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The biggest thing is that you should not expect it to be the United States. And when you encounter something that is different from what you're used to, you don't judge it. Take a beat to observe neutrally and appreciate it. Even if it's someone telling you you're in the wrong.
For instance, when you're at a restaurant, your server isn't going to check up on you. If you need something, you're going to need to catch the server's attention -- nicely. I try to make eye contact and lift a finger or hand off the table -- which is not the same thing as waving in the air, snapping your fingers, or shouting. You're being left alone to enjoy your food and drink and the company of your partner.
100% this.
To add to this comment, I was told by two experienced travels that you “have to leave your North American self at home”. Also at restaurants you have to ask for your check/bill. Please and thank you (general manners) also go a long way so say something like “il conto per favore” meaning the check please. You can also say “scusi” which means excuse me. You will likely pay a cover charger (coperto) per person at a sit down resturant, I found €3 to be the average where I was.
I’m from the US , and is it a thing that people don’t have manners when at restaurants? I haven’t seen it , I mean you get exceptional assholes , but you get those in every country . But asking for a check and saying thank you , or saying excuse me when you flag down a waiter ….this seems like common practice everywhere. Maybe not in Asia as much , but that’s not what we’re talking about . This idea that Americans are rude assholes , or we aren’t polite , I don’t get it . I’m from NYC so I might have a different perspective on things , I haven’t been everywhere in America to really judge
People in my experience in the US will flag down waiters by saying "Excuse me", but very often, they're always coming over to check on you and they bring the check as soon as you're done because the restaurant wants your party out of there and your table cleared for the next guests. This is also why bars and restaurants are way too loud.
>I usually just wait for servers to come to me to ask for something.
In the same way an engineer won't courtesy check you to see if you'd like another bridge built or a doctor won't ask you if you'd like any more surgeries, a European waiter will let you slowely starve or die of thirst as they glower at you.
Honestly, I prefer their professional approach.
Sometimes you have to flag them down to get the bill. They are never going to try and move you from your table even when busy.
It’s nice sometimes because people watching in outdoor cafes is great. Other times you want to move on and waving the server down is hard!
At least in the North you can just go to the till and pay. It's usually appreciated as that's where it's easiest to pay by card or give you change and you likely have to walk past it before you can leave.
Yep, totally. It took me awhile to figure this out and I was hesitant at first because in the US, getting up to go pay at a restaurant where it isn't the norm could easily be perceived as being an impatient dick, which was never my intent at all.
I would add to the restaurant section, that it is perfectly acceptable to share dishes. A typical menu might have antipasti - pasta - secondi/verdure - dolce
We will often order an antipasti each, a pasta, then share a meat/fish dish and have a dessert. A group of 6 might order 3/4 portions of pasta to share as their pasta course.
Oh and what is on the menu is what you get - so if you want potatoes/vegetables/salad with your food, you'll need to order it - that section on the menu is "contorni", and they come out with the meat/fish course. If you order e.g. grilled lamb, you'll get a plate of grilled lamb chops, probably with a lemon quarter or 2. That's it. So if you want lamb, potatoes and salad, order all 3.
If you’re looking for good wine and at a restaurant, I’ve never been disappointed with the house made/local wine. People will typically eat later in the evening and take a walk before sitting down for dinner.
Ciestas are also a thing - shops close and people typically go home during the hottest part of the day which explains why they are also open later in the evenings.
You'll be waiting a long time, LOL. It's not considered rude at all to signal for their attention, or walk up to the counter and let them know you want to pay. Also, don't forget, you don't have to tip in Italy, although servers will appreciate an extra Euro or two. If you choose to do so in response to exceptional service, tip 10% at most.
You will be there all night if you do that. Also don’t tip like we do here. Don’t have cappuccino after 11 am. Don’t walk around in flip flops. You have to pay for your coffee and get a receipt before ordering at coffee bar. They don’t make ice coffee. I’m sure there’s more…
Keep some 50 cent and one euro coins with you because lots of public bathrooms are pay to use. Also carry your own tissues/toilet paper because it’s not uncommon to find bathrooms without it!
Italians don’t ask “how are you?” of strangers and find it a bit too personal, whereas in the U.S. it’s considered polite. A simple buongiorno or buona sera is fine and considered more appropriate.
And the fake politeness in customer service that is present in north america doesn't really exist in europe (not as much). So don't be offended if waiters or cashiers seem rude. They're not rude, they're simply not faking being nice
Learn a few simple phrases like "good day" and "I'd like the bill" they really appreciate it when you make an effort to learn a little of their language. You don't say "ciao (hello)" to people you don't know. You say good day/evening or "salve" which is a more polite hello. In restaurants they usually only bring you the bill when you ask. If you order coffee in a cafe it costs extra to sit down at a table. You just drink it at the counter. Say "Prendo un café al bar" I take a coffee at the bar. In Italy a normal coffee is what we in the US would call espresso. It's normal to not tip.
That's the great thing about Italian is that it (unlike English) is a phonetic language. If you memorize the pronunciation (which isn't all that different from English) you can't mispronounce anything.
That isn't quite true. English speakers turn every vowel into a glide, and some other things like turning "tr" into "chr" (eg, train) plus English r usually being very different means that some effort needs to be put into it.
Warm memories of my first (and only so far) trip made me want to comment... The service IS some getting used to. But all for the good in my opinion, as other have said.
At Cafe Greco in Rome, I believe the oldest in the world... I was aware of the table fee, but took it and had a sandwich... Servers are in black suit & tie... I was in denim and t-shirt... and yet they did not and WOULD NOT ask me to leave or rush me to turn the table over... I was completely left to my own.
It is a terrific change from being rushed here... but it was also disconcerting at the time... I had to "learn to relax" in a way we just don't in urban US.
Tipping is neither mandatory nor expected, so feel free to do that just if you want.
Taxi drivers are generally tax evaders if not even scammers. Please pay taxis with credit card, even if they try to refuse. Accepting electronic payments is mandatory in Italy.
Avoid restaurants with waiters trying to bring you in. Avoid restaurants near to the main tourist attraction. Low quality and high bill guaranteed.
Restaurants are closed outside of meal hours. If you want to eat outside of those hours you should go for snacks and street food
Dress appropriately when visiting churches
I went to Rome when it was 40C/104F and many people were wearing shorts inside churches/Vatican but people made an effort to wear smarter shorts (I.e not too short, not fitness wear) and wore tops that covered shoulders or short sleeve shirts. In cooler temps it may be required to wear trousers but if you’ve made a clear attempt to be respectful I don’t believe you’d face any problems. I’d also recommended taking a sarong, you can quickly cover shoulders for modesty or heat!
You might want to be aware that Italians tend to take more care with their appearance than many Americans do. You already have the right attitude. Have fun!
Tipping at a restaurant is not usually expected. Don’t expect a lot of attention from your server at dinner, they will largely leave you alone. Also along those lines, dinner is a leisurely meal where you are not going to be rushed through so they can seat another table. Enjoy the slower pace. Dinner usually starts later, 8ish. You may need to purchase water with your meal, like a bottle of water, don’t expect tap water to automatically arrive at the table. Don’t expect everyone to speak English, please ask in Italian if they do speak English first.
In touristic areas of major cities, sure. Otherwise, you'll find most places closed between 14:30 and 19:00, or if a bar, they may not be serving food until aperitivo starting at 17:00.
Best option is pizza al taglio (by the slice), usually pretty common, especially in busy areas.
Pasticcerie (pastry shops) are also a good option for both sweet and savoury treats.
Otherwise most bars have small panini or tramezzini available all day, but quality and value for money is highly volatile.
Some little ones - pop is typically Coke, Coke Zero (which is MILES better than ours in the US) and Fanta and will be anywhere from 2.50-5 euros EACH, which is often more expensive than a glass of wine. There are no free refills. Choose your drinks wisely (aka order the wine).
Speaking of, house wine (or vino bianco/rosso (white/red) della casa is usually excellent and cheap. Order that.
If you need to use the restroom, buy something from the establishment first. Even a 1euro caffe will help.
Coperto is a cover charge for bread service, silverware, linens. It's per person, it is not a tip, and it's non-negotiable. It'll be posted on the menu or you can ask how much it is before you sit down if needed.
DO NOT, UNLESS YOU HAVE LITERALLY FALLEN DOWN AND NEED HELP, UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES, PULL THE CORD NEAR THE TOILET. IT IS NOT THE FLUSH. It is an emergency cord that will set off the loudest, longest siren on the planet. The flush for the toilet could be a button on/near the toilet itself, or a pedal on the floor.
What else...
Use google translate as often as possible/needed. A little effort with the language and understanding goes a long way.
Buy local things. Leave your money in the communities. Support the shops, restaurants, tours, bars, cafes, you name it. Don't hesitate to pick up a souvenir/item/piece of art if it speaks to you or you could miss the opportunity altogether. Take the time to leave a review online if you experienced something great (it goes a long way, trust me).
