Author: Michela Belluta

Travel
Jan 19, 2026

Planning your first trip to Italy? Here are the mistakes everyone makes and how to avoid them

... and how Istituto Italiano Scuola can help
you build the trip you’ve always dreamed of

Discover the most common mistakes travelers make—and how to design an authentic, stress-free itinerary with Istituto Italiano Scuola’s new course, Dream & Live Your Italy Itinerary. 

For many Americans, planning a trip to Italy is a dream—one that often begins with enthusiasm… and ends in overwhelm. Italy is magical, yes, but it’s also complex: culturally, logistically, geographically, and emotionally. 

After years of teaching Italian language and culture, and listening to students share their travel stories, we’ve noticed something important: 

Most first-time travelers make the same mistakes.
Not because they’re inexperienced, but because Italy requires a different mindset. 

Here are the most common pitfalls—and how to avoid them so your trip becomes not just memorable, but truly yours. 

 

  1. Trying to see “all of Italy” in one trip

Italy is not one country.
It’s 20 regions — each with its own cuisine, dialects, landscapes, and personality.
Trying to do “Rome–Florence–Venice–Amalfi–Milan” in one 10-day trip leads to: 

  • exhaustion 
  • shallow experiences 
  • hours spent in transit 
  • very little spontaneity 

How to avoid it:
Pick one or two regions and explore them deeply.
Italy rewards slowness — the more you stay, the more you see. 

 

  1. Underestimating travel logistics

American travelers are often surprised by: 

  • the time needed for trains between major cities 
  • limited car access in historic centers (ZTL zones!) 
  • ferry schedules in summer 
  • museum closures on unexpected days 
  • August shutdowns in smaller towns 

Italy runs on its own rhythm — and it’s not always linear. 

How to avoid it:
Plan with local logic, not American assumptions.
Understanding real travel times (not Google Maps times) is key. 

Taormina
  1. Eating in tourist restaurants (without realizing it)

Here’s the secret: the best Italian meals often happen in places that don’t look “Instagram-worthy.” 

Common signs you’re in a tourist spot:
✨ Photo menu
✨ English-first signage
✨ “Spaghetti Bolognese” (a red flag!) 

How to avoid it:
Learn a few insider rules: 

  • Ask locals (baristas, shop owners) where they eat. 
  • Go inland or off the main streets. 
  • Look for “Trattoria” instead of “Ristorante.” 
  • Check if the menu champions local specialties. 

 

  1. Skipping small towns (where the real magic lives)

Big cities are extraordinary, but Italy’s soul is often found in: 

  • medieval hill towns 
  • tiny villages with one piazza 
  • coastal towns untouched by mass tourism 
  • regional markets and weekly festivals 

How to avoid it:
Add at least one small town to your itinerary.
It’s often what people remember most. 

 

  1. Ignoring cultural rhythms

Italy is not 24/7.
Shops close midday.
Dinners start late.
Coffee culture has rules.
Trains are punctual… until they’re not.
Lines don’t always feel like lines. 

Many travel frustrations happen because of mismatched expectations. 

How to avoid it:
Learn about cultural rhythms ahead of time — they’re part of the beauty. 

Siena
  1. Not learning any Italian (even just a little!)

You absolutely can travel Italy without speaking Italian — but learning even a handful of phrases transforms your trip. 

A simple “Buongiorno” or “Mi scusi” opens doors.
A tiny bit of effort creates connection and kindness everywhere you go. 

How to avoid it:
Take a beginner class or conversation workshop — you’ll gain confidence, ease… and better meals. 

 

  1. Planning without personal meaning

This is the biggest mistake of all.
Many travelers design their itinerary around: 

  • “must-see” lists 
  • other people’s photos 
  • rankings and “Top 10” blogs 

But the best Italy trip is the one that reflects your passions:
art, food, hiking, fashion, history, language, cinema, architecture, slow travel…
Italy contains all of these — and more. 

How to avoid it:
Begin with you, not with a checklist.
Then build outward. 

 

🌟 Want a trip designed around you? 

At Istituto Italiano Scuola, we’re launching a brand-new course designed for travelers who want more than a standard vacation: 

✨ Dream & Live Your Italy Itinerary ✨ 

A guided workshop that helps you:
✔ understand regional differences
✔ choose the right pace for your style
✔ avoid logistical pitfalls
✔ learn key Italian for travelers
✔ design a meaningful, personalized journey
✔ connect with Italy through culture — not just tourism 

Whether you’re planning your first trip or your fifth, this course turns your dream into a plan you can actually live. 

 

“A journey is lived three times: when you dream it,
when you live it, and when you remember it.”
Anonymous
Italian culture
Dec 15, 2025

Sweet traditions: the surprising history of Panettone and Pandoro

How Italy’s most famous holiday desserts tell a story of invention, industry, and identity

More than just a Christmas dessert 

Every December, shelves in Italy — and now across the world — fill with elegant boxes of panettone and pandoro, the golden stars of the Italian holiday table. In the U.S., they’ve become symbols of Italian dolcezza, often gifted, shared, or toasted with prosecco. 

But here’s the twist: while they seem ancient and deeply traditional, panettone and pandoro are actually surprisingly modern creations.
And unlike most traditional foods, their story doesn’t start in home kitchens — it starts in factories. 

