39 Things To Know Before Traveling To Italy (So you'll feel like a local!)

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Your dream Italy trip is planned and soon you’ll be experiencing La Dolce Vita! But before you pack your bags, there are some things to know before traveling to Italy.

These insider tips will help you avoid tourist traps, navigate cultural quirks, and have a truly authentic Italian experience.

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1. You can drink from the ancient water fountains

No need to buy water while you’re in Italy! Take an empty bottle with you and fill it up with fresh, delicious water throughout the day.

Italy has a network of public drinking fountains, especially in older towns and cities. These are called “nasoni” in Rome or “fontanelle” in other parts of Italy and are a great way to quench your thirst on a hot day and stay hydrated while exploring.

In most Italian cities the water is perfectly safe to drink, and the public fountains are supplied by the municipal water system. Regular checks are made to ensure water quality meets safety standards.

Nasoni fountains typically have a small spout or a button you press to activate the water flow. It might be a continuous flow or a short burst depending on the design.

2. Validate your train ticket

Have a paper ticket for a regional train? It’s important to know that if traveling by train in Italy there are machines available throughout the train stations and near the platforms where you must validate your ticket.

By validating you are confirming that you’re using the ticket for the train you’re riding on and it prevents you from being able to use it again.

Skipping this simple step could lead to a large fine when the train conductor comes by to check your ticket.

I speak from experience…once I didn’t validate and it cost me €100!

3. Tap water isn’t served in restaurants

Expect to pay for water at restaurants in Italy.

The waiter may ask you if you prefer “acqua naturale” (natural water) or “acqua frizzante” (sparkling water). This gives you the choice to enjoy still or bubbly water. The bottle of your choice will be delivered to your table.

You might wonder why tap water isn’t served in Italian restaurants.

It’s not because of quality concerns – as I mentioned earlier, tap water in Italy is perfectly safe to drink! Instead, it is a matter of tradition and respect for the culinary experience.

The water in Italy tends to be mineral-rich, making it hard. The thing about hard water is that it can give off a taste of chemicals or chalk, which might affect how your food tastes.

4. The afternoon shutdown

This tradition is called the “riposo”.

It’s a cultural practice where businesses and shops close down for a period in the middle of the day (typically between 1 pm and 4 pm) to relax, have lunch with family, and socialize.

Many shops and businesses close during this time.

It reflects a different pace of life in Italy, where importance is placed on leisure, social connection, and family.

5. Dining starts late into the evening

While traveling in Italy you should know that (authentic) restaurants don’t open for dinner until 7:30 pm and many Italians won’t arrive until 8:30 pm to 10:30 pm.

As I mentioned earlier, Italians take a longer lunch break (riposo) than people in some other countries, between 1 pm and 4 pm. This later lunch pushes back the start of dinner.

If you stumble upon a restaurant that is open all day, stay far away! The only restaurants that are open for extended hours will be tourist traps.

Authentic restaurants in Italy will be open for lunch between 12:30 pm and 2:30 pm, then close for a rest and reopen for dinner between 7:30 pm and 10:30 pm.

6. Make restaurant reservations

If you stop into a restaurant right as it opens, see a room full of empty tables, and proceed to ask to dine, don’t be surprised if you’re told there are no available tables.

They aren’t being rude.

As I mentioned earlier, many Italians don’t eat out until at least 8:30 pm.

The tables might be empty when you arrive, but they have been reserved for guests who will be arriving later.

If you’ve made a reservation, that’s your table for the entire evening regardless of when you arrive.

So while traveling through Italy if there’s a restaurant that you really look forward to experiencing, it’s important to call ahead of time to ensure you have a table waiting for you.

7. Lines don’t exist in Italy

Getting in line to buy a gelato? Trying to make your way to the ticket counter at the train station?

Where is the line you ask?…. It can sometimes be hard to know when you’re in Italy.

Queuing (forming a line) in Italy can indeed be a different experience than in some other cultures.

Italians may not always form the neat, orderly lines familiar in some places. They might stand in a looser group, and asserting their place can be more about body language than waiting passively.

8. Bring some modest clothing

In Italy, churches often have a dress code out of respect for the religious space. Pack at least one set of clothes specifically for days that you’re visiting sites like the Vatican.