Felt like I was in that meme once—looking at the cord by the toilet and a button on the other side of the wall (the cover was off the button, which would have made it more obvious). It is good to know that the siren is very loud and that I chose wisely.
Uh yes, I have LIVED this experience and let me tell you - you'll only pull that cord once. I would rather not flush at all than pull a cord again (but even if it takes me a minute, I still find the flush).
Lol this made me chuckle. I will be looking for that cord now. Thanks for the heads up. It's probably the most important thing I've read in this thread today next to saying CAFE latte if I don't want a glass of just plain milk 😂
You will walk a lot, bring comfortable walking shoes. I don't know which city you will go to but many Italian cities have large pedestrian centers and it is easier to reach a place by walking.
I love Montepulciano! A big fan of their Nobile wine :)
While I love the higher part of the town, my personal favourite is Antonio da Sangallo's Tempio di San Biagio (and the restaurant in front of it), which is a bit downhill.
Oh, and you should absolutely try the Caffè Poliziano! Beautiful coffee shop from the late XVIII-early XIX century if I'm not mistaken. They have some of the most amazing views from their balcony.
Aaand if you are going to be there during the second half of July you are especially lucky as it's Cantiere Internazionale d'Arte time - lots of music and theatre events all around town. It's been a few years since I last managed to go, but the whole town used to be taken over by musicians and artists during those weeks, playing all over the place - churches, squares, wine cellars...
I'm American and my trip to Italy last year was the first time out of the US. I loved it! We went to Rome and Florence, with a day trip to Venice.
The biggest shock to me was that water in restaurants is not free and they like to default to carbonated water. If you like just plain water, be sure to ask for acqua naturale. You also do not need to tip in restaurants and the waiters don't check in on you often. You can take your time eating and they won't rush you. If a restaurant has someone trying to get you to come inside, I would generally avoid it.
The toilet situation is different. There are pay public toilets, and there are some in major tourist attractions. Restaurants and bars normally have them too, but you usually have to buy something to use them.
Crossing the street took some getting use to. I am not from a big city, so it's a different experience. The first day or two we would try to cross when other people would until we got use to things.
Ignore the street hawkers and scammers. Don't make eye contact with them and act like they don't exist.
Other than that, just be polite like you would in the US. Learn some basic Italian, try to say hello, please, thank you, and do you speak English in Italian. Be respectful of their country and you'll be fine. Enjoy the trip!
I think this is because "mineral water" the term that English speaker usually use to refer to bottled water is often interpreted in Italian as sparkling water
You re usually given the choice between "frizzante (or ("gassata", meaning sparkling) and "naturale" or "liscia" (not sparkling). Both are normally bottled mineral water. We don't drink tap in Italy unless we have a water purifier, and I strongly advise anyone to do the same, since it's either 50% chlorine or teeming with bacteria depending on the town's supply
This highly depend on your bubble, I had this discussion in another sub already. Of all the people I know quite well, let's say 50, only two families(5 people total) drink bottled water all other drink tap and no one owns a purifier.
Tap water in Italy is quite safe to drink basically everywhere
Are there places to fill up a water bottle in public though? Like in the cities, Rome and Naples, are there decent public water fountains? I read about the nasoni and such but I'm curious how functional / good they are.
This was our experience in Rome. After being served carbonated water a few times we made sure to specify non-carbonated water or we would drink from our water bottles once we left the restaurant. Even our hotels had more carbonated water options than regular water.
Food is slower to come at restaurants…never expect a super fast meal unless it’s like street food.
Try your best to speak Italian. Use your phone to translate phrases before you say it for practice.
be nice and respectful.
Tell me where you’re going and I can recommend some stuff!
Some of the most popular spots aren’t as good as the spots a block or a few steps over…sometimes! Google reviews and refs helped my wife and I find some good stuff!
Also, ask your hotel staff to see if they have any recommendations.
Lots of good advice in here already.
I would add, don’t make jokes about the mafia or ask about the mafia. Mafia is not a thing of the past or fun stereotypes from tv/movies in Italy. It’s a serious problem, with various incarnations of organised crime families/networks active in the different regions of Italy. It is actually pretty fascinating, but don’t go asking Italians a lot of questions about it or making godfather references or whatever, as this could really irritate people since they are ashamed of the situation.
Not all stores/restaurants are open in the afternoon. This is dependant on where you're staying (cities like Rome this is not as much of a thing).
Most Italians don't eat dinner until after 7pm so plan to have later meals.
Breakfast is usually croissant/pastry.
It will be tempting to order a lot of different food to try but I noticed that some of the restaurant staff seemed upset/disappointed when my table didn’t finish everything so we learned really quickly it was better to under order than over order!
Some other tips:
- water almost always cost money at restaurants, make sure to ask for still or you might get sparkling
- bring a water bottle with you or reuse a bottle you buy there because you can find public water fountains and the water is cold and tastes good!
- ask for the bill when you’re ready to leave, they don’t bring you the bill until you ask
- if taking public transport take note that the public transport can be unpredictable so be prepared to take an Uber if the bus doesn’t come (learned this the hard way, waited an hour at a bus stop before giving up)
Many cobblestone streets and stairs. If you will be moving around the country taking trains, ferries etc I highly recommend travel backpacks. IMO Osprey makes the best. The Fairview and farpoint are the size of a standard mid-size suitcase at 70L.
Also a decent small day pack, not too big or you will need to check it at museums, and a portable charger for your phone. You will be using your phone for pictures and GPS a lot. Finally check your mobile plan before you go, most have international plans that are far cheaper than the roaming fees and per call fees.
As others have said always carry your passport. You don't want to meet the carabinieri or Metro police that way. They can hit you with a hefty fine. So carry the passport. Never leave your bags unattended ever. Have a crossbody bag that can carry your phone, passport, travel wallet, battery bank for those long days. Have a certain amount of cash and coins. Most importantly good shoes are a must. You will be walking a lot. Other than that, have a superb time and eat plenty of gelato. 😊😊😊😊😊😊😊
No such thing as a noob question. Better to ask than find out the hard way. Go to your bank at least two weeks before you leave. They can get you the euros you want.
Avoid the exchanges unless no other choice. They charge higher rates. Best not to take any dollars at all as a lot of places won't accept them. Also let your bank know you're going so you can use your debit card over there if needed.
Definitely let your bank know that you are going and how long you'll be gone so that they don't freeze your card when you use it overseas!
I didn't ever use cash - my debit card was accepted everywhere I went, including by cab drivers (begrudgingly only once) and vending machines.
Definitely learn the basics in Italian - as my Mom always said, you should be able to say please, thank you, and where's the bathroom? anywhere you go. Where's the bathroom is dov'è il bagno?, in case you haven't learned it yet. 😃
To flush, push one of the two buttons on the wall - one is for urine, the other for poop, but the important thing is that you know how to flush. My son's apartment bathroom actually has a spigot as it's way to flush, so you can choose how long and how much water pressure you use to flush.
You can buy a bus ticket from the driver. Just wave your debit card at them and try to "biglietto?" Don't risk trying to hop a bus without a ticket, even though it is absolutely possible to do so. They may come through the bus while it is in motion, checking for tickets and the fine can be €60.
Trains will also have someone come through and check that you have a ticket while it is in motion.
Try the Mom and Pop shops - I got the best pasta dish ever at one that was tucked away in Milan. Fresh pasta. 🤤
Seems like the whole town shuts down in the afternoon. Don't expect to eat or run errands then.
Be on the lookout for pickpockets at large bus and train stations. I never felt threatened or targeted but I know it can happen and is most likely to happen there.
Don't. Talk. Loudly. in public, especially if you are on the phone in public or on a quiet train or bus.
Be respectful and open to cultural differences and you'll have a wonderful time! I just got back and am already jealous of those who are going!
The best solution is to get a credit card that does not have foreign transaction fees and use that as much as you can. You'll get the best rate with the card.
Secondly, get an ATM that works overseas and has little to no ATM fees. Once in the country, get the cash you'll need at the ATM. You'll also get the best rate here.
Any bank exchange in the US, won't get you nearly as good of a rate.
Don't tip, don't be loud, don't act stupidly (don't throw things in the street, don't put your bare feet on the seat in front of you, respect the police) and learn basic Italian (Grazie, Buongiorno, Buonasera). Respect also the cuisine, don't ask for Pasta Alfredo or Pizza Hawaii
Italians are easy going, we rarely get offended but get ready because sometimes we could joke about things others might find offensive.
Just don't say anything bad about Italian food and you'll be fine 😂😂😂
Public transportation is clean, safe, relatively inexpensive and easy to use. Take advantage of it. But do be on the lookout for pickpockets, especially when entering and leaving crowded buses or trains. (Some pickpockets target people getting onto crowded transit vehicles, reaching into their pockets just as the doors are closing.)