 

Panettone: Milan’s sweet revolution 

The legend says panettone was born in 15th-century Milan, when a young baker named Toni burned the duke’s Christmas dessert and improvised with leftover dough, butter, sugar, and raisins. Thus “il pan di Toni” — Toni’s bread — became panettone. 

It’s a great story. But in truth, the panettone as we know it — the tall, dome-shaped, buttery loaf that graces holiday tables — didn’t appear until the early 20th century, when two Milanese companies, Motta and Vergani, began mass-producing it using industrial baking techniques. 

In other words: panettone is a child of modernity — a dessert born from innovation, not folklore. 

And today, in a deliciously ironic twist, we’ve come full circle: artisanal panettone has become the new luxury symbol. Small bakeries and pastry chefs across Italy (and the world) now spend days crafting “handmade” versions of what was once the pride of industrial progress. 

A slice of Panettone

Pandoro: Verona’s golden star 

If panettone is Milanese elegance, pandoro is Veronese refinement. Its name literally means “golden bread,” a nod to its color and richness.
Though similar sweet breads existed in Austria and Venice centuries earlier, the pandoro we know today was first patented in 1894 by Domenico Melegatti — yes, the founder of the company still bearing his name. 

So, like panettone, pandoro wasn’t born in someone’s grandmother’s oven — it was born in a factory, from creativity, science, and marketing genius. Its sleek, star-shaped mold and sugar-dusted top quickly became icons of modern Italian design and indulgence. 

What Italians laugh at 

  • The Family – Jokes about mammoni (mama’s boys) or endless family dinners. 
  • Bureaucracy – Long lines at the post office, endless forms, absurd rules. 
  • Gestures and Exaggeration – Italians laugh not only at words, but at how they’re said—with raised eyebrows, dramatic pauses, and hands flying in the air. 
  • Self-Mockery – Italians often make fun of themselves or their own region. A Milanese might joke about being too serious; a Neapolitan about being too dramatic. 
A perfectly powdered Pandoro

From industry to art: The paradox of “Tradition” 

Usually, traditional foods start small — recipes passed down through generations, later adopted by larger producers. But panettone and pandoro took the opposite path: they began as industrial triumphs, then became symbols of authenticity. 

It’s the reverse evolution of Italian food: from machine to artisan, from innovation to nostalgia.
And maybe that’s what makes them so fascinating — they remind us that “tradition” in Italy is never static. It’s constantly reinvented, reinterpreted, and re-loved. 

Christmas tree in Galleria Vittorio Emanuele in Milano

From Milan to the Bay Area: a slice of Italy at Poesia Café 

Here in the Bay Area, we’re lucky enough to enjoy truly excellent panettoni — no import required.
Our friends at Poesia Café, one of our beloved community partners, are bringing this Italian tradition to life with beautifully made artisanal panettoni, baked locally with care, creativity, and of course, a touch of poetry. 

Fun fact for IIS students:
Show your IIS student ID and enjoy a special discount at Poesia Café — the perfect reason to take your Italian studies from the classroom straight to the dessert table. 

 

Why It matters (even beyond dessert) 

Like language itself, Italian cuisine evolves through people — through hands, time, and memory.
Learning Italian means learning to appreciate these nuances: how something “modern” becomes “traditional,” and how culture keeps rewriting its own story with sweetness and pride. 

At Istituto Italiano Scuola, we love teaching these connections — because to truly understand Italy, you have to taste it, too. 

“La tradizione è un’invenzione ben riuscita”
Dario Fo
About IIS
Nov 17, 2025

The Italian classroom you can feel: inside our new North Beach space

How place, people, and community
bring the Italian language to life

Beyond grammar: the Italian way of learning 

In Italy, learning doesn’t just happen behind a desk — it happens together. Around a coffee table, during a conversation in a piazza, or while laughing over dinner. It’s emotional, social, and deeply human. 

At Istituto Italiano Scuola, we’ve always believed that to truly learn Italian, you have to feel it — to live the rhythm, gestures, and community spirit that define Italian life. 

Now, with our expanded campus in the heart of North Beach, we’re bringing that vision to life more than ever before. 

 

A home for Italian culture in San Francisco 

Our new space in North Beach is more than a school — it’s a piece of Italy in San Francisco. Step outside our doors, and you’ll find espresso bars, murals of Italian legends, and the scent of focaccia drifting from nearby bakeries. Step inside, and you’ll find bright classrooms, open spaces for conversation, and an energy that feels unmistakably Italian. 

But what truly makes this place special is the community around it — and the partners who share our vision of keeping Italian culture alive and thriving in the Bay Area. 

A community rooted in North Beach 

We’re proud to be part of the vibrant network of institutions that make North Beach San Francisco’s beating Italian heart. 

Libreria Pino 

Just steps away from our campus, Libreria Pino is one of the few Italian bookstores in the entire United States — a treasure trove of novels, poetry, children’s books, and essays straight from Italy. Our students browse its shelves, attend readings, and discover the literary Italy that fuels our classes. 

San Francisco Italian Athletic Club 

We’re also honored to collaborate with the historic San Francisco Italian Athletic Club — a cornerstone of Italian-American life since 1918. We host our aperitivi and community events there, and even offer classes on-site with special discounts for SFIAC members. It’s the perfect example of how language, culture, and community come together in one shared space. 

Italian Community Services 

Our partnership with Italian Community Services reminds us that language is also a bridge of support and belonging. With their volunteers, ICS provides essential services to the North Beach community — and through their help and the Riccio Grant, we’ve been able to fund our Heritage Scholarship, allowing students with limited financial means to study Italian and connect with their roots. 

