*NEVER* do THIS when visiting Italy!

Discover the unwritten rules and faux pas to avoid when visiting Italy. From dress codes to tipping, and the infamous cappuccino curfew, we'll help you navigate Italian customs like a local. Save your vacation and avoid the pitfalls!
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[@GregorBrown]

Avoid these Tourist Scams when in Italy: kzbin.info/www/bejne/paXNg6WNg9hlo8k

[@Av-vd3wk]

I have to say…nothing against the guy, but you make Wolters World seem like a LAZY has-been. Boy has he got some serious competition with you! Keep it up, your attention to detail and meticulous WORK and Passion you obviously put into each video surpasses anything I have seen. Fantastic production quality.

[@marcobevilacqua8224]

I'm Italian, but I have to make a small correction: when addressing someone for the first time, it's not very polite to say "Ciao", unless you're talking to a child. With adults, the first time you say "Buongiorno" or "Buonasera" (depending on the time). However, don't worry: Italians know very well that foreigners can make mistakes like these and in fact they really appreciate the effort of speaking Italian...

[@strontvlieg01]

Hey Marco, how do I say bye if I can’t say ciao when meeting for the first time? Also, is it also considered offensive if I cut spaghetti for my little children? My kids love pasta, they will be heart broken if i can’t let them eat it cause the only way they know how is offensive? 😊

[@GianniPT]

@@strontvlieg01 Say: Buona giornata, or buona serata.

[@aris1956]

@@strontvlieg01​​⁠​​⁠​​⁠ Please, it's nothing considered “offensive”, as you say. You can do whatever you want for your children. But if you want, you can even cut spaghetti for yourself. Some people might look at you a little strangely, but there's nothing "offensive" about it ! Please, let's not exaggerate! “Offensive” is a very big word ! No one gets offended in Italy by these things. If someone looks at you a little strangely, it’s not because they’re “offended”, but simply because they see you doing something “strange”, unusual for Italians. But you, along with other tourists, are free to do what you want. :)

[@strontvlieg01]

@@aris1956 you’re already offended by my choice of words 😂. I’m joking, I’m joking. I just want to respect the culture and be a good guest in your beautiful country. 😊

[@strontvlieg01]

@@GianniPT thanks 😊

[@marcocatelli1]

I’m Italian and I can say you make great videos about Italy. One thing to notice: away from those great tourist attractions, there is a beautiful country with no scams, with excellence in food, wine, views, history, etc. I’m from Piacenza, we have great things, so much that many people from Milan come here in our valleys to eat or to have a nice day. Our little town in our province Bobbio is probably the place where the “Gioconda” (monna Lisa) has been painted. Hernest Hemingway called our Val Trebbia “the valley of dreams”, he did like it so much. We have outstanding local food and, best of all, there are no international tourists except a few, so when we see someone that speaks another language we really want to help, genuinely, without any scam (we’re also scammed when we go to tourist places), just because share something of our culture is something beautiful. I like your love for spritz and americano 😜, I mainly drink Campari (bitter) spritz…just a spritz with Campari instead of Aperol. You should try Negroni one time (vermouth, bitter, gin, with orange slice). It’s stronger, but if you drink it little by little is very good (without straw) and has history. Well, as I said in another video, if you plan to visit the province of Piacenza, me and my girlfriend (well, I still have to tell her🤣) will be pleased to host you for free and explain something about our land

[@andreastieff]

@@marcocatelli1 my grandparents were from Piacenza

[@deborahcurtis1385]

Sometimes all you need to do is go down the street away from the main tourist street. I had the best hot chocolate of my life in a little shop just off the main drag in Rome. It was sublime! To be a good traveller you need some curiosity and try to educate yourself; it's a process of discovery and so enjoyable. Wandering around can be fantastic; I was wandering around Florence and found myself outside a house Galileo lived in. This sense of discovery is so much better than just following a tourist guide, if you have the time. It goes without saying that you will get better value for money if you avoid the tourist spots to eat and drink. Obviously be aware of any risky areas and don't just wander about aimlessly always look purposeful even if you don't have a purpose. Consult maps and phones discretely. If you halt in the middle of the street to find directions you mark yourself as a tourist so expect to be targeted especially in a city like Rome. Some places are not safe for a woman alone, I would say that is Rome and Naples. Really dangerous especially if you take the trip to Pompeii via the train to Naples. Do NOT take it alone. Talk to locals always and find out the risky areas and what the scams are, this is just basic research when you travel. Always be polite to the waiters and never never click your fingers or whistle as a signal you want them to serve you, like they are a dog. This is the highest insult.

[@GregorBrown]

Thank you. And that's a great little town that I visited before, and that whole region, of course, is great for its food and wine. I will search for a production house for pasta, cheeses, and balsamic vinegar. Thank you for your invitation and compliments on the video.

[@rod_at_adelaide5766]

@@deborahcurtis1385 I loved your comment and it was a great warning to naïve tourists but please put some punctuation into the comment as it was hard to read. 😊😊

[@claudiotagini]

@@GregorBrown the Piacenza province offers some unique pastas literally unknown even in the rest of Italy! The peasants "pisarei e fasoi'", tiny dumplings made with wheat flour and dried breadcrumbs, in a simple tomato, bacon and beans sauce... to the 5 stars "turtei" stuffed home made pasta, shaped like a candy, stuffed with spinach and the local ricotta (the absolute best of Italy, made from whole milk, NOT from milk already deprived of everything)... with butter and sage and parmesan, or with also dried porcini mushrooms... there are other fantastic dishes from that area, but I'll stop here, as I can't write a recipe book!

[@DicksonMaimouth]

I taught myself some rudimentary Italian before my visit to Italy. Many times, it got me free dessert and extra scoops of gelato. Most Italians were very grateful for my efforts, and they even helped me with phrases and words. However, while in Venice, the hotel concierge told me, “Just speak English. You’re in Venice. Don’t anyone lie to you. Everyone speaks English here.” Haha! Still, because I love the Italian language and respect the people whose country I’m visiting, I continued practicing Italian every chance I got.

[@GregorBrown]

That's great to hear

[@strikedn]

True. I'm Venetian and we all speak English. It's almost mandatory.

[@DicksonMaimouth]

@@strikedn Thank you for your insight. What do you think about visitors trying to speak Italian? Do Italians generally appreciate it, or do we sometimes speak with such a heavy accent that we shouldn’t even bother? (As an American of Mexican descent who speaks a bit of Spanish, I know when I speak Italian, I speak it with a Spanish accent. I can hear it in my pronunciation.) Most Italians seemed very appreciative, and as I said, many were very helpful in teaching me phrases and helping me understand. Here’s a funny example. I wasn’t sure how to ask for food for “takeaway.” In the US, we often ask for food “to go,” so in my mind I thought “per andare” (funny, right?), but I suspected that wasn’t correct. I asked a lady at a bakery how I should ask for my order “to go.” I asked, “Should I say ‘per andare’ or is that incorrect?” She taught me the correct way is “da portare via,” which makes sense. When I was in France, I heard Americans speaking French with decent pronunciation (I’m familiar with French because my dad speaks it fluently for over fifty years), and the French would always tell them, “Just speak English.” Haha!

