Planning a trip to Italy? It’s one of the most rewarding destinations in the world, but it’s easy to trip up on cultural norms or make small mistakes that can sour the experience. Here’s what to avoid so you can enjoy Italy like a pro.
1. Don’t Expect Fast Service at Restaurants
Dining in Italy is slow and intentional, not rushed like in America. It’s meant to be savored. Rushing your meal or asking for the check too soon can come off as rude. Instead, embrace the pace and enjoy lingering over your wine. There’s nothing worse than rude diners.
2. Don’t Visit Only the Big Cities
Rome, Florence, and Venice are amazing, but so are Italy’s lesser-known gems, like Monopoli, San Gimignano, and Matera. Exploring small towns like Orvieto or Matera gives you a deeper, more authentic experience. Plus, the crowds are much more manageable.
3. Don’t Assume Everyone Speaks English
While many Italians do speak English, especially in tourist spots, it’s respectful to learn a few basic Italian phrases. Even a simple “buongiorno” goes a long way in showing effort and respect. Don’t just assume, ask for: Parla inglese?
4. Don’t Wear Shorts or Tank Tops to Churches
Churches in Italy, especially famous ones like St. Peter’s Basilica, have strict dress codes. Shoulders and knees should be covered to enter. Pack a light scarf or shawl just in case. It’s always a good idea to dress in layers in Italy anyways.
5. Don’t Expect Places to Be Open All Day
Many shops and restaurants close in the afternoon for riposo, or siesta. Between 1 and 4 p.m., towns can feel like ghost towns. Plan around it, and use that time to relax like the locals.
6. Don’t Eat Near Major Tourist Attractions
Restaurants right next to tourist sites often serve overpriced, mediocre food. Walk a few blocks away and you’ll usually find better meals at better prices. Locals rarely eat at those places for a reason. If there’s a large sign with pictures of every meal, it’s probably not somewhere you should eat.
7. Don’t Overpack Your Itinerary
It’s tempting to cram everything in, but Italy is best enjoyed slowly. Give yourself time to wander, sip espresso, grab a gelato, and enjoy the moment. Overplanning leaves little room for spontaneous joy.
8. Don’t Rely on Credit Cards Everywhere
Cash is still king in many parts of Italy, especially in smaller towns or markets. Always carry some euros with you just in case. The places that do accept cards often charge a large fee or have minimums. Save your card for larger expenses and use cash otherwise.
9. Don’t Eat Dinner Too Early
Italians typically dine around 8 or 9 p.m. Showing up at 6pm might find you in an empty restaurant, or one catering solely to tourists. Adjust your schedule to match the local rhythm. This is why they have aperitivo, so you can have a little snack before your late dinner.
10. Don’t Skip the Aperitivo
Aperitivo is a pre-dinner drink and snack tradition that’s deeply rooted in Italian culture. It’s a great way to relax, enjoy a spritz, and mingle with locals. Don’t miss out on this delightful ritual.
Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.