MileHacker Logo
Practical Information

Practical Information

Emilia Romagna And San Marino, Italy

Connectivity

Main mobile operators in Italy are TIM, Vodafone, WindTre, and Iliad. They offer good coverage.

Options

Language & Translation

Italian is the official language. Many in tourism speak English; smaller shops less so.

Tools & Phrases

  • Download Google Translate or DeepL for offline use.
  • A small phrasebook for common travel phrases is helpful.
  • Practice with Rosetta Stone before your trip.

Essential Phrases

Greetings

  • Buongiorno (Good day/morning)
  • Arrivederci (Goodbye)
  • Ciao (Hello/Goodbye - informal)
  • Per favore (Please)

Common Courtesy

  • Grazie (Thank you)
  • Prego (You're welcome)
  • Mi scusi (Excuse me/Sorry)
  • Sì/No (Yes/No)

Travel Tip

Learn a few basic Italian phrases. Locals appreciate the effort, even if you are not fluent.

Business & Services

Understand local operating hours for shops, restaurants, and essential services.

Shop Hours

Generally 9:00 AM-1:00 PM and 3:30 PM/4:00 PM-7:30 PM/8:00 PM (Monday-Saturday). Many smaller shops close for "riposo" (lunch break).

Dining Times

Lunch typically 12:30 PM-2:30 PM/3:00 PM. Dinner 7:30 PM-10:00 PM/11:00 PM. Many restaurants close one day a week.

Financial Services

Banks are open Monday-Friday, typically 8:30 AM-1:30 PM and 2:30 PM-4:00 PM. ATMs are widely available 24/7.

National Holidays

Be aware of public holidays, as many businesses and services may close or have reduced schedules.

Impact

  • January 1, April 25, May 1, June 2, August 15.
  • Most shops, banks, and some restaurants close.
  • Public transport may run on a reduced schedule.

Local Closures

Modena also observes a local holiday, and some businesses close seasonally.

Seasonal Notes

  • January 31 (Saint Geminianus) is a local holiday.
  • Many small businesses close in August for summer holidays.
  • Check websites for specific establishment hours.

Travel Convenience

Airport Services

  • Access lounges globally with Priority Pass.
  • Seek flight compensation via Compensair.
  • Major airports offer various traveler amenities.

Accessibility Overview

  • Historic center has cobblestones and narrow sidewalks.
  • Newer areas generally offer smoother pavements and ramps.
  • Public buildings and major hotels often have improved access.

Travel Tip

Plan your shopping around the "riposo" (lunch break). Many smaller shops close in the afternoon.

Cultural Etiquette

Your interactions contribute to the local perception of visitors. Respect local customs.

Greeting Customs

Formal greetings for strangers, informal for friends and family.

Types

  • Handshakes are common for initial greetings.
  • Use "Buongiorno" or "Buonasera" with strangers.
  • "Ciao" for friends or people your age.

Dress Code

Italians value presentation. Dress appropriately for different settings.

Settings

  • Shoulders and knees covered in churches.
  • Smart casual for most restaurants.
  • Avoid overly casual attire in city centers.

Dining & Tipping

Tipping is not obligatory. "Coperto" is a standard cover charge.

Practices

  • Rounding up the bill or leaving a few euros.
  • Drink espresso standing at the bar for lowest price.
  • Meals often consist of multiple courses.

Photography

Photography is generally allowed in public spaces.

Guidelines

  • Be respectful of people’s privacy; ask permission.
  • Check for signs prohibiting photography in museums.
  • Inside churches, photography is often without flash, be discreet.

Cultural Sensitivities

Taboos

  • Avoid direct comparisons with other cultures.
  • Do not be overly loud or boisterous in public.
  • Do not touch food with hands in shops without asking.

Social Norms

  • Discussions about politics or religion are generally avoided with strangers.
  • Modena is generally tolerant for LGBTQ+ individuals.
  • Public displays of affection are generally accepted.

Social Inclusivity

General Gender

  • Italy is generally conservative.
  • Major cities like Modena are more liberal and cosmopolitan.
  • Women typically face no specific restrictions for solo travel.

LGBTQ+ Community

  • Civil unions are recognized in Italy.
  • Modena is considered a tolerant city.
  • Larger cities often have more visible LGBTQ+ scenes.

Travel Tip

When visiting churches, always cover your shoulders and knees. This shows respect for the place.

Accessibility

For travelers with mobility challenges, understanding Modena's accessibility landscape helps in planning.

City Infrastructure

Modena's historic center has cobblestone streets and narrow sidewalks.

Areas

  • Cobblestone streets present navigation difficulties.
  • Older buildings may have steps.
  • Newer areas and large hotels have improved accessibility.

Accessible Attractions

Many major sites and transport options strive for better accessibility.

Spots

  • Duomo and Piazza Grande ground levels are accessible.
  • Major museums (e.g., Enzo Ferrari) offer elevators and accessible routes.
  • Newer SETA buses are equipped with ramps.

Support Services

Information in alternative formats might be limited outside major tourist sites.

Details

  • Braille information may be limited.
  • Audio guides might not be widely available for all sites.
  • Assistance dogs are generally allowed in public spaces.

Information Sources

Contact local resources for current accessibility details.

Contacts

  • Contact the Modena Tourist Information Office (IAT).
  • Check specific attraction websites directly.
  • Refer to specialized accessible travel guides for Italy.

Travel Tip

Check specific venue accessibility before visiting. This avoids unexpected difficulties and aids planning.

← Previous
Day Trips & Excursions
← Back to Modena
Next →
Sustainable Practices

Next Up: Sustainable Practices

Continue to Sustainable Practices