Naples, learn how to make limoncello and go on a lemon grove tour, visit Castel Dell’Ovo in Naples, shop for souvenirs in Sorrento’s markets, marvel at baroque artwork in Reggio di Calabria, stay in a trullo house in Puglia, stay in a cave house in Matera.
South Italy is full of surprises and unexpected delights you won’t want to miss.
What is North Italy known for?
North Italy is known for its picturesque mountain landscapes, several UNESCO World Heritage Site cities like Florence and Venice, beautiful lakes such as Como and Maggiore, incredible wines like Prosecco and Barolo from the Piedmont region, delicious cuisine such as risotto alla Milanese from Lombardy, and its unique culture. It’s also home to some of the world’s oldest universities in Bologna.
What is South Italy known for?
South Italy is known for its warm climate, sunny weather, and delicious cuisine. Pizza, pasta, seafood, and other Mediterranean favorites are staples in South Italian kitchens.
The region is also home to the iconic Amalfi Coast, beautiful villages perched on hilltops overlooking the sea below, and an array of historical and cultural attractions, from museums to ruins.
Overall, South Italy offers visitors a peaceful experience full of natural beauty and top-notch culinary experiences.
Is North Italy richer than South Italy?
Yes, North Italy is wealthier than South Italy in terms of economic output.
The country’s northern region has a wealthier economy due to the presence of major cities like Milan and Turin.
At the same time, the South relies heavily on agriculture and tourism for its income.
The two regions also experience different levels of government investment, with North Italy traditionally receiving more funding.
Conclusion
In conclusion, you won’t go wrong no matter which part of Italy you visit on your next vacation. However, if you are visiting Italy for the first time, I would encourage you to choose the northern part of the country. Go for the south if you have already been there and want to see something else.
