Cultural habits

GENERAL

Italians are generally open and friendly. The family is the centre of the social structure and provides both emotional and financial support to its members.

Appearances matter in Italy. The way you dress can indicate your social status, your family's background, and your education level. First impressions are lasting impressions in Italy. The concept of 'bella figura' or good image is important to Italians.

Italians (especially form the south) often use their hands to gesture frantically while talking, and it's not considered rude in Italy. This spontaneous attitude toward hand gestures is usually very funny and surprising for strangers.

When it comes time to celebrate a wedding, the Italians go all out with festivities that begin with a morning mass and end with a reception that often goes well into the next day. But beyond the general merriment surrounding the occasion, it is extremely hard to pin down a certain custom as uniquely Italian. In general, couples who wed in the North tend to have more intimate ceremonies and receptions that take place in the afternoon. Southern couples tend to incorporate more of the traditional customs into the event, and will often have lavish receptions with a long guest list.

DO'S AND DON'TS

Moving around

• Smoking is prohibited in public buildings, transport, restaurants and cinemas.
• Driving in Italy is on the right side. Do not forget to use seat belts and avoid using cell phone while driving, because that is considered illegal. Beware of the parking facilities. If you do not follow the rules, you will be charged highly. When entering with a car into a city, avoid restricted areas (ZTL) or you could be fined about €100.
• Italy has a very high population of senior citizens, and it is wise to be respectful. Do things like offering your seat on a bus if the situation arises. It will be absolutely appreciated.

Meeting Etiquette

• Greetings are enthusiastic yet rather formal.
• The usual handshake with direct eye contact and a smile suffices between strangers.
• Once a relationship develops, air-kissing on both cheeks is often added as well as a pat on the back between men.
• Wait until invited to move to a first name basis.
• Italians are guided by first impressions, so it is important that you demonstrate propriety and respect when greeting people, especially when meeting them for the first time.

Dining Etiquette

Eating and dining is an integral part of Italian culture. Family and social events will often revolve around the dining table.

If invited to an Italian house:

• If an invitation says the dress is informal, wear stylish clothes that are still rather formal, i.e., jacket and tie for men and an elegant dress for women.
• Punctuality is not mandatory. You may arrive between 15 minutes late if invited to dinner and up to 30 minutes late if invited to a party.
• If you are invited to a meal, bring gift-wrapped such as wine or chocolates.