Italy Unmasked including Venice “Carnivale” - Additional information

Entry into Italy
Please ensure that your passport has at least 6 months' validity left from your return date. At the time of writing, no extra visas are required for entry into Europe for Australian passport holders.
The new European Entry/Exit System (EES) for all non-EU nationals, including Australians, travelling in or out of the Schengen Area is expected to start in October 2025. 
Continue to monitor https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/europe/italy for the most up-to-date information.

 

Weather
The weather in Italy in February is usually cold and damp, with temperatures in the north around -4 - 5 °C, central 5 - 13 °C and south 10 - 16 °C. There is usually always rain in February, and still snow on the mountains.

 

What to Pack
Prepare for your Italian adventure with this stylish, practical, and season-ready packing guide! Our February tour includes the iconic cities of Venice, Florence, and Rome. Here's everything you need to stay warm, look fabulous, and travel comfortably with your fellow Sisters.

Clothing Essentials

·         • Warm, layered outfits: Long-sleeve tops, sweaters, thermal layers

·         • Insulated jacket or wool coat: Perfect for cool mornings and nights

·         • Scarf, gloves & beanie: Especially useful in Venice’s foggy canals

·         • Comfortable waterproof walking shoes: Ideal for cobblestones and winter drizzle

·         • Smart casual outfit: Great for dinners and special experiences

·         • Carnivale outfit & mask (optional): Venice is the place to sparkle!

Weather Gear

·         • Compact umbrella: Be prepared for light rain

·         • Foldable waterproof poncho (optional): Handy for downpours or high water in Venice

Accessories & Day Bag

·         • Crossbody bag with zipper: Safer for busy areas

·         • Daypack or tote: For layers, water, and purchases

·         • Sunglasses: Low winter sun can still be bright

Health & Personal Care

·         • Moisturiser & lip balm: Winter air can be drying

·         • Medications & travel-sized first aid kit

·         • Hand sanitiser & tissues: Useful for cafes and restrooms

Travel Extras

·         • Copy of passport & travel documents

·         • Power adapter (Type C, F, or L for Italy)

·         • Travel journal or notebook: For capturing memories

 

Currency
The official currency is the Euro (EUR). ATMs are available, and credit cards are widely used. 

 

Tipping
In Italy, although tipping is not compulsory, it is expected and appreciated.  Sisterhood Womens Travel's tipping system on all group tours involves passengers contributing to a kitty, which is paid directly to the Hostess upon departure.  Your hostess will then distribute appropriately to the service providers as required.  This system avoids the need for you to consider individual tipping situations daily throughout the trip.  Approximate tipping kitty for this tour - EUR135.00

 

Italian City Tax
Italy, like many countries in Europe, has a “tourist tax” which is generally payable upon check-out of your hotel. For this tour, these taxes have already been collected (subject to change) as part of the upfront cost.

 

Luggage
Please keep your luggage to a minimum. Do not take what you cannot handle yourself. Where available, the hotel staff will assist with taking your luggage to your room (for a tip), so please keep this in mind when packing.

 

Health While Travelling
There is always a risk to your health when travelling, and it is better to be prepared. It is recommended to take with you some diarrhoea medication in case you come down with a stomach bug. It is also a good idea to bring along some hydrolyte for dehydration purposes. We also recommend Travelan to help protect your stomach from any nasties (available over the counter at any pharmacy). For any other vaccination/health/medical concerns regarding travelling, please consult your GP or visit a Travel Doctor.

 

Travel Insurance
It is mandatory for travellers to have comprehensive travel insurance; please ensure you have provided Sisterhood Womens Travel with a copy of your policy, including a 24/7 Emergency Contact Number.
 

 

WhatsApp Group
Please make sure you download WhatsApp onto your phone prior to departure.  This App will be your communication tool whilst on tour, and your tour hostess will contact you prior to departure to set you up in your tour WhatsApp group.  It’s also a lovely way to remain in touch with friends upon your return.

 

 

Changes to Itinerary
We do our best to give Sisters an enjoyable, trouble-free tour experience but, occasionally, even the best-laid plans can go awry.  We cannot rule out any changes to the itinerary and ask that you maintain a positive, upbeat and flexible attitude.

 

Updated: 14 July 2025