Common Mistakes Tourists Make When Travelling to Italy
Italy is a country that’s quite tourist-friendly, which means it won’t be too detrimental if you trip up on any ‘cultural rules’. But if you do seek to make your trip run a little smoother, there are several things to keep in mind before travelling to the country. As an Alpine Hotel, we get many international guests that come from many different parts of the world - and, it’s no surprise that they won’t know every Italian custom, so we don’t expect too much. So, without further ado, here are a few common mistakes tourists make when travelling to Italy:
TIPPING
In Italy, there isn’t an expectation for receiving tips from customers. Most workers obtain a regular living wage, and therefore, they aren’t relying too heavily on extra coins. If anything, you can be charged for service, but it is often written on the bill, so that’s one less thing to think about! But if you do have the urge to express your appreciation, do take out a few euros and leave it as a tip - you’re not obliged to leave pricey paper notes. However, there is one exception, do try to tip tourist guides as they greatly rely on the tips they receive from tourists.
VALIDATE TRAIN TICKETS
With every ticket you purchase online, you need to make sure you validate the ticket. Yes, buying tickets online is very easy and practical; however, it might not be the best option for those who easily forget things. Imagine trying to catch an Italian train, and the train inspector stops you for not validating your ticket. They are not going to take the excuse that you ‘forgot’, resulting in you either walking back home or ending up with a hefty fine. So, at all costs, make sure you don’t forget!
DRINK COFFEE AT A BAR
Coffee culture in Italy is very different from what many of you are used to. Most tourists are used to ordering over at the counter at Starbucks, waiting for their drink, then immediately find a table to sit down in - and maybe, sip the drink for the next 20 minutes. In Italy, rather than sitting down, people walk up to the bar and stand. On top of that, coffee is served in a small cup while you’re expected to down a quick caffeine shot. Before you know it, you’re out of the building and heading out on the next thing on your itinerary. If you want to learn more, read our article ‘How to Drink Coffee Like An Italian’ for all the must-know coffee customs.
TOUCHING THE PRODUCE
Produce in Italy is exceptionally abundant; you will encounter many local markets selling the most extraordinary range of fruits, vegetables and even delicacies like Porcini mushrooms. Perhaps, you’re passing by an open-air market, and you need to grab a quick bite - markets are the best places to purchase delicious meals for a reasonable price. But while you’re browsing their produce, make sure you don’t grab them with your bare hands, you could end up getting a scowl from the vendor. It comes down to the fact that you might be contaminating their products, so make sure you ask before you touch. More often than not, they might even offer you plastic gloves to pick the items up.
CASH OVER CARD
Using cash is the easiest form of payment in Italy. The reality is that most places do not accept card payments that are under 10 euros; therefore, you should always keep a bunch of cash stashed into your wallet just in case! Most things you will buy in Italy will cost only a few euros such as coffees, snacks or even tickets to attractions. Therefore, remember to bring a mixture of coins and paper notes, so that you won’t get a frown from the employees.
USE THE WATER FOUNTAINS
All across Italy, you will find public water fountains where you can easily refill a water bottle. Rather than heading to the supermarket to purchase bottles of water, you can save your wallet by bringing a bottle and finding the local water fountain. Some of you may be thinking - is it completely safe to consume? If you didn’t know, Italy has one of the cleanest water you can drink. The water companies frequently check to make sure that the aqueducts are clear from contamination. Looking for a stylish and sleek waterbottle? Check out our Insulated Water Bottle range.
Why not stay at Albergo Miramonti? We are located within the Italian Alps, with a Hotel Spa, relaxing Cigar Lounge and an Italian Restaurant.
For more interesting articles about Italy, read our blog: