Travelers who want to visit Italy may dream of perusing famed Renaissance artworks or glimpsing the Colosseum. The iconic sights are some of the best in the world, and the food is second to none. Though, like any place you've never visited, you may have myths and misconceptions in mind about the lovely Italia.

These rumors could compel even the well-traveled among us to stay away. Italy is one of the most expensive European countries to visit. So it's only fair that you know exactly what to expect before you go there.