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So, you’ve finally decided to cross off Italy from your bucket list, but you’ve realized you have absolutely no idea how to go about planning a trip to Italy…when is the best time to go? And for how long should you go and where??? So many questions, and although some of these might sound like very banal matters, these mistakes in Italy could really make or break your trip.
I’ve lived in Italy almost half my life, and before 2008, I lived in California. As such, I know exactly the types of cultural differences, logistical flukes and organizational hurdles you might encounter when traveling to Italy. The way things work and what is expected of you can at times differ tremendously from what you are used to back home.
The great thing is that I’ve grouped into this post exactly what to expect and how to prepare for your trip to Italy. From Italian no-no’s and embarrassing mistakes to avoid, to how to blend in and follow Italian cultural norms, I list dozens of Italy travel tips to help you avoid confusion and stress. I focus on what to watch out for, what to make sure is included, and how to avoid all those common tourist traps. I promise if you follow along these guidelines you won’t be making any embarrassing and costly tourist mistakes in Italy!
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Mistakes in Italy – What NOT to do in Italy
At times it won’t necessarily be what NOT to do, but what to make sure you ABSOLUTELY do, as some things might not come naturally… especially when visiting Italy for the first time. Up first, let’s talk about planning!
Planning a Trip to Italy
Don’t Overdo your Italy Itinerary
Although Italy is a relatively small country, you don’t want to go cramming 5 different cities in a single week. Traveling through Italy can be slow, and the country is PACKED with history. So, embrace that Italian dolce far niente spirit and enjoy your time in Italy!
As a general rule I wouldn’t recommend staying less than two weeks in Italy (unless you’re coming from within Europe and only thinking of doing a single city). A city like Rome has so much to offer that it can very easily alone take 5 days. If you are limited in time, however, make sure you plan to visit cities and towns that are at least close to each other. (For example Rome and Florence are quite close while Venice and the Amalfi Coast aren’t).
Don’t Forget that Most of Italy is Seasonal
It might come as a surprise, but there are certain areas of Italy that are purely seasonal. What I mean by that is there are periods of the year where things literally shut down and close. A great example of this are the many coastal cities… for example, the Amalfi Coast is not a great destination for the Fall as ferries aren’t functioning, and many activities are not running. Make sure to check before booking your trip that the destinations you are interested in are ‘in season.’
Don’t Travel to Italy in High Season
Italy is a real jewel, but even the shiniest of diamonds can get worn down with so many people. July and most especially August are just miserable, with so many tourists and selfie sticks I guarantee you’ll get more frustrated than relaxed. To get a more local and authentic experience (and more budget friendly), the best time to go to Italy is during the shoulder seasons (most commonly April-June or September-October).
Don’t Forget that Italy is Very Distinct Regionally
Both on a climate and cultural level, the twenty regions of Italy differ enormously from one to the next. Each region and even city has its own dialect and cuisine. From the German-speaking Tyroleans in the North to the flamboyant Neapolitans in the South, don’t expect the same things region to region. In fact, most Italians identify much more with their region than with their nation. Generally speaking, the further south you go, the hotter (temperature) and the more welcoming/warmer people become, (but it also becomes a bit less organized and a bit more chaotic).
Make Sure you Know your Neighborhoods Before Booking Accommodations
Like all cities, there are places to avoid in Italy as well. Some cities will have neighborhoods you should probably steer clear from (not necessarily for safety reasons, but maybe because they aren’t well connected with public transportation). For example, Termini in Rome might be a very convenient location, but isn’t the safest or cleanest area. Generally speaking, I would suggest researching neighborhoods beforehand and advise against booking accommodations close to either train stations or ports.
Most Businesses Close in Italy on Mondays and Sundays
If you’re planning to visit a museum or particular restaurant on a Monday or Sunday, check ahead of time that it is open before scheduling it into your itinerary!
You Can Never Be Too Early in Italy
You’ll come to see after a couple of days in Italy that it is no real surprise if your bus arrives 20 minutes late. Strikes and delays are common in Italy, and because of this, it is important to give yourself ample time in between flights, trains, and/or ferries. At times and in certain cities, you’ll find that timetables are really just a formality and public transportation follows its own ‘time schedule’. Because of this, one of the best travel tips for Italy that you can take away from this post is to always over-estimate the time needed to get from point A to point B – there could be a strike, a demonstration blocking traffic, a lazy bus driver or who knows! It’s always better to get somewhere too early than an hour too late.
