10 Ways To Avoid Looking Like A Tourist In Italy (2024)

10 Ways To Avoid Looking Like A Tourist In Italy (1)

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As they say, “When in Rome…” But what does it mean to “do as the Romans do”? Quite literally, the phrase means that it is advisable to follow the customs and conventions of the area you are visiting.

When visiting a new place, considering the culture is just as important as the climate. I got to tour Italy as a chaperone on a high school trip a couple of years ago. I gained some insights, but no one could confuse me for a local. For the inside scoop on how to act like an Italian, we went to an expert.

Introducing Steve Perillo, CEO, President, and third-generation family owner ofPerillo Tours, America’s leading tour company to Italy. Steve’s such an expert on Italy that he can tell you the average temperature on a given day in any region. Here are some tips for acting like a local in Italy, according to Steve.

1. Dress Nicely

Europeans tend to dress much less casually than we do in the States. Let’s just say that wearing shorts is a good way to advertise that you’re a tourist. Steve suggests dressing “for the occasion” and making sure you present yourself neatly. “Italians take a lot of pride in their appearance and usually dress nicely for any kind of public outing. Even when going shopping, Italians dress nicely,” he says.

10 Ways To Avoid Looking Like A Tourist In Italy (3)

2. Keep Your Shoes On

In some cultures, it’s appropriate to take your shoes off when entering one’s home. Steve says in Italy, it comes down to personal preference: “Some Italians find it rude to take off one’s shoes in front of others. Some, though not many, expect you to take them off.” Be attentive to what others are doing with their shoes, and when in doubt, ask.

10 Ways To Avoid Looking Like A Tourist In Italy (4)

3. Shoulders And Knees Must Be Covered In Church

Largely Catholic, Italy has an inordinate amount of ornate churches that you can tour. However, it is important to keep in mind that while these churches are tourist attractions, they are still considered holy places. Show respect by dressing conservatively.

4. Don’t Call During Pisolino

If you need to call on someone between the hours of 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., think again. You may interrupt their “pisolino.”

“Pisolino refers to a nap that Italians take after their mid-day meal each day, also known as a siesta,” Steve says. He advises that if you must call during these hours, you “first apologize for disturbing the household at this time.”

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5. Punctuality Is Not A Priority

You may be used to being on time down to the minute, or even showing up early, but Italians don’t answer to clocks as much as Americans do. Steve says, “It is acceptable to arrive 15 to 30 minutes after the designated time.”

6. Italians Don’t Wait In Line

“Unlike Americans, Italians don’t really believe in standing in lines,” says Steve. “The unspoken rule is whoever is the most aggressive and gets to the front first, goes first. Lines are simply not respected.”

7. Fare La Bella Figura

As you may have gathered, impressions mean something in Italy. Fare la bella figura literally translates as “to make a beautiful figure,” but it means “to make a good impression.” We always want to look nice on vacation anyway, so leave the messy bun and yoga pants at home and get your bella figura on!

8. Familiarize Yourself With Campanilismo

Steve explains, “The best way to describe campanilismo is a strong sense of pride for one’s local area. Sometimes people will even define themselves right down to the particular quarter of the city they live in.Italians are more proud of being Romano (from Rome) or Toscano (from Tuscany) than being Italian.”

Prior to 2012, “all stores, except supermarkets, were always closed on Sundays in order to give workers time to spend with their family and go to church,” Steve says. More stores are open on Sundays now, but don’t count on it!

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10. Only Carry Essentials

If you don’t need it, don’t bring it — especially your passport. Steve offers these tips to visitors to avoid being pickpocketed in touristy areas:

  • Always keep your hand on your bag that’s hanging on your shoulder or keep your bag in front of you.
  • Don’t keep your wallet in your back pocket.
  • Use a cheap luggage lock that you can use to lock the zippers on your backpack or purse in busy areas.
  • At restaurants and cafés, leave your purse in your lap instead of hanging it off of your chair, and don’t leave your phone on the table if dining outside.