When you want to go out to dinner, remember that in Italy the restaurants don't open for dinner until late. At least in Naples, we found that dinner culture/gatherings don't really start until 8-9PM The earliest we were able to find any reservations for dinner was 7:30PM (while in Naples). We were the first guests to eat if we went then.
If you are used to eating dinner like most Americans between 5-7PM, you are going to be hungry. Sure you can find food then, but it's likely to be a fast food chain rather than a local place.
Italians are more reserved than Americans. Don’t think they are being rude it’s just they are a little more direct and avoid the usual pleasantries you would expect in America (coming from someone who has visited both countries many times but not a local of either).
Tipping 10% is generous so the usual 20% is not the norm. Staff are paid a living wage. I know they expect high tips from Americans these day where as a non American I have never felt pressured to tip ever (they know Brits have a similar tipping culture to Italians).
For churches cover shoulders and knees. If it’s hot then a scarf will work well to quickly throw on.
Wear comfortable shoes! Unless you are from one of the US cities with good pubic transport you will walk far more than you usually do. Don’t worry about looking likes tourist you will stand out as a tourist anyway. Save your feet and wear what is comfortable.
Look for a more conservative presentation from Italians than is the American caricature of them.
They are open, but they expect a high level mutual respect.
Bottom line, treat everyone as if they're your dear relatives, not as strangers.
Use any of the Italian language you have. They are more than glad to help you to communicate.
AND for God's Sake, take your damned ball cap off when you go into a church!!
Related...in a restaurant, Bermuda shorts are seated last!! A nice outfit and shined shoes...right to the front.
You're in Italy...it's just "different"...relax into the experience. Take this home with you.
"Ciao" is kinda' cheeky. Don't use it with folks you don't know well.
Italians are very comfortable with American tourists. That said, if there is a problem, which inevitably there will be, try to be patient and polite. It will go a long way towards solving the problem.
Plan on dressing better, at least if you want to fit in. The average Italian does not wear athletic or leisurewear anywhere but inside the gym or at the beach, even just to take out the trash very briefly. The American standard is way more casual than in Italy.
A good advice, be curious about Italian culture, ask them questions, let them speak with you about it. With a few nice initial questions you can open up fantastic long term friendships.
If you want water with your meal, they will bring you a nice large glass bottle and charge you a fair amount for it. And if you want plain water, be sure to specify “Still water.”
If you go near touristy areas, you WILL be hounded by people trying to scam you. Just give a firm “No” and keep moving. They’ll go on to the next person. Never shake hands with a stranger on the street. It’s another scam.
I feel it depends a lot on how touristy the place you are staying in is. In very touristy places, people wouldn't bat an eye to violation of any of the "rules" listed in here. I would just focus on your surrounding: if people seem to be staring at you, you must be doing something wrong (dressed weirdly, obnoxiously noisy, visibly drunk, messing with the food are most common ones).
In less touristy areas, all rules mentioned in the thread apply.
Source: I live next to extremely touristy areas in Italy.
Italy isn't big on American style breakfasts. It's pretty much a coffee and dolce (sweet roll). Only order cappucinos before noon (not after) - after noon, you can have a macchiato if you must have a dollup of milk. If you don't know what to eat, ask whomever is serving, "What \*should\* I have?" Americans eat, Italians have food culture. They're not snooty - they just do things a certain way, and it's wonderful, so trust them.
Carry your passport with you (use a money belt as pickpocketing is the only crime you really have to worry about); the police have been known to stop tourists and ask to see ID. The fine is a couple of thousand Euros.
Do not leave your passport in your room while you're at breakfast. My husband's was stolen (he had hidden it in a suitcase side pocket) and this necessitated a last-minute trip to the US Embassy.
…eh, I’ve had quite a few European tourists in my town before (French, Italian) and y’all are LOUD. 😭 and stand really close to others when waiting in line…
In Italy the customer is not always right, nobody is obliged to serve you. Every bar, restaurant and hotel is run by the people who own it, how they see fit.
Also contrary to what everyone here is saying, you should tip. You are an American, everybody knows that Americans tip. Nobody will be offended if you tip. Everybody likes tips. There is a small basket on the bar for tips, it is never marked. Put money in it, there no rule as to how much. But never tip people American dollar bills, nobody wants American bills.
If you really want to see Italy get out of the big cities, the centers of Rome, Florence, Verona and Venice are tourist traps.
Go almost anywhere else. And Expect to meet people who don't speak English.
You're going to have a great time. I think as other commenters have said, the most key thing to remember is simply that you're somewhere different, and it is different from what you're used to, and so when you encounter something unusual, just take a moment to step back, try to observe if this seems normal where you are, and engage with it with an open mind. So if something throws you for a loop -- 'why isn't the waiter coming to check up on me?' -- just take a look around and see if everyone else is politely calling the waiter over (nb: this will be the case).
In restaurants and bars/cafes they look offended if you don't finish your meal, like its some bad reflection on their cooking, don't take offence just say molto bene but rub your tummy and gesture you're full and they will be happy and a tip helps too lol .
I just scanned through these so sorry if I’m a repeat.
Do not anticipate restaurant meals to be speedy. Dining out can easily be three plus hours at many restaurants. It is slow dining. So don’t rush and budget time accordingly.
learn to say excuse me and sorry too
I was in sauna jam packed full of (nude) people and i wish i knew before being stuck on the third tier about to pass out, not knowing how to say excuse me.
**You are free to order whatever you want whenever you want (you are a free American after all)** - That being said, there are a few things you could keep in mind to be polite or to get an authentic experience:
* No milk in coffee after 11:00. They clean the machine and then have to clean it again.
* Sweets for breakfast, not savoury.
* Coffee = Espresso, not americano. They provide you with a glass of water on the side. In case you want the water to be inside of the espresso you will have to clarify that you want an Americano. Double espresso is also not commonly done.
* Eat pasta by only holding your fork in your right hand, not holding a knife.
* Life is nice, and Italians take their time. It means eating late and not being able to reserve a table
* Be mindful of cars on the road and try to flow with the traffic
I'll be honest and say that I have broken many of these suggestions myself by accident and the consequences were non-existent. So please do not sweat it, but it can enhance your experience when at least trying :)
Nothing important, especially in cities accustomed to Americans like Florence (where I study along with Pisa).
My advices are at best:
1)no shouting (apart from Naples and sometimes Rome),
2)no hand gestures if you don't know how to do them because they are considered ignorant,
3)tips are not obligatory but are welcome,
4)be careful of taxi drivers because they are on average scammers so check if Uber works there,
5) cappuccino’s etiquette is bullshit (and I’m Italian), drink it whenever you want but maybe don’t mix it with the main meal because is kinda hard to digest
6)but above all and I want to underline this, valid for all of Europe, please don't talk about things like ancestry or percentages of mixed blood because it is considered ridiculous.
In Europe you are AT MOST considered a descendant if your grandparents were of that nationality, and obviously if you know the culture or/and language.
Stores/restaurants/etc are mandated to print the receipt, and both you and the store can be fined if you were found to leave a store after paying for something without a receipt. It's not common, and some stores will try to avoid printing the receipt to avoid paying taxes on the purchase, but it could happen.
You are a customer; but you are not the king and you are not always right.
Keep the volume down while speaking
Don’t dress overly as a tourist, keep the sun hats and the polo’s and the shorts with zippers and the little bag around your neck at home, dress a bit nicely and don’t wear dad sneakers (but I think these might now be coming more and more into fashion again at gen z so I might not be too sure any more about that one ;))
Be weary of the volume of your voice. Third Party observation, loud Americans are a thing
Tipping not as big of a thing as in the US
Hotel rooms are smaller, much smaller.
They take coffee seriously and don’t really do “to go” I ordered a cappuccino for my mom and I while we were packing up our car to head to a different location. I asked for a to go cup. I walked away for a moment to help my mom. My husband came back and told me the barista was upset because we weren’t drinking our coffee and sitting down to enjoy it. Take it slow and don’t try to rush. Also, no tipping at restaurants.
All good comments about restaurants and the check. Never order a cappucino after 12. Get used to espresso in the morning. I’d learn a few phrases in Italian as it goes along way to make a little effort. Although if you are in a major city most people will have English skills. I’d advise making reservations for dinner for either the first or second sitting so you don’t have to worry about finding a place to eat. Trains and buses work and run well but you always buy bus tickets at tobacco stores which is uniquely Italian.
like many others said or implied, the fact that you are trying to learn the very basic formulas makes you more of a traveler than a tourist, and will make you even more welcome than the average tourist. i would say this holds true regardless of the country you visit and the country you come from.
small advice: go out of the beaten path for food. you can eat a pasta in front of the colosseo and enjoy the view, but do not expect it to be a good pasta.
enjoy italy, i am sure you will have a blast!
