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

Top 10 reasons for flight cancelation by airlines: a clear algorithm of actions to get compensation

Oct 16, 2025 16:22 PM

Where to Buy eSIM at the Best Price: A Full Review of Tariffs and Options

Aug 8, 2025 10:54 AM

No More SIM Swaps: The eSIM Travel Solution You’ll Actually Use

Aug 4, 2025 16:51 PM

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

Mar 3, 2025 18:00 PM
More News

Corendon Adds Promo Code for Selected Crete Flights

Jun 27, 2026 23:15 PM

Gatwick Adds Qingdao for Summer

Jun 27, 2026 23:02 PM

Rome Airports May Pause EES Checks

Jun 27, 2026 22:59 PM

Italy Gets Four More IHG Hotels

Jun 27, 2026 22:46 PM

U.S. Bag Rechecks Start to Disappear

Jun 27, 2026 22:33 PM

Spain’s Paid Beach Shower Test Begins

Jun 26, 2026 22:57 PM

Scandic Go Arrives in Turku and Oulu

Jun 26, 2026 22:44 PM

Doge’s Palace Opens a Restored Venice Landmark

Jun 26, 2026 22:31 PM

Europe’s Biggest River Ship Gets a Danube Date

Jun 26, 2026 22:28 PM

easyJet Adds New UK Flights to Kittilä and Rovaniemi

Jun 26, 2026 22:15 PM

Bristol Travellers Get a Budapest Winter Route

Jun 26, 2026 22:02 PM

A New InterContinental Is Coming to the Algarve

Jun 25, 2026 21:49 PM

France and UK Heatwave Disrupts Major Tourist Sights

Jun 25, 2026 21:36 PM

UK Passport Rule Catches Dual Nationals

Jun 25, 2026 21:23 PM

Hot Cars Could Cost UK Drivers £110

Jun 25, 2026 06:57 AM

Bremen Puts 2027 Summer Flights on Sale

Jun 24, 2026 22:44 PM

Cagliari Adds Bordeaux and Nice Flights

Jun 24, 2026 22:31 PM

Eurostar Heatwave Cancellations Continue Thursday

Jun 24, 2026 22:28 PM

Ryanair Passengers Miss Athens Flight After Border Delays

Jun 24, 2026 22:15 PM

Bristol Airport Hit by Storm Disruption

Jun 23, 2026 23:42 PM

UK Rail Trips Hit by Heat Warning

Jun 23, 2026 23:39 PM

Japan Visa Fees Rise in July

Jun 23, 2026 23:26 PM

London’s Huge £437m Museum Opens This Year

Jun 23, 2026 23:13 PM

Barcelona Eyes a €30 Cruise Fee

Jun 23, 2026 22:57 PM

Zurich Airport Removes Liquid Restrictions for Departing Passengers

Jun 23, 2026 01:04 AM

Finnair Updates Rules for Power Banks and Lithium Battery Devices

Jun 23, 2026 00:11 AM