We always read about things you must do in Italy, after all this is Italy… a country that is full of life, history and culture. However, due to huge numbers of tourists flocking into the nation annually, some challenges arise. Sustainability of tourism becomes a national and international concern among Italians and Italy lovers.
Therefore, we need to learn what are the things that we must not do and mistakes to avoid during our stay in this charming country among the lovely Italian people.
With no particular order, here are the top 8 things of our “DO NOTs in Italy” list:
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1. There are Plenty of Cities to Explore in Italy. DO NOT Visit only Rome, Florence and Venice
There are so many beautiful towns and villages left out in Italy. As this might be a clever thing to avoid the jammed touristy areas, it also serves as a secluded haven for your trip to Italy. Many tourists miss out by only visiting the major cities like Rome, Milan, Florence and Venice.
However, an unveiled world of Italian awesomeness lies in smaller towns. These include: Padova, Genoa, Bergamo, Bolzano, Bologna and Verona, to mention only a few. In these places, it’s easier to meet locals and experience the authentic Italian culture. Not to mention that it would be much cheaper in regards to foods and drinks, more authentic taste and surely less crowded.
2. Avoid Packing a Lot and Carrying Heavy Suitcases
We all want to look elegant in Italy. However, keep in mind that you should travel light and just pack the necessities, why?
Well, most of the streets are bumpy, this is the preserved historical side of Italy. Additionally, there are a lot of steep hills and narrow lanes with parked cars. To top it off, many hotels do not have a concierge service or lifts, hence caution is advised. Also, boarding and departing from a train won’t be a joyful task with heavy luggage!
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3. DO NOT Eat Near Major Touristic Sites
If you have to take one advice from this article, it would be “Avoid Touristy Areas”. Always remember to stray away from touristy restaurants near major touristic attractions. Since these places are far from serving authentic Italian cuisine to say the least. Not to mention the hectic overpriced menu and the slow service due to the crowds.
Therefore, it is always much better and more affordable to walk a few blocks away from major landmarks. There you will definitely have a quieter and quality time. Moreover, you get to enjoy the best and authentic Italian experience by eating with the locals. After all, Italians know where to eat, so why not follow the wise locals?
4. Ordering Cappuccino in the Afternoon is a NO NO
Italians have their coffees several times a day. However, each type is taken at a specific time. Now when it comes to Cappucino and other milk based coffees, these are only ordered in the morning. Since Italians believe that milk makes a great replacement for a meal. So the question becomes, what to order after 11? Espressos are the perfect choice all the way after 11.
Learn more about the authentic Italian coffee in this article: How to Drink Coffee in Italy like an Italian
5. Boarding a Regional Train without Validating Your Ticket
When taking the train to travel between regions, make sure you validate your train ticket in the station directly after purchasing it and before boarding the train. Many tourists make this faux pas, claiming that it is not clearly communicated to them.
The tickets for the regional trains in Italy neither have a date nor time. This is simply because you can use it any day or time you need. As a result, there will be a validation machine in the station that you insert your ticket into. To find it, just ask the officer or observe what other people are doing. Since if you forget to do it and a conductor checks your ticket during the ride, you will be fined heavily.
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Another word of caution while you are inside the train station is to avoid the beggars and Romá people. These are usually the people who try to “help” you issue the train tickets, then they scam you for money. Others will help you carry your bags, then try to exploit you for money as well. Try to avoid discussions with strangers at train stations and only observe or speak to people with official uniform.
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6. Eating Pizza with Your Hands…DO NOT do it
As a start, it is best to avoid sharing your pizza with anyone and don’t expect to get it sliced the American way. In addition, Pizzas are not eaten by hand, but using a fork and a knife. Therefore if you want to avoid the angry local stares, use your utensils. Buon Appetito!
7. DO NOT Wear Shorts when Visiting Churches
Italian cathedrals and churches are very fascinating to visit. Many of these places hold important works of art and holy sites. Therefore, you will see a lot of signs posted outside requesting visitors to refrain from entering the church with shorts and bare shoulders.
Places like the Vatican will not admit people wearing shorts and sleeveless shirts. So, it is best when you are planning to visit these places to come prepared and dress appropriately. However, if it was a last minute plan, you can always wrap a scarf around your waist and shoulders from those readily available to the public. OCDs might have a difficult time there, that’s why planning ahead would be their best choice!
8. DO NOT Count on Credit Cards, Cash is King in Italy
Most of us use these days our credit cards on a daily basis. However, even major Italian cities and regions do not use them quite that much. Most Italians pay their daily necessities in small shops and restaurants with cash. Therefore, do not rely on your credit card when you are on vacation in Italy. It is best to bring with you the local currency which is the Euro. It’s not only convenient but also saves you the hassle of exchanging money.
There you have it, this is the list of your 8 DO NOTs in Italy. Hope you enjoyed reading it and have a safe travel.
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