I had the privilege of studying abroad in Florence over the Summer of 2025, and even though I was only able to do their shortest program, I was still able to get out and see more of Italy! Even if it was just by myself.

Saint Peter’s Basilica in Rome

Tip #1: Let your roommates know you’re going.
Me and my roommates always had different plans, which resulted in us doing a lot of things separately, but I would always let them know when I’d be off on an excursion. They can be there just in case something goes wrong, so someone is able to contact emergency services.

Siena Streets on a Tour of Tuscany

Tip #2: Always know your way back to your apartment by memory from significant landmarks in Florence.
You never know if you’ll get your phone pickpocketed, lost, or maybe you forgot your portable charger. Memorize your route back to your apartment from certain landmarks (the Duomo, the train station, Piazza Signoria, Santa Croce, etc…) to ensure you can navigate back without a map.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa on a Tour of Tuscany

Tip #3: Bring a pick-pocket proof bag!
Crossbody bags that sit on your front or shoulder bags work best! Just make sure the shoulder bag has a zipper, and always be mindful of times when you might be distracted (keep your hand on the zipper of your bag when taking pictures, ordering food, etc…). To add an additional level of safety, you can buy zipper clips to clip the zipper heads together to make it harder for pickpockets to unzip your bag!

The Trevi Fountain in Rome

Tip #4: Travel in groups, even if it’s with strangers.
While you might not always be able to travel with others, there are always opportunities to stick with other tourists when solo traveling. For example, when I went to Rome by myself, I booked a day pass for a sightseeing bus (I highly recommend it for day trips!) where I would travel around Rome with other tourists. Additionally, I also went with a tour group that went on a tour of Tuscany through Ciao Florence, where I was able to see more of the countryside without having to worry about safety!

San Gimignano Piazza on a Tour of Tuscany

Tip #5: Avoid public bathrooms and utilize public water fountains.
Public bathrooms usually cost around 1.50 euro to use, so if there comes a time you need to use the bathroom when out on an excursion, find a coffee, gelato, or pastry shop, buy something there, and use their bathroom instead. That way you’re getting more bang for your buck! Additionally, many places in Italy (especially Rome) have public water fountains that you can fill your water bottle up at. Bring a plastic water bottle with you (not as heavy as metal ones) and refill there for free instead of spending money on water at a restaurant or cafe!

Written by: Natalie, Summer 2025 Florence student from Colorado State University