MileHacker Logo
Viterbo Travel Tips

Viterbo Travel Tips

Viterbo Lazio, Italy Travel Guide

Local SIM Cards

TIM, Vodafone, and WindTre are the main mobile providers in Italy. Buy SIM cards at their official stores or authorized resellers, requiring your passport.

Options

  • Prepaid tourist SIM plans are available.
  • Official stores or authorized resellers.
  • Passport for registration.

Internet & Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is common in hotels, B&Bs, and many restaurants and cafes throughout Viterbo. Public Wi-Fi hotspots may be available in some city squares.

Access

Language & Translation

The official language is Italian. While English is spoken in tourist-focused establishments, it is less common in smaller shops or with older generations.

Helpful Tools

Italian Phrases

Common Greetings & Requests

  • Hello/Good morning: Buongiorno (bwohn-JOR-noh)
  • Thank you: Grazie (GRAH-tsee-eh) / Yes/No: Sì / No (see / noh)
  • Do you speak English?: Parla inglese? (PAR-lah een-GLEH-zeh?)

Business Hours & Holidays

Shops

  • Generally 9:00 AM/10:00 AM to 1:00 PM/1:30 PM.
  • Reopen 4:00 PM/5:00 PM to 7:30 PM/8:00 PM.
  • Many shops are closed on Sunday, and often Monday morning.
  • Larger chain stores might have continuous hours.

Restaurants & Cafes

  • Lunch: 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM/3:00 PM.
  • Dinner: 7:30 PM/8:00 PM to 10:30 PM/11:00 PM.
  • Cafes/Bars: Open early morning until late evening.
  • Check for seasonal closures in low season (e.g., January-February).

Banking & ATMs

Banks typically open Monday to Friday, from 8:30 AM to 1:30 PM, with some afternoon hours. ATMs (Bancomat) are widely available 24/7 in central areas and outside bank branches.

Airport & Travel Services

Enhance your travel experience with these services.

Airport Lounge Access

Priority Pass provides frequent travelers with independent airport lounge access globally. Visit Prioritypass.com to learn more.

Flight Compensation

Compensair helps customers receive compensation for flight delays, cancellations, or denied boarding. Explore their services at Compensair.com.

Etiquette & Customs

A polite "Buongiorno" or "Buonasera" upon entering a shop or restaurant is appreciated. Use "Arrivederci" when leaving.

General Courtesy

Smart casual attire is generally appropriate for most settings. For churches and religious sites, ensure your shoulders and knees are covered.

Additional Advice

  • Always ask for permission before photographing individuals.
  • Flash photography may be prohibited in museums and churches.
  • Respect signs indicating no photography.

Dining & Tipping

Tipping is not obligatory but is appreciated for good service. Always ask for Il conto (the bill) when ready.

Practices

  • Always ask for Il conto (the bill).
  • Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated for service.
  • A small amount for exceptional service.

Local & Public Holidays

National Holidays

  • New Year's Day (Jan 1)
  • Epiphany (Jan 6)
  • Easter Sunday & Monday (variable)

Additional Dates

  • Liberation Day (Apr 25)
  • Labour Day (May 1)
  • Santa Rosa Day (Sep 4) with major local celebrations.

Social Norms

Italy is generally a welcoming country. Viterbo, as a smaller city, might be more conservative, but discretion is advised. Same-sex civil unions are legal.

Accessibility

Viterbo’s medieval urban structure has unique challenges for travelers with mobility needs.

Mobility Challenges

Viterbo’s historic center, especially the Quartiere San Pellegrino, features medieval cobblestone streets, narrow alleys, and numerous stairs and inclines.

Infrastructure

  • Significant challenges for wheelchair users.
  • Many historic buildings lack ramps or elevators.
  • Cobblestone streets and inclines are common.

Accessible Venues

Newer public buildings and some modern hotels offer better accessibility. Local buses vary, with some models equipped with ramps.

Progress

  • Modern hotels often have better features.
  • Some newer bus models have ramps.
  • Italian train system improving accessibility; major stations offer assistance.

Specific Impairments

Services for visual or hearing impairments are not as widespread as in major cities.

Support

  • Guide dogs are generally allowed in public places.
  • Limited dedicated resources.
  • Contact specific venues in advance.

Planning Your Visit

It is highly recommended to contact specific accommodations, attractions, or the Viterbo tourist office in advance.

Local Assistance

  • Inquire about specific accessibility features.
  • Confirm suitability for your needs.
  • A written note in Italian for needs.

Important Considerations

Historical Challenges

  • Viterbo's medieval core has significant barriers.
  • Expect cobblestones, narrow alleys, and stairs.
  • Many older buildings lack modern accessibility.

Advance Planning

  • Always contact venues directly beforehand.
  • Information on smaller sites might be limited.
  • Confirm suitability for your specific needs.

General Accessibility Support

Transportation Notes

  • Public buses vary in accessibility; some newer models.
  • Italian train system aims for greater accessibility.
  • Major train stations often offer assistance services.

Communication Aids

  • Carry a small written note in Italian.
  • Explaining specific needs aids communication.
  • Patience greatly supports interactions.

Communication Tip

Carry a small, written note in Italian explaining any specific accessibility needs. This assists communication where English speakers may be less common.