[@gabrielesantucci6189]

​​​@@DicksonMaimouthDon't worry! Also speak your italian with a spanish accent. For us italians it's not a problem!!!👍😉 Ps. You can also use "da asporto" as well as "da portare via"! Ciao

[@bluesman1947]

A crosswalk in Italy is just dry paint. So follow is advice.😂😂

[@chrisso35]

Great video. I’m Australian. I have been to Europe a few times. I went with family last year. Everywhere we went (Especially Rome)waiters asked for tips and were upset when we didn’t give anything. I told them “We’re Australian not American.” Never in previous trips to Europe have I been asked for tips. In Munich a waiter asked me if there was something wrong with the service. I told him no. He said he usually gets 20%. I told him it’s rude to expect or ask for tips. Here’s a tip for Americans, please stop tipping in Europe. They’re expecting it now. You’re ruining it for the rest of us. 😊

[@strikedn]

Europe is a continent. Never heard about this in Italy.

[@chrisso35]

@@strikedn why are you telling me Europe is a continent? I just mentioned two cities in two different countries in the continent. Australia is also a continent, one country and an island.

[@strikedn]

@@chrisso35 Because what happens in Germany doesn't necessarily happens in another country in Europe. That's all and no need to be aggressive.

[@Keyrose-my3xr]

😅​​@@strikednnot the point really. No country in Europe had a tipping culture. The other person who commented is correct. They are scamming tourists by asking for tips. It starts off expecting it from tourists and over time, the locals too will be expected to pay tips everywhere. Don't tip in Europe!

[@chrisso35]

@@strikedn no one is being aggressive. It happened in Rome and Bruges too.

[@user-fj7nd2lo1l]

I'm a real romana of Roma 😊and what I can say is that we NEVER drink cappuccino having lunch or dinner...NEVER... but we have cappuccino whenever we want for breakfast in the morning or as a snack during the day or night (my best friend always grab a cappuccino at the bar at night around 2 or 3 am before we go back home 😊). I suggest you to visit Italy on september-october that's my favourite period here in Rome. Still warm, not too hot (july and august is too much....) best air, not too crowded.Ciao❤

[@enjoystraveling]

I made a mistake of visiting Italy during my birthday month of July. Too hot to do tourist things every day. I just found a new place to swim in the ocean. :). Ate some delicious food and drinks also

[@enjoystraveling]

I meant to write that every day instead of doing sightseeing, I just swam in the ocean at a different place every day ! Later, I did a few tourist things and then enjoyed gelato

[@michaeljohnangel6359]

@@enjoystraveling My wife and I live in Florence. It's August, and the temperature is 40ºC. It's also humid (Italy has centuries of damp in its walls), and there's no breeze.

[@darlenelove7425]

I’m visiting end of September. Can’t wait!

[@user-fj7nd2lo1l]

@@michaeljohnangel6359 it sounds like a nightmare 😅😅😅, but I live in Roma, I know what you mean 😬😬

[@ProvocateuAstrology2]

When? You are a tourist.Use the bathroom in every location.You walk into you go to a restaurant.Use the bathroom even if you don't really have to go if you're in the airport.Use the bathroom never walk by a bathroom opportunity or you could be in trouble

[@Colin_Power]

I once saw an American girl freak out at a waiter in Milan because he brought her Carbonara with guanciale. Apparently she wanted a vegan carbonara!!😂 I was sitting beside the chef station and overheard them. They genuinely did not know how to make a vegan carbonara ... I felt so bad for them the customer really abused them But honestly just order something else never ask them to change a recipe. Some of these recipes are like a constitutional amendment. It's really offensive to ask for a carbonara with no pork

[@Samael6685]

It's literaly impossible make a "vegan" carbonara. You can't use pork, cheese Nor eggs...

[@alessandroroveda2859]

Se io andassi a mangiare in un ristorante negli Stari Uniti, non mi permetterei mai di comportarmi così con un cameriere. Educazione

[@vistacyclingtuscany]

Vegan carbonara? That's a goodie!

[@strikedn]

Another Karen...

[@renferal5290]

@@alessandroroveda2859 As an American, I think that she should have been thrown out of the restaurant. That is so wrong to do in someone else's country

[@steafra]

The fountain that suddendly got "non drinkable" probably was fine untill a few days, maximum weeks, before. They get checked for bacterial counts and chemical residues at regular intervals, as sometimes water quality can drop for various reasons, agricultural issues, dry weather or very wet weather. I used to work in a lab doing these controls, a couple of people had the task to tour all the little fountains around the villages and countriside..

[@michaeljohnangel6359]

I should add that the "bathroom charge" is to pay the people who keep the bathrooms clean. It's their only income. Surely you don't want a filthy bathroom that's free?

[@maggiefranks6849]

fr!

[@truckingwithtobee]

So what if it’s not done there in Italy if somebody wants balsamic vinegar with their bread who cares. People entitled to eat their food how they want to I’m pretty sure the Italian people understand if somebody wants some balsamic vinaigrette for their bread.

[@michaeljohnangel6359]

@@truckingwithtobee I'm afraid you don't know Italy. Italians will not tolerate any messing about with their food-a cappuccino after 1:00 p.m. is considered a mortal sin. In restaurants, Italians will not serve you cheese with a sea-food pasta. With bread, only olive oil, garlic and salt is allowed (it's called a fettunta and is delicious).

[@s.b.8704]

@@michaeljohnangel6359 "fettunta" is understood only in Tuscany. Elsewhere in Italy you have to ask for a "bruschetta" (there are other regional variants, but "bruschetta" is understood everywhere nowadays).

[@michaeljohnangel6359]

@@s.b.8704 A fettunta and a bruschetta are very different things. A fettunta is a thick slice of bread that's been rubbed with garlic and covered in virgin olive oil, while a bruschetta is a slice of lightly toasted bread covered with a fresh chunky tomato sauce.

[@andrewlaurence8274]

Never go to a gelateria where the pistachio and mint chip are dyed green. That stuff is made in a giant factory. Every city has natural, artisanal gelato, and the price is about the same as the mass produced stuff. The shops are less crowded, too.

[@michaeljohnangel6359]

Also, be aware that the gelato that is piled up in spirals is also factory-made. Real gelato doesn't stand up like that.