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    • 10 Ways To Avoid Looking Like A Tourist In Italy (7)Laura Ray View Full Profile

      Laura Ray has lived in Atlanta, the Bay Area, SoCal, and Austin. After moving from Texas, she and her husband rambled about the Midwest in a camper for a couple of years before finally settling on 35 acres in their home state of Kentucky. When she isn't clacking around on the keyboard (cat in lap), you can find her practicing yoga, gardening, or playing the ukulele. In addition to writing for Quillt sites such as SeniorsMatter.com and Oola.com, she’s also written for Zumper.com and served as Oola's editor before becoming a Content Strategist for TravelAwaits. This travel-lover's favorite destinations include Italy, the Greek isles, and Kentucky Lake.

    10 Ways To Avoid Looking Like A Tourist In Italy (2024)

    FAQs

    10 Ways To Avoid Looking Like A Tourist In Italy? ›

    If you want to avoid looking like a tourist, don't wear clothes with location-specific text or designs. Whether it's a shirt with the name of your hometown or a cap that proclaims your love for the place you're visiting, nothing gives you away as a tourist more than branded merchandise.

    How do I not look like a tourist in Italy? ›

    ENJOYING THIS ARTICLE?
    1. Dress Nicely. Europeans tend to dress much less casually than we do in the States. ...
    2. Keep Your Shoes On. ...
    3. Shoulders And Knees Must Be Covered In Church. ...
    4. Don't Call During Pisolino. ...
    5. Punctuality Is Not A Priority. ...
    6. Italians Don't Wait In Line. ...
    7. Fare La Bella Figura. ...
    8. Familiarize Yourself With Campanilismo.
    Jul 22, 2021

    How not to dress like a tourist? ›

    If you want to avoid looking like a tourist, don't wear clothes with location-specific text or designs. Whether it's a shirt with the name of your hometown or a cap that proclaims your love for the place you're visiting, nothing gives you away as a tourist more than branded merchandise.

    Can I show my stomach in Italy? ›

    Dress Code for Women

    It is not permitted to wear sleeveless or low-cut clothing. Belly crop tops are a big no! Make sure your shoulders are covered. If you're wearing a skirt, dress, or pair of shorts, make sure they're at least knee-length.

    Where to avoid tourists in Italy? ›

    • Alberobello. Located near Bari, you will find the quaint Italian town of Alberobello. ...
    • Treviso. Do you want the Venice experience but want to avoid the crowds and prices? ...
    • Parma. Florence was the cradle of the Renaissance. ...
    • Castelluccio. ...
    • Sperlonga.
    Dec 22, 2020

    Do people wear sneakers in Italy? ›

    Europeans wear sneakers.

    And no, they don't wear high-heels and loafers made from the finest Italian leather every day. They wear sneakers.

    Do tourists wear jeans in Italy? ›

    Are jeans appropriate to wear in Italy? While Europeans tend to dress up more than Americans, you still can wear jeans in Italy. However, avoid acid wash and extremely distressed denim and opt for medium-dark blues and blacks. Black skinny jeans always look chic in Europe!

    What is the 70% rule in Italy? ›

    The special tax regime is applicable to employment income, self-employment income and personal business income produced in Italy and provides a 70% exemption for five years (50% for professional athletes).

    What is the 30% rule in Italy? ›

    Under the scheme, for 5 years, income from work as an employee (or similar category) and self-employment pursued in Italy is taxed at 30% of the amount, or 10% if the worker becomes resident in one of the following regions: Abruzzo, Molise, Campania, Apulia, Basilicata, Calabria, Sardinia or Sicily.

    Can you wear sneakers to dinner in Italy? ›

    Sneakers are fine also in Italy, but again, maybe not in a fancy restaurant. So consider taking also some nice pair of shoes with you.

    What should you not forget in Italy? ›

    Here are ten things you shouldn't forget to pack for your trip to Italy, no matter the season or the destination.
    • Clothes that mix, match & layer well. ...
    • Shoes made for walking. ...
    • A good looking, comfortable day pack. ...
    • A scarf or lightweight cover-up. ...
    • Your finest clothes. ...
    • Your proper camera. ...
    • Adaptors, chargers & a portable charger.
    Oct 3, 2019

    What is the number 1 tourist spot in Italy? ›

    1. Colosseum in Rome. The Colosseum is arguably Italy's most famous attraction. Rome's historic amphitheater is one of the greatest engineering feats of ancient times.

