Updated 1 November 2026
Reading an Italian Restaurant Bill: Coperto, Servizio and the Tourist Menu
The lines on an Italian bill that visitors think are a scam and mostly are not: coperto, pane, servizio and the menu turistico.
Food & wine
All our Food & wine guides for Italy, in one place.
5 guides: Food & wine
Updated 18 October 2026
Bologna's Food Valley: Parma, Modena and Emilia-Romagna
Where Parmesan, Parma ham, balsamic vinegar and ragu actually come from, and how to visit Bologna, Parma and Modena as one food-focused trip by train.
Updated 2 September 2026
The Prosecco Hills: Italy's Oldest Wine Road
Driving the Prosecco Road between Conegliano and Valdobbiadene: the steep DOCG hills, what makes this prosecco different, and how to visit without a car.
Updated 13 August 2026
Alba White Truffle Season: Truffle Hunting in Piedmont
When the white truffle season runs in Alba, how a real truffle hunt with a dog and a trifulau actually works, and how to build a Piedmont trip around it.
Updated 3 June 2026
The Chianti Wine Road: Driving the SR222 Through Tuscany
A guide to the Chianti wine road: the best wineries and tastings, how to drive the scenic SR222 between Florence and Siena, and where to base yourself.