What Not to Do in Italy – 21 Things to Avoid as A Tourist
Ever wondered what not to do when visiting Italy? If you want to avoid some embarrassment, this post is for you!
Being aware of the cultural norms and avoiding common mistakes can definitely make your trip more enjoyable.
As someone who is of Italian descent, I know how quickly some Italians get offended.
While most are pretty laid back, Italians do have their quirks. And sometimes it’s the oddest things that will set them off into a rant.
So when we brought our kids to Italy for the first time, we made sure to cover some of these topics beforehand.
Curious to learn more? Andiamo (let’s go)!
Travel Tips for What Not To Do In Italy
Most countries have unique cultural norms and ways of doing things that may not be what we are used to in North America.
So, if you want to avoid ruffling some feathers, it’s always a good idea to learn a few rules of etiquette before arriving at your destination.
1. Don’t Skip the Siesta
In many parts of Italy, especially in smaller towns and rural areas in the south, businesses shut down for a few hours in the afternoon for a siesta.
This break typically lasts from around 1 pm to 4 pm, which is usually the hottest part of the day.
Italians use this time for rest and relaxation. So don’t be surprised if shops, restaurants, and even some tourist sites close their doors.
Our suggestion is to plan your day around these times. Or, better yet, enjoy a leisurely lunch, some down time at the beach, or maybe even take a nap yourself!
2. Don’t Expect Early Dinners
Italian dining culture is different from what you might be used to. And I have to say, this was a little difficult for our family to adjust to.
Italians typically eat dinner quite late, often not until 8 pm or even later.
Our Italian relatives would often take us out for dinner during our trip to Sicily, and we would not sit down to eat until after 11 pm!
In fact, many restaurants won’t even open for dinner service until 7 pm!
If like us, you’re used to eating early, we would highly recommend enjoying a late-afternoon snack to tide you over.
Our youngest son, Mr. Bump, who was going through a major growth spurt on our last trip to Sicily, constantly felt like he was going die of starvation! 🙄
3. Don’t Tip Excessively
In Italy, tipping is not as customary as it is in North America.
Most servers are actually paid a living wage, so a small additional tip is appreciated but not expected.
If you do want to leave a tip, we would suggest rounding up the bill or leaving a few extra euros.
Excessive tipping can be seen as unnecessary and might even be refused by the staff.
4. Don’t Order a Cappuccino After 11 AM
I am actually guilty of this faux pas.
Italian coffee culture has its own set of unwritten rules. One of which is that cappuccinos are considered a breakfast drink.
Ordering a cappuccino after 11 am will definitely mark you as a tourist.
Italians typically switch to espresso or other types of coffee for the rest of the day.
So, if you want to blend in, enjoy your cappuccino in the morning and switch to an espresso in the afternoon.
And DEFINITELY don’t ask for a latte, unless you want a glass of plain milk! 😆
5. Don’t Cut Your Pasta With A Knife and Fork
For the love of Pete, DO NOT cut your pasta with a knife and fork!!
Pasta is an absolute staple in Italian cuisine, and there’s a right way to eat it.
While Nonna may not throw a slipper at you, expect some eye rolls, hand gestures, and choice words mumbled under the breath if you are caught doing this.
Instead, use a fork to twirl the pasta against the side of your plate or bowl. No spoon needed!
6. Don’t Touch the Produce at Markets
When visiting Italian markets, it’s important to remember that touching the produce is generally frowned upon.
Vendors prefer to handle the fruits and vegetables themselves to make sure that everything remains in good condition.
Instead of picking up and inspecting the produce, point to what you want, and the vendor will select and bag it for you.
This often goes for items in small shops too. John and I once got an earful for trying on a t-shirt in a shop in Napoli, and then deciding not to buy it!
7. Don’t Assume Everyone Speaks English
While many Italians, especially in tourist areas, speak some English, it’s a mistake to assume everyone does.
We found there were very few people in Sicily who knew more than a few basic words in English. Lucky for me, John is fluent in Italian!
Making an effort to learn a few basic Italian phrases can go a long way in making your interactions much smoother.
While I have an excellent understanding of spoken Italian, I can’t speak it to save my life!
However, I do make the effort to practice simple greetings, please, thank you, and asking if someone speaks English.
Most locals appreciate the effort, even if your Italian isn’t perfect.
8. Don’t Dress Inappropriately When Visiting Churches
Italy is home to many beautiful churches and religious sites, which often have strict dress codes.
When visiting these places, please make sure that you dress modestly.
This means covering your shoulders, knees, and sometimes your head.
While we were touring Italy, I made sure to keep a shawl in my purse, as well as a pull-on skirt that I could slip over my shorts.
Many Italians are quite religious, so not dressing appropriately in church will ruffle some feathers.
9. Don’t Forget to Validate Your Train Ticket
Before boarding a train in Italy, you must validate your ticket at one of the small machines located on the platforms.
This was an easy rule to remember since it is the same in Germany (where we always travel by train).
Just remember, failing to validate your ticket can result in a hefty fine, even if you have a valid ticket.
The process isn’t difficult either. Just insert your ticket into the machine, and it will stamp it with the date and time.
This confirms that your ticket is in use for that specific journey.
10. Don’t Ignore Local Traffic Rules
Driving in Italy can be quite different from what you might be used to.
In fact, John and I flat out refuse to rent a car when travelling in Sicily!
Local traffic rules and signs can be a lot different than you may be used to in North America.
So it’s important to familiarize yourself with them before hitting the road.