[@giuliobernacchia1848]

I would like to elaborate on the infamous Cappuccino Debate: in a properly made Italian cappuccino the high-pressure high-temperature steam applied during the process produces a modification in the structure of the milk proteins, making them far harder for the digestive system to break down. This is the reason why cappuccino is a breakfast item: consumed early in the morning it will give a sense of fullness for a few hours while our digestive system is hard at work on it. This is also the reason why some Italians have cappuccino as a sort of emergency meal replacement at noon or midway through the afternoon. That much said, it appears now obvious why a cappuccino should not be had at the end of a proper meal, especially an antipasto-primo-secondo-contorno routine. Many Italians do not know the exact scientific reason why a cappuccino after a proper meal is a bad idea but they are mercifully protected by decades of tradition and instinctive common sense.

[@claudiotagini]

oh, boy... cappuccino is often made NOT by foaming the milk with steam (they do it in bar, because it is faster for them), but by using those milk foaming tools that vibrate... The main reason Italian don't have a cappuccino with either lunch or dinner is simply a matter of taste: as you might have a cookie, chocolate, or cheese cake with a cappuccino, you don't want to pair it with bacon, mayonnaise... because the combination would taste pretty bad. Of course, if you're the type that can blend the taste of mayonnaise with your strong coffee, or like to sprinkle grated Pecorino cheese on your ice cream, go ahead... masochists abound

[@giuliobernacchia1848]

@@claudiotagini I completely agree, but this line of reasoning never worked when I tried to use it with foreigners: they would usually respond by saying “well, I do actually looove to have a cappuccino after my tuna steak, what’s wrong with that?” So I decided to offer a more scientific explanation why cappuccino is not a hot beverage like a coffe.

[@claudiotagini]

@@giuliobernacchia1848 got it... Had some similar problems with my wife, when we first met (in 1983!), recall when she wanted to prepare something special, something "Italian" that she read on some magazine... it was about serving prosciutto crudo sauteed with balsamic vinegar... basically ruining both, the prosciutto and the balsamic vinegar (for which she splurged a ton of money, getting the real one). Now (we live in Italy, since 2010), she is a finicky eater and Italian food lover, even though I still do most of the cooking

[@TheRealJBMcMunn]

​@giuliobernacchia1848 It is a hot beverage that you can drink any time, just not to you. I'm American and have visited Italy many times. So many rules: no white socks, no cappuccino after 11 am, no ice in your water, put on a scarf if the temperature drops below 20C, no cream in carbonara, pineapple on pizza is Satan's work, the store Management is always right, I try to explain the Italian attitude as cappuccino being considered a breakfast item, and an American would be similarly astonished if someone ordered a bowl of cornflakes for dessert. I wouldn't worry about cutting spaghetti or not cutting pizza (actually, cutting pizza in Italy has an understandable rationale). The people around you already pegged you as a tourist using half a dozen other critieria.

[@Octopussyist]

Interesting what you tell about the milk. Still, nobody gives a fck about that in Malta, nobody seems to have a problem with it. So it is not even that the North Europeans genetically are better in digesting milk, which there would be good reasons to believe.

[@rayreyes8497]

Just came back from two weeks in italy, Napoli, Amalfi, Venezia, Sorrento, Rome. All those rules must have been relaxed or outright suspended as we broke pretty much all of them, and so did most other people around us. Italians know. Just be polite, and that's pretty much the only rule you need to have an awesome time like we did. 😅

[@GregorBrown]

Well said

[@dodaz5604]

You forgot Milan...

[@oldrrocr]

Haven't been to Italy, but I'd say another rule that Americans SHOULD follow anywhere outside the USA... is "Lower your voice!"... YES, we ALL are here in this very beautiful place! (No one cares that YOU finally made it too.) Be polite.

[@donplenderleith6044]

@@oldrrocr But we HAFTA speak louder because some of them have a hard time understanding the AMERICAN LANGAGE.

[@ilefab4545]

You know... you only need to bring "respect" with you. Respect for people, workers, culture and history. I think all the italians know they have more than 2000 years of history under their feet. So... we see these tourists (expecially the americans) as a group of noisy kids/teenager who don't matter about anything around them, only drink and have fun. Italians isn't a unit group of people. In 2000 years we all are mixer very much but the one thing we all are proud of is owr food. The only rules you need to respect to not seem "the americans with ONLY 200 years of history that think to be the owner of the world" are the food ones he says in this video: never add cheese over the fish, never drink milk at meals, never chance recipes ( you can only take off some ingredients for your taste or healty)

[@alexchiarizia8139]

i'm Italian and i live near Venice, you amazed me. everything you say is correct and you are very respectful of my country... thank you for the nice words

[@GregorBrown]

Wow, thank you

[@user-pt8lx1ge9u]

Just came back from a first-time, 2 week vacation in Italy. Venice, Milan, Florence & Rome was my route. Looooved every minute it ! Had the time of my life. Will surely go back again. Did my research 6 months ahead of the trip. Your videos helped and guided me throughout. They prepped me so well. Love your energy and enthusiasm. Thank you so much for a fantastic job !!!

[@GregorBrown]

Great to hear!

[@RStellaMeola]

Hi there...my husband and I travel to Italy yearly and have been to Italy over a dozen times. We have done all the public transportation and we have never to date had a train arrive late. We haven't tried regional trains so that might be a different story. I think to say Italians are always late is extreme, every shuttle back and forth to the airports have always been early and we've never had to worry about getting to the airport late. Everything else you've expressed here is accurate and we couldn't agree with you more

[@dennistofvesson6351]

I agree. Rode regional trains last week between Rome, Civitaveccia and the airport. Not one late train.

[@mohitdhariwal4691]

hey can we rent bicycles in italy?

[@RStellaMeola]

@@mohitdhariwal4691 of course... lots of major cities have "city bikes" or electric scooters as well to rent.

[@dennistofvesson6351]

@@mohitdhariwal4691 Googoe it. But most likely yes.

[@dodaz5604]

Grazie! You are always welcome

[@texasburbs4380]

When my daughters friend first visited Italy, she ordered an espresso martini with her dinner and was told NO, only after dinner! LOL

[@ledatufarulo7316]

@@texasburbs4380 nobody do it here

[@BICIeCOMPUTERconGabriele]

That was a good suggestion. Why would you ruin the taste of your dinner with the espresso martini, and why would you ruin the taste of your espresso martini with the food of your dinner? It's like pineapple pizza... pizza by itself is delicious, just as pineapple by itself... why destroying both by eating them together?

[@vittoriobertoletti982]

"expresso martini" symply means nothing in Italy. It's an american invention.