Because for us, learning Italian isn’t just about language — it’s about inclusion, identity, and giving back. 

Martina Di Biase, IIS Executive Director, with Nick Figone, Sfiac Foundation Executive Director

The magic of learning in person 

While our online programs continue to connect students across the country, learning Italian in person at our North Beach campus offers something uniquely powerful. 

You don’t just learn about Italy — you live it.
You hear the gestures, feel the rhythm of the language, and share laughter face-to-face with teachers and classmates.
You become part of a community that celebrates culture as much as grammar. 

And yes — there’s an espresso waiting for you in the hallway, because language flows best over coffee and conversation. ☕ 

 

North Beach: your living classroom 

Learning Italian in North Beach means stepping out of class and immediately into Italy. After a lesson, you might practice ordering in Italian at Caffè Trieste, chat with locals at the farmers’ market, or browse books at Libreria Pino. Every street, café, and event becomes part of your immersion. 

It’s language learning that doesn’t end when class does — it continues with every gesture, every espresso, every ciao. 

 

Building community, one word at a time 

Our new space allows us to do more than teach — it allows us to connect.
We now host more cultural events, film screenings, author talks, and apericena evenings, creating a home for everyone who loves Italian language and culture. 

Whether you join us in person or online, you’re part of the same Italian community — one that’s alive, generous, and deeply rooted in San Francisco’s most historic neighborhood. 

 

Come experience the Italian classroom you can feel.
Visit our new North Beach campus, join our next event, or enroll in an Italian course — and discover how language grows when it has a home. 

«L’essenza dell’uomo è contenuta soltanto nella comunità,
nell’unità dell’uomo con l’uomo»
Ludwig Feuerbach
Italian culture
Oct 20, 2025

Laughing in Italian: why Italian humor is different (and what it tells about culture)

Italian irony, wordplay, and cultural quirks that make Italians laugh. Explore how it differs from the American comedy

Every culture laughs—but not always at the same things. In Italy, humor is a language of its own, full of irony, gestures, and playful contradictions. For Italians, making someone laugh isn’t just entertainment—it’s a way of creating connection, softening life’s challenges, and showing intelligence. 

At Istituto Italiano Scuola, we believe that to truly understand a language, you need to understand its humor. That’s why we’re exploring the fascinating world of Italian comic traditions—and why laughter is the perfect key to Italian culture. 

 

Italian humor vs. American humor 

  1. Irony vs. Sarcasm
  • In the U.S., comedy often leans toward sarcasm and punchlines—clear jokes with a setup and payoff. 
  • Italians, on the other hand, thrive on ironia: a playful, layered kind of humor where meaning is often the opposite of the words spoken. Think of a Roman saying “Che bella giornata!” on a rainy afternoon. 
  1. Comedy of everyday life
  • American humor frequently relies on exaggeration, absurdity, or stand-up monologues. 
  • Italian comedy is often rooted in ordinary situations—family dinners, bureaucracy, the chaos of daily life. The laugh comes from recognition: we’ve all been there. 
  1. Language play
  • English humor often builds on timing and delivery. 
  • Italian humor loves wordplay, double meanings, and dialects. Even a single word—like boh—can make an audience laugh, depending on tone and gesture. 
Roberto Benigni

Icons of Italian comedy 

  • Totò (1898–1967) – The “Prince of Laughter,” master of physical comedy and verbal play, beloved across generations. 
  • Commedia all’italiana (1950s–70s) – Films that mixed laughter with social critique, starring actors like Alberto Sordi, Vittorio Gassman, and Monica Vitti. 
  • Roberto Benigni – Oscar-winning actor and comedian whose humor combines joy, political satire, and poetry. 
  • Modern Comedy – From Checco Zalone’s social satires to TV variety shows, contemporary Italian humor continues to reflect politics, family, and cultural contradictions. 

 

What Italians laugh at 

  • The Family – Jokes about mammoni (mama’s boys) or endless family dinners. 
  • Bureaucracy – Long lines at the post office, endless forms, absurd rules. 
  • Gestures and Exaggeration – Italians laugh not only at words, but at how they’re said—with raised eyebrows, dramatic pauses, and hands flying in the air. 
  • Self-Mockery – Italians often make fun of themselves or their own region. A Milanese might joke about being too serious; a Neapolitan about being too dramatic. 
Totò

Learning Italian through humor 

Understanding Italian humor isn’t just fun—it’s a powerful tool for learning the language: 

  • Idioms and wordplay: Phrases like “piove, governo ladro!” (It’s raining, blame the government!) carry humor and history. 
  • Cultural insight: Jokes show what a society values—and what it loves to complain about. 
  • Confidence in conversation: Sharing a laugh is one of the quickest ways to connect with Italians. 

 

Learn (and laugh) with IIS 

At Istituto Italiano Scuola, we don’t just teach grammar—we teach how Italians live, speak, and yes, laugh. This Fall, we’re introducing a special workshop on Italian comedy—exploring jokes, irony, cinema, and humor as a way to understand culture and sharpen your Italian. 

Ready to explore the Italian humor? Join us in our upcoming workshop with teacher Francesca! 

Because learning a language isn’t just about speaking—it’s about laughing, too.

