10 mistakes people make when traveling in Italy
10 mistakes people make when traveling in Italy
Traveling to Italy offers a unique experience, but there are common mistakes that can hinder your trip. Understanding local customs and practices is key to fully enjoying your time without unnecessary hassles. Here are 10 common errors travelers make when visiting Italy, and how to avoid them.
1. Dress Code Ignorance
Many tourists forget to dress appropriately when visiting Italian churches and religious sites. Wearing shorts or sleeveless tops can be seen as disrespectful in these sacred places. It’s best to wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees when entering such sites to show respect and avoid being turned away.
2. Mealtime Misunderstandings
Italy has specific meal times, and many restaurants close between lunch and dinner. Tourists often get frustrated when they find eateries closed in the late afternoon. It’s wise to plan your meals around typical Italian eating times—lunch around 1 PM to 2:30 PM and dinner from 7 PM to 10 PM.
3. Skipping Reservations
Italy’s famous landmarks and museums can get extremely crowded, especially during peak travel seasons. To ensure entry and avoid long lines, it’s advisable to book your tickets and tours in advance. This allows you to better plan your day and saves you from the disappointment of missing out.
4. Expecting Fast Service
In Italy, dining is considered an experience to be savored, and the service mirrors this philosophy. Don’t expect the quick meal turnovers common in other countries. Enjoy the slower pace, savor each dish, and embrace this aspect of Italian dining culture.
5. Neglecting Pedestrian Rules
Italian streets, particularly in older cities, can be narrow and bustling with scooters and bicycles. Tourists must be cautious and aware of their surroundings when walking. Always check for incoming vehicles even in pedestrian areas, as local drivers often navigate through small streets.
6. Assuming Everyone Speaks English
While many Italians in tourist areas speak English, do not assume this is the case everywhere. Learning a few basic Italian phrases for greeting and thanking can go a long way in showing respect and enhancing your interactions with locals.
7. Overlooking Smaller Towns
Many tourists stick to visiting major cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice and miss out on the charm of smaller towns. Exploring lesser-known areas can offer a more authentic and personal experience of Italy’s diverse culture and history.
8. Drinking Cappuccino Post-Morning
In Italian culture, cappuccino is considered a morning drink. Ordering one after 11 AM might earn you a puzzled look from the barista. Stick to espresso or other coffee types in the afternoon to blend in with the local coffee customs.
9. Tipping Misconceptions
In Italy, service is often included in your bill, known as “coperto”. Therefore, tipping a lot is not necessary and can sometimes lead to awkward situations. It’s enough to round up the bill or leave a small amount if the service was exceptional.
10. Touching Produce in Markets
When shopping in Italian markets, it’s important to remember not to touch the fruits and vegetables. Instead, ask the vendor to help you select the items you want. This respects the local shopping etiquette and prevents any uncomfortable moments.
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We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home. With over 10 years of experience in dating and traveling to romantic places, we share our favorite date ideas and romantic destinations to help couples level up their relationships. Having lived in and traveled through the USA, we also share our favourite things to do in the States.
With 70,000 monthly readers and 16,000 followers on social media, Be Right Back is your go-to resource for romantic trip ideas and couple activities at home and abroad.