[@novipatti5497]

@@vittoriobertoletti982 actually it's a variation of a classic martini and it was created in London in the 80s, you can order so many other variations (so many simple drinks have many variations to unleash bartender's creativity), just after dinner it's the best time (yeah, I'm italian and I'm passionate about drinks and stuff)

[@novipatti5497]

@@vittoriobertoletti982in pratica è un martini con caffè (generalmente un caffè lungo) e liquore al caffè mischiati, è una delle varianti più conosciute proprio per il suo sapore di caffè e la caratteristica secca del martini tradizionale

[@chrishelt4389]

My wife and I spent 10 days in Italy this past fall, and did a lot of research before we went. We had heard or read in several places (like you said) that Italians don't like it when you ask to modify menu items, which was somewhat of a concern to us as we both eat a plant-based diet (no meat or dairy). While we did see that to be true in a general sense, we found that when we explained about our diet first and then asked for the server's suggestions, they often had items that weren't on the printed menu or they would offer to adjust an item. We never once had a problem and a couple of times we were even asked for suggestions to help others with a similar diet who might come to their restaurant. I think the difference was that it was a dietary need instead of just a preference, and that we approached it proactively with the server as soon as we set down instead of expecting them to adjust on the fly. One thing I would mention is that unless you REALLY enjoy crowds, try to avoid Rome on the first Sunday of each month, especially during the summer, when cultural sites run by the state are free of charge. While that may sound like a great way to save a few euros, you need to decide BEFOREHAND how much its worth to be standing in huge lines and packed in standing-room only. Most of the lines into these sites are out in the hot sun, and by the time you get inside you're already hot and tired. There is a LOT to see, and this may not be your best way to see it.

[@GregorBrown]

That's great to hear, and i'm glad you were able to get the plates you wanted at restaurants

[@marccano5061]

Yes,,,I had an American girlfriend, she wanted everything gluten free, no dairy for f**c sake! You're not in the US enjoy the moment and adapt. We're no longer together. Good riddance.

[@deborahcurtis1385]

Excellent advice. I also think it's worthwhile going in the offseason. I went to Italy in winter and had a terrific time and the museums were not at all crowded. The downside is some were closed for renovations but still worth it. I did however nearly get caught taking the wrong ferry in Venice and would have been stranded on Murano island all night. However I noticed the locals talking in Italian sniggering and deriding me so at the last moment I jumped off. That shut them up.

[@anne241163]

I believe you can book tickets online to skip the queues.

[@Gigi_Latrottola]

But of course, if there is a dietary need or an intolerance, the restaurant will do everything to accommodate you. We're not crazy. It's a different story if you ask to add cream to the carbonara, or ketchup to the pasta.

[@SF_EAGLE]

This isn't a criticism. You've used the word "rules" quite a bit. To me that sounds pretty judgemental with an American point of view. I think saying that something is a "local custom" or "a cultural difference"

[@handleunico]

I'm italian. Italians have a particular sense of admiration and gratitude for the United States. You helped us recover after the last war and you have always honored us with your friendship. You are always welcome. A big hug!

[@sharonsalzberg2654]

@@handleunico America has a very large Italian population, primarily in the Northeast. Italian cuisine is very popular here as well. Have visited Italy many times and will be returning in March of next year. Can’t wait!

[@Unsagittario]

I'm Italian and I drink cappuccino at any time. if I want I eat spaghetti with a fork and spoon and I try to be as punctual as possible... so we don't all act the same way. There are some basic rules that belong to the culture but we are tolerant especially if you do not belong to this culture

[@pasqualinamichelaconsiglio9391]

Are you a northern italian?

[@Unsagittario]

​@@pasqualinamichelaconsiglio9391assolutamente no...centro Italia...vicino Roma.

[@diversificalamente]

I totally agree. I often have a capuccino for lunch if I am running for errands and noone has ever made a grim... But yes, it's northern Italy

[@pasqualinamichelaconsiglio9391]

@@diversificalamente exactly, that doesn't apply in Northern and Central Italy. But southern Italians are different. Southern Italians aren't mixed with the French. Their dna is different.

[@tomasotomasi7592]

As Italuan I must say yes you can eat spaghetti with spoon and fork but you'll be considered a bit of a blockhead, unable to eat sspaghetti properly......

[@karinlouisesvendsen6572]

I’ve gone to Padua and taken the train every day to Venice for 10 years….The train is always on time, maybe a few minutes late but it’s as good as in Copenhagen, maybe even better:)

[@GregorBrown]

Thanks for sharing

[@XOXOX007]

Not my experience- piombino trains were cancelled the other day. Took the bus to the nearest train station where once many again trains were cancelled as we watched. In the end we got to our destination however be prepared to be patient and stay flexible. Also don’t book tight connections- refunds and changes were not allowed.

[@diversificalamente]

In the north of Italy for sure! 😊

[@mmzt-x6b]

it's important to highlight that there's an important difference between north and the rest of the country in terms of quality of services and in particular public transports..

[@Happinessiselusive]

It's not an inappropriate inconsiderate way of life at all. It's Italy and this is what I love about them. We should all relax more and not stress the little things. I'm planning to move there asap. Italy has my heart.

[@marccano5061]

@@Happinessiselusive best of luck to you, I'm moving to Mexico City in the fall. There's big cultural similarities between Italy and Mexico. You have to greet people when first meeting wether it be a business setting or socially. I just got my temporary résidence and I'm ready to rock n roll. My Spanish is ok, but I need to learn the nuance s.

[@GregorBrown]

That's great to hear, and yes, you will find it quaint. And amusing, but in times of importance, it is always respectful to be on time.

[@bud3442]

@@GregorBrown Timeliness is a cultural norm. If it’s expected one might be late then there is no disrespect. Like the person above said, “It’s Italy.”

[@erreticcu]

ok, our transports are always late, but we're not fine with it. i'm from tuscany, and we and people for veneto are usually why it rains. it's 'cause of our blasfemy 'cause some public transport is late. nobady is happy to handle people who are always late (like me). our life is not that relaxed compared to the north europe's one, and it's just 'cause we don't have a strong comunity view. so our public administration doesn't work fine and we have no time to "hygge".

[@Happinessiselusive]

@@erreticcu we were there in August 2023 and never had a problem with transport so I'm surprised at that but there were a few delayed attendants 😄 anywho...I loved it all with exception to the scammers.

[@dcallan812]

We went to Rome and every Friday 1000s of people used to protest along the main street. Armed police , banner's, huge balloons and whistles. After the second time we saw it we asked our waiter, if was the teachers after better conditions and pay. But Ive never seen a bigger march in my life. As for talking thier language, they are so pleased you even tried to communicate in Italian they will cut you some slack on just how bad we are.

[@trip241267]

ciao Gregor, da Italiano vorrei farti i miei complimenti. Ci sono centinaia di video simili a questo ma il tuo mi è piaciuto molto, senza stereotipi inutili.......senza MANDOLINO come colonna sonora :-) e dando consigli utili. E quando hai parlato dei nostri difetti (veri) lo hai fatto in maniera molto rispettosa. Bravo!!!!!

[@dodaz5604]

Infatti. Concordo pienamente. Bravo, e complimenti per non avere incluso gli stereotipi (sovente falsi) senza mandolino poi e specialmente per aver fornito a chi non conosce l'Italia delle informazioni utili e dei consigli veri e buoni. Poi scusami, noi non abbiamo difetti a differenza degli americani.

