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

Jet2 Adds Early Summer 2027 Routes From Bournemouth And Edinburgh

Feb 28, 2026 18:41 PM

Middle East Airspace Closures Disrupt Flights As UK Updates Travel Advice

Feb 28, 2026 18:35 PM

Spain Prepares Brit-Only Airport Queues Ahead Of Summer Rush

Feb 28, 2026 18:29 PM

Barcelona Stay Gets Pricier As Tourist Tax Doubles

Feb 28, 2026 18:13 PM

Hidden Costs Push Budget Airlines Down Passenger Rankings

Feb 28, 2026 18:06 PM

Europe’s Best Airports Named in 2025 Passenger Experience Awards

Feb 28, 2026 17:57 PM

Germany Eyes Aviation Tax Cut as Ryanair Expands Summer Plans

Feb 28, 2026 17:42 PM

Philippine Airlines Marks 85 Years With Anniversary Fare Sale

Feb 28, 2026 17:34 PM

Business Class Seats Drop In New BA Spring Sale

Feb 28, 2026 17:28 PM

Brussels Court Backs Ryanair Cabin Bag Rules in Final Ruling

Feb 28, 2026 17:11 PM

Hilton Opens Onsen Retreat Near Ha Long Bay

Feb 28, 2026 17:05 PM

London Rail Routes Face Three-Week Summer Shutdown

Feb 28, 2026 02:09 AM

Sardinia Summer Flights Hold Steady As Tax Debate Continues

Feb 28, 2026 01:53 AM

Fake Airline Deals Target Travellers Through SMS Scams

Feb 28, 2026 01:46 AM

Cologne Gets Direct Rail Link To Brussels Airport Flights

Feb 28, 2026 01:37 AM

Cardiff Expands Summer Escapes With Five Ryanair Routes

Feb 27, 2026 18:32 PM

Lyon Airport Launches Travel Streaming Platform For Trip Planning

Feb 27, 2026 18:24 PM

Warsaw Adds Direct Summer Link To Croatia’s Zadar

Feb 27, 2026 18:18 PM

Ryanair Moves To Protect Court Ruling In eDreams Pricing Dispute

Feb 26, 2026 20:41 PM

Barcelona Waterfront Stay Adds New Spa Option Away From City Crowds

Feb 26, 2026 20:35 PM

UK Gets First Indoor Slide Park With ‘Flying’ Coaster

Feb 26, 2026 20:29 PM

New Beachside Hotel Planned Near Phuket Airport

Feb 26, 2026 20:13 PM

Hamburg Airport Braces For Holiday Travel Surge

Feb 26, 2026 20:06 PM

Storm Damage Forces Closure Of Iconic Durdle Door Beach

Feb 26, 2026 19:57 PM

Toulouse Gains Direct Link To Luxembourg With Volotea Return

Feb 26, 2026 19:42 PM

UK Entry Rule Tightens As Mandatory ETA Checks Begin

Feb 26, 2026 19:34 PM