Don’t Expect Things to Go Perfectly
When in Italy, something is bound to go wrong. Your bus might arrive late, you might not be able to find the terminal stop, the ATM might be broken, honestly anything can happen. Try to adopt the Italian mindset and go-with-the-flow. Whatever happens there is always a solution and if you’re kind there is always someone ready to help.
Book ‘Skip the Line Tickets’ Ahead of Time
Many popular monuments in Italy have skip the line tickets available for purchase online. I highly recommend booking these for those very well-known attractions like the Uffizi Galleries in Florence or Saint Mark’s Basilica in Venice that have very long lines to get in.
Plan to Buy an Italian SIM Card
If you’re not from Europe, then you are definitely looking at having to pay high roaming fees when in Italy. Italian SIM cards and plans are super cheap with rates as low as 30 euro/month for unlimited minutes and data. I recommend purchasing them in the city rather than the airport for better fares. Just head to any Vodafone, Windtre or TIM shop and ask for assistance- make sure to bring your passport as they will need identification to register your SIM.
Travel Tips for Italy – What to Expect When Visiting
As you make your way around the Mediterranean boot, you will find that some common services are not as readily available as in your home country, or maybe function differently. Here are a few things to know before traveling to Italy…
Don’t Expect Public Restrooms Everywhere
Public Restrooms are not the norm in Italy. You will occasionally find paid public restrooms but if you’re in the middle of the city that might not be the case. You can always purchase a coffee or something from a local bar and ASK to use their restroom. Don’t just walk in and use their restroom – general etiquette says you must first buy something in exchange for using the restroom.
Don’t Assume there will be Toilet Paper in Public Restrooms
I don’t mean in accommodations of course, but when you’re out and about the towns, try to have a pack of wipes on you. More times than most, you will find empty toilet paper rolls in the restrooms.
Restroom Size & How do Toilets Work?
Restroom stalls in Italy are very small and flushing a toilet or opening a faucet can take on any form from pulling a rope to pushing a button or even a pedal. Also, don’t get alarmed if you come across a squat toilet – these still can be found here and there in Italy.
Don’t Assume that Everyone Speaks English
Although English is the international language of choice, some Italians are not as proficient in English to understand on the fly. Always ask if someone speaks English instead of assuming they do (and speak slowly!)– this prepares them to switch on their ‘Anglophone mode’.
I also suggest you at least try to speak some words of Italian. Even if they come out completely indiscernible, I promise it will go a long way in conquering the hearts of the Italians. For a complete list of Italian words to know when traveling, visit my post here.
Here are a few phrases/words you should absolutely know before going to Italy:
I don’t understand – Non capisco
I don’t speak Italian – Non parlo italiano
Can you help me please? Mi puó aiutare per favore?
I’m lost – Mi sono perso/a (“a” if you’re a girl)
Thank you – Grazie
Please – Per favore
Good Morning – Buongiorno
Good Afternoon/Evening – Buonasera
Goodbye – Arrivederci
Excuse me (to get attention) – Mi scusi
Public Transportation in Italy
One of the most common Italy travel mistakes is avoiding public transportation. In most cities, although the lines might not run as frequently as you would like, public transportation is a great way to get around. Because it is not always possible to buy tickets on board, I suggest buying tickets from the local “tabaccaio” (or even newsstands often sell tickets).
Uber doesn’t Exist in Italy and Taxis are Expensive
If you are traveling to Italy on a budget, definitely try to stay clear of taxis. Most airports have shuttle services or trains right into the city where you can then take another bus to your final destination. It’s not the quickest mode of transport but is definitely lighter on the wallet.
Bear in Mind that Public Transportation After Midnight is Scarce
If you are going to be doing a lot of night touring, know that the “notturni” (nocturnal) lines pass much less frequently – generally once or at most twice an hour. And the metro usually shuts down completely until the morning. Factor this in when planning your night- these might be cases where you might want to call a taxi or rent a scooter/bike/car-sharing if available in the city.
High Speed Trains are Super Efficient
Italy is very well connected via rail and high-speed trains travel impressively fast. This is a great way to travel from city to city as the stations are almost always right downtown. Prices can get steep, so I do suggest booking ahead of time!