[@TheRealJBMcMunn]

Sono d'accordo. Siete tutti sciocchi a modo vostro.​

[@Giulioseal]

I'm a local from Rome and I truly appreciate your great video! If I may, I'd change your "Buongiorno, parli inglese per favore?" into "Buongiorno, mi scusi parla inglese?" as it sounds more natural. I've also lived in North America for about 10 years and always tipped as if I were in Europe, as I can't stand rewarding overbearing service ha!

[@runawaytechgal1467]

Really? You didn't tip your server in the US for 10 years? Wow, I'm pretty sure you should offer zero advice on cultural expectations in someone else's country. Your restaurants automatically charge a service charge, and it promotes lazy restaurant workers.

[@rbejva]

A lot of restaurants charge a Coperto, typically €2 per person to cover the service charge.

[@dawsontheology]

"Parli" is the informal. You should say "Parla" to get off on the right foot: "Parla inglese?" Otherwise, you're basically saying "Do you speak English, honey?" This might work in the south (also in the south of Italy), but not elsewhere.

[@GregorBrown]

I think Italians would be happy one is just trying. And most places I go people us the informal tense, so no problem

[@strikedn]

As an Italian, we don't really care about that. Tourists are more than welcome when they try to speak Italian and they are allowed to make all the mistakes they want. The only thing that we find very strange from a foreign tourist is saying Ciao to someone they don't know and see for the first time. Older Italians may even find this very disrespectful. Buongiorno and Buonasera woud do.

[@GregorBrown]

Exactly 💯

[@chiarac980]

cause we need our money😅 😂 I m jocling, but You can try to learn italian social rules, ​@@GregorBrown

[@naturellebella]

@@strikedn how about salve?

[@bigbugger7660]

As an Italian I will say you're spot on for the most part. The hat thing is slightly more loose and it depends on the area.

[@FlowerChyld143]

Our American tipping culture has gotten ridiculously Toxic.

[@Stephanie-vx4zi]

And when someone gives you thanks - Grazie (eg because you were courteous towards them) you reply - Prego

[@alicetwain]

The reason why trams and busses are so often on strike is because they have been working for the pat 15 years with no updated cathegory contract. That means no pay raise except for those mandated by law or by the old contract, no updates on the safety rules, very few new workers being hired to sunstitute those that retired.

[@pierocavolino1057]

Gregor, I have to say, nice video(s). There is one word which Italians repel in full: Mafia. Tourists might think that Mafia is all over the country. Yet, the real life in Italy is a galaxy away from Hollywood stereotype. Morning starts with a coffee/cappuccino and brioche, then working hours until a spritz in the evening, before dinner time.

[@dt9r]

Italian here, the video is pretty spot on, I'd say they would be the same advices I'd give to a tourist :) (apart the delays, I'm from Milano and we are pretty in time LOL we are annoyingly picky here)

[@Canetracker92]

Never had a problem with punctuality of trains.

[@GregorBrown]

Try taking more trains and then report back

[@GregorBrown]

In general they are mostly Fine but you will find problems eventually

[@judithmaca1570]

​@@GregorBrown There used to be very frequent issues rail strikes , often half days from 1pm. Are there many now?

[@dodaz5604]

Thank you for visiting my beautiful country (the best in the world for sure), you're always welcome! Sei sempre il benvenuto, ti aspettiamo in Italia. Ritorna presto, arrivederci !!!

[@juliemao1620]

There is a tipping culture in Europe. Not that much like in the US but there is. I`m from Germany and the most people in Service are at minimum or low wage. And often the tips were summarised and split at the end of the day between all workers. Including the kitchen staff. It is common to add tip around 5-10 percent or up to the next 10th or fith number. For example your bill is 23 you will say "make it 25"

[@GregorBrown]

It is not a culture as it is something that people do every now and then. Definitely. Nothing like what Americans are used to in the United States and as I explained in this video, that culture does not exist here in Europe.

[@agi1041]

Tipping isn't common in Italy.

[@GregorBrown]

Agree

[@user-dw9mw3ft3v]

In Italia no, ma in Europa si

[@enjoystraveling]

The good thing about charging for the restrooms as you always know they’re clean then and have toilet paper so I don’t get annoyed about it anymore.

[@GregorBrown]

I wish that was the case with the pay bathrooms.

[@antonellacastelli6770]

In italia certe cose non le facciamo ma siamo molto tolleranti percio' puoi mangiare gli spaghetti aiutandoti con il cucchiaio bere il cappuccino a ogni ora ecc ecc . Non ti capitera ' nulla di male😅😂 buone vacanze

[@bennyblackcat4959]

insomma, se lo fa un turista può andare, ma se lo fa un italiano ... apriti cielo!! Si rischia persino di litigare. Amo l'italia in tutti i suoi aspetti ma questa rigidità riguardo al cibo è insopportabile. Ognuno ha i propri gusti e anche i propri problemi alimentari. Se un ristoratore non può prepararmi un cappuccino dopo cena perché è troppo laborioso capisco, ma se è solo per una questione di principio, è un atteggiamento irrispettoso nei confronti del cliente.

[@antonellacastelli6770]

@@bennyblackcat4959 hai ragione ma noi nasciamo che sappiamo già arrotolare gli spaghetti l'italiano che non c'è la fa e' considerato sudtirolese 😜

[@LuisaBellabio]

@@bennyblackcat4959 In molti bar e ristoranti in tutta Italia, molti turisti (stranieri) chiedono il cappuccino a pranzo o a cena, e ti assicuro che nussun ristoratore rifiuta di farlo. Cosa che non si può dire che avvenga fuori dall'Italia. A me è capitato più volte negli USA di sentirmi rifiutare un bicchiere di latte, perchè non era contemplato il costo nel Menu. Potevo invece ordinare il "latte" che però sarebbe il latte con il caffè. Ed era sufficiente prendere una bottiglia di latte e versarlo in un bicchiere e farmelo pagare come "latte".

[@user-dw9mw3ft3v]

Tranquilli, anche io da italiana pura ho fatto un errore madornale solo per accontentare le mie abitudini quotidiane e ve lo racconto anche con un po’ di vergogna. Sono Toscana e un giorno decidemmo insieme a parenti e amici di andare a fare una gita nel tempio del vino cioè nella terra del Brunello. Mentre mangiavo a pranzo e il cameriere era intento a farci gustare un tipo di rosso io tranquillamente aggiunsi l’acqua al vino, Fu una cosa imbarazzante. Ricordo ancora la faccia del cameriere. Errore che se fosse stato fatto da uno straniero sarebbe stato più tollerato. Non credo mi riporteranno a Montalcino😂

[@pongo1969]

Hi Gregor, thank you for depicting so nicely my country. You and all the nice people from the World are welcome here. We are plenty of problems, but most of us tries to be decent. Wishing you a nice stay there!

