Etiquette & Customs in Italy
Meeting Etiquettes
Greetings are enthusiastic yet rather formal.The customary handshake with direct eye contact and a smile proves sufficient between strangers.
Once a relationship is developed, air-kissing on both cheeks, starting with the left is often added, furthermore a pat on the back between men.
Italians are directed by first impressions, and so it is important that you demonstrate propriety and respect while greeting people, particularly when meeting them for the first time.
Many Italians use calling cards in social situations. These include the person's name, address, title or academic honors, and their telephone number.
If you live in Italy for a longer time it is a good idea to have calling cards made.
Gift Giving Etiquettes
Do not present chrysanthemums as gifts as they are used at funerals.
Do not give red flowers as they indicate secrecy.
Do not give yellow flowers as they indicate jealousy
If you which to gift wine, make sure it is a good vintage. Remember quality, rather than quantity, is important.
Wrapping gifts in black is not advised, as it traditionally symbolizes a mourning colour.
Do not wrap gifts in purple, as it symbolizes bad luck.
Dining Etiquettes
When invited to an Italian house check the invitation ,if an invitation says the dress is informal, wear stylish clothes that are still rather formal, this includes a jacket and tie for men and an elegant dress for women.
Punctuality is not binding. 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 gifts such as wine or chocolates.
If you are invited for dinner and want to send flowers, you can have them delivered that day.
Table manners
It understood that one should remain standing until invited to sit down, when invited by someone else. You may be shown to a particular seat. In table manners one should know the fork is held in the left hand and the knife in the right while eating.
Follow the lead of the hostess. It is she who sits at the table first and starts eating first, also is the first to get up at the end of the meal.
The host gives the first toast. An honoured guest must return the toast later in the meal.
Women may offer a toast.
Do not keep your hands on your lap during the meal; however, do not rest your elbows on the table either.
It is okay to leave a small amount of food on your plate.
Pick up cheese with your knife rather than your fingers.
If you do not want more wine, put away your wineglass nearly full.