Don’t Forget to Validate your Ticket
You must always validate your ticket (unless you have an e-ticket). You will validate your bus/tram tickets right on the bus, while for train tickets you will find machines close to the platforms that validate tickets. If the machine is broken, make sure you notify the train manager as soon as you board. (*Also, don’t throw away or misplace your ticket! Sometimes you also need it to exit a metro station!)
Should you Drive in Italy?
Another huge mistake in Italy is being afraid to drive, or in certain cases, too confident for that matter!
Rent a Car for the Italian Countryside
If you are going to be in the countryside or just outside major cities, the only way to really explore is via a car. Outside of major cities you won’t have to worry about heavy traffic or non-existent traffic laws. Driving in Tuscany for example is quite easy!
Don’t Rent a Car Inside the Cities
For the days you will be in the city however, I highly advise against a car. Not only can the traffic and way of driving become overwhelming, but parking is a major issue. You wouldn’t get a car in Manhattan, right?
Don’t Rent a Vespa Unless you Know How to Ride One
I know that it is very tempting to have that vespa moment in the land of the vespa. However, Italians are highly experienced at whizzing in and out of traffic with their two-wheelers. A vespa is not like riding a bike and can be very dangerous if you don’t know how to ride one. As a general rule, if you’ve never ridden one, don’t rent one.
A Guide to Accommodations in Italy
Certain hotel amenities or common facilities in Italy might be unavailable or different than what you are accustomed to back home. From guesthouses to agriturismi and hotels, here is a list of things to know when traveling to Italy for the first time:
Air Conditioning is NOT a Given
Don’t expect your accommodation or restaurant to have A/C. It can get unbearably hot in Italy during the Summer, so I suggest double checking with your accommodation that A/C is indeed available. When out and about, most Italians frown upon AC as well. I suggest keeping in your purse a handheld folding fan to help escape the heat just in case.
Don’t Expect an Elevator
Many buildings in Italy are rather old and have no elevator/lift. This might also be the case in certain small train stations. If you absolutely need an elevator, check with your accommodation that there is one – if not, you might end up having to lug your suitcases up and down a ramp of stairs. Also, just FYI, Venice has about 283033 bridges, and as such is absolutely NOT stroller or wheelchair friendly- keep that in mind when planning your trip to Italy.
Your Hot Water Might be Limited
In Italy there are two ways to generate hot water – through a ‘caldaia’, which uses gas, and through a boiler, which uses electricity. If your accommodation uses a boiler, ask the reception how it works. Most often you will have to turn on your boiler a half hour or so before you want to shower to warm up the water. If there are multiple people that need to shower, I highly suggest taking quick showers to make sure enough hot water remains for everyone.
Don’t Expect California King Beds
Most beds in Italy are much smaller in size. The general size of double beds in Italy is Queen Size, and you most certainly have to check with the accommodation if you prefer separate beds- this is not the norm in Italy.
Don’t Expect a Dryer
If you’re staying in an apartment don’t expect a dryer, and check to see if they provide a washing machine as well. Dryers are not commonly used in Italy as most people still hang their clothes to dry (the myth that dryers ruin clothes in Italy still persists). However, laundromats do have dryers if you need quick drying or if your accommodation does not come equipped with a washing machine.
What is the Italian City Hotel Tax?
When staying in any form of accommodation in Italy, depending on how many stars and what city you’re in you will have to pay a small city tax. The fee can go anywhere from 1 to 5 euro per night per person. City Tax is generally not included in your online total and will be asked upon your departure from the accommodation.
You Might Have to Leave your Key at Reception
It is customary for certain hotels to hold on to your key while you’re out. It’s no biggie, if you forget your room number just ask again.
Top Dining Mistakes in Italy – Etiquette & How to Eat Like an Italian
And now, on to one of our most important sections, eating etiquette in Italy. This section covers everything you should expect from having a meal in Italy and tackles all of those most common tourist mistakes. From how and what you should be ordering, to table manners and mealtimes. It is important to learn the following if you want to blend in and avoid eye-rolls.
First up, do Italians eat pasta and pizza every day? NOOOOOO! Let’s clear the air right away and bust this myth. Italians have quite a varied diet and I highly suggest trying as much as you can on your trip there.