The key is to cover your shoulders and knees. This shows respect for the sanctity of the church and is something that you should know while you are traveling throughout Italy.

Women:

Bottoms: Opt for pants, dresses, or skirts that fall below the knee.
Shirts & Tops: Avoid sleeveless shirts, tank tops, or anything too low-cut. Opt for shirts with sleeves or shawls to cover bare shoulders.
Tights: If your outfit doesn’t meet the knee coverage requirement, consider wearing tights or leggings underneath.

Men:

Pants: Shorts are generally not allowed. Stick to long pants (jeans are okay too).
Shirts: Sleeveless shirts are discouraged. T-shirts are usually fine, but consider a button-down shirt for a more respectful look.

9. Driving? Stay away from ZTL zones

Renting a car while traveling in Italy? This tip is so important!

ZTL stands for “Zona Traffico Limitato” which translates to “Limited Traffic Zone” in English. These zones are common throughout many Italian cities and towns, especially those with historic centers.

Their purpose is to:

Reduce traffic congestion and pollution within the city center.
Protect historic areas from vehicle damage.
Create pedestrian-friendly zones.

If you unintentionally drive into a ZTL zone you will incur a hefty fine.

The exact amount can vary depending on the city and the duration of your stay in the zone. Expect it to be somewhere between €100 and €350, with additional administrative fees possible.

On top of that, some rental car companies charge a processing fee for ZTL fines.

You’ll likely receive the fine by mail weeks or even months after your trip, which can be a frustrating surprise.

10. Pack lightly

Italy is a beautiful country with charming towns and historic city centers. Many of these areas are best explored on foot, often with cobblestone streets and uneven surfaces.

Lugging around a heavy suitcase can be a real drag. Also, many VRBOs do not have elevators, so you might be stuck dragging a 50 lb suitcase up several flights of stairs.

Train travel will also be easier. While larger train stations have luggage storage facilities, smaller stations might not. Also, navigating train platforms, narrow train aisles, and finding places to store your luggage onboard is much easier with a carry-on or smaller suitcase.

Keep in mind that most hotels and many VRBOs in Italy will have laundry facilities or offer laundry services. This allows you to pack a smaller wardrobe and freshen up clothes as needed during your trip.

Italy is a haven for fashion and beautiful souvenirs! Packing light will also leave room in your suitcase for any treasures you might find along the way.

11. Ferragosto – The August shutdown

Ferragosto is on August 15 and is a national holiday in Italy, marking the peak of summer. It’s a time for Italians to take a break from work, relax, and enjoy themselves.

The tradition dates back to ancient Rome when Emperor Augustus established a festival for rest after the agricultural season.

Many Italians use this period for vacations and will head to the beaches or mountains.

This can lead to:

Closed Businesses: Many shops and restaurants, especially in smaller towns, might close for a few days or weeks around Ferragosto.
City Exodus: Big cities can feel deserted as locals head out for vacations.
Tourist Crowds: Popular tourist destinations, especially coastal areas, can be quite crowded during this time.

12. You must pay for public toilets

Most public restrooms in Italy require a fee.

You’ll encounter these more commonly in high-traffic areas like train stations, gas stations, or tourist attractions.

The fee is usually a small amount, often around €0.50-€1.00, and covers the expense of keeping the bathroom clean. Requiring payment also discourages vandalism or misuse of the facilities.

13. Learn some Italian before you travel to Italy

Most Italians are welcoming and helpful to tourists, but not all of them speak English.

Before you go learn a few basic Italian phrases. This goes a long way in showing respect for the local culture and can help you in basic situations.

Focus on greetings, asking for directions, essential needs like food and water, and basic courtesy phrases like “grazie” (thank you) and “prego” (you’re welcome).

There are many apps, online classes, and resources to help you learn Italian or master a few key phrases.

A good translation app like Google Translate can be a lifesaver. Download the Italian language pack before you go so you can use it offline if needed.

Carry a phrasebook which can be handy in situations where your phone battery dies or you don’t have internet access.

14. You’ll find an extra charge on your restaurant bill

A coperto (pronounced koh-PEHR-toh) in Italy is a fixed per-person cover charge you’ll see on your restaurant bill.

