Unusual things for tourists that are normal in Italy: what foreigners need to know

By TravelWiseFeb 22, 2024 07:02 AMNews
Share:
An etiquette expert tells about the habits of Italians. Source: Pexels.

Italy is a country with a rich history, culture, and traditions. Some of the habits of Italians are very distinctive and may seem strange to tourists who are not familiar with the Italian way of life.

The etiquette expert was quick to warn travelers about the habits they need to know in order not to offend Italians and not to gather a judgmental crowd around them. The video was posted on her TikTok.

Cappuccino only in the morning

In Italy, cappuccino is considered a morning drink. It is usually drunk for breakfast with pastries or a croissant. Italians rarely order cappuccino after lunch or dinner, as they consider it too rich and heavy for the stomach.

In Italy, you should drink cappuccino in the morning. Source: Pexels
In Italy, you should drink cappuccino in the morning. Source: Pexels

Greetings with kisses

In Italy, friends and family members usually greet each other by kissing on the cheek. This is considered a common polite gesture, even if the people are not very close, so you should not show your surprise or step back to avoid appearing impolite.

Only a fork for spaghetti

Italians eat long pasta with a fork only. Using a spoon is considered improper and may cause condemnation from the cafe staff and Italians at the table.

Respectful attitude to monuments

Italians are very respectful of their cultural and historical heritage, which tourists love to take pictures near. Residents of the resort country protect buildings and artifacts because they understand their value to the country's history, and therefore will not tolerate foreigners behaving badly near these places.

Italians have a great respect for their cultural and historical heritage. Source: Pexels
Italians have a great respect for their cultural and historical heritage. Source: Pexels

White flowers are not for gifting

In Italy, white flowers are associated with funerals and mourning. Therefore, they are not given to living people, as it can be considered a bad omen. This is especially true for chrysanthemums.

As previously reported by TravelWise, you should definitely try local dishes in Italy. Gourmets from all over the world flock here for unforgettable meals.

Top Articles

Not Just a Suitcase: My Personal Checklist for Smart Travelers in 2025

Mar 3, 2025 18:00 PM

Practical Eco-Friendly Travel Solutions for Sustainable Tourism

Feb 14, 2025 15:00 PM

Top Tips for Securing Your Luggage and Preventing Loss

Feb 7, 2025 14:00 PM

Your Guide to Hand Luggage and Baggage Rules

Feb 4, 2025 20:00 PM
More News

flydubai Holidays Expands Offerings to Meet Growing Traveler Demand

Apr 30, 2025 18:28 PM

Top Summer Destinations for 2025 and Rising Favorites

Apr 30, 2025 16:42 PM

New Flight Options from Berlin: Eurowings and BER Connect to Four More Cities

Apr 30, 2025 14:36 PM

Radisson Blu Opens Eco-Friendly Hotel in Ha Long Bay

Apr 30, 2025 03:37 AM

beOnd Adds 18 Direct Routes to the Maldives, Cutting Layovers

Apr 29, 2025 21:24 PM

UK Railways Gear Up for Winter with New Fleet to Tackle Seasonal Delays

Apr 29, 2025 19:32 PM

AirAsia Expands Flexibility with Paid Cancellation Options

Apr 29, 2025 17:48 PM

Marriott to Open First Safari Camp in Tanzania’s Serengeti Blending Nature and Infrastructure

Apr 29, 2025 15:53 PM

Edinburgh Airport Cuts Security Time with New Scanners

Apr 29, 2025 13:56 PM

Batumi's Tourism Scene Expands with the Arrival of La Quinta Hotel

Apr 29, 2025 04:47 AM

Travel Disruptions Expected as Euston Station Closes

Apr 29, 2025 02:31 AM

Finnair to Lay Off Pilots and Cut Long-Haul Routes Amid Ongoing Strikes

Apr 28, 2025 23:29 PM

flydubai Expands Seasonal Summer Flights to 11 Destinations

Apr 28, 2025 21:36 PM

New SIRO Boka Place Brings Active Travel to Montenegro’s Coast

Apr 28, 2025 19:53 PM

Major Disruptions Expected on Britain’s Railways Over May Bank Holidays

Apr 28, 2025 17:28 PM

New Travel Opportunities as Emirates Expands 2025 Flight Network

Apr 28, 2025 15:34 PM

Flow Country Becomes a New Travel Destination in Scotland

Apr 27, 2025 23:25 PM

Air India Eases Transfers and Refreshes Cabins for Smoother Journeys

Apr 27, 2025 19:33 PM

Easier Journeys Ahead: Belgrade–Geneva Flights Resume in 2025

Apr 26, 2025 13:47 PM

A New Nordic Journey: What Travelers Can Expect from the North

Apr 26, 2025 11:34 AM

Fewer Stopovers: Edinburgh–D.C. Route Gets Winter Boost

Apr 26, 2025 09:23 AM

Europe’s Beaches in 2025: What’s Worth Your Trip This Summer?

Apr 26, 2025 06:49 AM

Belgian Airports Brace for Major Disruptions as Nationwide Strike Causes Flight Cancellations

Apr 26, 2025 03:35 AM

Amtrak Announces New Route Linking Gulf Coast Cities

Apr 25, 2025 23:38 PM

Avani+ Fujairah Resort to Open in 2028, Expanding Travel Options in UAE

Apr 25, 2025 21:46 PM

Travelers in Jakarta Get New Emirates Service Center

Apr 25, 2025 19:21 PM