Avoid these 9 common tourist blunders in Italy
Being a tourist in Italy is perfectly fine. Exploring a new place you're not familiar with is part of the thrill of travel. Plus, with some of the world's most iconic attractions, who wouldn't want to discover Italy with fresh perspectives?
However, being a tourist doesn't mean you have to be a target for scams or make beginner errors. Our guide to avoiding common mistakes while in Italy will help you enjoy your experience without falling into the typical tourist traps. Here are nine pitfalls to steer clear of:
Tourists gazing at the Leaning Tower of Pisa. (Photo by Imgorthand/Getty)1. Failing to reserve tickets ahead of time for popular attractions
This is particularly crucial in Italy's busiest tourist hotspots, such as the Vatican and the Colosseum in Rome, the art museums and galleries of Florence, or the Santa Maria delle Grazie church in Milan, home to Leonardo da Vinci's renowned painting "The Last Supper."
Failing to secure your tickets in advance could mean missing out on the attraction you wish to see or spending hours stuck in long queues. Add the blazing summer sun in Italy, and your dream day of exploring iconic sites could end up leaving you frustrated, fatigued, sunburned, and dehydrated—possibly without even seeing what you came for. Plus, a bright red sunburn is a surefire indicator of being a tourist.
Tourists enjoying Venice. (Photo by Massimiliano Clari/EyeEm/Getty)Depending on what you want to see, some planning may be necessary. You might need to buy timed tickets or opt for skip-the-line passes. Consider a city pass that combines entry to attractions with public transport, complimentary drinks, dining discounts, and more. It'll be worth it when you finally witness Italy's stunning wonders—hopefully without the lengthy waits.
2. Sticking to just pizza and pasta
At TPG, we have no qualms about enjoying pizza and pasta. In fact, we adore it. However, Italy's culinary landscape extends far beyond these cherished dishes, and it would be a disservice not to explore the diverse array of other delectable Italian foods available.
Italy's finest cuisine varies widely by region. For instance, the slow food movement thrives in Piedmont, while in Sicily, people enjoy lemon or almond granita for breakfast, often accompanied by brioche. Florence is renowned for its wild boar pasta, and Bergamo is famous for polenta, a savory cornmeal dish.
A typical Sicilian breakfast featuring granita, brioche, and an assortment of pastries along with espresso. (Photo by Sergio Amiti/Getty)Let’s not overlook the classics: Parma is famed for its Parmesan cheese and Parma ham, while Modena boasts the renowned balsamic vinegar. Each city and region showcases its own specialties, so it’s wise to research ahead and familiarize yourself with the signature dishes of the cities you plan to visit. Planning a trip centered around your favorite foods is absolutely acceptable—you wouldn’t be the first to journey to Genoa just for pesto or Naples for a hearty ragu.
3. Only visiting the main tourist sites and renowned attractions
We've discussed how Italy is home to some incredible bucket-list attractions you absolutely must see and the importance of planning and securing your tickets in advance. However, once you've checked those off your list, consider venturing into more hidden gems. This could involve a day trip to a quaint local village, serene lake, or picturesque beach. Alternatively, explore a less touristy part of the city you’re visiting, perhaps by simply crossing a river or stepping away from the bustling main square.
Inquire with your Airbnb host or tour guide about their favorite restaurants and bars. These spots usually offer local pricing, providing a more authentic experience while saving you money. Exploring the city's second-most popular park is another excellent way to escape the typical tourist scene.
The beautiful Tuscan countryside. (Photo by Andrea Comi/Getty)If you're hesitant to stray too far from your comfort zone, consider joining a local tour experience, such as a guided food tour or street art exploration. This way, you can relax and follow along with a guide while still getting a glimpse of authentic Italian life.
4. Making dining mistakes
Who knew dining in Italy came with so many guidelines? To fully savor the country’s incredible culinary offerings, steer clear of these common pitfalls:
- Ordering cappuccino in the afternoon. It's best to enjoy your milky coffee in the morning; follow the Italian way and opt for a shot of espresso after lunch.
- Skipping aperitivo hour. Just like happy hour, Italians enjoy aperitivo, where ordering drinks grants you access to a buffet or snacks. This typically happens in the hours leading up to dinner (from around 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.).
- Sipping coffee at a table instead of at the bar. Enjoying a quick espresso standing at the bar is not only traditional but also saves you money. Sitting down will often cost you more, especially on a terrace.
- Forgetting about the coperto and service charge. Many restaurants include a service charge of around 10% and a "coperto" fee of a few euros per person. Always check your bill before leaving a tip.
- Skipping house wine. Many restaurants produce their own wine, known as vino della casa. While it might not be the fanciest option (it just needs to be made in Italy), it’s usually tasty and budget-friendly, making it a great choice for travelers.
- Dining in the main city square. If you want to avoid overpriced tourist meals, steer clear of main squares like St Mark’s Square in Venice or Duomo Square in Florence. The food is often subpar and the prices sky-high.
- Requesting coffee to go. While you might find to-go options in larger cities, an espresso is meant to be enjoyed on the spot. Stand at the bar, sip, and soak in the atmosphere.
- Pepperoni isn't the pepperoni you love on pizza. In Italy, pepperoni refers to peppers, not the sausage you’re used to. To get the spicy sausage on your pizza, order salsiccia. Diavola pizza usually comes topped with what tourists call pepperoni, while ordering a pepperoni pizza will get you a veggie pizza with red and green peppers.
5. Over-tipping
While we've touched on tipping in restaurants, it’s important to note that over-tipping is generally not a practice in Italy. When tipping your taxi driver, it’s customary to round up to the nearest euro. If you do decide to tip at a restaurant or bar (though tipping on coffee or drinks is uncommon), make sure to have some euros ready.
6. Assuming every place will accept credit cards
Italy has a charming old-world feel, which is part of its appeal. Don't assume that smaller eateries, family-owned shops, or taxi drivers (always ask first) will take credit cards, especially in quaint villages or more traditional areas of town.
Always carry some euros. (Photo by Innocenti/Getty)Be ready with euros—you can easily withdraw them from an ATM.
7. Failing to dress suitably for religious sites
When visiting certain churches and cathedrals, ensure your knees and shoulders are covered. Dress properly if these cultural landmarks are on your itinerary.
8. Becoming a victim of travel scams or pickpockets
Travel scams and thefts can affect even the most experienced travelers. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to minimize your risk.
- Always store your valuables and passport in the hotel safe;
- Avoid carrying large sums of cash;
- Be cautious when using taxis (make sure they activate the meter). Consider using Uber when possible; and
- Stay vigilant and aware in busy tourist spots.
9. Overlooking that some shops may shut down for lunch
It's not just Spain that enjoys a siesta. Numerous Italian shopkeepers close their doors around midday for an afternoon riposo, or rest, typically between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m.
Some stores in Italy may close during lunchtime. (Photo by Gary Yeowell/Getty)Be sure to do your essential shopping on Saturday morning, as many shops will also be closed on Sundays. While this is less common in larger cities, it's still a point to keep in mind, especially if you’re scheduling specific shopping time during your trip.
In summary
There's absolutely nothing wrong with being a tourist and making a few blunders along the way, especially on your first adventure. However, if you can steer clear of common pitfalls that can make your vacation safer and more enjoyable, why not? This way, you can explore all the top sights, savor the authentic tastes of Italy, and have an unforgettable experience while staying safe.
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