It covers the basic costs associated with setting your table, the use of linens, cutlery, basic service, cleaning, and the bread brought to the table.

The cost is usually a small amount, typically between €1 and €3 per person.

Reputable restaurants will usually mention the coperto charge somewhere on the menu.

15. Avoid tourist trap restaurants in Italy

When navigating the restaurant scene in Italy for the first time, it’s easy to fall into tourist traps. These places often prioritize quick turnover and high prices over quality and atmosphere.

To avoid such pitfalls, be wary of restaurants with menus plastered in a multitude of languages. This is a strong indicator that they cater mainly to tourists and may not offer the most authentic Italian experience.

If staff members are stationed outside aggressively soliciting customers, that’s another red flag.

To find authentic restaurants, get off the beaten path by a few streets and you’ll discover hidden gems tucked away. Or better yet, ask a local for their recommendation.

16. Breakfasts are small and sweet

Be prepared for a lighter and sweeter breakfast experience in Italy.

No pancakes, omelets, and Texas french toast.

Coffee is king: Italians take their coffee seriously. The cornerstone of an Italian breakfast is a strong cup of coffee, usually espresso or cappuccino.

Sweet pastries reign: Breakfast often features a sweet pastry like a cornetto (croissant), biscotti (cookies), or a slice of cake.

Italian breakfasts are small and designed to be a quick pick-me-up rather than a heavy meal. It’s more about kickstarting digestion for the larger lunch Italians typically enjoy later in the afternoon.

17. You must ask for your restaurant bill

In Italy, it’s not rude for the waiter to withhold your bill until you ask for it.

It’s a sign of good service and respect for your dining experience.

Italians believe that bringing the bill before you’ve asked for it can be perceived as rushing you, which is considered impolite.

Instead, they prefer to let you savor your meal, soak in the atmosphere, and enjoy your company without feeling rushed.

So, the next time you’re dining in Italy, don’t be surprised if the bill doesn’t magically appear.

Embrace the slow-paced, leisurely dining style, ask for “il conto” (the bill) when you’re ready, and relish every moment of your Italian dining adventures.

18. Get cash from an ATM, not a money exchanger

Getting cash at an ATM in Italy is a better option than exchanging currency at the airport or a money exchanger:

ATMs: Generally, ATMs offer the closest exchange rate to the mid-market rate, which is the average rate currencies are traded on the global market. This means you get more Euros for your dollars compared to other options.

Airports & Money Exchangers: These places typically mark up the exchange rate, giving you a less favorable conversion. You’ll end up with fewer Euros for the same amount of money.

19. Hotels and VRBOs will ask for your passport

Italian law requires all accommodation providers, including hotels and VRBOs to register their guests with the local authorities, which means they need to collect and record your passport information.

At hotels, you’ll likely be asked to show your passport during check-in for them to copy the information. Some VRBOs might request you to send a copy of your passport information beforehand.

There are a few reasons behind this requirement:

Security and Public Safety: Having guest information helps authorities track who is staying in the country and for what purpose. This can be helpful for investigations or emergencies.

Tourism Monitoring: Italy relies heavily on tourism, and tracking visitor numbers helps it manage tourist destinations and plan for future needs.

Tax Collection: The government can use guest registration data to ensure tourism taxes are being collected properly.

20. The tipping culture is different in Italy

Unlike the US, tipping in Italy is not mandatory. Wait staff receive a regular salary, and a tip is seen as a gesture of appreciation for exceptional service rather than a necessity to make ends meet.

If you’ve had a truly wonderful experience and want to leave a tip, a small amount is perfectly acceptable. Think a few euros, around €1-€2 per person, rounding up the bill to the nearest euro, or leaving a 10% tip.

Just remember, unlike in the United States, tips are never added to a credit card in Italy.

Tips are always left in cash, so be sure to have some euros ready before you enjoy your meal so you can show your appreciation for a good experience.

Grabbing a taxi? Tipping your driver isn’t usually expected. Your fare covers the cost of the ride.

21. Popular “Italian” foods that don’t exist in Italy

Here are a few popular “Italian” foods found overseas that won’t be seen in Italy:

•Garlic bread

•Chicken Parmigiana

•Italian dressing

•Pineapple pizza

•Fettuccine Alfredo

•Spaghetti and meatballs

So what’s the deal? Why are these dishes so popular overseas, even though they’re not Italian?

