Using a Travel Agency to Go to Italy: The Pros and Cons

Travel agents can be a good way to relieve trip planning stress. But working with a travel agent isn’t always the best way to discover all the spectacular things to do in Italy

Here, we look at the pros and cons of using a travel agency to go to Italy, measured by price, experience, personalization, safety, availability, and authenticity.  

Table of Contents

• #1: Price
• #2: Experience
• #3: Personalization
• #4: Safety
• #5: Availability
• #6: Authenticity
• Conclusion: Have a local plan your trip

#1: Price 

Pros: Because travel agents have existing relationships with airlines, hotels, and tour groups, they can (in theory) get you a good price. 

Cons: There are two things to keep in mind. One, you may encounter hidden fees (like travel insurance or booking fees for lodging or transportation).

Second, agents work on commission, which they earn by pointing travelers toward certain businesses. So it can be hard to determine if you’re really getting a good deal. 

It’s ideal to work with trip planners who aren’t paid a commission. 

#2: Experience

Pros: Obviously, travel agents are good at planning trips—that’s their job! They can let you know about all the cool tourist attractions throughout Italy.

Cons: Travel agents rarely travel to Italy themselves. Far fewer actually live in Italy. 

Simply put experience with trip planning can’t beat local knowledge. When you have a local plan your trip, they can share their personal experience and recommendations—on everything from Italian transportation to the best spot for gelato. 

#3: Personalization 

Pros: When you work with a travel agency, you’ll get some personalization. They’ll offer a list of guided tours, day trips, and the like. However, these options are limited to the ones the agent has relationships with. 

Cons: If your agent works with a high volume of clients, you’ll likely see the same things in Rome as everyone else. If you’re looking to explore places in Italy that are off the beaten path, then a travel agency might not be the best fit. 

#4: Safety 

Pros: Of course, travel agents will make your trip as low-risk as possible.

Cons: Two things here. One, Italy is really safe. So if safety is your primary concern, spending extra money on a travel agent may not be worth it. Save those euros for exploring all the incredible places to visit in Italy!

Two, you can’t beat a safety update from someone who actually lives in Italy. Italians move through the country every day. They know how to keep safe. And they can share their insights, whether you’re traveling solo, with kids, or in a group.

#5: Availability 

Pros: Of course, travel agents make themselves available during the trip planning process. They’ll answer all your big questions about Italy travel, like where to stay and where to go. 

Cons: Once you’re on the ground, you may find that your agent is harder to reach. When you work with an Italian trip planner, they’re in your time zone. If you run into any issues, you can easily reach them by phone.

#6: Authenticity 

Pros: If an agent specializes in Italy travel, then they’ll know about top places to visit and the best time to go to Italy.

Cons: Nothing can replace local knowledge. When you work with a travel agent, you're less likely to discover hidden gems or to get off the beaten path. 

Conclusion: Have a local plan your trip

If you want to see Italy like a local—not a tourist—work with one to plan your trip. Local trip planners will create a unique itinerary based on your interests and their insider knowledge.

Whether you’re hoping to visit Italian cities like Rome or explore the enchanting islands near Naples, locals can help you see their home with a new perspective. 

Welcome to traveling like a local.