In Italy, meal times can vary but generally last for quite a while, usually from 1 to 3 hours. The exact duration really depends on the individual and the occasion. But one thing's for sure, we don't like to rush.

Meal times in Italy

Lunch is typically eaten at 1/1.30 p.m., and dinner is usually at 8/8:30 p.m.

A "regular" family dinner during the week might start at 8 p.m. and end in less than an hour. But if you're dining with friends, be prepared for a meal that could last 2-3 hours, or even longer. 

Dinner at a restaurant? You know when you start but you never know when you finish! It all depends on the restaurant, the service, the number of guests, and how much they want to celebrate.

Exceptions to the usual times

However, there are exceptions. In Southern Italy, meal times can be delayed. Lunch sometimes after 2 p.m. and dinner after 9 p.m.

Even in summer, things are more laid-back and you could end up eating later than usual. Why? We wait for the weather to cool down and maybe enjoy a refreshing aperitivo before eating!

The more important a meal is, the more it lasts

Meal times in Italy vary depending on the occasion. How long a meal lasts can change, too! We’ve already seen that a normal family dinner might be quick, like an hour or less.

However, during holidays like Christmas and Easter, whether at home or in a restaurant, lunch can stretch into the late afternoon and dinner can be enjoyed late into the night. The more South in Italy you go, the more the tradition of lingering over the meal is felt.

There seems to be a correlation: the length of a meal is directly related to the importance of the event and the quality of the company. And don’t even get me started on weddings…

 Why do meals take so long?

• We like to take our time. Before we start eating, we wait for everyone to be seated and ready. We check that everyone has the plate in front of them. We say 'Buon appetito' and only then we start!

• A long list of courses: A traditional Italian meal comes with a lot of courses. Appetizers, first course, second course, sides, dessert, coffee, and maybe a little liquor. Of course, this only happens on special occasions like Sundays, birthdays, holidays, reunions…Ok you’re right. The list is quite long.

• Company: Our relaxed approach is all about enjoying good food and good company. It’s the perfect time for updates and some gossip. So why not take the time to make the most of it?

Do tourists need to follow the traditional meal times in Italy?

Generally, restaurants open from 12 to 2:30-3 p.m. and then reopen from 7 p.m. to midnight.

However, in larger cities, many restaurants stay open during non-typical hours for Italian culture. So, don't worry! It is still possible to find places to eat even during off-peak times, though this may not be the case everywhere.

When I lived in Pisa, on the main street of the historic center, while I was going to university at 5 p.m, European and American tourists were enjoying their hot, gooey pizza…How I wished I was them!

Can tourists adapt to meal times in Italy?

Changing the meal times we're used to can be tough. For us Italians, it can be tricky when we're in Spain. Believe it or not, they eat even later than us!

But when you visit another country, adjusting to the local meal schedule helps you understand their culture better.

If you travel with us, you can switch between the typical Italian times and the ones you're used to. Interested? Discover what a typical day on tour with us looks like!