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 Extends Leeds Bradford–Tunisia Flights Into Late Autumn

Oct 17, 2026 23:57 PM

UK Autumn Trips Get a Dry Weekend Before Rain Returns

Oct 16, 2026 23:24 PM

Klagenfurt–Cologne Flights Set for Another Summer

Oct 16, 2026 20:41 PM

Flying With a Power Bank? Know These Rules

Oct 16, 2026 20:39 PM

Portugal Breaks Ground on 75-Minute Lisbon–Porto Rail Link

Oct 15, 2026 21:06 PM

Leeds Bradford Airport Says Flights Will Run Despite Strike Threat

Oct 14, 2026 21:13 PM

Antarctica Cruises Go on Sale, but Not All Get 10% Off

Oct 14, 2026 21:08 PM

Munich Airport Loses Direct Trains Until Friday

Oct 14, 2026 20:55 PM

Ryanair Adds New Direct Route to Crete From Bratislava

Oct 13, 2026 14:02 PM

Aeroitalia Brings Back Genoa–Sardinia Flights for Christmas

Oct 13, 2026 02:17 AM

Eurostar Cuts London–Paris Trains on Four More Weekends

Oct 12, 2026 01:24 AM

Jet2 Opens Summer 2028 Holidays With £60 Deposits

Oct 11, 2026 23:51 PM

Ryanair to Scrap All Bremen Flights in 2027

Oct 11, 2026 23:49 PM

From Rome to Alba: New Luxury Train Trips Across Italy in 2027

Oct 11, 2026 03:06 AM

Ryanair Adds 29 New Routes for Summer 2027

Oct 11, 2026 02:53 AM

TUI Cruise Passengers Denied Refunds After Coach Trips

Oct 11, 2026 02:48 AM

EasyJet Cuts More Winter Flights as Fuel Costs Soar

Oct 11, 2026 02:35 AM

New London Train Routes Blocked Over Delay Fears

Oct 11, 2026 02:22 AM

Six Senses Plans Five New Hotels for 2027

Oct 10, 2026 23:57 PM

Orient Express Adds Monaco Stop to 2027 Luxury Route

Oct 9, 2026 21:54 PM

KLM to Bring Free Starlink Wi-Fi to Long-Haul Flights

Oct 9, 2026 21:41 PM

Kraków Gets Four More Ryanair Winter Routes

Oct 9, 2026 21:39 PM

Deutsche Bahn Keeps €99.99 Family Ticket for Good

Oct 9, 2026 21:26 PM

London Gets Easier Night Train Links Across Europe

Oct 9, 2026 21:13 PM

Eclipse Breaks Shuts Down: What Happens to Your Booking?

Oct 9, 2026 21:08 PM

British Airways A380 Upgrade: What Changes for Your Flight

Oct 8, 2026 21:35 PM