Italy is a dream destination for travelers worldwide, with its Renaissance cities, Mediterranean coastlines, rolling vineyards, and some of the most iconic food on earth. But while millions visit every year, many unknowingly break unspoken cultural rules that locals hold dear. From simple etiquette slip-ups to dining taboos, these mistakes can leave you with awkward encounters, poor service, or even offended hosts.
Understanding what not to do in Italy isn’t about overthinking your trip—it’s about showing respect for a culture deeply rooted in tradition, beauty, and pride. Italians have their own rhythm and rules, from when to drink cappuccino to how to cross the street in Rome’s chaotic traffic. Some of these may seem surprising or even trivial to travelers, but they’re part of what makes Italy Italy.
This guide will walk you through 20 things to avoid when visiting Italy, so you can travel confidently, respectfully, and with a deeper connection to the places and people you encounter. Because Italy isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience best enjoyed when you understand its nuances.
Read Here Things to know before visiting Italy and how to buy a sim card in Italy
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Quick & Easy Tips
Don’t ask for substitutions in restaurants – Italians see their dishes as perfected and changing them can be offensive to the chef.
Never touch produce at markets – Always let the vendor pick fruit or vegetables for you.
Don’t rush your meals – Dining in Italy is a social ritual; eat slowly and savor each course without asking for the check too quickly.
Many travelers arrive in Italy expecting a destination that caters entirely to tourism, but what they find instead is a country deeply protective of its traditions and cultural norms. Critics argue that while Italy thrives on tourism economically, it struggles with cultural dilution, as mass tourism often ignores local customs in favor of convenience. For example, travelers wandering shirtless through historic cities or ordering cappuccino with dinner unknowingly signal disrespect in Italian eyes.
Another controversial aspect is food tourism. Social media has fueled a rise in travelers treating Italy’s food culture like a checklist rather than an art form to be respected. Ordering pineapple pizza or asking for parmesan on seafood pasta may seem harmless, but for Italians, it’s a sign that travelers don’t care to understand their culinary identity. Some chefs have even refused service to protect their traditional recipes from being altered for tourist preferences.
Finally, there’s the unspoken expectation of presentability. Many Americans, Australians, or British travelers are shocked by how Italians judge appearance in daily life. Wearing beach clothes in city streets, loud flip-flops in churches, or sports shorts to dinner often sparks silent disapproval. Critics argue it’s elitist, while others say it’s simply cultural pride and self-respect. Either way, ignoring these norms risks branding you as “that tourist” wherever you go.
Things not to do in Italy
1. Don’t Rush Through Meals
Why: Meals in Italy are social, leisurely experiences meant to be enjoyed. Rushing through a meal is seen as disrespectful to the food and the tradition.
Tip: Embrace the Italian pace and enjoy each course. Italians typically linger over their meals, and waiters won’t bring the check until you ask for it (“Il conto, per favore”).
Read here the best Italian Food
2. Don’t Order Cappuccino After 11:00 AM
Why: Cappuccino is considered a breakfast drink in Italy. Italians believe milk-based drinks are harder to digest after a meal.
Tip: Order an espresso after lunch or dinner if you want coffee. Italians typically drink espresso at all times of day, especially after meals.
3. Don’t Expect Italian-Style Pasta and Pizza in Tourist Traps
Why: In tourist-heavy areas, some restaurants cater to visitors with dishes that are less authentic.
Tip: Seek out trattorias or osterias where locals eat. Avoid restaurants with menus in multiple languages or overly enthusiastic staff trying to draw you in from the street.
Read here vegetarian food in Italy, best drinks in Italy and best breakfast in Italy
4. Don’t Touch Produce at Markets
Why: In Italian markets, it’s considered rude for customers to touch produce. Vendors prefer to pick it for you to ensure quality.
Tip: Tell the vendor what you need and how much, and they’ll select it for you. This is especially true for fruits, vegetables, and other perishables.
5. Don’t Expect Fast Service
Why: Italian service is intentionally unhurried, especially during meals, as Italians value quality time and don’t rush dining.
Tip: Be patient and enjoy the relaxed pace. You may need to call over the waiter if you need something, as they typically won’t hover around tables.
6. Don’t Dress Too Casually at Churches and Religious Sites
Why: Many churches and religious sites in Italy require modest dress, particularly in significant sites like the Vatican.
Tip: Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting churches. Bring a shawl or scarf if you’re wearing sleeveless attire.
7. Don’t Assume You’ll Get Tap Water
Why: In Italy, restaurants generally serve bottled water, either still (acqua naturale) or sparkling (acqua frizzante).