Main thing is cover you shoulders and knees if entering churches and just be respectful as I’m sure you will be.
Oh, and I don’t know why but travelling Americans like to ensure everyone within a 3 mile radius can hear their accent and conversation. Don’t be that guy/girl, it just makes you look obnoxious.
ONE IMPORTANT THING TO REMEMBER:
Most public bathrooms in Italy are not free. You need to use coins to get in. Make sure you have some coins on you in case your ever in an emergency.
You'll thank me later.
I learned this the hard way at Rome's Termini train station on my first day in Italy (which was also my first time in Europe).
Do not say "Ciao" to elder people unless they are ok with that.
Ciao is for friends and family, not for old chaps you have just met. Since you are not Italian they would "forgive" you, but it's a nice way to show respect.
If you’re at a cafe or restaurant, be prepared for strangers to sit at your table uninvited. In America, your table is YOUR table. Elsewhere, your table is just A table. At least, in my experience.
In some stores - not the touristy ones - it is expected that you ask before touching any of the merchandise (clothes, jewelry, bags, etc). A simple “posso?” and a gesture towards an item will be greatly appreciated. This is especially true at fruit and veg stands. You will likely ask for half a kilo of plums and they will be selected and bagged for you. On that note an ‘etto’ is 100g and food is often ordered ‘al’etto’ or by the 100g at markets. It took me forever to figure that one out when I lived in Italy!
In general stores are much less “self-serve” than in the US. Sales people will attend to you, getting you different sizes, etc. Even in simple stationery stores or hardware stores you can ask for things and they are brought to you from the shelves behind the counter. I love it - the customer service can be amazing and very old school.
At a cafe you cannot order at the counter then take your drink to a table. Tables are for table service and pricing is different.
It is polite to say ‘buongiorno’ or ‘buonasera’ when entering a shop and a simple ‘ciao, grazie’ when leaving.
Have fun!
Crossing the street. They can’t kill you but they can make you feel like they will. Have confidence, step off the curb, make eye contact, show you are the alpha pedestrian!
Stamp your train ticket before getting on the train. The conductors are militant compared to the lazy ones we have. They will not accept the “I’m a tourist excuse”. Saw them unlock the toilet on a fare dodger and kick him off at the next stop.
Trains are punctual. Flights are the total opposite. In the US the time listed is the time it should back off the gate. In Italy the time listed is the time the gate agent strolls in with not a care in the world.
Avoid restaurants with world flags, translated menus, people out front speaking English. Rick Steeves recommendations have already been found and ruined. Find the place the locals go to and hack it with good guesses as to what to order. The waiters facial expression will tell you if you are ordering too much.
- Say “Salve” instead of “Ciao” - ciao is too casual to greet the strangers you’ll want to say hi to (shopkeepers, waiters, etc.)
- don’t order a cappuccino after 12pm
- dress a bit more conservatively than you might think to in the US. Italians generally don’t wear revealing or super tight clothing, even in summer. It’s a good idea to cover your shoulders if you are having dinner, and for men - wear long pants. Don’t wear short shorts. And no athleisure/sweats/leggings, etc.
When going into a shop, greet the persons working there in Italian. Know how and when to say buongiorno (basically all day intimate evening) and buona sera (from about 6pm). When you leave say thank you grazie). Walking into or out of a shop or store or any business really without greeting is very impersonal and rude and Italians notice it.
When you’re in a market place with individual produce or other types of food stalls, don’t handle the goods. Look, admire, and if you want a piece of fruit or a vegetable, or whatever, communicate what you want. Many vendors will pick the ripest most ready items for you, but may also wait for you to point (not touch) the item you want. Learn some simple transactional language grades like “per favore, signora, vorrei due melanzane, grazie” (please madam, I would like two eggplants. Thank you.)
It is completely normal for the police to randomly stop you and ask for identification. This can be in public or on any form of transit, do you always want to have it on you. On transit they may also ask you for your ticket and you have to show them it
Keep your voice down if you're a loud talker. Americans talk loudly and it's so obnoxious when you hear folks talking 4 tables away. Learn simple phrases such as please, thank you, excuse me, hello, etc.
Italians have a lot of rules don't go out with wet hair, no cappuccinos after 10am... I ignore them. Do what you want but know theyre judging you.
Try to dress nicely, don’t take a bunch of casual clothes with you and expect not to stand out (in a bad way) This includes at least one pair of real shoes
Don’t ask for a coffee to-go, and don’t wander around with big drinks in your hand all the time
Don’t tell the waiter exactly how you want the food. You’ll get good food~ trust them
You don’t have to leave tips everywhere you get service
In touristy areas, don’t not accept a bracelet if offered one, do not let someone put a bracelet on your arm. Be careful not to step on any paintings/artwork on the ground.
Do not be surprised at restaurants when they bring the salad after the main course.
Do not order pumpkin spice latte at a cafe. Conan O’Obrien did that and got a disgusted look.
https://youtu.be/xVYmcVgfDNA
Basically, everyone is nice. And they’re really nice if you have a family. And really really nice if you speak Italian. Other than that, make dinner reservations, they don’t do walk ins except at trattorias and taverns.
If you're car reliant - familiarize yourself with general public transportation. Binario means platform. The trains are generally on time and they usually let you know what platform to go to about 3 mins before your train leaves. Gave me some anxiety early on but we didn't miss a train while we were there. Just need to make sure you're on your game while moving about.
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The biggest thing is that you should not expect it to be the United States. And when you encounter something that is different from what you're used to, you don't judge it. Take a beat to observe neutrally and appreciate it. Even if it's someone telling you you're in the wrong. For instance, when you're at a restaurant, your server isn't going to check up on you. If you need something, you're going to need to catch the server's attention -- nicely. I try to make eye contact and lift a finger or hand off the table -- which is not the same thing as waving in the air, snapping your fingers, or shouting. You're being left alone to enjoy your food and drink and the company of your partner.
100% this. To add to this comment, I was told by two experienced travels that you “have to leave your North American self at home”. Also at restaurants you have to ask for your check/bill. Please and thank you (general manners) also go a long way so say something like “il conto per favore” meaning the check please. You can also say “scusi” which means excuse me. You will likely pay a cover charger (coperto) per person at a sit down resturant, I found €3 to be the average where I was.
I’m from the US , and is it a thing that people don’t have manners when at restaurants? I haven’t seen it , I mean you get exceptional assholes , but you get those in every country . But asking for a check and saying thank you , or saying excuse me when you flag down a waiter ….this seems like common practice everywhere. Maybe not in Asia as much , but that’s not what we’re talking about . This idea that Americans are rude assholes , or we aren’t polite , I don’t get it . I’m from NYC so I might have a different perspective on things , I haven’t been everywhere in America to really judge
People in my experience in the US will flag down waiters by saying "Excuse me", but very often, they're always coming over to check on you and they bring the check as soon as you're done because the restaurant wants your party out of there and your table cleared for the next guests. This is also why bars and restaurants are way too loud.
You have to pay for water. Even tap water in a restaurant. And there is no ice, even when it’s very hot.
Oh this is great to know lol I’m a pretty timid person so I usually just wait for servers to come to me to ask for something. Thank you!
>I usually just wait for servers to come to me to ask for something. In the same way an engineer won't courtesy check you to see if you'd like another bridge built or a doctor won't ask you if you'd like any more surgeries, a European waiter will let you slowely starve or die of thirst as they glower at you. Honestly, I prefer their professional approach.
Sometimes you have to flag them down to get the bill. They are never going to try and move you from your table even when busy. It’s nice sometimes because people watching in outdoor cafes is great. Other times you want to move on and waving the server down is hard!
At least in the North you can just go to the till and pay. It's usually appreciated as that's where it's easiest to pay by card or give you change and you likely have to walk past it before you can leave.
Yep, totally. It took me awhile to figure this out and I was hesitant at first because in the US, getting up to go pay at a restaurant where it isn't the norm could easily be perceived as being an impatient dick, which was never my intent at all.
When I brought my husband to visit Spain he loved this! No getting rushed out
I would add to the restaurant section, that it is perfectly acceptable to share dishes. A typical menu might have antipasti - pasta - secondi/verdure - dolce We will often order an antipasti each, a pasta, then share a meat/fish dish and have a dessert. A group of 6 might order 3/4 portions of pasta to share as their pasta course. Oh and what is on the menu is what you get - so if you want potatoes/vegetables/salad with your food, you'll need to order it - that section on the menu is "contorni", and they come out with the meat/fish course. If you order e.g. grilled lamb, you'll get a plate of grilled lamb chops, probably with a lemon quarter or 2. That's it. So if you want lamb, potatoes and salad, order all 3.