“Italy’s magic is found in the
laughter shared with good friends.”
Carlo Ponti
Italian culture
Sep 15, 2025

Back to Scuola: how Italians learn (and love) their language

Why the Fall is the perfect time to start learning Italian at IIS

The Italian back-to-school spirit 

In Italy, September and October are more than just the ninth and tenth months of the year — they’re a true cultural reset. After Ferragosto, when the whole country slows into a summer lull, September marks the return to daily routines, while October signals life back at full speed. Offices reopen, trains are crowded again, and, most importantly, la scuola ricomincia. 

The primo giorno di scuola is a national ritual. Streets fill with children wearing their freshly ironed grembiuli (school smocks), carrying brand-new zaini (backpacks) stuffed with quaderni (notebooks) that still smell of paper and ink. Stationery shops are busy selling astucci (pencil cases) with matching pens, while families gather the evening before to pack bags and set out clothes for the big day. 

This moment isn’t just exciting for students—it’s a season when everyone in Italy, from schoolchildren to retirees, feels the pull toward fresh starts. It’s the ideal mindset for starting something new… like learning Italian. 

 

Why the Fall is the best time to learn Italian?

  • The “New Year” energy without the cold weather
    While January has the traditional “new beginnings” appeal, September and October in Italy feel like the real restart. That energy is contagious, and it’s the perfect time to channel it into learning a language. At Istituto Italiano Scuola, we harness that same spirit with lively classes that make each lesson feel like a step into an Italian piazza.
  • Be conversation-ready for the Holidays
    If you start in October with our Fall Term classes, you’ll have months to build up your skills before the holiday season. Imagine chatting in Italian with relatives in Florence, ordering panettone in Milan, or toasting the New Year with a heartfelt Buon Anno! in Rome. 
  • Give your brain an Autumn workout
    After the slower pace of summer, learning Italian wakes up your mind. Language study has been shown to sharpen memory, boost creativity, and even delay cognitive decline. Plus, learning with a group adds social connection—a mental and emotional bonus.
  • Join a community that feels like Italy
    At IIS, you’re not just a student in a class—you’re part of a cultural community. Our courses weave in Italian cinema, songs, idioms, and traditions so you learn the language in context. This October with our Fall Term classes, you’ll not only study Italian, you’ll live it. 

 

Italian school traditions that inspire learning 

In Italy, school isn’t just about academics—it’s a cultural hub full of its own rituals and vocabulary. Here are a few traditions that connect you to the rhythm of Italian life: 

  • Compiti per le vacanze – summer homework that Italian kids bring back in September, often with a mix of dread and pride. 
  • Intervallo – the mid-morning break, when students rush to the bar (café) for a snack or panino. 
  • Bidello/a – more than just a school custodian, this figure is often the friendly problem-solver who knows everyone’s name. 
  • Il diario – part planner, part scrapbook, where students record homework, doodles, and heartfelt notes from friends. 

These school-life details reflect the heart of Italian culture: community, ritual, and a blend of the serious with the playful. 

Learn Italian the IIS way 

At Istituto Italiano Scuola, we bring this same Italian vibrancy to our classrooms. Whether you join us in San Francisco or online, you’ll experience: 

  • Native-speaking teachers who share not only language, but real stories from their lives in Italy. 
  • Cultural immersion through cooking workshops, film screenings, and conversations about current events. 
  • A supportive community where you can practice without fear, make friends, and connect through shared curiosity about Italy. 

Our Fall Term starts October 6th, with courses for every level—from complete beginners to advanced students fine-tuning their fluency. Each class is designed to be interactive, fun, and directly applicable to real-life situations, whether you’re preparing for travel, work, or connecting with family heritage. 

 Make this Fall your ‘primo giorno di scuola’.
Enroll in the Fall Term at Istituto Italiano Scuola and start speaking Italian from day one. 

Enroll now !

“Settembre si gonfia della promessa di infinite opportunità:
è un nuovo inizio, una pagina bianca in cui tutto
appare ancora in via di definizione.”
About IIS
Sep 2, 2025

Meet our teachers: Francesca Ribaudo

Skilled, engaging, and knowledgeable,
Francesca makes Italian come alive!

Francesca is a remarkably skilled and knowledgeable teacher who, despite her young age, brings a wealth of experience to her classes. She has a natural ability to connect with students, making her lessons both engaging and effective.

Her passion for teaching Italian shines through in every session, and her students value her clear explanations, cultural insights, and supportive approach. Whether in group classes or private lessons, adults or children (yes, she is an amazing teacher with children and teens too!), Francesca’s professionalism and energy make learning Italian both rewarding and enjoyable.

She will teach in the Fall Term a new and exclusive course, currently offered only by IIS: Italian Diction. This course welcomes students of all levels, from BEGINNERS to PERFEZIONAMENTO, and aims at unlocking the beauty of the Italian language by mastering its sounds, rhythm, and flow. For more information, check this page.

Let’s get to know Francesca better with this interview.

  • How long have you been teaching Italian? How long for IIS? 

I began teaching languages in 2017, when I met L, an Italian American from New York who wanted to reconnect with his heritage. Helping him reach out to his cousins in Sicily and speak with them confidently was an experience I truly loved. After that, I taught English in Italy, and since moving to the US in 2019, I have been teaching Italian full time (and some French, too). I have been working with IIS since January 2023, and I am deeply grateful for this wonderful journey.

  • Where are you from? How often do you visit your hometown? What do you miss the most?

