Manners in Italy
Learn about cultural etiquette and manners of this country
Greetings
- Handshake
- Both cheek kisses
- Ciao
- Buongiorno
- Buonasera
Etiquette
- During meals, bread often placed on tablecloth rather than directly on plate
- Espresso typically consumed quickly standing at bar
- Mineral water orders always confirm gassata (carbonated) or naturale (still)
- Lateness of 10 minutes tolerated but business requires punctuality
- Siesta lunch breaks close shops in some regions
- Churches require covered shoulders with modest clothing
- Strong custom of offering seats to elders on public transport
- Many eat pizza with knife and fork
- Conversations feature rich gestures and prolonged eye contact
- Say "Grazie, Arrivederci" when leaving shops