One reason is that Italian food has been adapted to local tastes in many countries. Many of these dishes gained popularity in countries with a significant Italian immigrant population. These immigrants brought their culinary traditions with them, resulting in the adaptation and fusion of flavors.

In Italy, each region has dishes that are unique to that area based on traditions that go back generations, and based on ingredients that are from that region.

So, for example, you’ll find the best pesto of your life while visiting the region of Liguria but you won’t find it (unless you’re at a tourist trap restaurant) in Rome.

Or you’ll have a Florentine steak in Tuscany that will leave you drooling at the thought of it for years to come, but you’ll never eat a steak like that in Venice.

22. Market etiquette

When shopping at a food market in Italy, don’t touch the fruits and vegetables withtout asking!

It’s customary to let the sales clerk select your produce for you.

Just tell them what you need to buy and they’ll be happy to select the freshest and best-quality produce from their inventory.

It shows a level of respect to the vendor and additionally, it maintains a level of hygiene by minimizing direct handling of the fruits and vegetables by multiple people.

23. Check your train number

There might be several trains departing for the same city around the same time.

Don’t just rely on the city name displayed on the platform.

This could lead you to board the wrong train, (I’ve done it!) taking you to a different station or even an entirely different destination.

Double-check the train number on your ticket and be sure it matches the train number at the platform (binario) before you board.

23. No cappuccino after 11:00 am

Italians don’t drink cappuccino after 11:00 am. They’ll enjoy one either before or during breakfast, but never after a meal.

Milk is considered to be a filling, nutrient-dense food, best to be accompanied by a light pastry at breakfast time. It’s believed that coffee with milk is not good for digestion after a full meal.

Instead, they drink a simple espresso (called “un caffè” in Italian) after a meal to help digest.

Of course, you can always add sugar to your caffè. And if you absolutely must have milk, order “un caffè macchiato”. The macchiato is espresso, topped with a very small amount of foamed or steamed milk to allow the taste of the espresso to still shine through.

24. Get lost

While exploring a city or town, letting go of Google Maps can lead you down charming side streets and hidden piazzas you might otherwise miss.

These unexpected stumbles upon local treasures, like a cozy cafe tucked away or a beautiful church around the corner, can be the highlights of your trip.

If you get lost don’t panic (you can always turn Google Maps back on)!

You’ll have a chance to interact with friendly Italians. Locals will likely be happy to point you in the right direction, and you might even make a new friend in the process.

25. Don’t over schedule

Rushing from place to place creates a superficial travel experience. By slowing down, you can connect with the local pace of life, interact with friendly Italians, and gain a deeper understanding of the culture.

Resisting the urge to cram everything into your Italian itinerary can unlock a lot of benefits for your trip:

Embracing Spontaneity: Leave room for serendipity! Stumbling upon a local festival, taking a stroll through a charming alleyway that leads to a hidden gem, or simply striking up a conversation with a friendly vendor – these unplanned moments can be the most enriching experiences. A packed schedule leaves no room for such delightful detours.

Combating Travel Fatigue: Overscheduling leads to exhaustion, making it hard to fully enjoy your adventures. Italy beckons you to slow down, savor the simple pleasures, and truly immerse yourself in the culture. A less-structured itinerary allows for breaks, naps, and the opportunity to recharge for the next adventure.

Flexibility for Unexpected Events: Travel disruptions like train delays or bad weather can throw a wrench into a tightly packed schedule. Building in some buffer time allows you to adapt to these situations without feeling stressed or missing out on anything.

26. Buy skip the line tickets

Visiting attractions like the Colosseum or the Vatican? Buy your tickets for attractions in advance, and take it one step further by purchasing “skip the line” tickets.

The biggest advantage is avoiding long queues, especially during peak season. This can free up time for exploring other things or simply relaxing.

Some popular attractions have limited daily capacity. With skip-the-line tickets, you secure your entry for a specific time slot, ensuring you don’t get turned away due to overcrowding.

Even better…hire a local tour guide who will whisk you into the attraction like a VIP. You’ll completely skip the lines along with experiencing a personalized tour with an expert.