[@Hiker_who_Sews]

There is no food in Italy that one might insult. It's that great. And no I didn't know a word of Italian when I was there, but I'd taken high school French. A couple times non-English speaking Italians spoke French, so if you know another European language, ask if they speak it. (Worked in Portugal as well). I still made some faux pas, but I found that Italians were warm and gracious. They made me feel like they appreciated my effort.

[@DG-mb1us]

Enjoyed your video and the comments were on point. One thing I might mention regarding credit cards it's best to inform your bank in advance of your travel itinerary so youre not blocked. Happened to me once, fortunately I had another card

[@user-dt2sc5dm1u]

I happened to tell my bank purely by chance - that I would be in Europe for the next two months. One of the luckiest breaks I ever had. NO problems with bank card.

[@heightsh3243]

@@DG-mb1us nowadays, if you have an online banking, you don’t have to do it anymore- that’s what I was told by my bank

[@reginafromrio]

Stand while drinking coffee in cities like Rome, Vatican City, numerous places. You will pay 90% more for sitting in some places. Also, even though you bought a train ticket, you have to "redeem" it in the machine before getting on the train or you could be kicked off the train.

[@pushingtin207]

From a person who grew up in an Italian family i have been twirling spaghetti on a spoon all my life...i learnt the art since i was a kid of 10 yrs old...who said you don't use a spoon?????...

[@GregorBrown]

Not done in Italy. They don't give spoons but maybe at a very tourist restaurant

[@catballou5304]

We are going to Sicily the end of September this year. Your video was so helpful and very informative and entertaining! Thank you, Gregor,!

[@GregorBrown]

You are so welcome!

[@maurobobo6923]

Hopefully you will enjoy your stay. I'm not from Sicily, but I am Italian and I've been there for a while. As Gregor mentioned at the end of the video, those rules are not really "a law"! You can do basically whatever you wish. In particular with tourists, people are very comprehensive. But also with locals, it's not really a big deal until you don't commit a crime. That said, depending on the location you're heading to, remember that in the south fewer people speak English (except touristic places/cities). But still, they will try to pamper you, in particular because most Italians want to leave a great impression in front of anyone, in particular if foreigners. Consider this last thing if they become "too much"...😅 It's not that they don't like you, but in particular in rural areas, we all try (exceeding) our best on satisfy people. If you don't have food intolerances, just try to enjoy ALL local food. It's not processed and I am sure you will love it. Side note: keep away from scammers, don't buy or accept anything from people approaching you on the roads and remember: despite from movies, you won't find any Mafia guys... 😂 Have a great vacation!

[@catballou5304]

@@maurobobo6923 Good morning, Mauro! Thank you so much for your reply and good information. I appreciate you taking the time to send me a message. We are looking forward to our trip to Sicily. We are going to visit Reggio Calabria as well - where my grandfather is from, and I cannot wait to see all the beautiful places and taste all the wonderful cuisine. All the best Mauro! Ciao! Caterina ❤

[@MikeFuriano]

Gregor, you didn't talk about the "apericena" also invented by us Italians, which is a moment of aggregation between friends. Which would be "Aperitif" and "Dinner" in one. While you have an aperitivo, you dine with very light but abundant dishes. Various Salumi, Prosciutto, Crostini, small Mozzarella, Supplì, Bruschetta etc.

[@lisette2060]

Like the Spanish Tapas tradition?

[@MikeFuriano]

@@lisette2060 Yes, Incluso las mujeres españolas

[@maryloufarnsworth8461]

I went to Italy several years ago with an Italian friend. Stayed there for 5 weeks. It was a great vacation. We took a two-week guided tour and then visited my friend's relatives. I was treated like royalty. Everyone I spoke to in English and my limited Italian was so welcoming. I was polite and courteous and got that back twofold. Remember that when you are travelling anywhere here in the USA and abroad.

[@GregorBrown]

Thanks for sharing!

[@Kiba_a.z]

As an Italian, Aperitivo can also be had in the morning starting from 11am to when you have lunch. But it's not really an every day thing, usually more on weekends.

[@vistacyclingtuscany]

So many good ones here. My number 1 is road safety. Don't be in a daze when walking around - stay alert to cars, buses, scooters, trams, and, especially, bikes!

[@judithmaca1570]

Especially in Naples where they drive around you as you cross. Though, as an Italian friend advised, you stand more chance of a successful insurance claim if you are injured whilst using a crossing!

[@user-dw9mw3ft3v]

Si li non hanno regole, se non stiamo attenti ci ritroviamo a bordo di uno scooter senza volere. Viaggiano pure sui marciapiedi. Ma Napoli è così variegata e divertente che vale la pena visitarla. È viva😂

[@vistacyclingtuscany]

@@judithmaca1570 I like that!

[@AboutFocusTV]

Thanks Gregor, I’m off to Luca in September with 3 good friends (The East Coast Outcasts) and your tips will be invaluable, keep them coming, have liked and followed 👏👏👍

[@ilefab4545]

As an italian living near florence i can say you have completly understand italian mood. Every italian here tells the same😂 perfect video and great job❤

[@GregorBrown]

Grazie 💪👍

[@gmnewlook]

Very informative. I had forgotten about the water fountains. I found an app for that, which has water fountains all over Europe. I'm trying to learn Italian for our trip next year (2 weeks), already put my guide voice on Waze in Italian so I'm getting used to have a voice speak in Italian. My daughters knows how to roll their spaghetti, I showed them, and I also showed my wife how to do it too. I'm looking forward to visit the comune where my nonno was born (Larino in Campobasso) during our trip. It'll be the first time since 1919 that a member of my family has set foot there. I don't think he had time to go back when he was motor pool sargent with the Canadian Forces during the Italian campaign in WWII. That'll be an emotional moment for sure. Bonjour! Hi! from Montreal, QC!

[@joepickett7084]

Really enjoyed this video, and he is right! I have been to Italy 13 times, and we usually go where Americans do not visit. Sure, Rome, Florence, etc. are all great, but getting out to the little towns are provinces are really the real Italy. I always practice my Italian beforehand, and do have a translator on my phone when my Italian speaking wife is not with me, and I get around pretty well. They really love it when you try to speak their language and respect their customs.

[@ChaiTogether]

I like the kids saying yay with the thumbs up lol 😂 for subscribe haha!

[@jameswatkins96]

Love your content! In Florence right now, and enjoying every minute of it!

[@sunnysharif6410]

@@jameswatkins96 With this heat?

[@jameswatkins96]

@@sunnysharif6410 I left right before it really warmed up, by then I was in Venice in the pool!

[@Luigi-uj5ml]

The term "cappuccino" derives from the color of the habit worn by the "Capuchin" friars. Cappuccino means "little hood". Therefore "cappuccino" is pronounced with the "u" and not with the "a" instead of the u.