Don’t Order a Pizza in Venice
So, first of all, it is vital to know that Italian cuisine is regional in nature. This means that most dishes are particular to one region or geographical area. For example, pizza was invented in Naples, while wood-fire ovens are completely banned in Venice due to fire hazards. This would make ordering a pizza in Venice a very poor choice as it is not the region’s specialty. Ordering a pizza in Venice would be like ordering a peach cobbler in Hawaii, makes no sense, right? In Venice you would be much better off trying some seafood. For a guide on the best dishes to try by region, check out this post.
Don’t Special Order
Italians don’t generally special-order things. I mean of course you can exclude certain ingredients but don’t go ordering a fourth of a pizza with mushrooms, another fourth with onions and the other half with bell-peppers. The waiter most likely will smile back at you as if you’re seriously high maintenance.
How to Properly Eat Spaghetti
If you want to eat pasta like the Italians do, for the love of Pete forget about your spoon and knife!!!! Italians only use a fork. Without cutting long pasta to make it shorter, and without a spoon to help twirl the past onto the spoon, all you need to do is spin that fork. Try it!
Don’t Expect Ice with your Drink
If you would like ice with your drink, you need to request it. Also, refills don’t exist in Italy and certainly not at free price. If you want a second coke you will have to pay for it.
Cocktails are NOT Served with Dinner
Coming from an American’s perspective, I think it can be nice to sip at a cocktail while dining. Unfortunately, Italians reserve their cocktails only for aperitivo (before dinner happy hour) or after dinner drinks. They find the whole drinking while eating tradition to be very odd. Odd things aside, most restaurants don’t even include cocktails on their drinks menu and generally just serve wine.
What Time do Italians Eat?
Generally, lunch starts…I repeat, starts anywhere from 12:30 – 13:30 (1.30pm) while dinner starts from 19.30 -21:30 (7.30 pm – 9.30 pm). You could finish your dinner as late as eleven o’clock honestly. Finding a place with an open kitchen at 6 pm will be most difficult! At that hour, most Italians are having their aperitivo (pre-dinner happy hour drinks).
Asking for a To-Go Box/Bag is not Always Possible
Unfortunately, asking to take things you haven’t finished to go is still quite a rarity in most Italian restaurants. You could receive a perplexed expression, or the restaurant might not even be equipped with packaging to offer you a to-go box.
Don’t Dip Bread in Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar
If you want to eat like the Italians, good heavens forget this American tradition! 95% of the time you won’t even have oil and vinegar at your table setting. But if you do and you don’t want to receive a couple of baffled looks, just keep those condiments for seasoning your salad.
Don’t Expect XL Portions
Portion sizes in Italy are much smaller than what you might find in for example the US. Because of this, meals in fact are structured with multiple courses. You have your ‘Antipasto’ which is your Appetizer, your ‘Primo’ which is your first course (that is commonly pasta or risotto), and then your ‘Secondo’ which is your second course of meat or fish. You don’t have to get all three of course and you can even get all three of the same course if you prefer, but it is common to order more than one course.
How to Avoid Tourist Traps in Italy
You can spot a restaurant rip-off a mile away when it comes to Italy. Generally speaking, the menu outside will not state any prices and will be in multiple languages. You will find the typical waiter outside trying to lure as many customers as possible and of course, don’t forget that checkered tablecloth! To eat more authentically, it is best to steer away from the more popular areas of town – anything right at the foot of any monument will probably be at least double if not triple the price. Venture to secondary roads and check the reviews on TripAdvisor filtered by the Italian language. Even if the restaurant has thousands of good reviews, it really isn’t an indication of the quality if most of the reviews are written by foreigners/tourists.
Fettucin(i) Alfredo & Pineapple Pizza
Simply put, N-O. As much as it might come as a surprise, these dishes are not Italian AT ALL and do not even exist in Italy. These are dishes other countries have invented, passing them on as Italian dishes. If you order these in a restaurant, not only will most people have absolutely no idea what you’re talking about, but they might exercise their right to refuse service if you insist on pineapple pizza… just kidding of course! But seriously, pineapple on pizza is a true Italian taboo and the majority of the population sees it as one of the most disgusting and offensive pairings. Also, Chicken Parmesan does not exist, and parmesan in Italian is Parmigiano. If you ask for a ‘Pollo Parmigiano’ they will have quite a laugh.