27. Don’t follow the crowds

Don’t feel pressured to follow a traditional itinerary. It’s a tip I have always lived by when traveling in Italy.

Italy has so many beautiful experiences beyond the Colosseum and the Leaning Tower of Pisa!

By catering your itinerary to your passions, you can dive into experiences that resonate with you.

Are you a history buff? Focus on Rome, Florence, and Venice.

A passionate foodie? Explore Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna.

A beach lover? Experience Sicily, Puglia, Sardinia, or the Amalfi Coast.

The beauty of a personalized itinerary is that it revolves around what excites you. Your trip becomes a reflection of your passions, creating a more meaningful and memorable experience.

28. Dogs in restaurants and grocery stores

Don’t be surprised when you see dogs just chilling out on the floor under or next to the table of their owners at restaurants in Italy.

Stopping in the grocery store? Well, you might see a furbaby there too.

In most places in Italy, people are welcome to bring their pups with them wherever they go.

29. How to dress like a local

To blend in with the locals, dress more subtly and avoid anything that screams “tourist.”

Ditch clothes and accessories with large logos or souvenir themes, or athletic wear which is becoming more common worldwide. It’s still not typical everyday wear in Italy unless you’re going to the gym.

Don’t wear flip-flops! Italians only wear them at the beach.

And Italians are very particular about what type of clothing should be worn for each season. Don’t be surprised if you see them wearing winter jackets during a heat wave in October.

The choice of clothing is based on the season, not the temperature.

30. What’s the extra basin in the bathroom?

You’ll probably see an extra plumbing fixture in your hotel bathroom that looks like a small sink or fountain next to the toilet. What is it?

It’s called a bidet (pronounced “bih-DAY”) and it’s designed for personal hygiene.

The bidet sprays a stream of clean water to cleanse yourself after using the toilet. The Italians consider it a more hygienic alternative to toilet paper alone but the choice to use it is up to you!

31. Bad air conditioning

Air conditioning isn’t as prevalent in Italy as it is in some other countries. If it’s important to you be sure to ask the hotel or rental property if they have it before booking.

Italy has a long history of hot summers, and traditional architecture often incorporates elements for passive cooling. Think thicker walls, high ceilings, and strategically placed windows to capture breezes. These features might not provide the intense cooling of AC, but they can keep things relatively comfortable in a way that might not be as common in other countries.

Energy costs in Italy can be high, making constant AC use expensive. This has also discouraged widespread adoption, especially for older buildings where retrofitting can be costly.

There’s also a perception among some Italians that AC is unhealthy, leading to concerns about catching a chill or stiff necks (otherwise known as “colpo d’aria”). This might explain why even some places with AC keep it at a higher temperature than visitors might expect.

32. Be aware of transportation strikes

Labor disputes or protests can lead to strikes by train conductors, bus drivers, or airline staff. This can cause cancellations, delays, and missed connections, throwing your itinerary into disarray.

Check reliable sources for strike updates before your trip, consider travel insurance for unexpected disruptions, and build flexibility into your plans. Research alternative routes and factor in buffer time between city transfers.

33. No ice cubes

Italians believe icy cold drinks can disrupt digestion, leading to discomfort. For this reason, they prefer beverages at room temperature or slightly chilled.

In restaurants and bars, drinks are never served with ice. If you must have it, you can request to have some brought to your table.

34. Don’t say “Ciao”

“Ciao” is a versatile word that can mean “hello” and “goodbye” in Italian. It’s very informal and friendly, similar to saying “hi” in English.

“Ciao” is used more between friends or family members. In some cases, using it with strangers, especially older ones, might seem disrespectful or not acknowledging their social standing.

When addressing someone you don’t know well, especially someone older or in a professional setting, it’s best to use “Buongiorno (buon·giór·no)” (good morning) or “Buonasera (buo·na·sé·ra)” (good evening).

If you’re in a casual situation and want to be friendly, a simple “Salve (sal-veh)” (hello/hi) is a good option. This is a more neutral greeting than “ciao.”

Take it one step further and learn some basic Italian before your trip!

35. Most beaches aren’t public

Public beaches exist, but might be limited, especially in popular tourist areas. If you find one, they are free to enter and use, but will lack amenities like sunbeds, umbrellas, or changing facilities and are very crowded.

