Don’ts in Italy: Travel Advice

Don’ts in Italy – Essential Tips for a Smooth Journey

Italy’s stunning landscapes, rich history, and culinary delights enchant us. Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’ve been before, the sheer beauty of this country often leaves travelers in awe. However, like any destination, Italy has unique, quirky customs and etiquette that can be easily overlooked if you’re unprepared. There are tons of superstitions, too!

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The Unspoken Rules

While it’s tempting just to relax and go with the flow when you’re surrounded by such beauty, there are a few things you’ll want to avoid to make your trip even more enjoyable. Italian culture is full of unspoken rules, and knowing what not to do can save you from awkward situations and cultural missteps. Understanding the don’ts in Italy will help you navigate these cultural nuances.

What You Might Want to Consider

From navigating local customs to dining etiquette and transportation tips, understanding these “don’ts” will help you blend in like a local and make the most of your Italian adventure. Let’s dive into the key travel tips for what not to do in Italy—so you can enjoy all the Dolce Vita without the unexpected detours! So here is my researched list of don’ts in Italy, in no particular order:

• Don’t use “ciao” when first meeting someone. When you enter a store, start with “Buongiorno” (good morning) or “Buona Séra” (good afternoon/evening). Italians love it when you at least attempt to speak some Italian with them, even if it is apparent that you only know the basics.
• Try not to fall into tourist traps and only visit the “main attractions” in a town or city. There are many hidden gems in every Italian town. Seek them out.
• Don’t tip like in the States. It’s just not done here. Employees have a contract and are paid well. They don’t rely on tips to supplement their incomes, as they do in the States.
• By all means, don’t sit and have a picnic on monuments, historic steps, and fountains, or even inside museums. And above all, don’t forget to take your trash with you if you do.

• Ordering a cappuccino after noon is a sign you are a tourist. There is a reason Italians don’t order it after this time, and it has to do with milk restricting digestion – one of the key don’ts in Italy.
• Putting cheese on fish. It’s just not done. Italians believe that cheese takes away the flavor.
• Entering a home with an open umbrella or opening it once you’re inside. Italians are a very superstitious bunch.
• Putting bread upside down on the table. It’s again a superstition.

Now for the next set of Don’ts in Italy…

• Don’t forget to look both ways when crossing the street. It’s well known that drivers in Italy don’t always stop and wait for pedestrians to cross the street if they’re waiting at the crosswalk.
• Try to learn some Italian basics. Similar to greeting people, Italians love it when you at least attempt to speak some Italian with them, even if it is obvious that you only know the basics.
• Don’t talk about the Mafia. These are sensitive don’ts in Italy.
• Best not to bother being early to an appointment. Italians are often late.
• Don’t give an even number of flowers or chrysanthemums, they are associated with death.
• Italians eat dinner late – very late. Don’t expect to get a reservation before 7:00 PM.
• Discussing money matters is considered intrusive and impolite. Asking questions about personal finances should be avoided.
• Approach topics like religion and politics with caution and respect, as they are sensitive and personal subjects.

The last set of Don’ts in Italy…

• Never go out with wet hair. Italians seriously feel you risk getting a “colpo d’aria” – a “blast of air”. This is said to cause everything from a sore throat to indigestion.
• Be respectful and don’t wear tanktops or short shorts in churches. If you’re out and about, carry a scarf- even in the summer- and use it to cover your shoulders if you are asked.
• This was a new one for me. They say not to give knives or handkerchiefs as a gift as they denote sadness.
• Don’t point with your index finger and pinkie finger simultaneously. It has a vulgar meaning in Italy.
• Believe it or not, I’ve seen this in Italy. When driving… don’t turn right on a red light. It doesn’t exist here in Italia.
• Don’t leave your mobile phone ringer on in church. But I would have to say that pretty much is anywhere you visit.
• When it comes to spaghetti, don’t use a spoon to twirl your pasta. A spoon is for soup. Spaghetti can be wrapped around your fork using the edge of the plate.
• Don’t be surprised by less personal space. Italians are used to sitting close to one another.

And the last and most important one…

Don’t forget to have fun and immerse yourself in Italian culture. Visiting Italy is always a unique experience, no matter how many times you’ve visited and how long you’ve stayed. Enjoy your time, and try to experience the Italian culture as fully as possible. Following these don’ts in Italy can ensure a smoother experience. As the saying goes… “When in Rome, do as the Romans do.”

If this interests you… check out our post: 15 Superstitions You Need to Know

In Conclusion

I am curious if you’ve ever heard of or experienced these. Did I miss anything you are aware of? I’m sure I have. If you have one to include, please comment, and I will update this post with more don’ts in Italy!