[@davideesposito170]

really well done, as italian I confirm everything :D, just one thing "(lei) parla inglese?" is the formal way (preferred), and it's better than "(tu) parli inglese?" (too informal).

[@ClarkKent-xu5wm]

I wouldn't say that service is slow in Italy; the pace of life is simply different from Anglo-Saxon countries. Remember, you're on holiday in one of the most beautiful countries in the world! Take it easy, enjoy the surroundings, embrace the local customs, and make some new friends. You'll be back to your routine before you can even say, "un capuchino, por favor?" 😉

[@sylviedhancarville4486]

Un cappuccino per favore,..... 'por favor' forse lo dici in Spagna😂

[@ClarkKent-xu5wm]

@@sylviedhancarville4486 e' molto comune sentire uno straniero in Italia, nel tentativo di usare qualche parola in italiano, dire erroneamente "por favor"

[@theeyesehaveit]

Good job. First time viewer. Well presented. Planning first trip to Italy - Tuscany SPRING 2025. So found your information pertinent. Barbara

[@francescoiadicicco1266]

You had my complete respect on the "scarpetta" ❤

[@GregorBrown]

yes!! thanks so much.

[@lbhh]

What you said about spritz is correct. Instead in USA it's very confusing. I met some friends in Texas, it was almost 7 pm and we went to a restaurant, the waiter came and took the orders for drinks. They told me the local was famous for its piña colada. I assumed we were going to have aperitivo so I asked for one. Next, the waiter began to take orders for dinner 😮 every one was ordering meat.... at that hour... ! While drinks were to arrive to the table! What? I said: "Meat is ok, but.... will I have time to drink my drink before they bring the meat?" Nobody understands my worries, so I had my wonderful beef ... and I was supposed to eat it WITH PIÑA COLADA!!! Oh guys, the sweet drink wasted the first piece of meat, so I put my drink away and asked for red wine, while the others were surprised. They said, "What's the problem about sweet drinks with meat, don't you ever eat a hamburger with milk shake?" 😂😂😂 I said never, not even if you point me with a gun... I just couldn't!.

[@imdead6823]

thank you for the advice!! going to italy in a few weeks and am trying to learn as much as i can!

[@SharonHannah-vf9qr]

Definitely learn some key phrases. All Italians appreciate you making an effort when it comes to conversing in their language.

[@enricopiaia1253]

@@imdead6823 don't worry, we are Italian, not french. We love to help foreign tourists, speaking or not speaking our language.

[@imdead6823]

@@SharonHannah-vf9qr i definitely will, ive been doing so much research so i can be as polite as possible 😭

[@imdead6823]

@@enricopiaia1253 lmaooo that made me giggle, that’s comforting to hear!!

[@enricopiaia1253]

@@imdead6823 It's a joke, I love France 🤣

[@fabriziocarmignani2158]

But why in USA I must speak english and american in Italy do not have to speak italian?

[@TheMikerandazzo]

@@fabriziocarmignani2158 because the international language of business is English. It’s more beneficial for an Italian to speak English than it is for an American to learn Italian. Most Italian immigrants didn’t teach their kids Italian because they wanted to blend in to the American culture.

[@russellgrant1535]

I hear ya, but to be fair we have plenty of people in the US who don't speak a lick of English.

[@erreticcu]

if you have to eat outside our lunch/dinner time, just look for a "pizzeria al taglio" where you can have all the slices you want, sometimes (especially in rome) they are great (naples is another story, pizza there is on another championship, even outside dinner time. maybe fried. pizza fritta). you'll not staying here for so long: avoid mcdonalds if you can, we have a lot of alternatives.

[@m_all_around]

In Italy it is not a good thing to have your food served with speed ... It has to be served with correct timing, not to long and not to fast.

[@MPricci-xj2xj]

Please, when trying to learn a few Italian phrases, at least, use Google Translate to use the microphone for the correct pronunciations.

[@judithmaca1570]

I always take a pocket dictionary with me, and a good phrase book (to practise phrases) before needing them, and to adapt as necessary. This method has worked well for me during many travels in most countries (so long as they use Roman letters). Regrettably this doesn't work for me in Greece!

[@keyladominguez107]

Very good advice! I wish I had seen your videos before visiting Italy. 😊

[@GregorBrown]

Glad it was helpful!

[@dallasstephens8287]

Such a great informative video. Thank you.

[@GregorBrown]

Glad it was helpful!

[@saracanciani6753]

You can drink cappuccino at every hour. We find it really strange/bad just with the meals. But i often drink it in the afternoon (like 4/5 pm) if i'm not going to have dinner early. It's a pm snack (with a smoll pastry too) it's called "merenda" 😂

[@user-ez7kl6hv3e]

Thank you for the heads up. When I decide to spend my hard earned money on vacation, I expect my stay to be as stress free as possible and Italy sounds very stressful. Def not for me.

[@GregorBrown]

The thing is, it can be very stress-free if you plan right and I choose the right places.

[@reginafromrio]

I lived in Italy for 6 months as an au pair and people, you can have full conversations in that amount of time. (I lived ruraly with people who didn't speak English). Just giving you a boost if you don't think you can learn. Also, forget Babel. It's all about Pimsleur if you want to study any language.

[@MrLouislaf]

You are so right. I get annoyed when I hear ‘Do you speak American.’ That is so ridiculous. First of all, it’s called English. And no, not everyone speaks it. At the very least, use Google translate on your phone.

[@Bobbystravels]

Hey, I just discovered your channel and I love the content! Italy is my favourite place, we go every year and it's great to see you confirming that we do everything right. I'm really looking forward to catching up with the rest of the content 😊

[@GregorBrown]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@opera3692]

Well, the least 'a tourist' should do is ..don't expect to find the land that you are vacationing "from". Example: don't go to Milano expecting to find New York! And "please" don't take it for granted that the places that you are visiting, were dying ... to see you go there!

[@reginafromrio]

There's a McDonald's in the Pantheon square if you need a bathroom break. It's like the American embassy. You can take a $hit and charge your phone.

[@PC-mj9je]

Dress appropriately, well said. Italian cities are not beach resorts. Be respectful of places, of local people and of yourself.

[@amandamcphee2469]

Thank you - as an expat resident of Florence I am continually embarrassed by the way tourist (un)dress

[@rommelembisan8824]

I love your videos!!!!! Thanks.

[@GregorBrown]

Glad you like them!

[@paulcapaccio9905]

We’ve been to Rome 34 times twice every year. Your video is spot on. Forza Roma

[@deborabaldini8929]

Sono romana e ti ringrazio di aver visto la mia città così tante volte. Se vuoi tornare, sarò lieta di ospitarti!

[@michellefang6342]

Love this video!

[@GregorBrown]

Thank you!!