I was born in Milan, up in northern Italy, and grew up just half an hour north of the city. From my hometown, in less than an hour you can go shopping in Milan, take a stroll along beautiful Lake Como, or cheer at the races in Monza! I try to go back home at least once a year—twice if I’m lucky. That’s where all my family and friends are, and they’re definitely what I miss the most.

 

Lake Como
  • What made you choose to become a teacher? 

My mom and my aunt were elementary school teachers, and my uncle was a learning and development specialist—so you could say teaching runs in the family! During college, I worked for a non-profit organization that led workshops in middle and high schools on online safety, legality, and prevention. That experience changed my life. I realized that, just as Gianni Rodari (famous Italian author) wrote, “Mistakes are necessary, useful like bread, and often even beautiful—just think of the Leaning Tower of Pisa.” That’s when I knew I wanted to become both a witness to, and a supporter of, many more beautiful and useful mistakes.

  • What is your favorite Italian dish? Do you like cooking?

This is such a tough question—I love so many things! But if I had to choose, I’d say my brother’s desserts. He’s a professional pastry chef, and his panna cotta with peach coulis is simply unbeatable. As for me, I enjoy baking more than cooking. My specialties are a rich double chocolate cake and paste di mandorle, traditional almond pastries.

some of Francesca creations in the kitchen
  • Can you share with our students some tips for learning Italian faster? 

This is such a classic American question! Research shows that we remember more when we’re having fun. Why? Because fun increases dopamine and oxytocin—neurotransmitters linked to pleasure, reward, motivation, and learning! Enjoyable activities also improve attention and cognitive flexibility. In other words, a positive, low-stress learning environment helps your brain process and retain information more effectively. So don’t forget to have fun and enjoy the ride!
Also, think of your brain like a muscle. Would you go to the gym once a week for two hours and expect to get strong fast? Probably not! You’d train multiple days a week, in shorter but more consistent sessions. The same principle applies to practicing your Italian: 15 minutes a day is far more effective than two hours once a week. Need help creating a routine that works for you? Don’t hesitate to ask your teacher—they’re here to guide you!

  • Is there a monument or place that you recommend our students to visit if they go to Italy?

This is probably harder than picking my favorite Italian dish! I’ll share one that’s a bit sentimental for me. My father is from Sicily, and my grandmother was devoted to Madonna del Tindari, who has a sanctuary in the town of Tindari, Messina’s province. The sanctuary sits on a cliff above a stunning beach with small salty lakes (La Riserva Naturale Orientata dei Laghetti di Marinello). According to legend, a mother brought her daughter to the sanctuary, the child fell into the sea, but the Madonna miraculously made the waters recede, saving her. The sand strip that formed is said to show the Madonna kneeling with arms outstretched. If you visit, prepare for steep roads—it’s absolutely worth it!

Tindari

If you want to learn more about the entire team of teachers at IIS, please visit the About page on our website!

"Accadono cose che sono come domande. Passa un minuto, oppure anni, e poi la vita risponde"
Alessandro Baricco
Italian culture
Aug 18, 2025

Lost in translation: 10 untranslatable Italian words that reveal the soul of Italy

Italian words that have no true English equivalent—and what they reveal about Italian culture, emotion, and daily life.

Language is more than vocabulary—it’s a window into how a culture thinks, feels, and connects. Italian, with its rhythm, emotion, and nuance, offers countless words that resist translation—not because English lacks equivalents, but because Italian captures something deeper, more specific, or more beautifully vague. 

At Istituto Italiano Scuola, we believe learning a language means learning a worldview. These 10 Italian words don’t just add flair to your vocabulary—they help you speak (and feel) Italian. 

 

  1. Magari

“If only…” / “Hopefully…” / “I wish…” 

This little word can express hope, longing, or even envy—depending on how you say it. 

  • “Vuoi venire in Italia con noi?” → Magari! 
  • “Magari avessi più tempo…” → “If only I had more time…” 

Magari is a sigh, a spark, a daydream—wrapped in seven letters. 

 

  1. Menefreghismo

A proud kind of indifference. 

From me ne frego (“I don’t care”), this word captures a philosophical stance: not apathy, but intentional disregard. It can be admirable—like refusing to conform—or annoying, like ignoring the rules on purpose. 

Italians value passion, but also know when not to care too much. 

 

  1. Struggimento

Deep, poetic, often romantic longing—tinged with pain. 

More intense than nostalgia, struggimento describes an emotional ache: for a lost love, a missed opportunity, or even just beauty too perfect to hold. It’s found in poetry, cinema, and hearts across Italy. 

It’s feeling everything, all at once—and knowing you can’t fix it. 

  1. Mammone

A grown adult who still lives with and is deeply attached to their mother. 

In Italy, it’s common (and often economical) for adults to live with their parents. But mammone suggests something more: a mother-son bond that’s… unbreakable. Often used teasingly—but not without affection. 

“He’s 34, lives with mamma, and she still does his laundry.”
→ Un classico mammone. 

 

  1. Abbiocco

That delicious drowsiness after a big Italian lunch. 

You know the feeling: full stomach, warm sun, and a strong desire to nap. That’s abbiocco. No work meeting or email can fight it. 

At IIS, we recommend light lunches before afternoon classes—per evitare l’abbiocco! 

 

  1. Controra

The quietest time of day in southern Italy—early afternoon silence. 

More than a siesta, la controra is a cultural moment: the heat is intense, shutters are closed, streets are empty. A time for rest, reflection, or ghost stories whispered between naps. 

