How much money do I need to allow for food in Italy? 

Eating out on holidays can be expensive, but Italy offers some pleasant surprises. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite or indulging in a full-course meal, here's what you can expect when dining in Italy.

Coffee Culture in Italy

Coffee is a big part of Italian culture, enjoyed throughout the day—morning, evening, and even after dinner. Despite Italy’s reputation for exceptional coffee, the average cup will only cost you around $1.33 USD (about $2.03 AUD). Compare that to Paris, where a cup of coffee can cost $4.13 USD (a steep $6.33 AUD)! (Source: Waka Coffee)

Eating Out: Cheaper Than Australia

I’ve always found dining out in Italy to be more affordable than in Australia. With Italians frequently eating out, there’s plenty of competition, which helps keep prices lower. I’m heading back to Italy soon and will see this firsthand again.

Breakfast: The Savvy Traveller’s Advantage

Many of the places I book offer breakfast included, which is a great money saver. Italian breakfasts, which I personally love, often consist of pastries, coffee, jam, bread, hard-boiled eggs, cheese, and deli meats. The more upscale the hotel, the more extensive the selection, but expect an authentic Italian breakfast rather than a Western or American breakfast.

Lunch: Delicious and Affordable Options

For lunch, you can pop into a deli and grab some mortadella and a bread roll—one of my favorites—for just a few euros. Great lunch deals can be found for as low as €9, often including water and coffee. Classic trattorias and osterias offer pasta dishes ranging from €9 to €14, and main courses from €12 to €20. For a sit-down lunch at a traditional Roman restaurant in a tourist area, budget around €15-20, though prices can vary depending on the view.

Dinner: From Casual to Extravagant

According to TripAdvisor, dinner at an average-priced restaurant in Italy typically costs between €20 and €30 per person, depending on what you order. Of course, there’s a wide range of dining options, so you could spend as little as €15 or go all out with a luxurious meal costing up to €500 per person.

Dining in Italy offers a range of options that can fit almost any budget. Whether you’re enjoying a simple deli lunch or a sit-down dinner at a cosy trattoria, you’ll find that Italy’s culinary delights are not only delicious but also affordable.

Buon appetito!