Is it true that there's a strict dress code in Italy, France, and Spain?

Question

I read that legs should be covered w/ pants/long skirts when away from the beach, esp. if going into a church/museum. Is this true for shopping/just walking around town? Please answer only if you have first hand experience

Answer 1

really just no bare shoulders when entering some churches and they do enforce this. I saw someone get turned away at the vatican, but this is pretty easy to deal with. wear a tank top and carry a cardigan so if you do have to enter a church you can throw it on and cover up. im not sure about women and shorts i think that i would go with capris or long pants if i was visiting a church.

Answer 2

There is a dress code at some of the churches and museums. Women have to keep their shoulders and legs covered (no shorts, skirts, tank tops, tub tops, or dresses). Especially in Vatican City. So if you are sightseeing I would make sure I have pants and either a tee shirt or a cardigan you can cover up with.

But when you shop around you can wear whatever you want. Just make sure you try not to dress like a tourist or you'll be a target for pickpockets or people on vespas who zoom by and grab your purse, cell phone, camera, video camera.

Answer 3

In general, I found that, compared to America, Europeans tend to "dress up." Many Europeans, primarily in urban areas, wear nicer clothes than Americans might wear in similar circumstances. Fashion seems to have a slightly stronger hold on the psyche of the population. My most recent experience was in Italy and England.

By no means is there a "strict dress code".

However, when visiting churches, women are expected to cover their shoulders, perhaps even their heads. I saw many women pull a simple shawl or scarf out of their purses which they draped over their shoulders as they entered the church. Miniskirts are a no-no. For men, they should be prepared to remove hats, wear long pants and dress more "respectfully" according to the situation.

Overall, if you're visiting Europe on vacation, why not wear nicer clothes anyway, you never know what opportunity may arise. Better yet, pack light, and buy some new clothes while you are there. Clothes make better souveniers of your trip than snow globes, spoons, or other tchochkes.

Answer 4

I have been to Italy. The church thing is true for there as it is anywhere else. You dress appropriately for church. As for other places to go , Italy France and Spain are at the forefronts of fashion. Some of the riskiest and most fashion forward trends are from Europe. People dress way better than they do here just for normal everyday things like shopping and dining.

Answer 5

There is no dress code in either of these countries. The only thing, and this is first hand experience, in some churches in Italy, you won't be allowed in if you dress skimpily. Just have your shoulders covered, and don't show too much leg and you are fine. This is more of a respect thing because you are entering God's house.

Answer 6

Goodness no!!! Good shoes that are comfortable to walk in is the only requirement. Very often I will be the only one wearing a tie and suit to church, which is, in general, very casual with most people wearing a pullover. We walk everywhere and dress so we're ready for rain, hot, a snack if we don't want to spend at a restaurant. In general, just be ready for a long walk. Some of the casinos require a tuxedo and bowtie (but I've never been to one).

Answer 7

lol, no! My friend lived in italy for a whole semester and the have absolutely no dress code anywhere!