10 Mistakes to Avoid in Italy for Those Who Want to Feel at Home

Italy is calling, and whether it’s your first or next trip, I’m here to help you avoid common mistakes in Italy! You’ve probably heard some common tips, like “don’t order a cappuccino after 12” and “no pineapple on pizza,” but what about the more subtle cultural norms that might catch you off guard? These insights will help you navigate your Italian adventure smoothly and avoid some common mistakes that tourists often make.

While it’s essential to understand these cultural differences, remember, the key is to experience Italy in a way that feels authentic to you. Ready to explore? Here are 10 common mistakes to avoid in Italy so you can blend in and make the most of your trip!

1. Waiting for il conto (the check)

In Italy, the check (il conto) won’t automatically be brought to your table when you’re done eating. Italians enjoy long, relaxed meals, and waiters typically won’t rush you or assume you’ve finished. When you’re ready to leave, simply say: “Il conto, per favore!” to request the check.

You typically won’t find a tipping jar at the counter in Italy, as tipping is not customary. And while it’s not mandatory to leave a tip, most Italians will leave a small amount – just a few euros – if they were happy with the service. It’s considered a polite gesture but definitely not expected.

2. Eating Pasta as a Side Dish

In Italy, pasta is never treated as a side dish. It’s always served as a primo piatto (first course) and meant to be enjoyed on its own, without being paired with a secondo (main course). So, if you’re tempted to order a steak with a side of spaghetti, just be aware it’s not how it’s typically done! Instead, savor your pasta as its own delicious, standalone experience, just as Italians do.

Another important note: Italians don’t share their pasta! Each person enjoys their own portion, so don’t expect extra plates for sharing. However, there are some exceptions—certain primi dishes, like a rich seafood risotto, are sometimes designed for two people to share. If you see it listed as “per due” (for two), it’s meant to be shared, but pasta? That’s all yours!

3. Wearing Socks with Sandals

Socks with sandals? That’s a clear indication you’re not from Italy and it’s one of the most common mistakes tourists make in Italy! Italians are renowned for their impeccable sense of style, and wearing socks with sandals is simply a no-go. Socks are meant to be worn with closed shoes like loafers or sneakers, never with sandals or beach footwear. In Italy, fashion is taken seriously, even for casual outings. So, if you’re heading out in summer, embrace the Italian way and leave the sandals sock-free!

4. Cutting Spaghetti with a Fork and Knife

Another big no-no and a common mistake to avoid in Italy! Italians pride themselves on their pasta-eating technique, and twirling spaghetti around a fork is an essential skill. Using a knife to cut your pasta is considered both unnecessary and a bit of a faux pas. Instead, place your fork at the edge of the plate and twirl the spaghetti. Enjoy the authentic experience! Want to really impress? Master the art of the twirl, and you’ll fit right in. Remember, for Italians, food is an art form – pasta included!

5. Splitting the Bill Based on Individual Meals

In Italy, splitting the bill based on what each person ordered is not the norm. It’s common practice to divide the bill equally among the group, a method known as splitting “alla romana.” This reflects the Italian focus on shared experiences rather than individual consumption. Dining together is a social event, not just a meal, and splitting the bill evenly is part of that experience. While it might seem unfair if someone ordered more expensive items, this custom emphasizes togetherness, so be prepared and embrace it!

However, in certain parts of Italy, especially in the north, or among specific groups of people, you might find a different approach, where each person pays exactly for what they ordered. That said, in most parts of Italy, you’ll find that splitting the bill alla romana is the standard practice – another way Italians value the shared nature of dining together.

6. Taking Off Your Shoes at Someone’s House

Unlike many other cultures where it’s common to remove shoes upon entering a home, Italians often keep their shoes on indoors. Shoes are considered an important part of an outfit, and showing off stylish footwear is part of the culture, especially when hosting guests. Italians take pride in their sense of fashion, and removing shoes might feel informal or out of place in many households.