[@johndukeoneill]

Currently visiting now, and I can say this: “When in Rome, do as the Romans do.” Try to adapt to the language, culture, and mannerisms. I almost feel bad when I see other Americans acting like a tourist, it’s embarrassing. Just try to fit in and know your place.

[@FR-tb7xh]

I think Spanish culture might be the same re punctuality. A very good friend of mine here in the US is from Spain. I can’t tell you how many times he’d shown up late for events we’d scheduled together, including dinner parties I hosted in his honor. Between his hopeless chauvinism, latin temper, and once even chastising me because my signature fresh Maine lobster bisque contained cream, I let our friendship fall to the side.

[@GregorBrown]

Wow, that's terrible to hear, but at least you were wise and let that friend drift away

[@ND-kz9no]

Thank you for the tips , very helpful!

[@GregorBrown]

Glad it was helpful!

[@jroar123]

Fantastic video and lots of correct information. I lived in Northern Italy for 2 years and have so much more than you mentioned. I by far had more fun away from touristy places like Padova and Rovigo. like you said, you can do just about anything you want but remember that you are in Italy and should do as the Italians. A BIG one that you missed is ordering a Margarita. You know what I am talking about.

[@vistacyclingtuscany]

Margherita

[@mr.archivity]

@@vistacyclingtuscany he could be talking about the drink 🍹

[@gabrielesantucci6189]

​@@mr.archivityher's the misunderstanding!!!😂😂😂 The fact is that the margarita cocktail is not very popular in italy, not as popular as the Margherita pizza!!!😂😂😂

[@gc6347]

cappuccino and Pizza is by non-written law forbidden

[@uccc2282]

One thing you forgot to mention, the kisses! We Italians kiss each other, on the cheeks, 3 times even between men. If you have a minimum friendship with a person it's normal. So if they try to kiss you on the cheeks let them do it, it's the biggest sign of appreciation here.

[@anthonyromagnole2807]

I really appreciate this video and all of the helpful comments. Grazie molto!

[@GregorBrown]

Glad it was helpful!

[@alexwyler4570]

TS 7:46 Italians eat slowly, they enjoy the meal. and the punctuality comment.... You are still very much an American in Italy. Why are you in Italy? The Mannerisms and Customs and Culture of Italians have created the country you want to visit. Their Italian joy of food gives us the quality of food we do not have in American restaurants.

[@GregorBrown]

The food is some of the best in the world, no doubt, and I agree with you there. However, punctuality is highly valued and being late is not appreciated by anyone, especially for important commitments. It can be quite annoying.

[@dianeausten7072]

YOU are awesome I was cracking up!! Going to Napoli with my sister end of September...

[@ac.eastanglia]

Your videos are a mine of information and superbly presented. Very entertaining and my favourite content to view for Italy. Thanks for the content.

[@GregorBrown]

Glad you like them!

[@LRTOTAL]

People sometimes arrive late and that sucks. But people being late has nothing to do with traians being late 😂 Go to Germany and you'll find people being more punctual but trains arriving just as late. I think that is a complicated issue, having to do mostly with crowded train lines and lack of redundancy - which boils down to basically "more investments in rail needed". Good advice about credit cards and cash! I would add: get your cash at an ATM. ATM of a bank would be preferrable, because the ones you find at the airport often have huge commissions and bad exchange rates. If you have to use those, select the option to have your own bank do the conversion, not them. Also, AMEX cards are not often accepted by small shops and restaurants, the commissions for them are too large. For that it's better to also have a Visa or Mastercard.

[@Alby_Torino]

Italy is so diverse. Caffèlatte (milk and coffee) here in Piedmont used to be consumed even for supper, with grissini (bread sticks). And I've never seen someone eat spaghetti with a spoon here

[@beginner57]

Guarda che ci sono anche italiani che arrotolano gli spaghetti sul cucchiaio, e magari sono pure di origine meridionale( uno ce l'ho in casa io!). Nessuno al ristorante ti rifiuterà un cucchiaio, se lo chiedi

[@Alby_Torino]

@@beginner57 Chi ha detto che lo rifutano? Dalle mie parti non si fa

[@m_all_around]

Buongiorno up to 12 Buon pomeriggio up to 18 Buona sera up to 22/24 Buona nottata up to 6 am

[@GregorBrown]

Buon Pomeriggio isn't used too much as a greeting, however.

[@sylviedhancarville4486]

Buona notte..buona nottata non è usato

[@m_all_around]

@@sylviedhancarville4486 se giri di notte, si dice

[@jaimeochoa7256]

Great suggestions, always welcome!

[@GregorBrown]

Glad you like them!

[@maureenbrophy7852]

Never found coffee after 10am. Free world. I’m European have been to Italy many times. Wonderful country

[@Syon88]

One more advice: pay attention to pickpocket in big city like Milan, Rome, Florence, Naples, Bologna, Trieste; expecialy in the metro.

[@Agg1E91]

I guess the Aperitivo hour in Italy is sort of like Tapas time in Spain. I leveraged Tapas while in Spain as a form of lighter supper when I didn't or couldn't start the "real" supper at 7 or 8. I am a bit of a lighter eat for dinner anyway and found that 3 or 4 tapas dishes were perfect, were less costly than a full meal, and I could be done by 6 or so.

[@michaeljohnangel6359]

This is an excllent video; I might point out, though, that "parli" is the familial use of the verb (it's used only when talking to family or friends). The polite form is "parla l'italiano?"

[@GregorBrown]

Yea. That's the formal form we say.

[@pavek]

Just a clarification about cappuccino after 11-12 in the morning. So many videos tell you not to ask for one after the morning, yet few of them tell you why, and it's dead easy. Cappuccino along with simple coffee if the most typical drink for breakfast. A very typical Italian breakfast is a cappuccino and some sort of brioche or other local sweet piece of something. So it's quite silly to order the typical breakfast beverage for lunch, afternoon snack or dinner. I recognize not all cultures have a breakfast beverage so it's not so easy to understand for anyone. Bonus tip: if you order one with a strong foreign accent they usually bring a cappuccino to you whenever you want, but you know they'll make a little fun if you. Italian friendly fun, not evil fun 🙂

[@carloporsenna4533]

Actually there are some people who don't speak English but the major part does otherways we wouldn't be commenting. About time depends on the person, i am personally never ever late. In large cities u gotta be careful in walking through the road but we have "semafori" to block cars and let pedestrians through. About modification just with Pizzas or panini because if u cant eat mozzarella because of lactose then u can ask to remove, just don't put fruits on salty dishes. Cappuccino is like a breakfast u can't eat it with pasta. Caffè corretto is good when u want to be happy since the early morning. About spritz is just to stay at bar with friends in afternoon, like tea time. Very nice video. A suggestion is TRY TO DO WHAT ITALIANS DO IF U'RE IN ITALY. And.... Visit the beach ❤

[@charlieb893]

what a great video!! thanks so much.