Travel with Rick Steves · Saturday, August 8, 2026
Italian tour guides Susanna Perocchini and Nina Bernardo explain that the Italian tendency to 'rub elbows' refers to a cultural comfort with closer physical proximity in public spaces. This can feel crowded to Americans but is not considered offensive in Italian culture, contributing to the perceived 'bella chaos' of Italy.
“Italians are used to rubbing elbows, so it can feel a little crowded sometimes.”
“So you're closer together physically? Yes, yeah, much more. On a bus? On a bus, even waiting for something or you know, doing the, the walk.”
“Yes, yes, the big rubbing, yes. Everybody's out rubbing. Yes. And actually, the rubbing, as we say, it's a word that we use also because you want people to look at you and to see how good and pay attention.”