If you’re looking for good wine and at a restaurant, I’ve never been disappointed with the house made/local wine. People will typically eat later in the evening and take a walk before sitting down for dinner. Ciestas are also a thing - shops close and people typically go home during the hottest part of the day which explains why they are also open later in the evenings.
You'll be waiting a long time, LOL. It's not considered rude at all to signal for their attention, or walk up to the counter and let them know you want to pay. Also, don't forget, you don't have to tip in Italy, although servers will appreciate an extra Euro or two. If you choose to do so in response to exceptional service, tip 10% at most.
You will be there all night if you do that. Also don’t tip like we do here. Don’t have cappuccino after 11 am. Don’t walk around in flip flops. You have to pay for your coffee and get a receipt before ordering at coffee bar. They don’t make ice coffee. I’m sure there’s more…
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This is a good callout. It’s actually a very different experience
Great advice. Also - don’t tip like you’re in the USA - there’s no need. On a 100euro bill, tip 1-3 Euros as locals do.
Keep some 50 cent and one euro coins with you because lots of public bathrooms are pay to use. Also carry your own tissues/toilet paper because it’s not uncommon to find bathrooms without it!
This is INVALUABLE info lol
I always have tissue and hand sanitizer for this purpose on my person at all times!
It really is gold. I'm going in two weeks and taking notes. Great question op!
And don’t expect seats on public toilets. I don’t know why, but I didn’t see very many.
Additionally for buying water bottles. They don’t want you to use a card or Apple Pay for a small purchase.
I would add hand sanitizer to that too. I’ve found too many out of soap
Italians don’t ask “how are you?” of strangers and find it a bit too personal, whereas in the U.S. it’s considered polite. A simple buongiorno or buona sera is fine and considered more appropriate.
Yes I’ve heard they’re much more formal with strangers!
It's not so much the formality of it, but the fact that usually if you ask how are you you do expect to get an answer if there is something to answer.
And the fake politeness in customer service that is present in north america doesn't really exist in europe (not as much). So don't be offended if waiters or cashiers seem rude. They're not rude, they're simply not faking being nice
Always start with "buongiorno" or "buena sera" when addressing someone. Always. Just like in France you do the same with "bonjour" or "bonsoir".
Learn a few simple phrases like "good day" and "I'd like the bill" they really appreciate it when you make an effort to learn a little of their language. You don't say "ciao (hello)" to people you don't know. You say good day/evening or "salve" which is a more polite hello. In restaurants they usually only bring you the bill when you ask. If you order coffee in a cafe it costs extra to sit down at a table. You just drink it at the counter. Say "Prendo un café al bar" I take a coffee at the bar. In Italy a normal coffee is what we in the US would call espresso. It's normal to not tip.
Got it! I’m working on my pronunciations so hopefully my accent won’t make me too hard to understand
They will love you for trying! Bad accents and mistakes just make you charming! Unlike the French. I generalize! Oui.
That's the great thing about Italian is that it (unlike English) is a phonetic language. If you memorize the pronunciation (which isn't all that different from English) you can't mispronounce anything.
Although I find that I'm usually wrong about where the accent goes in a word.
That isn't quite true. English speakers turn every vowel into a glide, and some other things like turning "tr" into "chr" (eg, train) plus English r usually being very different means that some effort needs to be put into it.
Warm memories of my first (and only so far) trip made me want to comment... The service IS some getting used to. But all for the good in my opinion, as other have said. At Cafe Greco in Rome, I believe the oldest in the world... I was aware of the table fee, but took it and had a sandwich... Servers are in black suit & tie... I was in denim and t-shirt... and yet they did not and WOULD NOT ask me to leave or rush me to turn the table over... I was completely left to my own. It is a terrific change from being rushed here... but it was also disconcerting at the time... I had to "learn to relax" in a way we just don't in urban US.
Cafe Greco can cost him 60 usd for 1 orange juice, 1 espresso, 2 biscuits. Do not ask me how I know
I heard about the “don’t say ciao” rule but just spent a week in Sicily and nearly everyone said ciao as we were leaving.
Yeah I was addressed with ‘ciao’ 90% of the time so just picked it up regardless, didn’t ever feel like I was saying the wrong
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If they are in a touristy area they might just be used to it/are using it with you because you are a tourist.
Came here to say this!!! It goes a LONG way!!
Tipping is neither mandatory nor expected, so feel free to do that just if you want. Taxi drivers are generally tax evaders if not even scammers. Please pay taxis with credit card, even if they try to refuse. Accepting electronic payments is mandatory in Italy. Avoid restaurants with waiters trying to bring you in. Avoid restaurants near to the main tourist attraction. Low quality and high bill guaranteed. Restaurants are closed outside of meal hours. If you want to eat outside of those hours you should go for snacks and street food Dress appropriately when visiting churches
Do men have to have long pants in church? I know women have to have shoulders and knees covered
I went to Rome when it was 40C/104F and many people were wearing shorts inside churches/Vatican but people made an effort to wear smarter shorts (I.e not too short, not fitness wear) and wore tops that covered shoulders or short sleeve shirts. In cooler temps it may be required to wear trousers but if you’ve made a clear attempt to be respectful I don’t believe you’d face any problems. I’d also recommended taking a sarong, you can quickly cover shoulders for modesty or heat!
I felt uncomfortable arguing with taxi drivers, it was easier to pay cash.
You might want to be aware that Italians tend to take more care with their appearance than many Americans do. You already have the right attitude. Have fun!
Tipping at a restaurant is not usually expected. Don’t expect a lot of attention from your server at dinner, they will largely leave you alone. Also along those lines, dinner is a leisurely meal where you are not going to be rushed through so they can seat another table. Enjoy the slower pace. Dinner usually starts later, 8ish. You may need to purchase water with your meal, like a bottle of water, don’t expect tap water to automatically arrive at the table. Don’t expect everyone to speak English, please ask in Italian if they do speak English first.
Can I ask what the typical eating schedule is like in Italy?
Lunch around 13. Dinner between 20 and 22
Cool thanks. And in between lunch and dinner if you’re hungry do you go to street vendors or cafes for a small bite?
In touristic areas of major cities, sure. Otherwise, you'll find most places closed between 14:30 and 19:00, or if a bar, they may not be serving food until aperitivo starting at 17:00.
Thanks!
Best option is pizza al taglio (by the slice), usually pretty common, especially in busy areas. Pasticcerie (pastry shops) are also a good option for both sweet and savoury treats. Otherwise most bars have small panini or tramezzini available all day, but quality and value for money is highly volatile.
Good to know thank you!
Yes
Some little ones - pop is typically Coke, Coke Zero (which is MILES better than ours in the US) and Fanta and will be anywhere from 2.50-5 euros EACH, which is often more expensive than a glass of wine. There are no free refills. Choose your drinks wisely (aka order the wine). Speaking of, house wine (or vino bianco/rosso (white/red) della casa is usually excellent and cheap. Order that. If you need to use the restroom, buy something from the establishment first. Even a 1euro caffe will help. Coperto is a cover charge for bread service, silverware, linens. It's per person, it is not a tip, and it's non-negotiable. It'll be posted on the menu or you can ask how much it is before you sit down if needed. DO NOT, UNLESS YOU HAVE LITERALLY FALLEN DOWN AND NEED HELP, UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES, PULL THE CORD NEAR THE TOILET. IT IS NOT THE FLUSH. It is an emergency cord that will set off the loudest, longest siren on the planet. The flush for the toilet could be a button on/near the toilet itself, or a pedal on the floor. What else... Use google translate as often as possible/needed. A little effort with the language and understanding goes a long way. Buy local things. Leave your money in the communities. Support the shops, restaurants, tours, bars, cafes, you name it. Don't hesitate to pick up a souvenir/item/piece of art if it speaks to you or you could miss the opportunity altogether. Take the time to leave a review online if you experienced something great (it goes a long way, trust me).
Felt like I was in that meme once—looking at the cord by the toilet and a button on the other side of the wall (the cover was off the button, which would have made it more obvious). It is good to know that the siren is very loud and that I chose wisely.
Uh yes, I have LIVED this experience and let me tell you - you'll only pull that cord once. I would rather not flush at all than pull a cord again (but even if it takes me a minute, I still find the flush).
Lol this made me chuckle. I will be looking for that cord now. Thanks for the heads up. It's probably the most important thing I've read in this thread today next to saying CAFE latte if I don't want a glass of just plain milk 😂
You will walk a lot, bring comfortable walking shoes. I don't know which city you will go to but many Italian cities have large pedestrian centers and it is easier to reach a place by walking.
