Italy
Explore the culture and cuisine
Phrases
Ciao
Pronunciation: chow
Translation: Hello/Goodbye
Grazie
Pronunciation: graht-see-eh
Translation: Thank you
Per favore
Pronunciation: pair fah-voh-ray
Translation: Please
Mi scusi
Pronunciation: mee scoo-zee
Translation: Excuse me
Popular Foods
Pizza
A classic dish originating from Naples, pizza features a thin, crispy crust topped with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and various toppings.
Pasta
Italy is renowned for its pasta, available in numerous shapes and sizes, often served with rich sauces like marinara or pesto.
Risotto
This creamy rice dish is traditionally cooked slowly with broth, creating a rich flavor often enhanced with mushrooms, seafood, or vegetables.
Tiramisu
A beloved dessert made of coffee-soaked ladyfingers layered with mascarpone cheese and cocoa, providing a perfect balance of flavors.
Culture Highlights
La Passeggiata
An evening stroll through town, where locals socialize and enjoy the atmosphere.
Sunday Lunch
A traditional family gathering where families come together to enjoy a long and hearty meal, often featuring multiple courses.
Festa di San Giovanni
Celebrations held in honor of Saint John, especially in Florence, featuring fireworks, parades, and local food.
Carnival
A festive season occurring before Lent, characterized by masquerades, elaborate costumes, and public celebrations, with Venice Carnival being the most famous.
La Befana
A holiday celebrated on January 6th where an old woman, La Befana, delivers presents to children, similar to Santa Claus.
Legal Drinking Age
The legal age for purchasing and consuming alcohol is 18 years.
Smoking Ban
Smoking is prohibited in all public indoor spaces, including restaurants and bars.
Tipping
While tipping is appreciated, it is not mandatory, and rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.
Garbage Disposal
Strict regulations are in place for waste disposal, and residents must separate recyclables from general waste.
Driving Laws
Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers, and using a mobile phone while driving without a hands-free device is illegal.
Landmarks
Colosseum
An iconic symbol of Ancient Rome, the Colosseum is an enormous amphitheater known for hosting gladiatorial games and other public spectacles. Completed in AD 80, it could hold up to 80,000 spectators, showcasing advanced engineering of its time.
Location: Rome, Italy
Leaning Tower of Pisa
Famous for its unintended tilt, the Leaning Tower of Pisa is a freestanding bell tower located in Piazza dei Miracoli. It began construction in 1173 and took about 199 years to complete. Tourists flock to take photos of the tower, appearing to hold it upright.
Location: Pisa, Italy
Venice Canals
The canals of Venice are an intricate network of waterways that define this romantic city. Known for their stunning arching bridges and palatial buildings lining the shores, the canals are the main form of transportation in Venice, offering scenic gondola rides and boat tours.
Location: Venice, Italy