In dialects of Puglia, Basilicata and Calabria, controra is sacred. 

 

  1. Apericena

Not quite aperitivo, not quite dinner—always social. 

It starts with drinks, continues with finger food, and often ends as dinner. Apericena is a modern Italian ritual: social, relaxed, and very Milano. 

It’s where Italians say “Let’s just grab a drink” and stay for three hours. 

  1. Dietrologia

The belief that there’s always something hidden behind the official story. 

From dietro (“behind”), this word captures an Italian instinct: to question, suspect, and read between the lines. Especially in politics, media, or even simple gossip. 

Trust, but with a raised eyebrow. 

 

  1. Gattara

An older woman who feeds and cares for stray cats—devotedly. 

Once a stereotype, now a term of pride. Every Italian city has its gattare, often seen placing food along ancient ruins or narrow alleys, caring for entire feline colonies. 

Rome’s cats owe their lives to the gattare of Largo Argentina. 

 

  1. Pantofolaio

A homebody. Someone who loves slippers more than nightclubs. 

Derived from pantofole (slippers), a pantofolaio prefers evenings at home, movies on the couch, and early bedtime over parties or travel. It’s not a flaw—it’s a lifestyle. 

Are you a pantofolaio? Embrace it. Italy gets you. 

 

Learn the words that can’t be translated 

At Istituto Italiano Scuola, we don’t just teach grammar—we teach culture, rhythm, and real-life Italian. These words aren’t just vocabulary—they’re keys to thinking, feeling, and living like an Italian. 

From abbiocco to struggimento, our classes dive into what makes Italian unique—through conversation, literature, music, and cultural exploration. 

Because learning a language should never be just about memorizing—it should be about belonging. 

Ready to explore the Italian language from the inside out? Join us in our upcoming Summer Term adults group classes!

“La parola è il vestito del pensiero.”
“Words are the clothing of thought.”
Giuseppe Giusti
Italian culture
Jul 21, 2025

Italian Summer: traditions, flavors, and rituals of a beloved season

Discover how Italians celebrate summer,
from Ferragosto feasts to beach rituals,
seasonal foods, village festivals, and colorful expressions.

Sun, culture, and slow living: the essence of Italian summer 

While the rest of the world slows down, summer in Italy comes alive with color, flavor, and tradition. From packed beaches and village festivals to watermelon picnics and lazy afternoon siestas, summer in Italy is more than just a season—it’s a lifestyle. 

And at Istituto Italiano Scuola, we’re getting ready to bring it all to life. Our Summer Term starts July 14, and we’re inviting you to dive into the language and culture of Italy—just in time to celebrate its most iconic season. 

 

1. Ferragosto: the heartbeat of Italian summer 

No Italian summer is complete without Ferragosto, celebrated on August 15th. This holiday, rooted in ancient Roman times (Feriae Augusti), evolved into a Catholic feast and later became a cornerstone of modern Italian vacation culture. 

Today, Ferragosto is all about: 

  • Family lunches (often featuring roast meats or lasagna, even in the heat!) 
  • Beach gatherings, fireworks, and lively street celebrations 
  • A symbolic “peak” of summer where everything slows down—even major cities empty out 

Many Italians plan their entire summer around Ferragosto—if you’re in Italy mid-August, expect full beaches, closed shops, and open hearts. 

 

2. Al mare: understanding Italian beach culture 

Italians take their beach days seriously. Whether on the Amalfi Coast or in a tiny Puglian cove, summer is synonymous with “andare al mare” (going to the sea). 

Some beach culture basics: 

  • Lido vs spiaggia libera: Lido = paid beach with umbrella, chair, showers, café. Spiaggia libera = free, bring your own gear. 
  • Must-haves: Sunscreen, racchettoni (beach paddleball), cold drinks, a newspaper, and pennichella (the post-lunch nap). 

From morning espresso at the beach bar to watching the sunset over the waves, the beach isn’t just a destination—it’s a daily ritual. 

3. What Italians eat in summer 

In summer, the Italian table lightens up—but never loses its flair. Meals are cooler, simpler, and often shared outdoors. 

Typical Italian summer dishes include: 

  • Prosciutto e melone (cured ham with sweet melon) 
  • Granita and gelato for refreshing dessert moments 

Even pasta joins the party—with cold dishes like pasta fredda dressed in olive oil, vegetables, or seafood. The rule? Keep it fresh, seasonal, and delicious. 

 

4. Summer festivals: food, music, and tradition 

Italian summer is alive with festivals big and small. Every village seems to have a celebration—from religious feasts to food sagre to open-air concerts. 

Some highlights include: 

  • Sagre gastronomiche: celebrating truffles, wild boar, lemons, seafood—you name it. 
  • Historical reenactments: medieval markets, costumed parades, castle sieges, and firework spectacles. 

Summer is when Italy’s local culture steps onto the stage, often quite literally. 

5. Expressions and vocabulary of the Italian summer 

Every season has its language, and summer in Italy brings with it a colorful set of expressions. 

Fun summer phrases and words: 

  • “Fa un caldo che si muore!” – It’s so hot I could die! 
  • “Andare in ferie” – To go on vacation (paid time off) 
  • “Secchiello e paletta” – Bucket and spade (a beach day essential for kids) 
  • “Aperitivo al tramonto” – Sunset aperitif 

Even the language slows down in summer—expect more drawn-out vowels, hand fans, and long goodbyes in the sun. 