    How should an American dress in Italy? ›

    To dress in Italy, opt for clothes with clean lines that fit you well, like button-down shirts for men and capri pants for women. Additionally, choose classy shoes such as boots or ballet flats, since Italians generally frown on wearing things like flip flops in public.

    Is it OK to wear shorts in Italy? ›

    You can wear shorts in Italy and look perfectly normal.

    Here are a few examples of Italians we saw wearing shorts in Italy when it was in the mid-80s in September. We knew the temperature was expected to be in the mid-80s and 90s, but we also wanted to fit in with the local attire.

    Can I wear flip-flops in Italy? ›

    But if you just can't part with your shorts, save them as a beach cover up. Don't Bring Flip-Flops. Italians can spot an American from a mile away; because, well, they are wearing flip-flops. And yes, this is a real thing, Italian's just don't wear flip-flops.

    Are white pants OK in Italy? ›

    Pile on the neutral colors

    Meanwhile, the “no white after Labor Day” rule in Italy doesn't exist: Locals love winter white, especially for jeans and sweaters.

    What is Italy's etiquette? ›

    Basic Etiquette

    It is common for Italian friends and families to kiss on the cheek when they meet, irrespective of their gender. Stand up out of respect when an older person enters the room. It is important to dress neatly and respectfully. Cover your mouth when yawning or sneezing. Hats should be removed indoors.

    How do you carry a camera without looking like a tourist? ›

    AVOID DISPLAYING YOUR CAMERA

    But walking around with a big camera hanging around your neck is just asking for trouble, no matter where you are. Instead, take a messenger bag or backpack and keep your camera in there when you're not using it.

    How do I make myself look like a tourist? ›

    Dressing like a tourist is easy! A bright Hawaiian shirt is a classic look, but neon prints and souvenir t-shirts are also great shirt options. For bottoms, definitely go with khaki shorts or cargo shorts. Slip into a pair of white crew socks and strap your sandals over them to create an iconic tourist vibe.

    What do tourists look at? ›

    Tourists' expectations when visiting a particular place are related to several features of the chosen destination: culture, architecture, gastronomy, infrastructure, landscape, events, shopping, etc. These features attract people to the destination and contribute to the overall experience of the trip.

    Do not wear jeans in Europe? ›

    Are jeans acceptable in Europe? Jeans are not only acceptable to wear in Europe, but very popular. Jeans are part of the dress code in most Cities across Europe and are always a huge part of European fashion! It's not recommended to wear them in the summer but any time of year they are a great choice.

    Are ripped jeans OK in Europe? ›

    In general, Europeans avoid flare legs. Pants with holes or rips are also very American in style. Wear more skirts and dresses. Women in Europe tend to wear skirts and dresses more often than American women, so don't be afraid to bring out these girly items.

    Are Italians friendly to American tourists? ›

    In general, Italians respect Americans and always welcome them as friends. They adore the curiosity of American tourists in regard to experiencing Italian culture, and they love the way that Americans enjoy their food.

    What part of the US looks most like Europe? ›

    Santa Barbara, California

    They call it the "American Riviera," as its beaches resemble and rival those of coastal France, but to see Santa Barbara is to see colonial Spain. Anchored by Old Mission Santa Barbara, the city's white stucco and red-tiled rooftops might make "Western St. Augustine" an even better nickname.

    What not to do as an American in Europe? ›

    12 Things Not To Do In Europe
    • Do Not Litter.
    • Do Not Beckon The Waiter By Waving.
    • Do Not Use The Bicycle Lanes For Walking.
    • Do Not Skip The First Verse Of German National Anthem.
    • Do not Assume That Everyone Knows English.
    • Avoid Making Much Noise.
    • Do Not Leave A Bigger Tip Than Required.
    • Avoid Jaywalking.
    Mar 23, 2023

    What is 231 law in Italy? ›

    Law 231 provides a sanctioning system, which, if an organisation is convicted, could lead to severe penalties, both of an economic nature (penalties from €24,700 up to over €1,500,000), and / or of a prohibitive nature.

