Italy · Etiquette
Italy — Cultural Etiquette
High individualism + high masculinity = competitive and self-presenting. Bella figura culture — appearance and discretion matter.
Cultural Dimensions (Hofstede)
PDI
50
IDV
76
MAS
70
UAI
75
LTO
61
IND
30
Source: Hofstede dimension data matrix (geerthofstede.com).
What This Means in Practice
Power Distance
· 50/100Mid-range power-distance: informal address usually fine after introduction.
Individualism
· 76/100Highly individualistic: direct, contract-clear, "no" means "no". Negotiation expected to be transactional.
Achievement Orientation
· 70/100High achievement-orientation: status and assertiveness valued; expect provider self-presentation to lean confident and decisive.
Uncertainty Avoidance
· 75/100Moderate uncertainty-avoidance: structured processes are normal but flexibility tolerated.
Indulgence
· 30/100Mid-range: balance of restraint and expression; reading the room matters.
Do
- ✓Greet with cheek kisses (right then left)
- ✓Dress sharply — bella figura matters
- ✓Linger over coffee, never order cappuccino after 11am
Don't
- ✗Order pineapple on pizza in Italy
- ✗Rush meals
- ✗Tip more than rounding up (servizio is often included)
Quick Reference
- Languages: Italian; English in tourist areas
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
- Emergency: 112 (universal)
Related
Cultural-dimension scores from the Hofstede dimension data matrix (geerthofstede.com); etiquette specifics curated from local sources, embassy guidance, and community contributions. Last verified April 2026.