A Travel Guide to Italy for First Time Visitors

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Travel Tips Europe Italy

Italy is, by far, the European Country requested the most by my clients. Italy is a dream destination. However, there are a few essential things that most Italians want you to know for you visit.

Here is our list of the top 10 ways to blend right into Italian Culture:

1. Slow down - you will NOT see it all

Trust me, the reason so many tourists visit Italy each year is because there is so much beauty to see and experience: the incredible art and architecture, fantastic food, fabulous wines, museums, and culture galore! Your visit will not be enough time to see everything. So, please slow down, take it all in, and appreciate what you DO see. Then plan your return visit to Italy!

2. Dress more conservatively

Churches and restaurants in Italy have dress codes. Some cathedrals, including the Vatican, will not let you enter if your shoulders and knees are not covered. Nicer restaurants will not let you in with shorts, flip-flops, or other casual clothing you might bring on vacation. So unless you are spending the day on a beautiful Italian beach, cover up.

3. Cappuccinos and café lattes are morning-only drinks

Coffee is deeply rooted in Italian culture. When in Italy, avoid these coffee faux pas. Italians never order coffees with milk after mid-morning. Don’t ask for an espresso – that is the default when you ask for un caffè. Keep it simple; don’t order a fancy mint mocha frappuccino with soy milk. Enjoy your coffee standing up at the bar; there is no coffee-to-go.

4. Simplify your schedule

Leave time in your day to wander around and experience the real Italy. If you just get a couple of blocks away from some of the most famous tourist sites, real Italian life is in front of you. Stop into a neighborhood café for a glass of wine or a coffee. Maybe enjoy a gelato with the locals.

5. You need to call for a taxi or go to an actual taxi stand

You cannot just hail a taxi off the street in Italy. Many Italian taxi drivers get their entertainment from watching tourists try to do so! Also, the busses, subways, trains, and boats are remarkably efficient and manage to get millions of Italians where they need to go every day.

6. Italian is the official language of Italy

I know this seems obvious. But many Americans still go to other countries expecting everyone to speak English fluently. It’s a good idea to learn a few phrases. Italians appreciate your attempts. You’ll be surprised how much goodwill a few Italian words will get you.

7. Italians are late eaters

Dinner is not served earlier than 8:00 pm. Showing up at a restaurant before 7:30 will get you a view of the staff having their own pre-service meal and an empty dining room! If you are traveling to Italy with children, plan ahead with lots of snacks.

8. Speaking of restaurants, slow service is good service

Italians have a passion for long, leisurely meals. When you take a table for a meal, it is yours for as long as you want it. Servers are not trying to “turn tables.” Italians enjoy their mealtimes and are not in a rush to dash off to a movie or other event. Dinner is the event! Relax and go with the slow flow. And you must ask for the check when you are ready to leave. Bringing your bill before you ask is considered rude because they don’t want to rush you.

9. Everyone in Italy doesn’t want to kiss you

Italians are very welcoming people, but there is a certain etiquette for reaching out and saying hello! You will see friends, family, and even acquaintances kissing each other on the cheeks and saying “Ciao.” However, as a stranger, it is a little bit “overboard.” When you meet an Italian, take their lead. A smile and a firm handshake are the most appropriate until you know them a little better.

10. Smile!

You are in a country that has welcomed and inspired visitors for centuries! Enjoy the people, the beauty, the art, music & literature. The Italians will be happy to share a smile with you, and you will return home already planning your return trip in your mind!

We specialize in custom-crafted Italian vacations! Let us help you plan your next Italian adventure to put these newly learned skills to use!