This post explains why the seemingly simple trio State • Zip Code • Country matters more than you think when traveling in Italy — especially for planning logistics, sending postcards, receiving deliveries and finding your way along the Italian Riviera.
I’ll walk you through how Italian addresses work, useful tips for mail and parcels, and practical advice for visitors in towns from Genoa to Sanremo.
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Why State, Zip Code, Country Matter for Travelers
Every address element helps ensure your booking confirmations, taxis, deliveries and letters reach the right place.
In Italy the equivalent of a “state” and “zip code” differ from many other countries, and understanding local conventions saves time and prevents missed connections.
Whether you’re booking an apartment in Portofino or sending a postcard from Vernazza, getting the address right is a small detail that makes a big difference.
How Italian Addresses Differ
At the heart of Italy’s addressing system is the CAP — Codice di Avviamento Postale — the five-digit postal code.
Instead of states, Italy uses regions and provinces, but most international forms expect a “State/Province” field; travelers commonly enter the province abbreviation (e.g., GE for Genoa) or the region name (e.g., Liguria).
For reliable delivery and navigation, use this simple Italian format:
Practical Tips for Mailing and Deliveries in Italy
Mailing from a café table after a day exploring the Ligurian coast is romantic — but it’s easy to make mistakes.
Small shops in the Riviera can help you buy stamps and find the correct CAP for your town.
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If you’re expecting a package, always confirm the address with the host and include a local phone number.
Couriers often call before delivery, especially in narrow coastal streets where parking is limited.
Sending Postcards and Packages
When you send a postcard from Monterosso al Mare or Camogli, write the CAP and city in capital letters to reduce errors.
For international senders, add ITALY on the last line — many automated sorting systems depend on that line to route mail correctly.
Addressing for Digital Bookings and Emergency Services
Online forms often force a “State” field that doesn’t map neatly to Italian regions.
When in doubt, put the province name or the region (Liguria) and ensure the CAP and city are accurate — those are what GPS and postal services use most.
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For emergencies or medical appointments, having the correct CAP speeds response times and helps local services locate you in maze-like coastal towns.
Putting It All Together on the Italian Riviera
From the port of Genoa to the glamour of Portofino, the charm of Santa Margherita Ligure, and the seaside promenades of Rapallo, good addressing matters.
Don’t forget smaller gems like Camogli, the Cinque Terre villages — Monterosso al Mare and Vernazza — plus Sestri Levante and Sanremo.
Each place has its own CAP and local quirks: narrow alleys, pedestrian-only zones, and historic piazzas where couriers may need help finding you.
Before you set out along the Italian Riviera, double-check addresses on bookings.
Learn the local CAP for your destination, and keep a printed copy of important directions.
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