In some places in Italy, people may inadvertently stare out of curiosity. However, be aware that staring is generally considered rude and can also represent an act of defiance if a person of low social status stares at someone higher than them.
It is improper to put one's hands on one's lap, or to stretch one's arms while at the table. Resting one's elbows on the table is also considered to be poor manners. Do not leave the table until everyone has finished eating. Drinking beverages other than water or wine with a meal is quite uncommon.
Don't point to people: Italians don't like people pointing to them with their fingers. It makes them feel like animals at a zoo. Ask for permission before photographing someone: For the same reason, you should always ask their permission before taking a photo of someone.
Staring is a common Italian habit, and not one that you should take personally. When you see locals staring, it's not necessarily because you have something in your teeth or because they're attracted to you (though the two situations may sometime be the case), it's just a part of Italy's people-watching culture.
Many foreigners consider Italians as cheerful, kind, helpful and friendly people. In most cases, it's true.
Staring is a common Italian habit, and not one that you should take personally. When you see locals staring, it's not necessarily because you have something in your teeth or because they're attracted to you (though the two situations may sometime be the case), it's just a part of Italy's people-watching culture.
You can wear shorts in Italy and look perfectly normal.
Here are a few examples of Italians we saw wearing shorts in Italy when it was in the mid-80s in September. We knew the temperature was expected to be in the mid-80s and 90s, but we also wanted to fit in with the local attire.
Italian women show skin in the summer, but tastefully. Strappy and off-the shoulder tops are must-pack items, but remember: revealing tops shouldn't be worn when visiting religious sites.
Are jeans appropriate to wear in Italy? While Europeans tend to dress up more than Americans, you still can wear jeans in Italy. However, avoid acid wash and extremely distressed denim and opt for medium-dark blues and blacks. Black skinny jeans always look chic in Europe!
Most of the crimes in Italy revolve around theft, fraud, pickpocketing, scams, and organized crime.
The Italian concept of dining includes savoring one's food, so avoid eating while walking or taking public transportation. The only exception is gelato.
While many countries avoid the number 13, Italians are more fearful of the number 17. This fear stems from the fact that the number 17's Roman numeral, XVII, is an anagram of VIXI, which means “I have lived” in Latin. Some consider this a bad omen as it implies that death is just around the corner.
Most of your neighbors are average Italian citizens with families and full-time jobs, in need of 7-8 hours of sleep every night. By law, silence is required between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. and again between 1:30 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. Please respect this law by keeping noise to a minimum during these hours.
Dress Code for Women
It is not permitted to wear sleeveless or low-cut clothing. Belly crop tops are a big no! Make sure your shoulders are covered. If you're wearing a skirt, dress, or pair of shorts, make sure they're at least knee-length.
DON'T show too much skin for example; arms, cleavage, and legs unless you want guys dribbling all night over you and what you've got on show.
In Italy, we do not wear sneakers in the office but we do wear them if we travel, if we are sightseeing and in any informal situation. Do not go for a less comfortable shoe out of this misconception, sneakers are perfect for Italy (see below for tips on stylish ones).
But if you just can't part with your shorts, save them as a beach cover up. Don't Bring Flip-Flops. Italians can spot an American from a mile away; because, well, they are wearing flip-flops. And yes, this is a real thing, Italian's just don't wear flip-flops.
When traveling in Italy, don't ever wear short skirts. Even if you see Italian models wearing them, it is not considered the norm. Men will see it as an invitation to grab your bottom and pinch you.
After the first catchphrase, an Italian flirting strategy would usually proceed with a ton of compliments and sweet words accompanied by slow movements like holding your hand, caressing your face, blinking, winking, smiling, and looking in your eyes.
In urban areas, Italian gentlemen are likely no more jealous than men from other countries. Still, possessiveness may be more pronounced in rural villages in the South or Central regions.
The most common eye color among Italians is hazel or brown, similar to the brown eyes of Portuguese people. However, this again varies quite significantly depending on the region.