Don’t Shy Away from the House Wine
Many restaurants in Italy offer a house wine in a half liter or liter format. It’s usually less expensive than the bottled wines available and can be equally as unique. Try ordering it sometime!
Traditional Italian Breakfast
Don’t expect to find pancakes, eggs and bacon in most places. While many hotels have started serving continental breakfast, smaller accommodations or guesthouses will most likely serve a typical Italian breakfast. Sweeter rather than savory, Italians in the morning like to munch on bread and butter, biscuits and jam, pastries or croissants, cereal and yogurt. Oh, and coffee, duuuuuuuh. It’s quick and small.
How to Order Coffee in Italy
The Italian coffee culture is a world of its own and if you want to blend in, you definitely have to understand the basics. First of all, you need to get some vocab down. ‘Latte,’ for example means milk, and ‘espresso’ won’t necessarily get you a coffee. To order an espresso coffee you will just order a ‘caffé.’ Typically, any coffee drink that has quite a bit of milk in it (like a cappuccino or caffelatte) is considered more of a morning drink to Italians but you CAN still order it at 4pm if you like- don’t believe the myth that you will absolutely be gawked at for this. Keep in mind however that ordering a cappuccino while you have lunch or dinner is quite strange (kind of like cocktails mentioned earlier).
Also, the way that coffee is consumed is rather different in Italy. Normally, it’s more of a stand and chug down type situation. That wonderful cozy culture of slowly sipping at your coffee while sitting down or taking it to go is not widely used. In fact, bear in mind that if you take your coffee sitting down you will be charged more for the “at the table” service.
Oh, and by the way, the ‘bar’ in Italy is not a night-time pub. The Italian bar is really more of a café and a regular morning stop – it’s kind of like your American Starbucks. Also keep in mind that you don’t necessarily pay first to have your coffee. Some bars you can order right at the counter (al banco) and then pay after.
Prices and Tipping in Italy
Prices of Seafood and Meat are Often Per Gram
Avoid an unexpected bill by double checking your menu prices. Most times, prices for seafood or meat are displayed as per gram. This means that the real price of the meal will depend on exactly how much the fish or piece of meat chosen weighs. (Also, sometimes you are also charged for every extra grate of truffle shavings- before you let the waiter go to town with truffle, ask if there is an extra cost!)
Don’t Overtip
In Italy it is not common to leave generous tips and it is not expected of you… and this goes for all areas, not just dining. 20% is way way waaaaaay too much. Usually for good service you can leave a couple of euro and you’re good to go. (You certainly don’t need to tip for coffee!)
What is the Coperto Charge?
In many regions in Italy, you will often find a coperto voice on your bill. The coperto, which literally means “cover charge” serves to offset expenses like tablecloths, cutlery, washing, and even sometimes bread and water. The fee is generally 1 to 2 euro per person and must clearly be stated on the menu. It is completely legal and shouldn’t be contested– think of it like a sales tax added on. (In Lazio however, the region where Rome is located, the coperto charge has been banned since the mid 90s.)
Always Have Cash on You
Although credit/debit cards are much more readily used than say, ten years ago, not all places accept cards… especially in smaller towns. Sometimes you have to reach a certain size basket to be able to pay with a credit card… for example, not all bars will let you pay for a 1-euro coffee with a debit card.
Grocery Shopping in Italy
Don’t Expect Someone to Bag your Groceries
If you go grocery shopping, know that you are expected to bag your own items. If you don’t have any bags with you, you will have to ask for the number of bags you need.
You Must Weigh Your Produce
When shopping for produce, take note of the number of the particular fruit or vegetable it is associated with. You will find this number generally right next to the price. After you’ve selected your fruit you must go weigh it and enter the number associated with it. At this point a price tag will print out that you need to stick to the bag for checkout.
Have a 1-Euro Coin Handy to Use a Cart
If you want to use a cart, then you will have to insert a euro coin in order to unchain it from the other carts. Don’t worry, when you leave and re-chain the cart back in its designated parking space you will be given your euro back.
How to Dress in Italy – What NOT to Wear
One of the most common mistakes in Italy is not looking the part… and forgetting that there is A LOT of walking entailed! If you want to make sure you dress appropriately and blend in while on your vacation, this section runs down exactly what to wear in Italy.
Dress Like the Italians
One of the first things that comes to mind when thinking of Italian style is its simple but tasteful character. Generally speaking, ‘casual-wear’ as compared to how it is interpreted in many other parts of the world, is a bit more formal. This means that it is common for men to wear dress shirts even while running simple errands and it is certainly expected in more put-together settings. As for women, Italians are not as accustomed to showing as much skin as in some other countries. This doesn’t mean you have to cover up to your face, but cleavage-revealing, low-cut or very short dresses are ordinarily only worn in the evening. Here are some general rules to set you own your way:
Don’t Wear Short Shorts Around the City
While these are great for coastal and beach-towns, it really isn’t appropriate to wander about Rome and Florence with your but cheek shorts. Stick to regular shorts while you’re in the city.
Don’t Wear Shorts to Formal Occasions
This goes for both men and women. If you’re going to the theater, the opera, or a nice restaurant, shorts are a big no-no. If you care about blending in, men should go with long pants and women should stick to either a dress, skirt or long pant.
Church Attire – Always Have a Scarf on Hand
While in Italy, you most probably will be visiting a bunch of churches. As a general rule, women must cover their shoulders and be covered up to the knees in order to enter. Some churches do provide shawls for rent but this isn’t the norm. To make sure you are not denied access, always carry a scarf or two in your bag so you are prepared to cover up.
Leave your Activewear at Home
Unless you’re planning on going to the gym or going hiking on the trip, leave your lululemon at home. I mean yes, it can be super comfy but if you don’t want to look like a tourist, you’re not going to want to head to the café for a cappuccino in your yoga pants.
Be Prepared to See Speedos
Men, this doesn’t mean you have to wear one – thank god! Fortunately, at least in my opinion, men bathing suits are getting longer and baggier, but be prepared that it is still quite customary to find many men sporting speedos at the beach. (Also, it is perfectly accepted for women to sunbathe topless- don’t freak out!)
The Socks with Sandals Taboo
Again, if you don’t want to be immediately pegged as a tourist and want to remain low-key, this is clearly one of those examples of what not to wear in Italy. And while we are on the topic of socks, sponge socks are also a no-no unless you’re going for an NBA all-star look.
What Shoes to Bring to Italy
I would say that a good 80% of your trip in Italy will be spent walking. This means you absolutely have to be certain that not only are your shoes comfortable but that they are practical. What do I mean by this?
Flip-Flops are Only for the Beach
As comfortable as flip-flops are, they are not very practical for much walking. Not only is walking an easy 10km a day not ideal in flip-flops, it’s also not a very hygienic option. Hygienic? What does that have to do with anything? Well, not all cities are the cleanest, and many historical monuments such as roman ruins or parks don’t have pavement but dirt paths. This means that you’ll be getting sand and other stuff all over your feet. If you don’t want to worry where you are stepping and want to avoid the very *discrete* Italian stare, opt to wear flip-flops only at the beach. Oh, and it’s actually illegal to wear them while hiking the Cinque Terre… yep, you read that right, I-L-L-E-G-A-L.
High Heels and Cobblestones
Many blogs and forums boldly leave out high heels from their what to bring to Italy lists –saying to just, “leave them at home!”. I disagree!!!! You just can’t go to Italy and not have some super fantastic fashion moment at the top of some rooftop right? I say bring them but calculate when you’ll wear them. With practice you get used to it but if you’re not well-versed you can ruin your heels or even get stuck, break an ankle or fall (which I have done plenty of times).
While you’re visiting and touring during the day you probably should avoid high heels as most historical downtowns are more than 50% cobblestone (sanpietrino in Italian). But at night, depending on where you are headed to, if it’s close, I say go for it! And if it’s not close, either walk reaaaaallly slow or grab a taxi! You only live once, right?
Italian Laws you Should Know as a Tourist
Although the following don’t seem like infractions or violations of any kind, you could get into serious trouble or fined some big money if you are caught doing them!
Don’t Feed the Pigeons in Venice
That’s right, that picture perfect Venice moment is actually illegal. It is against the law to feed pigeons (and seagulls for that matter) any type of food. Fines can reach up to 500 euro! (If it makes you feel better, the pigeons are pretty dirty, and some are sick so you might not want them eating from your hand.)