Private beaches and beach clubs dominate a significant portion of the Italian coastline. They are run by private businesses and require paying an entrance fee for a designated spot with amenities like sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, and sometimes even restaurants or bars.

36. How to get help for an emergency in Italy

Before traveling to Italy it’s important to know what to do when facing an urgent situation.

Dial 112, the nation’s unified emergency number. This toll-free number connects you directly to the appropriate emergency service, whether it’s the police, fire department, or ambulance.

If your emergency is strictly medical, you can dial 118.

Regardless of your location in Italy, you can dial these numbers from any mobile phone.

It’s also a good idea to look into travel insurance to cover you for any expected situations.

37. Understanding floor numbers

When planning your stay in Italy, here’s a handy travel tip to know. The way floor numbers are counted might be different from what you’re used to in the United States or other English-speaking countries.

In the United States what we’d call the “first floor” is referred to as the “ground floor” in Italy. The “first floor” in Italy is what we’d call the “second floor” in the United States.

This difference can be crucial when choosing accommodations, especially if there isn’t an elevator and you’d prefer to avoid climbing too many stairs.

So when you’re doing your research and reading Airbnb or VRBO descriptions be sure to keep this in mind so there aren’t any surprises when you arrive in Italy.

Consider your mobility and preferences when choosing the perfect place to stay, and enjoy your Italian adventure with ease!

38. Bars aren’t bars

The word “bar” has a different meaning in Italy. Where American bars revolve around serving alcoholic drinks, Italian bars are more like casual cafes.

Italian bars are open throughout the day, from early morning to late evening. They serve coffee, pastries, snacks, sandwiches, light meals, and sometimes alcoholic beverages.

They are also a social hub for locals of all ages. People gather to chat, catch up with friends, read the paper, or have a quick bite.

If you’re in Italy and looking for a place with a vibe closer to an American bar, here are a couple of options depending on what you’re looking for:

Pub: Many Italian cities have pubs specifically catering to a younger crowd. They often have a wider selection of beers, cocktails, and a more lively atmosphere compared to traditional Italian bars.

Enoteca (Wine Bar): While not exactly the same as an American bar, enotecas specialize in wine and might offer a more extensive selection with a knowledgeable staff. Some enotecas also serve small plates or snacks, creating a more social atmosphere.

Cocktail Bar: Bigger cities will have dedicated cocktail bars focusing on creative and unique mixed drinks. These can be a great option if you’re looking for something specific or want a trendy atmosphere.

Aperitivo Time: Many Italian bars have an “aperitivo” ritual in the late afternoon/early evening. For a fixed price, you get a drink (often a spritz or glass of wine) and access to a complimentary buffet of snacks and finger foods. This can be a fun way to socialize and enjoy drinks with a bit more of a casual vibe.

Ultimately, the best option depends on your specific preferences. If you’re unsure, ask your hotel or locals for recommendations based on what you’re looking for in a drinking experience.

39. Bring a power adapter and don’t fry your hair dryer!

Italy uses a different plug type than some countries, most commonly the Type F two-pronged plug with ground holes.

Be sure to take an adapter with you to charge your devices.

American appliances run on 110-120 volts at 60 Hz, while European appliances run on 220-230 volts at 50 Hz. As a result, American hair dryers and styling appliances designed for use in the United States may not be directly compatible with the higher voltage used in European countries.

Plugging a 120-volt hair device into a 220-240-volt outlet without the appropriate voltage converter or transformer will have you saying “bye-bye” to your hair device and could also pose a safety risk.

Some models of hair dyers can change voltage. This is a common feature in many devices, so before traveling to Italy it’s always worth checking. If your hair dryer can’t switch between voltages, you will need to buy a voltage converter to use it in Europe or consider buying a travel hair dryer, curling iron, or flat iron to bring with you on your trip.

With these 39 things to know before traveling to Italy, you’re well on your way to having an unforgettable Italian adventure. Italy promises an experience that will linger long after your return!

And…if you know someone else who could use these tips, hit one of the social “share” buttons at the top of the post!

Further Reading:
🌻 101 Quotes About Italian Life and the Beauty of Italy
🌻 Italian Breakfast Foods: Discover How Italians Start Their Day

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