Essential Italian Etiquette: A Guide for Travelers

Italians are known for their unique cultural norms, particularly when it comes to food and social interactions. If you want to blend in and truly experience the Italian way of life during your visit to the Bel Paese, take note of these important customs that will help you avoid appearing as a tourist.

The Great Cappuccino Debate

Cappuccino, a beloved Italian beverage, is subject to strict timing regulations. Typically ordered in the morning, it is considered socially unacceptable to order a cappuccino after midday. This coffee drink is seen as a breakfast item, leaving macchiato — an espresso with milk — as a more acceptable option throughout the day.

Cappuccino is strictly a breakfast drink, so no one is going to order one after midday © MANAStudio / Shutterstock

Drink of Choice

Italians typically enjoy only three types of beverages with their meals: water, wine, or beer. Red wine is usually paired with meat dishes, while white wine complements fish. Beer is generally associated with pizza. It’s important to note that ordering sodas or juices with a pasta dish would stand out as a tourist move. Children may, however, enjoy soft drinks without raising any eyebrows.

The only acceptable drinks to accompany a meal are wine, beer or just good old water © Jean-Bernard Carillet / Lonely Planet

No Wet Hair Looks

Italians generally avoid going out with wet hair. This is viewed as unkempt and potentially hazardous to health. Consequently, if you stroll around with damp hair, even on a hot summer day, expect a few raised eyebrows. The only exception is for those returning from a beach day, where wet hair is naturally attributed to sea activities.

Wet hair is only acceptable if you’re returning from a long day at the beach © Maremagnum / Getty Images

Sharing Isn’t Caring (But Trading Is)

When it comes to pizza, Italians hold strong opinions regarding toppings, preparation, and etiquette. The key principle to remember is that each person should have their own pizza; sharing is not customary. However, trading a slice of your pizza for a slice of someone else’s is acceptable, provided that the slices are of comparable size and toppings.

Pizza is serious business that can’t be shared but only traded © Camo24 / Shutterstock

Money Talks

Italians are typically private when it comes to discussing finances in public. Although they may engage in general conversations about money, they avoid sharing specific figures. Such discussions are reserved for intimate settings with close friends and family members, making it wise to change the subject if finances arise — perhaps to the ever-popular topic of football.