EXPERIENCE ITALY
with Genuine Independence
→Your Italy, Your Way!
For deeply curious travelers who prefer their own path.
Illustrated guides to the art, ruins and hidden corners of Rome, Florence and Venice.
BOOKS
ANCIENT ROME AT YOUR FINGERTIPS
Decode ruins, discover underground sites and follow the stories of ancient Rome.
THE RENAISSANCE AT YOUR FINGERTIPS
Learn what to notice in the art—and meet the people who changed Florence.
AUTHENTIC VENICE AT YOUR FINGERTIPS
Uncover the history, symbols and quiet corners beyond the postcard.
THE FOUNDING STORY OF TRADER JOE'S
A terrific vacation read for your trip.
Change your plans when something catches your eye. The pocket SpiniCity card uses color-coded categories and numbered sites linked to your map and book pages, so you can choose what interests you and find its story quickly. Gelato detours encouraged.
WHAT TRAVELERS
ARE SAYING
"I have no words for adequately praising Ms. Civalleri's masterpiece." ~Amazon Verified
"Excellent, many photos and interesting facts, portable."
~ Amazon Verified
"Well organized between the maps and the numbered pages. Fun and often funny!" ~Amazon Verified
Patty Civalleri is an award-winning writer who has studied global archaeology and specializes in Italian history. She has lived in Rome, Florence & Venice and brings unmatched local expertise & insight to every page.
GLOBALLY
AWARD-WINNING AUTHOR
TRUSTED BY TRAVELERS & CORPS
WHY DISCERNING TRAVELERS
CHOOSE THESE GUIDES
WHAT'S INSIDE?
MAKE SENSE OF THE RUINS
Illustrations and diagrams help you picture what once stood here and spot the details that remain. Suddenly, that jumble of stones has a story.
FIND YOUR NEXT STOP
Visual section contents connect sights with their book pages and SpiniCity references. Browse what interests you, then turn straight to the details.
LEARN HOW TO SEE THE ART
Discover what to look for, why it matters and who created it. Friendly explanations turn a museum visit into a conversation with the artists—no art-history degree required.
LOOK BENEATH THE SURFACE
Explore archaeological sites with explanations of where to go, what survives and what to notice. Connect the ruins in front of you with the lives once lived there.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Italy - General
About Patty's Books
1. What is the best travel book for Italy?
If you're visiting multiple cities, start with a guide that specializes in the places you'll actually visit. Broad Italy guidebooks provide an overview of the country, while city-specific guides offer much deeper history, practical advice, walking strategies, and local discoveries. Patty Civalleri's books focus exclusively on Rome, Venice, and Florence, allowing travelers to explore each city with far greater confidence and understanding.
- Plenty of Illustrations & Diagrams will simplify the sites
- Focus on avoiding Tourist Traps and Crowds
- Go at your own speed = total independence
- The SpiniCity card connects numbered sights with your map and guidebook pages
2. What is the best time of year to visit Italy?
The "Shoulder" months Spring (April through June) and Autumn (September through October) generally offer pleasant temperatures, beautiful scenery, and smaller crowds than the peak summer months. Late June through early September will commonly exceed 100-degrees in most of Western Europe, and in Italy, many of the shops & restaurants are closed because the owners leave for cooler climantes during this hottest month of the year.
- Late June - Early Sept can exceed 100-degree temps
- Many shops are closed during August
- Families are in school during the 'Shoulder' months
- The Lake District (Northern Italy) can be cool or rainy during the 'Shoulder' months
3. Do I need to speak Italian?
No. Learning a few basic Italian phrases is appreciated by locals, but English is widely understood in major tourist areas throughout Rome, Florence, and Venice. The further you wander away from the tourist centers, however, the fewer people you will find who speak English. Simply ask people if they speak English ("Lei parle englese?" [Lay parlay in-glay-say?]) and you're sure to find someone who will be more than happy to help you out.
- Do you speak english? [Lei parle englese?]
- Excuse me [Mi scusi]
- Please [Per favore]
- Thank you [Grazie]
4. Is Italy safe for travelers?
Italy is generally considered quite a safe destination. As with any major tourist city in the world, visitors should remain aware of their surroundings and protect valuables in crowded areas. As a single female, I have lived alone in Rome, Florence & Venice for extended periods and have never had any issues anywhere in Italy. Following a few safety guidelines is always prudent, however, no matter where you travel.
- Men should not keep their wallet or passport in their back pocket
- Women: slash-proof crossbody purses/bags are the best bet
- Keep valuables in your hotel safe
- Avoid wearing precious jewelry when traveling
5. Should I rent a car?
For Rome, Florence, and Venice, a rental car is usually unnecessary. Italy's trains connect the major cities efficiently and comfortably, while the historic centers are best explored on foot.
- Parking is nearly non-existent in most cities, towns & villages.
- Driving rules & laws vary from city to city. Signage is in Italian.
- In much of Europe, it is common to use traffic fines as fund raisers.
- Public transportation is affordable and convenient all throughout Italy.
1. What makes Patty Civalleri's Italy travel books different?
Rather than simply listing attractions, Patty Civalleri shows travelers how to understand what they are seeing. Her books combine history, archaeology, art, architecture, navigation, and practical travel advice to help visitors experience Italy more deeply and independently than most other books allow.
2. Who are Patty Civalleri's books written for?
They are especially valuable for curious travelers, independent explorers, repeat visitors to Italy, history lovers, and anyone who wants to move beyond a typical "Top 10" touristy vacation.
3. Are these books good for first-time visitors?
Yes. First-time visitors gain confidence while learning the historical context that makes Italy's greatest landmarks meaningful.
4. Are these books useful for repeat visitors?
Absolutely. Many repeat visitors discover hidden neighborhoods, archaeological sites, churches, and stories they missed during previous trips.
5. Do the books include maps?
Yes. Maps and navigation tools help visitors understand each city's layout and confidently explore independently.
The SpiniCity Planning Card is Patty Civalleri's exclusive pocket reference that allows travelers to quickly identify nearby attractions and corresponding book pages while walking through Rome, Venice, or Florence.
6. Do your books explain art in simple language?
Yes. Rather than assuming readers have an art history background, Patty explains symbolism, techniques, and historical context in an accessible way.
In fact, Patty makes it so fun that one of the benefits is that you'll have a better idea about how to 'see' art in most every fine art museum in the world - for the rest of your life!
YOUR JOURNEY,
YOUR WAY.
Italy is More Than a Destination -
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Independently Owned
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It's a Life Experience!