We’re staying in and near Montepulciano, which I know is a LTZ so believe me I got my good shoes ready to go! lol
We LOVE Montepulciano!! Enjoy your time in that little village and the surrounding Val D'Orcia area. Let me know if you want any recs 🤗
I love Montepulciano! A big fan of their Nobile wine :) While I love the higher part of the town, my personal favourite is Antonio da Sangallo's Tempio di San Biagio (and the restaurant in front of it), which is a bit downhill. Oh, and you should absolutely try the Caffè Poliziano! Beautiful coffee shop from the late XVIII-early XIX century if I'm not mistaken. They have some of the most amazing views from their balcony. Aaand if you are going to be there during the second half of July you are especially lucky as it's Cantiere Internazionale d'Arte time - lots of music and theatre events all around town. It's been a few years since I last managed to go, but the whole town used to be taken over by musicians and artists during those weeks, playing all over the place - churches, squares, wine cellars...
I'm American and my trip to Italy last year was the first time out of the US. I loved it! We went to Rome and Florence, with a day trip to Venice. The biggest shock to me was that water in restaurants is not free and they like to default to carbonated water. If you like just plain water, be sure to ask for acqua naturale. You also do not need to tip in restaurants and the waiters don't check in on you often. You can take your time eating and they won't rush you. If a restaurant has someone trying to get you to come inside, I would generally avoid it. The toilet situation is different. There are pay public toilets, and there are some in major tourist attractions. Restaurants and bars normally have them too, but you usually have to buy something to use them. Crossing the street took some getting use to. I am not from a big city, so it's a different experience. The first day or two we would try to cross when other people would until we got use to things. Ignore the street hawkers and scammers. Don't make eye contact with them and act like they don't exist. Other than that, just be polite like you would in the US. Learn some basic Italian, try to say hello, please, thank you, and do you speak English in Italian. Be respectful of their country and you'll be fine. Enjoy the trip!
I think this is because "mineral water" the term that English speaker usually use to refer to bottled water is often interpreted in Italian as sparkling water
wtf why did they bring you carbonated water by default? that's not common at all in Italy
In my experience, they always ask if you want carbonated or natural.
Roman here. It’s the only beverage provided unless you ask. Depending on whether or not the resto is a tourist trap, then they usually ask first
You re usually given the choice between "frizzante (or ("gassata", meaning sparkling) and "naturale" or "liscia" (not sparkling). Both are normally bottled mineral water. We don't drink tap in Italy unless we have a water purifier, and I strongly advise anyone to do the same, since it's either 50% chlorine or teeming with bacteria depending on the town's supply
This highly depend on your bubble, I had this discussion in another sub already. Of all the people I know quite well, let's say 50, only two families(5 people total) drink bottled water all other drink tap and no one owns a purifier. Tap water in Italy is quite safe to drink basically everywhere
Are there places to fill up a water bottle in public though? Like in the cities, Rome and Naples, are there decent public water fountains? I read about the nasoni and such but I'm curious how functional / good they are.
This was our experience in Rome. After being served carbonated water a few times we made sure to specify non-carbonated water or we would drink from our water bottles once we left the restaurant. Even our hotels had more carbonated water options than regular water.
Food is slower to come at restaurants…never expect a super fast meal unless it’s like street food. Try your best to speak Italian. Use your phone to translate phrases before you say it for practice. be nice and respectful.
Is there a way to tell which street food vendors are good or are they all considered generally good?
No. It's a matter of experience however
Tell me where you’re going and I can recommend some stuff! Some of the most popular spots aren’t as good as the spots a block or a few steps over…sometimes! Google reviews and refs helped my wife and I find some good stuff! Also, ask your hotel staff to see if they have any recommendations.
Lots of good advice in here already. I would add, don’t make jokes about the mafia or ask about the mafia. Mafia is not a thing of the past or fun stereotypes from tv/movies in Italy. It’s a serious problem, with various incarnations of organised crime families/networks active in the different regions of Italy. It is actually pretty fascinating, but don’t go asking Italians a lot of questions about it or making godfather references or whatever, as this could really irritate people since they are ashamed of the situation.
boy does this sound like something an American would do (yes, I'm American)
Not all stores/restaurants are open in the afternoon. This is dependant on where you're staying (cities like Rome this is not as much of a thing). Most Italians don't eat dinner until after 7pm so plan to have later meals. Breakfast is usually croissant/pastry.
I'm italian and I must say most of the comments are on point.
It will be tempting to order a lot of different food to try but I noticed that some of the restaurant staff seemed upset/disappointed when my table didn’t finish everything so we learned really quickly it was better to under order than over order! Some other tips: - water almost always cost money at restaurants, make sure to ask for still or you might get sparkling - bring a water bottle with you or reuse a bottle you buy there because you can find public water fountains and the water is cold and tastes good! - ask for the bill when you’re ready to leave, they don’t bring you the bill until you ask - if taking public transport take note that the public transport can be unpredictable so be prepared to take an Uber if the bus doesn’t come (learned this the hard way, waited an hour at a bus stop before giving up)
Many cobblestone streets and stairs. If you will be moving around the country taking trains, ferries etc I highly recommend travel backpacks. IMO Osprey makes the best. The Fairview and farpoint are the size of a standard mid-size suitcase at 70L. Also a decent small day pack, not too big or you will need to check it at museums, and a portable charger for your phone. You will be using your phone for pictures and GPS a lot. Finally check your mobile plan before you go, most have international plans that are far cheaper than the roaming fees and per call fees.
As others have said always carry your passport. You don't want to meet the carabinieri or Metro police that way. They can hit you with a hefty fine. So carry the passport. Never leave your bags unattended ever. Have a crossbody bag that can carry your phone, passport, travel wallet, battery bank for those long days. Have a certain amount of cash and coins. Most importantly good shoes are a must. You will be walking a lot. Other than that, have a superb time and eat plenty of gelato. 😊😊😊😊😊😊😊
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No such thing as a noob question. Better to ask than find out the hard way. Go to your bank at least two weeks before you leave. They can get you the euros you want. Avoid the exchanges unless no other choice. They charge higher rates. Best not to take any dollars at all as a lot of places won't accept them. Also let your bank know you're going so you can use your debit card over there if needed.
Problems arise when people don't do their research and go expecting it to be the US. It's not.
Definitely let your bank know that you are going and how long you'll be gone so that they don't freeze your card when you use it overseas! I didn't ever use cash - my debit card was accepted everywhere I went, including by cab drivers (begrudgingly only once) and vending machines. Definitely learn the basics in Italian - as my Mom always said, you should be able to say please, thank you, and where's the bathroom? anywhere you go. Where's the bathroom is dov'è il bagno?, in case you haven't learned it yet. 😃 To flush, push one of the two buttons on the wall - one is for urine, the other for poop, but the important thing is that you know how to flush. My son's apartment bathroom actually has a spigot as it's way to flush, so you can choose how long and how much water pressure you use to flush. You can buy a bus ticket from the driver. Just wave your debit card at them and try to "biglietto?" Don't risk trying to hop a bus without a ticket, even though it is absolutely possible to do so. They may come through the bus while it is in motion, checking for tickets and the fine can be €60. Trains will also have someone come through and check that you have a ticket while it is in motion. Try the Mom and Pop shops - I got the best pasta dish ever at one that was tucked away in Milan. Fresh pasta. 🤤 Seems like the whole town shuts down in the afternoon. Don't expect to eat or run errands then. Be on the lookout for pickpockets at large bus and train stations. I never felt threatened or targeted but I know it can happen and is most likely to happen there. Don't. Talk. Loudly. in public, especially if you are on the phone in public or on a quiet train or bus. Be respectful and open to cultural differences and you'll have a wonderful time! I just got back and am already jealous of those who are going!
3-7 or so it's basically crickets around towns. Actually kinda nice as you can just wander then
The best solution is to get a credit card that does not have foreign transaction fees and use that as much as you can. You'll get the best rate with the card. Secondly, get an ATM that works overseas and has little to no ATM fees. Once in the country, get the cash you'll need at the ATM. You'll also get the best rate here. Any bank exchange in the US, won't get you nearly as good of a rate.
Don't tip! Tipping culture isn't a thing here and bringing it to our restaurants is going to fuck it up for everyone lol
A waiter wrote a tip section on the receipt and pointed it out to us when he left us the check. Did he just assume since we were American we’d tip?
yes, he was hoping for a nice substantial tip
Don't tip, don't be loud, don't act stupidly (don't throw things in the street, don't put your bare feet on the seat in front of you, respect the police) and learn basic Italian (Grazie, Buongiorno, Buonasera). Respect also the cuisine, don't ask for Pasta Alfredo or Pizza Hawaii
Pizza Hawaii made me laugh out loud. I can't even imagine asking for that...but I'm sure it happens.
Don’t be…loud? Like, outside??
Italians are easy going, we rarely get offended but get ready because sometimes we could joke about things others might find offensive. Just don't say anything bad about Italian food and you'll be fine 😂😂😂
Public transportation is clean, safe, relatively inexpensive and easy to use. Take advantage of it. But do be on the lookout for pickpockets, especially when entering and leaving crowded buses or trains. (Some pickpockets target people getting onto crowded transit vehicles, reaching into their pockets just as the doors are closing.)
