Going out in Italy can be quite different from going out in other places in Europe. You'll find the bars full of all age groups; old and young, families and singles, and sometimes even minor children with their parents.

Of course the bars serve drinks, but no one actually get really drunk. It's very chilled out and at the same time a lot more civilized. Instead, what you'll find is that people stand around chatting, sometimes nursing the same glass of wine or beer for hours.

Having said that, Italy has a very large national and international student population; in the major cities you'll find that the nightlife is a lot more vibrant and youthful. There's some excellent clubs, playing the very latest in alternative, techno, ambient and drum n bass music. The nights start late and go on well into the early hours.

In Italy, most of the restaurants have tables outside, so you can enjoy your evening meal while experiencing the wonderful Italian weather and colourful street theatre. There are also some fantastic open-air concerts held all over the country during the summer evenings.