MileHacker Logo
Pre-Trip Checklist Seamless Travel

Pre-Trip Checklist Seamless Travel

Tuscany, Italy

Essential Preparations

A chronological timeline outlines actions for a well-prepared trip.

Planning Milestones

Break down your trip planning into manageable phases for a smooth journey.

3-6M

Long-Term Planning

Flights & Lodging

Book flights and accommodation, especially for high season.

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity and visa needs, then apply.

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance.

1-2M

Mid-Range Actions

Detailed Itinerary

Plan daily activities, including day trips.

Tickets & Tours

Book popular tours or museum tickets to skip lines.

Connectivity

Check phone compatibility and research local SIMs.

1-2W

Pre-Departure Checks

Document Copies

Make copies of all important travel documents.

Currency & Cards

Get some euros or notify banks of travel plans.

Home Security

Arrange pet care, stop mail, and secure your home.

Advance Bookings

Securing elements beforehand safeguards availability and streamlines your journey.

Important Reservations

  • Flights and accommodation require early booking for peace of mind.
  • Popular Florence museum tickets (Uffizi, Accademia) benefit from advance purchase.
  • Fiesole Estate festival tickets, if applicable, sell out.

Pre-Trip Learning

A little knowledge before you depart enriches your entire Fiesole adventure.

Recommended Reading

  • Read about Fiesole's Etruscan, Roman, and Renaissance periods.
  • Familiarize yourself with basic Italian phrases.
  • Understand public transport between Florence and Fiesole (ATAF bus #7).

At-Home Preparation

Steps before leaving your residence ensure peace of mind while you are away.

Home Security

  • Check all locks on doors and windows.
  • Turn off unnecessary lights and electronics.
  • Adjust heating or air conditioning settings.
  • Notify a trusted contact of your itinerary.

Pet & Plant Care

  • Arrange for pet care if you have animals.
  • Ensure plants receive proper watering or care.
  • Stop mail and newspaper delivery.
  • Leave emergency contacts for your home.

Digital Housekeeping

  • Backup important digital files.
  • Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel.
  • Download any necessary offline maps or apps.
  • Charge all electronic devices.

Smooth Start, Calm Departure

Comprehensive pre-trip planning allows you to depart with confidence, knowing your home is secure and your journey is mapped out.

Arrival Checklist: Settling In

These steps aid a smooth transition upon arriving in Fiesole.

First Moments

  • 1
    Immigration & Customs

    Clear immigration and customs at your Schengen Area entry point.

  • 2
    Baggage Claim

    Collect your luggage from the carousel.

  • 3
    Initial Euros

    Locate an ATM for an initial cash withdrawal; avoid airport exchange booths.

Getting Oriented

  • Find Accommodation

    Navigate to your chosen place of stay.

  • Familiarize Yourself

    Locate Piazza Mino da Fiesole, the town's central hub.

  • Bus Tickets

    Identify the closest "tabaccheria" or newsstand for bus tickets.

First Day Logistics

Money Matters

Use an ATM for better exchange rates. Airport currency exchanges are less favorable.

Purchase ATAF bus tickets at a "tabaccheria" as one of your initial local purchases.

Transport to Fiesole

Follow your pre-researched transfer plan from Florence airport or train station.

This often involves the ATAF bus #7 from Piazza San Marco in Florence.

Panoramic View Orientation

Consider a walk up to San Francesco Monastery for an immediate overview.

This view helps orient you to Fiesole and Florence below.

Smooth Entry

A well-prepared arrival helps you settle in quickly and begin exploring Fiesole with ease.

Departure Preparation: A Graceful Exit

Prepare for your departure from Fiesole, ensuring a relaxed exit from Italy.

Souvenirs & Purchases

  • Purchase souvenirs ahead of time to allow for secure packing.
  • If shipping items, confirm customs regulations for your home country.
  • Understand the associated shipping costs.
  • Non-EU residents can inquire about VAT refund procedures at participating stores.

Pre-Departure Timing

  • Allow ample time for travel from Fiesole to Florence airport or train station.
  • Factor in potential traffic delays or public transport variations.
  • Be mindful of peak hours or public holidays impacting travel times.
  • If claiming VAT refunds, arrive early at the airport.

Accommodation Departure

Leave your Fiesole stay tidily and with all matters settled.

Final Checks

  • Empty all waste bins.
  • Turn off lights and air conditioning/heating.
  • Settle any outstanding bills with your accommodation.
  • Ensure you have all personal belongings.

Return Journey Prep

  • Confirm your return flight or train details.
  • Pack smartly, leaving space for any acquired souvenirs.
  • Review your packing list one last time.
  • Plan your route to the airport or station.

A Smooth Farewell

Careful departure planning helps avoid last-minute stress.

It allows you to reflect on your Fiesole memories.