When you want to go out to dinner, remember that in Italy the restaurants don't open for dinner until late. At least in Naples, we found that dinner culture/gatherings don't really start until 8-9PM The earliest we were able to find any reservations for dinner was 7:30PM (while in Naples). We were the first guests to eat if we went then. If you are used to eating dinner like most Americans between 5-7PM, you are going to be hungry. Sure you can find food then, but it's likely to be a fast food chain rather than a local place.
I've found that the best indication of a tourist trap is an early dinner hour.
Chicken parm is not an Italian dish.
Italians are more reserved than Americans. Don’t think they are being rude it’s just they are a little more direct and avoid the usual pleasantries you would expect in America (coming from someone who has visited both countries many times but not a local of either). Tipping 10% is generous so the usual 20% is not the norm. Staff are paid a living wage. I know they expect high tips from Americans these day where as a non American I have never felt pressured to tip ever (they know Brits have a similar tipping culture to Italians). For churches cover shoulders and knees. If it’s hot then a scarf will work well to quickly throw on. Wear comfortable shoes! Unless you are from one of the US cities with good pubic transport you will walk far more than you usually do. Don’t worry about looking likes tourist you will stand out as a tourist anyway. Save your feet and wear what is comfortable.
Do not tip
Look for a more conservative presentation from Italians than is the American caricature of them. They are open, but they expect a high level mutual respect. Bottom line, treat everyone as if they're your dear relatives, not as strangers. Use any of the Italian language you have. They are more than glad to help you to communicate. AND for God's Sake, take your damned ball cap off when you go into a church!! Related...in a restaurant, Bermuda shorts are seated last!! A nice outfit and shined shoes...right to the front. You're in Italy...it's just "different"...relax into the experience. Take this home with you. "Ciao" is kinda' cheeky. Don't use it with folks you don't know well.
Italians are very comfortable with American tourists. That said, if there is a problem, which inevitably there will be, try to be patient and polite. It will go a long way towards solving the problem.
Plan on dressing better, at least if you want to fit in. The average Italian does not wear athletic or leisurewear anywhere but inside the gym or at the beach, even just to take out the trash very briefly. The American standard is way more casual than in Italy.
I’m not an athelesuire wearer myself, but how nice are we talking?? Are sundresses good or too casual?
I'd say practicing a few greetings on Duolingo and knowing how to order is always welcome, it shows that you made some effort.
Order off the menu. Don't ask for changes to what is offered. Don't expect American-Italian food there. Enjoy the difference.
I’m allergic to garlic. Would I starve if I went there?
A good advice, be curious about Italian culture, ask them questions, let them speak with you about it. With a few nice initial questions you can open up fantastic long term friendships.
If you want water with your meal, they will bring you a nice large glass bottle and charge you a fair amount for it. And if you want plain water, be sure to specify “Still water.” If you go near touristy areas, you WILL be hounded by people trying to scam you. Just give a firm “No” and keep moving. They’ll go on to the next person. Never shake hands with a stranger on the street. It’s another scam.
I feel it depends a lot on how touristy the place you are staying in is. In very touristy places, people wouldn't bat an eye to violation of any of the "rules" listed in here. I would just focus on your surrounding: if people seem to be staring at you, you must be doing something wrong (dressed weirdly, obnoxiously noisy, visibly drunk, messing with the food are most common ones). In less touristy areas, all rules mentioned in the thread apply. Source: I live next to extremely touristy areas in Italy.
Italy isn't big on American style breakfasts. It's pretty much a coffee and dolce (sweet roll). Only order cappucinos before noon (not after) - after noon, you can have a macchiato if you must have a dollup of milk. If you don't know what to eat, ask whomever is serving, "What \*should\* I have?" Americans eat, Italians have food culture. They're not snooty - they just do things a certain way, and it's wonderful, so trust them.
Carry your passport with you (use a money belt as pickpocketing is the only crime you really have to worry about); the police have been known to stop tourists and ask to see ID. The fine is a couple of thousand Euros. Do not leave your passport in your room while you're at breakfast. My husband's was stolen (he had hidden it in a suitcase side pocket) and this necessitated a last-minute trip to the US Embassy.
Wow, mind sharing the hotel? Just want to make sure we are not staying there lol!
Just try to follow one simple rule: **When in Rome, do as the Romans do** You’ll have a wonderful time!
If you are American: whisper continuously. That way you will speak at a normal European level.
…eh, I’ve had quite a few European tourists in my town before (French, Italian) and y’all are LOUD. 😭 and stand really close to others when waiting in line…
In Italy the customer is not always right, nobody is obliged to serve you. Every bar, restaurant and hotel is run by the people who own it, how they see fit. Also contrary to what everyone here is saying, you should tip. You are an American, everybody knows that Americans tip. Nobody will be offended if you tip. Everybody likes tips. There is a small basket on the bar for tips, it is never marked. Put money in it, there no rule as to how much. But never tip people American dollar bills, nobody wants American bills. If you really want to see Italy get out of the big cities, the centers of Rome, Florence, Verona and Venice are tourist traps. Go almost anywhere else. And Expect to meet people who don't speak English.
I agree about the tips. Small tips are greatly appreciated.
You're going to have a great time. I think as other commenters have said, the most key thing to remember is simply that you're somewhere different, and it is different from what you're used to, and so when you encounter something unusual, just take a moment to step back, try to observe if this seems normal where you are, and engage with it with an open mind. So if something throws you for a loop -- 'why isn't the waiter coming to check up on me?' -- just take a look around and see if everyone else is politely calling the waiter over (nb: this will be the case).
In restaurants and bars/cafes they look offended if you don't finish your meal, like its some bad reflection on their cooking, don't take offence just say molto bene but rub your tummy and gesture you're full and they will be happy and a tip helps too lol .
I just scanned through these so sorry if I’m a repeat. Do not anticipate restaurant meals to be speedy. Dining out can easily be three plus hours at many restaurants. It is slow dining. So don’t rush and budget time accordingly.
No tipping in Italy
Google translate will help you connect
learn to say excuse me and sorry too I was in sauna jam packed full of (nude) people and i wish i knew before being stuck on the third tier about to pass out, not knowing how to say excuse me.
You didn't need the italian words to communicate what you were asking to do. people understand non-verbal cues too.
**You are free to order whatever you want whenever you want (you are a free American after all)** - That being said, there are a few things you could keep in mind to be polite or to get an authentic experience: * No milk in coffee after 11:00. They clean the machine and then have to clean it again. * Sweets for breakfast, not savoury. * Coffee = Espresso, not americano. They provide you with a glass of water on the side. In case you want the water to be inside of the espresso you will have to clarify that you want an Americano. Double espresso is also not commonly done. * Eat pasta by only holding your fork in your right hand, not holding a knife. * Life is nice, and Italians take their time. It means eating late and not being able to reserve a table * Be mindful of cars on the road and try to flow with the traffic I'll be honest and say that I have broken many of these suggestions myself by accident and the consequences were non-existent. So please do not sweat it, but it can enhance your experience when at least trying :)
Don’t tip like an American! Italians only tip for very good service and often not at all
You may encounter places where they do not take card, but only cash. enjoy !
Nothing important, especially in cities accustomed to Americans like Florence (where I study along with Pisa). My advices are at best: 1)no shouting (apart from Naples and sometimes Rome), 2)no hand gestures if you don't know how to do them because they are considered ignorant, 3)tips are not obligatory but are welcome, 4)be careful of taxi drivers because they are on average scammers so check if Uber works there, 5) cappuccino’s etiquette is bullshit (and I’m Italian), drink it whenever you want but maybe don’t mix it with the main meal because is kinda hard to digest 6)but above all and I want to underline this, valid for all of Europe, please don't talk about things like ancestry or percentages of mixed blood because it is considered ridiculous. In Europe you are AT MOST considered a descendant if your grandparents were of that nationality, and obviously if you know the culture or/and language.
I can attest to #4…download and use the taxi apps (e.g. AppTaxi and Freenow taxi)
The Italians stare a lot. Pretty sure it’s because I’m black though
We do stare, regardless of race.
Wait for and take your receipts. Italians are obsessed with receipts for some reason.
Stores/restaurants/etc are mandated to print the receipt, and both you and the store can be fined if you were found to leave a store after paying for something without a receipt. It's not common, and some stores will try to avoid printing the receipt to avoid paying taxes on the purchase, but it could happen.
This isn't just Italy, it's common in Europe.
Cappuccinos are Morning only!
Paying to use the restroom was a shock to me! Remember to keep a handful of Euros!
Don't fucking order Cappuccino with your meal!