 

Join us for the Summer Term at IIS 

Summer is the perfect season to bring Italy into your life—and with the Summer Term at Istituto Italiano Scuola starting July 14, you can do just that. 

Whether you’re heading to Italy or just dreaming about it, our classes will: 

  • Boost your confidence in Italian conversation 
  • Explore seasonal expressions and cultural references 
  • Celebrate the tastes, sounds, and rhythms of the Italian summer 

Let this summer be your gateway to deeper cultural discovery and connection.
Explore our Summer Term classes and enroll today!

“L’estate italiana è uno stato d’animo.”
Italian summer is a state of mind.
Travel
Jun 30, 2025

Hidden Italy: six enchanting villages beyond the tourist trail you’ve (probably) never heard of

Discover six of Italy’s most beautiful hidden villages,
from Abruzzo to Sardinia

There are six beautiful hidden villages in Italy where timeless traditions, culture, and authentic life flourish. Explore them with Istituto Italiano Scuola. 

 

Uncovering the authentic heart of Italy 

While millions of tourists flock to iconic cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice, the real soul of Italy often lives in its hidden corners—remote villages nestled in mountains, valleys, and coastal hills. These borghi (small towns) preserve centuries of history, artisan traditions, and slow living that can’t be experienced in crowded piazzas or souvenir shops. 

At Istituto Italiano Scuola (IIS), we believe in learning Italian through cultural immersion. That means venturing beyond the guidebooks—into the villages where the Italian language, heritage, and rhythm of life feel most alive. 

 

What are “i borghi più belli d’Italia”? 

Founded in 2001, I Borghi più belli d’Italia (“The Most Beautiful Villages of Italy”) is an official designation awarded to small towns that: 

  • Have fewer than 15,000 residents 
  • Preserve historical and architectural integrity 
  • Reflect authentic regional culture 

With over 300 certified villages, this initiative highlights the beauty of Italy’s diverse landscapes—from alpine hamlets to seaside ports. 

 

1. Pescocostanzo, Abruzzo 

High in the Abruzzo Apennines, Pescocostanzo looks like a Renaissance painting framed by mountains. Known for: 

  • Its elegant baroque churches and wide piazzas 
  • Active artisan traditions like tombolo lace, wrought ironwork, and wood carving 
  • A rich artistic legacy embodied in the Basilica di Santa Maria del Colle 

In winter, the nearby Roccaraso ski area draws snow lovers, while summer brings wildflower hikes in Majella National Park. Pescocostanzo feels untouched by mass tourism, offering a genuine glimpse into mountain village life. 

You can see a photo of Perscocostanzo as cover image of the article.

 

2. Spello, Umbria 

Set on the slopes of Mount Subasio, Spello enchants with its blend of Roman history and blooming medieval alleys. 

  • Famous for the Infiorata festival, where residents create intricate flower petal carpets 
  • Roman gates like Porta Venere and Renaissance frescoes by Pinturicchio elevate its cultural significance 
  • Streets are lined with cascading flowers year-round, earning it high honors in Italy’s “Flowering Villages” contest 

Don’t miss local specialties like strangozzi with black truffles and Umbrian olive oil, grown on hillside groves since Roman times. 

 

3. Bosa, Sardinia 

Unlike the glamor of Costa Smeralda, Bosa on Sardinia’s west coast offers authentic island life: 

  • Colorful houses reflect in the Temo River, the island’s only navigable waterway 
  • Family workshops preserve the arts of coral and filet lace embroidery 
  • Quiet beaches, ancient tanneries, and the hilltop Malaspina Castle complete the scene 

Bosa is a place where tourism complements local life, not overtakes it. 

Pescocostanzo

 4. Castelmezzano, Basilicata 

Nestled among the Lucanian Dolomites, Castelmezzano feels carved out of the cliffs: 

  • Houses blend with jagged peaks at 750 meters elevation 
  • Home to the thrilling Volo dell’Angelo zipline, connecting it with Pietrapertosa 
  • Preserves pagan-Christian festivals and traditional dishes like cavatelli with crispy peppers 

The scenery alone is worth the journey, but it’s the enduring traditions that make Castelmezzano unforgettable. 

 

5. Mezzano, Trentino 

In the Dolomites near Austria, Mezzano redefines Alpine charm with a twist of artistic flair: 

  • Its Mezzano Romantica project transforms firewood stacks (cataste) into open-air art 
  • Underground utilities preserve its untouched mountain beauty 
  • Offers slow, seasonal experiences—from dairy farm visits to forest hikes 

Mezzano is ideal for those seeking quiet, sustainable tourism rooted in community. 

 

6. Gradara, Marche 

Dominated by a double-walled medieval fortress, Gradara transports visitors to the pages of history: 

  • Famous for the doomed love story of Paolo and Francesca, from Dante’s Inferno 
  • Hosts historical reenactments and medieval markets year-round 
  • Serves local Marche specialties like passatelli pasta and Bianchello wine 

Gradara blends romance, architecture, and living tradition—a window into the Middle Ages. 

Gradara

Experience the real Italy with Istituto Italiano Scuola 

At Istituto Italiano Scuola, we go beyond grammar lessons. Our students engage with Italy’s full cultural landscape, including the regional dialects, traditions, and local life that thrive in hidden villages like these. 

