When you meet someone or leave from any gathering, you should wish the people present a good day or good evening.  Italians who are friends greet each other with a kiss, usually on the left cheek and then on the right.  When you meet a person for the first time, you should shake hands.

Italy is full of churches.  In places of worship, it is necessary to dress appropriately.  Shorts, tank tops and sleeveless clothing are not considered the proper dress to give respect to these places. In addition, it is not polite to enter a church in the middle of a mass.

Table manners are formal. Rarely do Italians share food from their plates. Wine, beer, and other alcoholic drinks are almost always consumed as part of a meal.

Smoking has been banned in all public establishments.

Flowers, chocolates, or a bottle of wine are appropriate hostess gifts when invited to dinner at someone’s home. Showing up on time is always expected.

Online Latin lessons for kids: dinolingo.com