Don’t Eat, Drink, or Sit Next to Monuments
Let me clarify… Sitting on the steps of a church or monument (*ahem, this means the Spanish steps as well*) or picnicking out on the bench of the nearest square is a misdemeanor and you WILL be sanctioned. You will often see police patrolling major squares and popular tourist attractions making sure these laws are followed – if you hear a whistle, that’s a warning you’re not doing something you should be doing. (In Venice this law also applies to sitting or eating on bridges, the banks of the lagoon/canals, and water-wells). As a general rule, be very careful where you eat if you order some to-go street food, especially in Venice.
Don’t Go Bare-Chested or Walk the City in your Bathing Suit
This might sound absurd, but trust me, Italy can get so hot in July and August that it really wouldn’t seem bad to just walk around in a tankini top- it’s Summer, right? Wrong!!! And this goes for beach towns as well… as a general rule of thumb (and to be extra sure you’re not breaking any local law,) always cover up.
Shopping Made In Italy Products
When in Italy, of course you are going to be shopping. From fashionable accessories to local specialties there are hundreds of Made-In-Italy products to browse. Unfortunately, many counterfeiters have popped up over the decades. So how do you protect yourself from the fakes?
Make Sure you are Buying Authentic Made-In-Italy
To not only avoid getting ripped off but to also ensure you are actually endorsing a legitimate made-in-Italy product and not some Chinese knock-off, you need to get informed. Generally speaking, if you think you are getting a bargain because the product is cheap, you are most likely getting a “fake.” From handcrafted leather products to Murano glass, it is important that you ask your questions! If the vendor is legit, he or she will know the ups and downs of that product. Try to research in depth the particular product before heading to the shops. If you’re planning on forking over that cash, you should definitely be sure you know what to look or watch out for. Check out this post for what to look for when shopping for Murano glass and authentic Venetian masks.
Safety in Italy
Generally speaking, I find Italy to be very safe- I’ve had more issues of safety in California than in Italy. But nevertheless, here are a couple things to watch out for when in Italy:
Don’t Accept an Italian Friendship Bracelet or Rose
You will find many street vendors in all the big Italian cities selling friendship bracelets or roses. They will literally hand you the rose or tie the bracelet to your arm just to “show” you how nice it is. They will then proceed many times to demand payment. To avoid any drama or altercations, it is wise to just ignore these vendors and go on with your day. If they insist, a firm “NO GRAZIE” will do the trick.
Don’t Accept Help from Strangers at the Train/Metro Station
You might find several random individuals lurking around the automatic ticket machines at the main train stations in Italy. They wait for tourists in “difficulty” and proceed to “help” them with ticket transactions only to demand a service fee. If you see them, don’t accept their help, ignore them if they talk to you and keep your personal items close and in front of you.
Only Get in Official White Taxis
As soon as you step foot outside the airport in Italy you most likely will be pestered by drivers asking if you need a taxi… some of whom are not official taxi drivers licensed by the City Councils. This doesn’t mean it’s necessarily dangerous to get in one, but you certainly might get ripped off. To get an official taxi you won’t go wrong if you line up at a taxi station (where normally you will find an orange sign with Taxi written). Also, generally speaking, official taxis are always white and have the permit number printed on the side of the car. In Rome for example, you will find the number right next to the Rome City Council logo on the door.
Don’t Leave or at Least Hide Valuables in Your Car
If you’re planning on driving a lot, make sure you always bring your valuables with you when you park. You can also just hide your bags, suitcases or personal items and make sure they aren’t visible from the outside. Make sure however you readjust your belongings to the trunk of the car before you actually park, perhaps at your point or departure. You never know who might be watching when you park.
Don’t Look Like a Typical Tourist
What does that mean?? It means, even if you have no idea where you are or what you are doing, pretend like you do. Like in any city, pit pocketers look for distracted and disoriented people. If you look confident you most likely will never get targeted… you also might want to keep your backpack in front of you when on public transportation in large cities.
What is the Italian Emergency Number?
Just in case, it is always wise to know what the local emergency number is. 112 is the European emergency number and can be called free of charge at any hour.
So, there it is guys- the most extensive roundup of traveling tips for Italy out there! I hope these all come in handy when you plan your next trip to Italy!
For more posts on Italy make sure to check out the following:
12 Breathtaking Beaches to Visit in Calabria
The Best Beaches and Towns in Puglia
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This blog post is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. Please read my full disclosure for further information.
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