Where your money goes (% of total budget)
| Category | Backpacker | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | 30–35% | 40–45% | 45–50% |
| Food & drink | 25–30% | 20–25% | 15–20% |
| Transport | 15–20% | 12–15% | 8–12% |
| Activities & entry fees | 5–10% | 10–15% | 15–20% |
| Shopping & souvenirs | 5% | 5–8% | 10–15% |
| Contingency/misc | 5–10% | 5% | 5% |
Accommodation is the biggest variable
Your hotel choice determines 40–50% of your total spend. A €45 B&B in the centro storico vs. a €180 boutique hotel is the difference between a €100/day and €250/day trip.
Smart money move: mix your accommodation
Money Saver3-star hotelCity nights
AgriturismoCountryside
B&B/apartmentCoast
Don't book the same type of accommodation everywhere. An agriturismo in Tuscany (€80–120 with breakfast) is better value AND a better experience than a city hotel at the same price.
Food: the easiest place to save (or splurge)
A pranzo completo (full lunch) at a local trattoria costs €12–18 per person for primo + secondo + water. The same meal at a tourist restaurant near the Colosseum: €30–45. Choose wisely.
💡 Pro tip: Three rules that cut food costs by 30%: eat the biggest meal at lunch, drink house wine (vino della casa, €3–5/carafe), and avoid any restaurant with a picture menu.
Bottom line
Accommodation and food together account for 65–70% of your Italy budget. Control these two and everything else falls into place.