Tip: Politely ask for “acqua del rubinetto” if you prefer tap water, but don’t be surprised if bottled water is standard.
8. Don’t Tip Like in the U.S.
Why: Tipping is not customary in Italy as service charges are often included, and large tips may be considered unusual.
Tip: Rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount for exceptional service is common. If there’s a “coperto” (cover charge) on your bill, tipping is unnecessary.
9. Don’t Expect Dinner Before 8:00 PM
Why: Italians eat dinner later than in many other countries. Restaurants often open for dinner around 7:30 or 8:00 PM.
Tip: Adjust to the Italian dining schedule, and enjoy an aperitivo (pre-dinner drink) with snacks if you’re hungry earlier.
10. Don’t Assume All Italian Cuisine is the Same
Why: Italy has diverse regional cuisines, and dishes vary significantly by region.
Tip: Try local specialties specific to the area you’re visiting. For example, try risotto in Milan, pasta alla Norma in Sicily, or bistecca alla Fiorentina in Florence.
11. Don’t Overuse Condiments (Especially Ketchup)
Why: Italians value the flavors of their food and rarely use condiments like ketchup, especially on pizza or pasta.
Tip: Avoid adding extra condiments, and enjoy the dish as it’s served. Asking for ketchup with pizza, for example, might raise eyebrows.
12. Don’t Expect to Split the Bill Equally
Why: Italians often pay individually rather than splitting the bill equally, and some restaurants may not offer separate checks.
Tip: If you’re dining with a group, be prepared to pay your portion. You can ask for “conto separato” (separate bills) if the restaurant allows it.
13. Don’t Walk Around in Beachwear Away from the Beach
Why: Walking around in swimwear or with a bare torso outside beach areas is generally seen as inappropriate, even in coastal towns.
Tip: Dress appropriately once you leave the beach, and cover up when visiting restaurants or other public places.
14. Don’t Misinterpret Italian Hand Gestures
Why: Italians are expressive with their hands, and certain gestures convey specific meanings that may differ from other cultures.
Tip: Observe and try to understand gestures before using them yourself, as some can have strong meanings.
15. Don’t Criticize Italian Football (Soccer)
Why: Football is a passion for Italians, and many are highly devoted to their teams.
Tip: If you discuss Italian football, keep comments respectful and light-hearted. Avoid comparing Italian teams negatively to others, as Italians are proud of their clubs.
16. Don’t Overpack Your Itinerary
Why: Italy is a country to be savored, and packing too much into each day can lead to burnout.
Tip: Slow down and allow time to enjoy each place. Italians believe in living “la dolce vita” (the sweet life), so take your time and savor the experience.
17. Don’t Expect to Find Big Breakfasts
Why: Italians typically have a light breakfast, often a coffee with a pastry.
Tip: If you’re a breakfast person, consider staying in a hotel that serves a more substantial breakfast or enjoy a larger lunch later in the day.
18. Don’t Ignore the Importance of Personal Space
Why: Italians are friendly, but they value personal space in public places.
Tip: Avoid standing too close to strangers, especially in lines or on public transport. Italians appreciate personal space, even in crowded settings.
19. Don’t Try to Enter Museums or Churches Without a Ticket
Why: Many museums, historic sites, and churches in Italy require tickets, and some have long lines.
Tip: Book tickets in advance, especially for popular sites like the Vatican Museums and the Colosseum, to avoid waiting and secure your entry.
20. Don’t Assume Everyone Drinks Wine with Every Meal
Why: While Italians love wine, they don’t always drink it with every meal, especially lunch.
Tip: Try different Italian wines when offered, but don’t feel obligated to have wine with every meal.
Final Thoughts
Traveling to Italy isn’t just about seeing the Colosseum, tossing coins in the Trevi Fountain, or tasting gelato in Florence. It’s about immersing yourself in a culture that lives and breathes through its food rituals, daily routines, and centuries-old etiquette. The more you observe and respect these unspoken rules, the more warmly you’ll be welcomed.
Yes, some customs may feel rigid or overly formal compared to what you’re used to. But Italy’s traditions are what keep its culture so beautifully intact despite waves of tourism. By learning what not to do, you’re not just avoiding embarrassment—you’re showing appreciation for a way of life that has been perfected over generations.
So as you plan your Italian getaway, remember that the most memorable experiences often come from slowing down, observing local rhythms, and embracing traditions with curiosity and humility. Because ultimately, Italy isn’t here to change for you—it invites you to step into its world, just as it is.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.
Treven
Monday 21st of April 2025
#18 is complete opposite. Please remove “Don’t “. Because I live here. Italians will get right up on you. Especially when boarding airplanes.