Italy moves on unspoken rules and long‑standing habits. The ten things not to do in Italy are mostly about small courtesies—how you order, how you greet, and how you handle day‑to‑day travel. With a few local etiquette and tips in your back pocket, you’ll slip into the rhythm without any fuss.
Things to avoid in Italy
In Italy, like any other country, there are certain behaviours that might be considered rude or disrespectful.
Don't overtip or undertip
Tipping in Italy isn’t expected the way it is in the US. On the bill, you may spot a coperto (cover charge) or a servizio line, which is essentially an Italian restaurant's service charge rather than a tip you must add. Card machines sometimes prompt for a tip; if servizio is included, feel free to skip it, but staff are sure to appreciate a bit more dollar.
Do this instead:
- Round up to the nearest euro or leave 5–10% for exceptional service.
- In bars and cafés, leave small change.
Don't order a cappuccino after lunch
In Italian coffee culture, ordering a cappuccino after 11 does raise eyebrows. After a meal, most people switch to a caffè (espresso) or a caffè macchiato. Prices also change depending on al banco vs al tavolo—standing at the bar is cheaper than table service.
Do this instead
- Morning: cappuccino or latte macchiato with a pastry.
- After lunch or dinner: caffè, macchiato, or deca/decaffeinato if you’re sensitive to caffeine.
Don’t put cheese on seafood pasta
As a rule of Italian food etiquette, cheese and fish don’t mix. Asking for Parmesan on a classic Italian pasta dish of linguine alle vongole will get you a polite “no.” When it comes to seafood pasta, Italy keeps things clean and simple—garlic, oil, parsley, maybe a touch of chilli. There are a few regional twists like Sicily’s pasta con le sarde, but they’re exceptions to broader Italian dining rules.
Do this instead
- If you’re unsure, ask: “Va bene il formaggio?” If the answer’s no, trust the chef’s pairing.
Don’t cut your spaghetti
Good pasta etiquette means a fork and a bit of wrist action—no spoon needed. It’s also part of Italian table manners to use a knife only for dishes like lasagne, while short shapes like penne and rigatoni, are just eaten with a fork.
Do this instead
- Twirl a small amount of spaghetti against the plate until it’s neatly wrapped, then bite.
Don’t rely on risky hand gestures
Italian hand gestures are famous, but not all of them mean what you think. In terms of Italian body language, the chin flick reads as “I don’t care,” and the “horns” can be insulting.
Do this instead
- Use words: buongiorno/buonasera, per favore, grazie, scusi. A smile goes a long way.
Don’t dress casually in churches and sacred sites
When it comes to church dress code, Italy is fairly consistent. Cover shoulders and knees, speak quietly, hats off for men, and no flash photography. If you’re visiting the Vatican, what to wear is even more closely checked, with bag scans at major basilicas.
Do this instead
- Carry a light scarf or shawl in summer and pop it over your shoulders when needed.
Don’t assume everyone speaks English
Do people speak English in Italy? In big cities and tourist zones, often yes, but in smaller towns, less so. A handful of basic Italian phrases for travel or learning a bit of Italian while in the country goes a long way and shows respect for Italian etiquette for tourists.
Do this instead
- Learn and use: buongiorno/buonasera, per favore, grazie, prego, scusi/scusa, il conto per favore, un biglietto per…, dov’è…?
- Speak slowly, keep sentences simple, and be patient.
Don’t expect rigid punctuality—or 24/7 opening
Build in a little slack. Regional trains and buses can run late, Italy transport strikes pop up, and many shops still keep traditional hours. August brings 'ferragosto' closures across the country, the equivalent of bank holidays.
Do this instead
- Check opening hours and the venue’s site.
- Validate tickets in the small machines marked convalida before boarding to avoid fines.
- Build a little buffer into travel days and follow local transport accounts for updates.
Don’t lean on stereotypes
Sweeping clichés about Italy tend to land badly and feel reductive. Italy is a patchwork of regions with their own histories, languages and customs, so people appreciate curious, specific chat over broad-brush labels.
Do this instead
- Ask about regional food traditions and seasonal dishes.
- Talk wine, coffee habits, neighbourhood markets or bakeries.
Don’t hail a taxi like in the films
In most Italian cities, you don’t flag taxis in the street. Use taxi ranks by stations, big piazzas, airports, phone a central number, or use an app. Uber exists in some cities, but it is often Uber Black (more expensive). Licensed taxis should have a meter and ID.
Do this instead
- Look for “TAXI” ranks. If using an app, try itTaxi, appTaxi or FREE NOW, where available.
- Check there’s a working meter; ask for a receipt. Expect night, weekend or airport surcharges.
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