Cultural differences are part of the fun of traveling, but they can also be a bit intimidating for people. I’m not speaking of language barriers, but purely lifestyle things that are helpful to keep in mind when planning a trip.

So today, let’s take a look at twelve things you should know before going to Italy that have the potential to impact your Italian vacation.

Italy in the Summer

1. Summer can be HOT!

This is especially true in the south (Rome, Naples), but holds for all of Italy, especially with climate change. It can be in the 90s or even 100s for days and weeks at a time in the summer. Keep that in mind if you are planning days out, or if you are looking for an Airbnb (AC is a must).

2. August can mean shut downs

Italians are known for taking their vacations in August. While this won’t affect the tourist sights, keep in mind that a number of restaurants and shops might be closed for some or all of the month. On the plus side, there will be fewer people around, especially in Rome, in terms of locals. (Tourists are a different story.)

Dining Out

3. Coffee culture here is a bit different

I wrote all about Italian coffee culture, which you can read here, but a couple quick things to keep in mind. You’ll be viewed as a barbarian if you order a cappuccino after 11am, and ordering “coffee” means an espresso.

4. Water is not free

There is no such thing as free water in an Italian restaurant. If you order water, it will be filtered or bottled. Acqua naturale means flat water. (On the other hand, many Italian cities have free water fountains all over, especially in Rome.)

5. Different pricing eating in or taking away

Some cafes will have different prices for whether you use a table or simply take your coffee or bottle of water or gelato to go. (It is more expensive to dine in.) Others, mainly sit down restaurants, will add a cover charge (a coperto) for dining in. It will be a few euros, and while you can try to dispute it if it isn’t listed on the menu, it isn’t worth it. Just realize it is part of the experience.

6. The aperitivo experience

If you go for an afternoon drink, ask for an aperitivo. It means you’ll get some snacks (normally nothing fancy) with your aperol spritz or other drink. This will be the general default from roughly 3pm to 7pm in most bars.

Getting around

7. Bus schedules are just an optimistic expression

This goes for trains a bit as well, but city buses (especially in Rome) don’t really operate on schedule. Sometimes they are early; sometimes they are late. Sometimes they don’t come at all. Just be flexible and patient.

8. Trains can be overcrowded

Regional trains don’t come with assigned seats, and the rail company will sell as many tickets as are desired. This means that even a long-haul slow train (like my three hour train from Rome to Naples) can have more people than seats, and you might wind up standing, especially if you have luggage. For a reserved seat, book a fast train for more money.

9. Crossing the street can be dangerous

Italians drive fast. They zip around corners. Pedestrian only zones aren’t always only for pedestrians. Watch out when crossing the street. Traffic can come from anywhere, especially scooters, bikes, and motorbikes. Also, Italians will cross against the red, although less so in Milan.

General Cultural Differences

10. Smoking

Italians smoke more than most Western Europeans, and much more than most Americans. If you dine outside, you will likely have smokers around. There might be smokers on train platforms, or just about anywhere else. If you are sensitive, wear a good mask.

11. Churches have dress codes

Part of going to Italy is seeing the amazing churches. Just realize that they have dress codes (knees and shoulders covered) that can be enforced. If you are dressed inappropriately, expect to be turned away or forced to buy a wrap. (Occasionally churches have some to borrow, but not always.)

12. Speed of life

Finally, the speed of life here in Italy is fascinating. Italians are both rushed and relaxed. They will rush through things they don’t like in order to relax at things they do. So Italians drive fast, walk fast, talk fast, work fast… and then dine slowly, drink slowly, sip coffee slowly. It’s both fascinating and wonderful.

So those are some basic cultural things to keep in mind before going to Italy. I hope they help you when you plan your trip!

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