    What is the 1912 rule? ›

    Enacted in 1912, Italy's first ever law on citizenship provided that children born in United States to an Italian father had Italian citizenship by bloodline if the father was still an Italian citizen at the time of the child's birth (see par. 7). Women were not allowed to pass on their Italian citizenship.

    What is Italy's law 194? ›

    194. The law 194 on the adoption of social protection of motherhood and the voluntary termination of pregnancy. Art. 1 stated that the State guarantees the right to responsible and planned parenthood, recognizes the social value of motherhood, and shall protect human life from the beginning.

    What are the 4 food rules in Italy? ›

    Italian Food Rules – The Expanded List!
    • No cappuccino after 10:30 a.m. This is perhaps the most well-known, but warrants some explanation. ...
    • Keep it simple. ...
    • NO Parmigiano cheese with seafood. ...
    • Only water or wine with your meal. ...
    • Don't eat bread with your pasta. ...
    • No chicken on pizza or pasta. ...
    • No ice cubes in drinks.
    Nov 28, 2021

    How much cash can I carry into Italy? ›

    Buying currency in the US

    There's no limit to the amount of foreign currency you can bring into the Italy or the eurozone. However, you're going to have to declare your cash if you're planning to enter or leave the country with more than €10,000.

    How much cash is allowed in Italy? ›

    In Italy, starting from 1 March 2022 (with effect backdated to 1 January 2022) the limit for those who intend to pay using cash returns to 2,000 euros, after it was set at 1,000 euros from 1 January to 28 February 2022. It is possible to pay in cash only up to € 1,999.99 for each single transaction.

    Should I buy bottled water in Italy? ›

    The short answer is yes. Drinking water from the tap in Italy is considered safe. Tap water in the major cities and towns around Italy is safe for consumption, and there are thousands of old-style water fountains dotted around cities, like Rome, where you can fill up water bottles.

    Can you eat while walking in Italy? ›

    The Italian concept of dining includes savoring one's food, so avoid eating while walking or taking public transportation. The only exception is gelato.

    What is smart casual in Italy? ›

    2: the "non - dress code": casual style

    Smart casual is a style somewhere between formal and casual, so not jacket and tie, but still an outfit made up of sober and refined garments, always well matched. A jacket or blazer, a shirt with a mandarin collar for him, smart or skinny trousers, skirts and dresses for her.

    What can an American not do in Italy? ›

    12 Things NOT To Do In Italy
    • Breakfast – Expect A Lavish Spread.
    • Train Ticket – Board Without Validating Your Ticket.
    • Coffee – Order A Latte (Please Don't)
    • Clothes – Wear A Tube Top Or Shorts To A Church.
    • Water – Ask For Still, Thinking It's Tap.
    • GPS – Believe Google Is Your Best Friend (Not Always)
    Mar 23, 2023

    What must you not expect to eat for breakfast in Italy? ›

    Italians eat predominantly sweet things for breakfast. This can be quite a shock if you are used to having toast, eggs, and bacon first thing in the morning. Instead, the traditional breakfast in Italy relies almost exclusively on baked goods like biscuits, cookies, pastries, rusks, and cakes.

    Should I bring a refillable water bottle to Italy? ›

    💦 Should I Bring a Water Bottle to Italy? Yes, bringing a reusable water bottle to Italy is a great idea! Italy can get quite hot during the summer months, and staying hydrated is important for your health and comfort while travelling.

    Where is the prettiest place in Italy? ›

    1. Florence or Firenze in Tuscany. Always at the top of the most beautiful places in Italy list, Florence has it all, from world famous museums to glorious architecture. It's the city for the Duomo, Piazza della Signoria and Ponte Vecchio and also home to celebrated museums, historic markets and magnificent gardens.

    What is the best month to visit Italy? ›

    Italy's best travel months are May, June, September, and October. They're also the busiest and most expensive time to visit (with the north remaining just as busy throughout midsummer). Crowds aside, these months combine the convenience of peak season with pleasant weather.

    What is the busiest tourist month in Italy? ›

    Summer months (typically May through September) are the peak tourist season, so if you hope to score a deal on flights or hotel rooms, aim for a less popular time of year. Popular cities like Rome and Florence are usually inundated with tourists almost any time of year, except winter.