Pay especially close attention to ZTL – Zona Traffico Limitato – or limited traffic zones. These areas are restricted to residents and permit holders.
If you are caught in one of these zones, the fines are often hefty and can lead to a stressful experience.
11. Don’t Skip Reservations for Popular Sites
Italy’s iconic landmarks and museums can get very crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons.
To avoid long lines and ensure you get to see everything on your list, it’s wise to make reservations in advance.
This is particularly true for places like the Vatican Museums, the Colosseum, and the Uffizi Gallery.
I remember seeing the lines to get into the Vatican during our visit to Rome. They wrapped halfway around St. Peter’s Square by mid-morning!
Booking ahead can definitely save you time and guarantee your spot.
12. Don’t Sit Down at a Café Without Ordering
In many Italian cafés, it’s customary to order at the counter before taking a seat.
Sitting down without ordering can be seen as rude.
Once you’ve made your purchase, feel free to sit and enjoy your drink or snack.
And just a heads up, in more popular tourist destinations, like St. Mark’s Square in Venice, the cafés will actually charge you a ‘seating fee’ or a ‘music fee’ (for listening to the orchestra playing).
13. Don’t Expect Fast Service
Italian dining is a leisurely affair, and you shouldn’t expect fast service.
Meals are meant to be enjoyed slowly, with time to savour the food and enjoy the conversation.
Don’t be surprised if your waiter doesn’t rush over to take your order or bring the check immediately.
In fact, for the most part we needed to ask the waiter for our check. Don’t expect it to be brought out otherwise!
14. Don’t Rush Your Meals
And as a continuation of the above rule, meals in Italy are an important social activity and are meant to be enjoyed without hurry.
Italians take their time to appreciate each course and engage in conversation.
Rushing through your meal is not only seen as impolite but also means you’re missing out on the full culinary experience.
Our best advice is to take your time, relax, and enjoy each bite.
15. Don’t Expect Free Water at Restaurants
Unlike in North America, tap water is not usually served for free in Italian restaurants.
You’ll typically be asked if you prefer still or sparkling water, which comes in bottles and is added to your bill.
If you ask for tap water, prepare for some really nasty looks!
Italians are very particular about their food. And to pair a fantastic meal with tap water is seen as a total travesty!
So, just be prepared to pay for your water and enjoy it as part of your dining experience.
16. Don’t Assume All Gelato is the Same
Gelato is a must-try in Italy. Period.
But do not get lulled into the idea that all gelato is created equal.
Take it from us, we ate gelato at least once (and sometimes twice) every night for the entire two weeks we were in Sicily! The kids actually turned it into a challenge!
And the family who ran our favourite gelateria (Gelateria Vernaci), actually began greeting us by name! Ha!
Artisanal gelaterias use fresh, high-quality ingredients and often display their gelato in covered containers to maintain the right temperature.
Avoid brightly coloured gelato or gelato piled high in tubs, as these are signs of artificial additives and low-quality gelato.
Instead, look for places where the locals go, and where gelato with natural colours and seasonal flavours is being served.
17. Don’t Forget to Carry Cash
While credit cards are widely accepted in larger cities and tourist areas, cash is still king in many parts of Italy.
Small businesses, markets, and rural areas often prefer cash transactions.
It’s a good idea to carry euros with you to avoid any inconvenience.
ATMs are readily available, but having some cash on hand will ensure smooth transactions throughout your trip.
18. Don’t Misuse Italian Hand Gestures
Hand gestures are an important part of communication in Italy.
The running joke is that the only way to stop an Italian from talking, is to tie their hands behind their backs!
And trust me, that’s not far from the truth! 🤣🤣
But hand gestures can be easily misunderstood.
Just be aware, that some gestures that are harmless in North America might be offensive in Italy.
It’s best to watch and learn the common gestures used by locals.
And if you’re unsure, it’s safer to use words to express yourself rather than risk a miscommunication.
19. Don’t Overlook Public Drinking Fountains
Italy has many public drinking fountains, known as “nasoni” in Rome, which provide clean, safe, and free drinking water.
These fountains are a great way to stay hydrated without spending money on bottled water, which can often be more costly than a bottle of wine!
You can fill up your water bottle at these fountains, which are usually located in city centers and parks.
We found the fountains to be pretty convenient and often made use of them during our trip to Italy.
20. Don’t Miss Out on Local Festivals
Italy is known for its incredible, and often extravagant, local festivals.
The festivals celebrate everything from food and wine to historical events and religious holidays and take place throughout the year.
We definitely think that participating in these festivals is an awesome way to experience Italian culture firsthand.
You can check local calendars, websites, or postings at the town hall for events happening during your visit.
21. Don’t Forget to Dress Up in the Evenings
In Italy, evening outings are a time to dress up a bit.
Whether you’re going out for dinner, an aperitivo, or a stroll, Italians tend to put more effort into their evening attire.
Casual wear like shorts and flip-flops are generally not suitable. Instead, opt for smart-casual clothing to blend in.
Our Italian family would often get all dolled up to go for a pizza dinner!
We always make sure to have some dressier clothes packed for our trips to Italy, because we know that we will inevitably need them.
what Not to Do in Italy As A Tourist – Final Thoughts
So there you have it, some of Italy’s most interesting cultural quirks and rules.
As someone who knows Italian culture well, I can tell you that following these tips will help you fit right in, and feel like a local in no time!
Showing respect and good behaviour goes a long way in Italy.
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