Through: 

  • Cultural workshops 
  • Cooking classes 
  • Presentations on regional traditions and festivals 

…we bring the Italy of Pescocostanzo, Spello, and Castelmezzano into the classroom. 

 

Let’s become travelers! Discover the Italy that whispers instead of shouts.

Enroll in our group classes, or if you are planning to travel to Italy and need some language tips, join our Italian for Travelers !

“Il viaggiatore vede ciò che vede.
Il turista vede ciò che è venuto a vedere.” 
“The traveler sees what he sees.
The tourist sees what he came to see.”
G.K. Chesterton 
Movies
Jun 2, 2025

Italy beyond the closet: a cultural journey through queer Italian cinema

Queer desire, culture, and change in Italian Film

Explore with us the evolution of queer Italian cinema—from Visconti and Pasolini to Guadagnino and Tognazzi. Discover how LGBTQ+ stories reflect Italy’s cultural identity and inspire deeper understanding at Istituto Italiano Scuola. 

 

Italian queer cinema: where identity meets culture 

In a country steeped in Catholic tradition and tight-knit family values, queer Italian cinema has emerged as a powerful vehicle for cultural dialogue and change. From the subtle undertones of post-war films to today’s unapologetically queer narratives, Italy’s LGBTQ+ cinema reveals the soul of a society grappling with transformation. 

At Istituto Italiano Scuola, we believe that language learning should be immersed in cultural exploration. That’s why we bring stories like these into the classroom—so our students don’t just learn Italian; they experience the diverse voices shaping modern Italy. 

 

Post-War to the 1970s: quiet resistance and subtextual boldness 

Italian cinema’s earliest queer moments were often coded, shaped by censorship and societal repression. Yet visionary directors made space for LGBTQ+ themes beneath the surface. 

  • Luchino Visconti’s Death in Venice (1971) offered a meditation on forbidden desire, beauty, and mortality, with homoerotic undertones that resonated deeply. 
  • Pier Paolo Pasolini, openly gay and radically political, challenged Italian norms in films like Teorema (1968), where sexuality becomes a force of social upheaval. 

Pasolini’s tragic death in 1975 remains a stark reminder of the dangers queer individuals faced—and still face—in Italy. 

 

The 1980s–90s: from subtext to visibility 

As LGBTQ+ activism gained momentum, Italian filmmakers began telling more explicit stories. 

  • A Special Day (1977) by Ettore Scola subtly tackled homophobia and isolation under fascism. 
  • Ferzan Özpetek’s Steam: The Turkish Bath (1997) opened new conversations about identity, heritage, and queer awakening across cultures. 

This era reflected Italy’s shifting social climate, mirroring the broader global reckoning with HIV/AIDS and the rise of queer visibility. 

Ferzan Ozpetek

2000s to today: queer cinema comes of age 

Modern Italian cinema has embraced diverse LGBTQ+ stories with increasing nuance and global recognition. 

  • Luca Guadagnino’s Call Me by Your Name (2017) brought queer Italian storytelling to international acclaim, blending sensuality, landscape, and emotional depth. 
  • Karole Di Tommaso’s Mamma + Mamma (2018) and Maria Sole Tognazzi’s Me, Myself and Her (2015) center female queer relationships and family narratives. 
  • Films like Plan B and The First Man explore fluid sexual identities and working-class queer perspectives, moving beyond middle-class or cosmopolitan stereotypes. 

These films reflect a society grappling with tradition while reaching toward a more inclusive understanding of identity. 

 

Regional, class, and gender perspectives: a unique Italian lens 

What sets Italian queer cinema apart is its rootedness in regional culture and social class. From the conservative towns of Sicily to the progressive pockets of Milan, these stories are as diverse as Italy itself. 

  • Gianni Amelio’s films explore working-class masculinity and sexual repression. 

Meanwhile, filmmakers like Sebastiano Riso and Adele Tulli are expanding transgender representation, bringing depth and authenticity to a space long overlooked. 

Luca Guadagnino and Timothée Chamalet

The role of Festivals: building community and visibility 

Events like: 

…create platforms for emerging and established voices, building bridges between Italian and global queer cinema. These festivals are also part of the cultural conversation we highlight in our advanced language and culture courses at IIS. 

 

Italy in transition: contradictions and creative resilience 

Despite progress, Italy still ranks behind many EU countries in LGBTQ+ rights. Filmmakers must often rely on independent funding or international co-productions to get queer projects made. 

But this very tension—between repression and expression—fuels some of the most compelling art. It reflects an Italy that is complex, contradictory, and evolving. 

 

Why this matters at Istituto Italiano Scuola 

At Istituto Italiano Scuola, we believe understanding Italian culture includes recognizing the voices often left out of mainstream narratives. Through films, articles, and in-class discussions, we explore how Italy’s LGBTQ+ communities contribute to its contemporary identity. 

Whether you’re a cinephile, an LGBTQ+ ally, or someone exploring Italian for the first time, engaging with queer Italian cinema offers a deeper, more inclusive understanding of the country. 

 

Start Your Cultural Journey With Us 

Want to learn Italian while discovering the voices that are reshaping Italy?
Join us at Istituto Italiano Scuola for classes that go beyond grammar—into the heart of Italian culture.  Explore Our Courses and Enroll Today 

"Il cinema è uno dei pochi luoghi dove possiamo ancora raccontare verità scomode."
(Cinema is one of the few places where we can still tell uncomfortable truths.)
Ferzan Özpetek