Trying to See Too Much in One Trip
Italy looks small on the map, but don’t let that fool you. The country packs in a wild amount of variety—culture, landscapes, food, you name it. Still, loads of travelers try to squeeze Rome, Florence, Venice, the Amalfi Coast, and Milan into one week. The result? They spend most of their time running from city to city, barely scratching the surface and ending up totally wiped out. Skip the marathon. Pick two or three regions, max. Slow down, soak up local life, and actually enjoy where you are.
Not Validating Train Tickets
Here’s one that trips up a lot of visitors: in Italy, paper tickets for regional and intercity trains need a quick stamp before you hop on board. Miss this step—even if the ticket’s paid for—and you’ll risk a steep fine. Don’t get caught. Look for the little green or yellow machines by the platform, stick your ticket in, and listen for the click. If you’re riding a high-speed train with a reserved seat, you’re good—no validation needed.
Wearing Shorts or Tank Tops in Churches
Italy’s churches are jaw-dropping—think St. Peter’s Basilica or Florence’s Duomo. But if you show up in shorts or with bare shoulders, you might find yourself turned away. It’s not just a rule; it’s about respect. Best move? Toss a light scarf or shawl in your bag so you can cover up when you need to. When you know you’ll be visiting religious sites, just dress a bit more modestly.
Expecting American-Style Service
Dining out in Italy is a totally different vibe. Waiters won’t hover, and the check won’t magically appear the second you finish eating. Sometimes, customer service feels… well, relaxed. It’s not rudeness—it’s just Italian life. Go with it. When you want to pay, ask for the check (il conto). The whole point is to slow down, enjoy your meal, and savor the moment.
Eating at Tourist Traps
If you see a place with a big English menu, plastic food in the window, or a staff member hustling you inside, odds are you’ve found a tourist trap. These spots usually serve bland, overpriced food. Want the real deal? Wander a few blocks away from the main sights. Look for packed tables full of locals, handwritten menus, or daily specials scrawled on a board. Trust your gut—it’s usually right. Sure, Google and TripAdvisor help, but sometimes you just have to follow your nose.
Tipping Too Much (or Too Little)
Tipping in Italy isn’t a big deal like it is in the States. Most of the time, the service charge (servizio incluso) is already on your bill, but leaving a little extra is always nice. At cafes or restaurants, round up or drop a euro or two. With taxis, just round up to the nearest euro. No one expects a huge tip, but a small gesture is always appreciated.
Underestimating Regional Differences
Don’t make the mistake of thinking all of Italy is the same. Sicily has its own thing going, and Milan feels like a different world. The food, dialects, and traditions change as you move around. Lean into it. Try the local specialties, pick up a few phrases in the local dialect, and pay attention to the customs wherever you are.
Relying Too Much on Credit Cards
Sure, big cities take cards more and more, but in small towns, local markets, or family-run trattorias, cash is still king. Some spots won’t accept cards under a certain amount, or at all. It’s just easier to carry some euros—especially coins for public toilets, tips, or a quick coffee at the bar. Keep some small bills handy to make your life simpler.
Not Booking Major Attractions in Advance
Italy’s top sights—think Vatican Museums, the Uffizi, the Colosseum—sell out fast. If you show up without a ticket, you’ll face monster lines or maybe not get in at all. Do yourself a favor: book ahead online. Lots of places offer skip-the-line options or guided tours that make the whole thing smoother.
Misunderstanding Coffee Culture
Ordering a cappuccino after lunch or lingering over an espresso for an hour? Locals will spot you as a tourist right away. In Italy, coffee is a quick, precise ritual. Drink cappuccino at breakfast, but after meals, it’s all about the speedy espresso—stand at the bar, toss it back, and you’re on your way. Coffee here isn’t a sit-down affair; it’s a pit stop, fast and delicious.