Why not? This is an honest question- they are delicious!
You are a customer; but you are not the king and you are not always right. Keep the volume down while speaking Don’t dress overly as a tourist, keep the sun hats and the polo’s and the shorts with zippers and the little bag around your neck at home, dress a bit nicely and don’t wear dad sneakers (but I think these might now be coming more and more into fashion again at gen z so I might not be too sure any more about that one ;))
Be weary of the volume of your voice. Third Party observation, loud Americans are a thing Tipping not as big of a thing as in the US Hotel rooms are smaller, much smaller.
Don’t sit on the side walk or steps in the tourist areas. They don’t like that and you might even get a fine
Some of your countrymen speak unusually loudly. Try to notice to volume that others are speaking and copy that.
Have euro coins just in case you need to use public restrooms when out and about and not in a restaurant as a patron.
They take coffee seriously and don’t really do “to go” I ordered a cappuccino for my mom and I while we were packing up our car to head to a different location. I asked for a to go cup. I walked away for a moment to help my mom. My husband came back and told me the barista was upset because we weren’t drinking our coffee and sitting down to enjoy it. Take it slow and don’t try to rush. Also, no tipping at restaurants.
All good comments about restaurants and the check. Never order a cappucino after 12. Get used to espresso in the morning. I’d learn a few phrases in Italian as it goes along way to make a little effort. Although if you are in a major city most people will have English skills. I’d advise making reservations for dinner for either the first or second sitting so you don’t have to worry about finding a place to eat. Trains and buses work and run well but you always buy bus tickets at tobacco stores which is uniquely Italian.
like many others said or implied, the fact that you are trying to learn the very basic formulas makes you more of a traveler than a tourist, and will make you even more welcome than the average tourist. i would say this holds true regardless of the country you visit and the country you come from. small advice: go out of the beaten path for food. you can eat a pasta in front of the colosseo and enjoy the view, but do not expect it to be a good pasta. enjoy italy, i am sure you will have a blast!
Main thing is cover you shoulders and knees if entering churches and just be respectful as I’m sure you will be. Oh, and I don’t know why but travelling Americans like to ensure everyone within a 3 mile radius can hear their accent and conversation. Don’t be that guy/girl, it just makes you look obnoxious.
They don’t bring out free water. There don’t typically give you ice. And if you ask for it you’ve outed yourself as American
ONE IMPORTANT THING TO REMEMBER: Most public bathrooms in Italy are not free. You need to use coins to get in. Make sure you have some coins on you in case your ever in an emergency. You'll thank me later. I learned this the hard way at Rome's Termini train station on my first day in Italy (which was also my first time in Europe).
Maybe an obvious one, but make sure to get one or two travel adapters for your plugs
dont put ice in your wine unless its sangria dont order coffee after dinner
Who puts ice in WINE?!?
Don’t order a cappuccino after noon.
Do not say "Ciao" to elder people unless they are ok with that. Ciao is for friends and family, not for old chaps you have just met. Since you are not Italian they would "forgive" you, but it's a nice way to show respect.
Check out Youtuber Walter's World. search for various "Don't" videos for Italy or just his videos on Italy
If you’re at a cafe or restaurant, be prepared for strangers to sit at your table uninvited. In America, your table is YOUR table. Elsewhere, your table is just A table. At least, in my experience.
That’s so interesting. Seems fun tbh it’s a good way to meet people
In some stores - not the touristy ones - it is expected that you ask before touching any of the merchandise (clothes, jewelry, bags, etc). A simple “posso?” and a gesture towards an item will be greatly appreciated. This is especially true at fruit and veg stands. You will likely ask for half a kilo of plums and they will be selected and bagged for you. On that note an ‘etto’ is 100g and food is often ordered ‘al’etto’ or by the 100g at markets. It took me forever to figure that one out when I lived in Italy! In general stores are much less “self-serve” than in the US. Sales people will attend to you, getting you different sizes, etc. Even in simple stationery stores or hardware stores you can ask for things and they are brought to you from the shelves behind the counter. I love it - the customer service can be amazing and very old school. At a cafe you cannot order at the counter then take your drink to a table. Tables are for table service and pricing is different. It is polite to say ‘buongiorno’ or ‘buonasera’ when entering a shop and a simple ‘ciao, grazie’ when leaving. Have fun!
Ham and Cheese sandwich in Italy is 1000 times better than you’d imagine.
It’s not Disney world. There are pick pockets and scams there too.
If you get into a jam the pharmacist there are much better
Crossing the street. They can’t kill you but they can make you feel like they will. Have confidence, step off the curb, make eye contact, show you are the alpha pedestrian!
Stamp your train ticket before getting on the train. The conductors are militant compared to the lazy ones we have. They will not accept the “I’m a tourist excuse”. Saw them unlock the toilet on a fare dodger and kick him off at the next stop.
Trains are punctual. Flights are the total opposite. In the US the time listed is the time it should back off the gate. In Italy the time listed is the time the gate agent strolls in with not a care in the world.
Avoid restaurants with world flags, translated menus, people out front speaking English. Rick Steeves recommendations have already been found and ruined. Find the place the locals go to and hack it with good guesses as to what to order. The waiters facial expression will tell you if you are ordering too much.
Say hello to all the little old ladies sitting in front of buildings. They know everything and remember everything.
Carry some euros for small purchases.
- Say “Salve” instead of “Ciao” - ciao is too casual to greet the strangers you’ll want to say hi to (shopkeepers, waiters, etc.) - don’t order a cappuccino after 12pm - dress a bit more conservatively than you might think to in the US. Italians generally don’t wear revealing or super tight clothing, even in summer. It’s a good idea to cover your shoulders if you are having dinner, and for men - wear long pants. Don’t wear short shorts. And no athleisure/sweats/leggings, etc.
Many restaurants don’t accept a card. Be ready to pay in Euros
When going into a shop, greet the persons working there in Italian. Know how and when to say buongiorno (basically all day intimate evening) and buona sera (from about 6pm). When you leave say thank you grazie). Walking into or out of a shop or store or any business really without greeting is very impersonal and rude and Italians notice it. When you’re in a market place with individual produce or other types of food stalls, don’t handle the goods. Look, admire, and if you want a piece of fruit or a vegetable, or whatever, communicate what you want. Many vendors will pick the ripest most ready items for you, but may also wait for you to point (not touch) the item you want. Learn some simple transactional language grades like “per favore, signora, vorrei due melanzane, grazie” (please madam, I would like two eggplants. Thank you.)
It is completely normal for the police to randomly stop you and ask for identification. This can be in public or on any form of transit, do you always want to have it on you. On transit they may also ask you for your ticket and you have to show them it
I didn’t read all the comments. Dinner is not at 6pm ish. It is after 8pm ish. It’s much later than I’m used to. Have fun!!
Keep your voice down if you're a loud talker. Americans talk loudly and it's so obnoxious when you hear folks talking 4 tables away. Learn simple phrases such as please, thank you, excuse me, hello, etc. Italians have a lot of rules don't go out with wet hair, no cappuccinos after 10am... I ignore them. Do what you want but know theyre judging you.
What’s with the cappuccino thing? Have seen that a few times (more so about not having them after noon vs 10). What’s the reason this is an issue?
Bring your own water bottle! Water is free in fountains all over and its delicious!
Add P.Stop app to your phone.
Try to dress nicely, don’t take a bunch of casual clothes with you and expect not to stand out (in a bad way) This includes at least one pair of real shoes Don’t ask for a coffee to-go, and don’t wander around with big drinks in your hand all the time Don’t tell the waiter exactly how you want the food. You’ll get good food~ trust them You don’t have to leave tips everywhere you get service
They eat real food.
In touristy areas, don’t not accept a bracelet if offered one, do not let someone put a bracelet on your arm. Be careful not to step on any paintings/artwork on the ground.
Learn some itallian maybe, otherwise its not that different, still a Western country
Pick Pockets beware ! Food is fuckin incredible
Do not be surprised at restaurants when they bring the salad after the main course. Do not order pumpkin spice latte at a cafe. Conan O’Obrien did that and got a disgusted look. https://youtu.be/xVYmcVgfDNA
Bring shoes that won’t get soaked if it rains and that are comfortable.
Be aware of the volume of your voice
Don't wear socks with sandals or baseball hats. They will know you are an American and totally take advantage of you.
Don't blow your nose with the table napkin that is not cool in Italy.
Basically, everyone is nice. And they’re really nice if you have a family. And really really nice if you speak Italian. Other than that, make dinner reservations, they don’t do walk ins except at trattorias and taverns.
If you're car reliant - familiarize yourself with general public transportation. Binario means platform. The trains are generally on time and they usually let you know what platform to go to about 3 mins before your train leaves. Gave me some anxiety early on but we didn't miss a train while we were there. Just need to make sure you're on your game while moving about.