Scotland have lost only one of their past 15 matches against Italy, but that came on their last visit to the Stadio Olimpico in 2024.
That was another Scottish second-half collapse as the hosts came from behind to win 31-29.
Townsend is not underestimating the Italians as the Scots aim to start well before facing England at Murrayfield and Wales in Cardiff.
“It’s a tough one to play away from home against a team that’s been more than competitive,” Townsend said.
“We’ve had some real tough battles with them. They beat us in Rome two years ago. They’re getting sell-outs in that stadium now. It’s a really noisy atmosphere.
“They have a cohesive team and players who have played together for a number of years, real talented individuals. We know it’s a very tough game.
Before he brings up his century, Townsend says he never expected to be in the job this long, while insisting his hunger for the role remains.
He also played down a report suggesting he has agreed to take over at Newcastle Red Bulls after the 2027 World Cup.
The 52-year-old added: “I remember when I first got into coaching and especially when I became a head coach at Glasgow, I thought: ‘I’m loving this. I’m going to give it everything and if it doesn’t work out, it’s not meant to be’.
“I’ve tried to have that mindset all the time. It is something I love doing, but I just feel so privileged and lucky to have had the opportunity after the playing career.
“To get nine seasons and to be coming into 100 [matches in charge], it’s above what I would have expected or dreamed of.”