Many Italian customs and traditions may seem unusual or even quirky to American travelers, but they are part of the charm of travel and discovering a new culture.
Travelers often experience a phenomenon that feels like culture shock in Italy because the habits and customs that are second nature to them in the U.S. turn out to be unique to American culture.
Italians, accustomed to tourists, are generally forgiving except for egregious lapses such as swimming in the Trevi Fountain.
To better navigate this cultural divide, here are a few unwritten rules that highlight differences between Italy and U.S. customs:
Italian Customs & Etiquette Tips
A Warm Welcome Awaits
When meeting acquaintances, Italians warmly greet each other with a bacetto—a gentle kiss on the left cheek, followed by one on the right. However, if you’re uncertain about the formality of your relationship, opt for a handshake and a polite “Piacere” (nice to meet you) to ensure a respectful interaction.
Pronto: The Italian Equivalent of “Hello”
Like the American greeting “hello,” Italians answer the phone by saying “pronto.” This tradition is believed to date back to when phone calls required the assistance of operators. The word pronto means “ready” in Italian, indicating the person is ready to receive a call.
Find A Washcloth In Italy? Not Often
In Italy, it’s uncommon to find washcloths (salviette) in bathrooms unless you stay at an international chain hotel. Instead, Italians favor using sponges, loofahs, or simply their hands for washing. If you are washcloth-dependent, you may want to bring your own.
Don’t Mistake Bidet Towel for Washcloths
The small guest towels (sciugamano ospite per bidet) hanging over the bidet are meant for personal hygiene. Using them for your hands, face, or body is considered unhygienic.
Be Mindful Getting Out of the Shower
Many Italian homes and hotels have showers without curtains. Instead, water flows into a central drain in the middle of the room or is contained by a partial wall. This requires caution to avoid slips and to prevent water from spreading.
Paper Goods Are Smaller
When shopping for paper plates, towels, or cups in an Italian supermarket, you will notice that they are typically smaller than their American counterparts. This difference in size is due to several factors, including Italy’s emphasis on sustainability and the country’s smaller living spaces, which offer less storage space for bulky items.
Bar Napkins Aren’t Napkins
If you see an upright metal box with thin, waxy papers at a bar or cafe, don’t try to use them as napkins. They papers often have advertisements on them and are intended to hold a sticky pastry, gelato, or piece of pizza so it doesn’t touch your fingers. If you need one, ask the server for a napkin (tovagliolo).
Friday Weddings: A No-No in Italy
In the heart of Italy, it’s a long-standing tradition and considered unlucky to have a wedding on a Friday. In line with Catholic traditions, Sunday ceremonies promise more good fortune.
Yes, You Can Use Bread to Mop Up the Sauce
In Italy, a cherished custom known as fare le scarpetta involves using bread to mop up the sauce and clean one’s plate. Though frowned upon in some high-end establishments, this practice is a way to show appreciation for the chef’s cooking.
However, requesting additional condiments, such as ketchup, may be interpreted as an expression of dissatisfaction with the meal.
Don’t Go Outside With a Wet Head
Your American mother or grandmother may have warned you that you would catch a cold with a wet head, but Italians view it as a significant faux pas, both unkempt and potentially unhealthy.
Look Your Best in Public
The concept of fare una bella figura (making a good impression) is ingrained in Italian culture. Italians strive to look good to others, dressing stylishly and acting respectfully.
One notable tradition that embodies this concept is the Italian passeggiata (leisurely after-dinner stroll), an opportunity to see and be seen, usually on the main street in a town or village.
Indulge in the Italian Art of Leisure
Life in Italy embraces a slower pace, where individuals prioritize the pleasure of doing nothing, known as il dolce far niente. Unlike the fast-paced lifestyle of Americans, Italians approach social interactions with friends in a more relaxed manner, reflecting their leisurely attitude.
Follow Food Rules When Possible
Italian cuisine is steeped in tradition and has many informal rules about eating. To dive deeper, check out my detailed guide, 28 Food Rules To Follow To Eat Like A Local.
Have you encountered any other unwritten rules during your travel in Italy? Add them to the comment section below.
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