Alitalia, the flagship airline of Italy, has flights to Italy from the US and Canada from most major cities in the United States and Canada.  With Alitalia, you can fly directly to Italy via the following cities:

• Boston (BOS)
• Chicago (ORD)
• Los Angeles (LAX)
• Miami (MIA)
• Newark (EWR)
• New York (JFK)
• San Francisco (SFO)
• Montreal (YUL)
• Toronto (YYZ)

Many of the major US Airlines also provide service to Italy, including Continental, Delta and American Airlines.

Another way to get to Italy is through England.  With the surge in European low-cost airlines like Easyjet, RyanAir, etc. in recent years, it is now easier than ever to arrive in Italy through London’s Heathrow or Gatwick airport.  And many times it will be less expensive!  You may also be able to get to Italy through Paris, or Amsterdam.  Check around for the best travel deal.

Eurofly airlines, a Meridiana airline,  has seasonal service (from April through September) with direct flights from JFK to cities such as Palermo, Naples, Catania, etc.  This can be a better than flying through Rome, if your destination is Palermo, for example.  Last year, I flew from Tampa, to Palermo using Eurofly (via JFK).  The only drawback is I had to get my luggage when I landed in JFK, and recheck it in on Eurofly.  They do not have a baggage sharing service with the other airlines.  That could perhaps change in the near future.

Passport requirements to Italy

For the following citizens, you need a valid passport to enter Italy, but will not require a Visa if your stay is less than 90 days:  United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.  If your intent is to stay past 90 days, you will need to secure a Visa prior to your departure.  European Union nationals do not need a passport or Visa, but would need their national identification card to enter Italy, if their intended visit is less than 90 days.  If they plan on staying after 90 days, they will need a Visa (visto per ragioni di dimora).

Note:  Passport and visa requirements can change at short notice. Please double-check entry requirements with your appropriate embassy or consulate.

Italy’s major Airports

Rome Fiumicino (Leonardo da Vinci) FCO
Italy’s busiest international airport.  Leonardo Direct Express train can get you to Termini Station in the historic center.

Rome Ciampino – (CIA) serves mostly domestic and some European flights.  Many low-cost carriers are using Ciampino. 

Milan – Malpensa (MXP)- a major hub with international service.  This is actually further away from the city center, but if you are flying from the United States or Canada, you will land at this airport.

Milan Linate - (LIN) serves mostly domestic and some European flights. This is closer to the city center.  You can take a shuttle between both of these airports in Milan.

Venice – Marco Polo International – (VCE) – not many direct flights from North America.  Most likely you will stop in Rome or Milan if you want to fly to Venice.

Accommodation Tip

Of course once you get to Italy, there are many accommodation options you can consider for your visit. An often overlooked option are Rome apartments which allow you to stay in the heart of the city and experience it like a local. They can be a perfect choice for a comfortable and affordable option when you are visiting the Eternal City.

Staying in an excellent accommodation in Rome will undoubtedly be a fun and exciting experience for you and your loved ones. There are plenty of stunning scenery and amazing attractions that you can visit when you stay here, hence making this a perfect destination for your getaway.