Country guide
Italy Business etiquette and meeting customs
Europe/Rome
What kind of meeting?
Moderate punctuality
A few minutes late is tolerated, but let people know if you'll be later.
Meeting Culture
Recommended duration60-90 min
Communication StyleExpressive, relationship-oriented
Greeting StyleHandshake, often two cheek kisses among friends
Daily Schedule
Work Hours09:00 – 18:00
Breakfast07:00 – 08:00
Lunch13:00 – 14:30
Dinner20:00 – 21:30
Sleep23:00 – 07:00
Tips for Meetings
For the kind of meeting you chose above.
Dress Code
Business formal, impeccable style
Tone
Elegant, relationship-driven
- ·Bella figura — dress impeccably for business meetings
- ·Business cards are exchanged formally
- ·Pranzo (lunch) meetings are important deal-making moments
General Tips
- ·Slight delays are common but not excessive
- ·Personal relationships drive business
- ·Never rush through pranzo (lunch)
- ·Dress well — appearance matters in business
Cultural Notes
- ·Pranzo (lunch) is the main meal
- ·Riposo (rest) after lunch in south
Meeting someone from Italy?
Find the best timeCultural information is for general guidance only and may not reflect every individual's practices.
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