That said, there are exceptions. In some northern regions of Italy or among certain families, there might be a custom of removing shoes upon entering, especially during the colder months or to maintain cleanliness inside the home. This can vary depending on the region, generation, or personal preference. It’s even a topic of debate among Italians themselves, as shown in this TikTok video, where opinions differ on whether shoes should stay on or come off indoors.

As a guest, it’s always a good idea to observe or ask politely if you’re unsure of the house rules. While shoes are typically kept on, respecting the household’s preferences is the best way to navigate this cultural nuance.

7. Not Offering Coffee to a Guest

In Italy, coffee is not just a drink: it’s a ritual and a key part of hospitality. One of the common mistakes to avoid in Italy is forgetting to offer your guests coffee. Whether it’s a quick espresso after lunch or an afternoon pick-me-up, it’s customary to always offer coffee. Failing to do so can be seen as impolite or even disrespectful, as it’s an essential gesture of warmth and hospitality in Italian culture.

Coffee serves as a moment of connection and conversation, not just a way to get a caffeine boost. The most common offering is an espresso, but depending on the time of day, you might also offer a caffè macchiato or even a cappuccino (though only before noon!). For Italians, it’s a small but significant act that shows consideration for their guest’s comfort and enjoyment.

So, when in Italy, remember: always offer coffee to a guest. It’s not just about the beverage itself. It’s about showing care and following a time-honored social custom. Avoiding this mistake in Italy shows your appreciation for the local culture.

8. No Parmigiano on Seafood

Italians are passionate about their food, and there are some unspoken culinary rules that locals follow closely. One of the most important is that cheese, especially Parmigiano, is traditionally not paired with seafood. So, beware of this common mistake to avoid in Italy! Italians believe that cheese overwhelms the delicate flavors of fish and seafood, masking the freshness that these dishes are known for.

So, if you’re enjoying a seafood pasta dish, such as spaghetti alle vongole or risotto ai frutti di mare, it’s good to be aware of this custom. While you’re free to enjoy your meal however you like, understanding this tradition can help you appreciate Italian cuisine in a more authentic way.

9. Entering a Church Poorly Dressed

When visiting churches in Italy, it’s important to remember that these are not just historical landmarks, but also sacred spaces where religious services are held regularly. Italians take church decorum seriously, and visitors are expected to dress modestly as a sign of respect. This means avoiding tank tops, shorts, mini skirts, or any revealing clothing. Both men and women should ensure that their shoulders and knees are covered.

Many of Italy’s most famous churches, such as St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome or the Duomo di Milano, strictly enforce these dress codes, and you might be denied entry if you’re not appropriately dressed. If you’re visiting during the hot summer months, a good tip is to carry a light scarf or shawl to cover your shoulders or legs if needed.

Whether you’re attending a service or simply appreciating the art and history of these magnificent buildings, following the church dress code is a simple way to show respect for the cultural and religious significance of these spaces. For more details on dress guidelines, you can check out this article.

10. Getting Mad at a Friend for Being Late

Italians tend to be relaxed when it comes to time, and it’s common to arrive a few minutes late to meetings without it being considered rude. Running late? No big deal! But getting upset about it is definitely one of the common mistakes to avoid in Italy. In some parts of Italy, especially in the south, there’s an even broader concept of time, where appointments and social gatherings have a more fluid start. Punctuality is expected in formal settings, but in everyday life, a more laid-back attitude towards time is the norm. So, no need to stress if plans don’t start right on the dot!

What’s Different in Your Country?

Do any of these cultural quirks surprise you? Are there similar or different customs in your country? Let me know which of these “mistakes” are more common where you’re from, and let’s chat!

Buon viaggio and enjoy every moment of your Italian adventure!

Follow these tips to ensure your trip to Italy is smooth, enjoyable, and authentically Italian. By being mindful of these cultural differences and common mistakes to avoid in Italy, you’ll navigate your travels understanding the locals and will make the most of your time in this beautiful country.