Etiquette & Customs in Italy
Meeting Etiquette
Greetings are enthusiastic yet rather formal.
The usual handshake with direct eye contact and a smile suffices between strangers.
Once a relationship develops, air-kissing on both cheeks, starting with the left is often added as well as a pat on the back between men.
Wait until invited to move to a first name basis.
Italians are guided by first impressions, so it is important that you demonstrate propriety and respect when greeting people, especially when meeting them for the first time.