    What is the friendliest place in Italy? ›

    Where is the friendliest city in the world? Polignano a Mare has been voted the most welcoming tourist destination in the world by Booking's Traveller Review Award. The coastal city in the southern region of Puglia has long been a favorite summer vacation spot.

    What are three natural attractions that a tourist would visit in Italy? ›

    Italy's 5 best natural wonders
    • Amalfi Coast.
    • Mount Etna.
    • The Dolomites.
    • Lago di Como.
    • Parco Nazionale d'Abruzzo, Lazio e Molise.
    • You might also like:
    Jul 20, 2020

    How do you not appear as a tourist? ›

    Avoid bright-colored clothes and wear muted colors instead. Ditch the white sneakers, bulky cargo shorts, and yoga pants, and opt for comfortable shoes and casual pants like khakis. Forget the fanny pack and hulking backpacks. Carry only what you need.

    How can I look good in Italy? ›

    Summary of What To Wear in Italy
    1. Get travel clothing that fits you well.
    2. Invest in a few quality pieces of merino wool for a versatile capsule wardrobe.
    3. Linen is the unofficial fabric of summer in Italy.
    4. Short shorts are the way to go (for men and women )
    5. Dust off that travel blazer and look like a local.

    How can I make myself look more Italian? ›

    How To Dress Like An Italian
    1. Wear chinos and linen suiting. ...
    2. Get your trouser length just so. ...
    3. Consider how to style a sports watch. ...
    4. Start with the blazer and build out from there. ...
    5. Freshen up with some workwear. ...
    6. Work within a limited colour palette. ...
    7. Invest in soft, slouchy tailoring. ...
    8. Put a 1970s spin on your eyewear.
    Sep 27, 2020

    How do you limit tourists? ›

    What Can You Do About Overtourism?
    1. Search Out Regional Alternatives. ...
    2. Visit During Off-Peak Periods. ...
    3. Support The Local Community With Your Time And Money. ...
    4. Explore Beyond The Hotspots With A Local Guide. ...
    5. Be An Eco-friendly, Responsible Traveler. ...
    6. Travel With Responsible, Ethical Tour Companies. ...
    7. Travel Off The Beaten Track.
    Jan 10, 2023

    How do I not overpack for Europe? ›

    How to Avoid Overpacking for a Trip
    1. Make a Checklist. A checklist is the best place to start. ...
    2. Pick the Right Suitcase. Choose a modestly-sized suitcase. ...
    3. Mix and Match. This is the fun part. ...
    4. Roll Them Up! ...
    5. Keep the Accessories Small. ...
    6. Shoes, Shoes, Shoes. ...
    7. Only Take Half. ...
    8. Use a Luggage Scale.

    What is the most not visited country in Europe? ›

    The world's 2nd least visited (with Kiribati as the first) and Europe's least visited country, one would wonder why Moldova isn't a hit with the tourists… and well, there are a number of reasons why: it's 'remote', it is located between Ukraine and Romania, and it's still struggling after it gained its independence ...

    What are Italian beauty rules? ›

    7 Rules of Italian Beauty
    • 1: Sun kissed skin. Italians are synonymous with beautiful skin and many of us dream to have their sun kissed tone. ...
    • 2: Expressive lips. Italians love to talk… a lot. ...
    • 3: Gold highlights. Tan loves gold! ...
    • 4: Classic eyes. ...
    • 5: Messy hair. ...
    • 6: Bella Figura. ...
    • 7: La dolce vita.

    What are Italian looking features? ›

    What do Italian People Look Like?
    • Olive Skin. Like Greek people and Spanish people, Italians generally have darker skin tones than their neighbors from Central Europe and Scandinavian countries. ...
    • Natural Glow. ...
    • Dark Eyes. ...
    • Pointed Nose. ...
    • A Sharp Face.
    Mar 2, 2023

    What color eyes does Italian female have? ›

    Italians have all different eye colors including brown, hazel, green, and blue. There are blonde, brunette, and red-haired Italians. The more North you move in Italy the more frequently you will see Italians with blue eyes. The map below illustrates this trend.

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