The dolce vita lifestyle is all about savoring the sweet moments in life—whether it’s enjoying a cup of coffee, spending time with loved ones, or indulging in delicious food. It’s about appreciating beauty in the everyday and taking the time to slow down and enjoy what matters most. Italians have mastered this art, embracing a life filled with balance, joy, and simplicity.
But living la dolce vita isn’t reserved for Italians alone. You can bring the spirit of Italy into your own life, no matter where you are. In this article, we’ll explore 15 ways to live more like an Italian. Ready to make life a little sweeter? Let’s dive in!
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Check out these dolce vita items, and sprinkle a little Italian magic throughout your home and lifestyle!
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1. Enjoy Your Mornings
In Italy, mornings are a time to savor. Many Italians begin their day with a slow, intentional routine—perhaps sipping a coffee at a café, reading the newspaper, or simply taking in the morning light. It’s a moment of calm before the day begins.
For example, my dad always made time for his morning routine, no matter how early he had to get up. When I was young he had a flexible job that allowed him to wake up have his coffee, go get ready, have a little breakfast, take me to school, and then go to work. Even when his jobs got more demanding he never gave away his morning ritual.
How You Can Do the Same
The most authentic way to wake in dolce vita style is to have your coffee ready brewing for you. However, even if you don’t drink coffee (I don’t), find something that gives you joy and keep doing it – it could be a workout, reading a blog or magazine, looking at the sunrise, taking a walk in your garden.
You can take a step further, and make breakfast for the family, but that of course depends on your schedule.
If you’d like to make an Italian-style breakfast, read this post next.
2. Dress to Feel Your Best
In Italy, dressing well isn’t about vanity—it’s about self-respect and feeling good in your own skin. Italians put effort into their appearance, whether they’re heading to work, meeting friends, or simply going for a stroll. The key isn’t about wearing expensive clothes but about looking polished and put-together, no matter the occasion.
For example, Italian women don’t go out in their pajamas to grab groceries or drop their kids off at school. If they’re working moms, they dress up for work; if they’re not, they wear a casual yet intentional outfit to run errands and take on the day.
My grandma is a great example. I never ever saw her in slouchy clothes. She always looked put together, whether she was cooking, cleaning the house, or going out. Her hair was always nicely done, even if she was kneading bread for the whole household.
How You Can Do the Same
Take a few extra minutes each morning to choose an outfit that makes you feel good. It doesn’t have to be fancy—just well-thought-out. A great tip? Invest in timeless, well-fitting pieces that make dressing effortless. If you’re not sure where to start, take inspiration from Italian street style.
If you’d like tips on curating a timeless Italian wardrobe, start with these two guides: How To Dress Like An Italian Woman and 20 Must-Have Italian Wardrobe Pieces.
You can also visit my Shopmy store, where I curate my favorite Italian style finds.
3. Take Breaks Throughout the Day
Italians believe in the power of pausing. Whether it’s a quick coffee break, a short stroll, or simply sitting down to chat, taking breaks isn’t seen as laziness—it’s a way to recharge and be more present. Instead of rushing through the day, Italians embrace moments of rest, allowing them to be more productive and enjoy life more fully.
For example, in Italy, the mid-morning “pausa caffè” (coffee break) is almost sacred. It’s a time to step away from work, enjoy a quick espresso, and have a chat with colleagues or friends. Even in busy cities like Milan, you’ll see people taking a few minutes to step into a café and enjoy their coffee standing at the bar.
During my time coordinating an EU project with Sicilian partners, I was always laughing at how frequent and long their breaks were. And while that was frustrating from a productivity point of view, looking back, I’d rather live life that way than be strict and stuffy.
How You Can Do the Same
Don’t power through your entire day without a moment to breathe. Schedule small breaks, even if it’s just five minutes to step away from your screen, stretch, or have a cup of tea. Try stepping outside for fresh air or calling a friend for a quick chat. These pauses will help you feel refreshed and more present.
4. Enjoy a Longer Lunch Break
Lunch in Italy isn’t just a meal—it’s a ritual. Italians take their time to enjoy food, good company, and a well-deserved pause in the middle of the day. While fast food exists, the culture leans towards sitting down for a proper meal, even on a workday.
For example, my dad did this throughout my early childhood. He would go on his lunch break, come pick me up from school, and we would go have lunch at home with my mum.
As per tradition, we often ate a pasta lunch, and many times it was fresh pasta. My mum loved making tagliatelle—white, green, and red—and served them with a homemade white cream and mushroom sauce. Those meals weren’t just about food; they were about slowing down, reconnecting, and enjoying the moment together.
How You Can Do the Same
Even if you have a busy schedule, try to make lunch an intentional moment instead of just another task. Step away from your desk, sit down properly, and take the time to eat mindfully. If possible, enjoy lunch with colleagues or friends instead of eating alone in a rush.
You don’t have to cook a full Italian meal, but if you’d like to try, start with something simple like a pasta salad. Read this post for pasta salad recipe ideas (coming soon).
5. Create Wholesome Family Traditions
Italians are deeply connected to their families, and traditions play a big role in keeping those bonds strong. Whether it’s Sunday lunch with the whole family, an annual gathering, or a simple daily ritual, these traditions create a sense of belonging and warmth.
For example, in my family, Sundays were all about togetherness. After a morning out with my dad picking up the newspaper and dessert for after lunch, we would come home and set the table. Even when it was just us, we usually had pasta followed by a main course, and then dessert—a simple but cherished routine.
Public holidays were usually spent at my grandma’s, who lived downstairs, where the whole family would eat together. We would play, grill, plan performances, play cards, chat, and eat some more—it was a full-day affair centered around joy and connection.
But it didn’t stop there. On weekends, I loved spending time making cakes with my grandma, learning family recipes while covered in flour. And during summers, we would escape to the sea, staying at my other grandma’s house—a place filled with sunshine, laughter, and the scent of the Mediterranean.
How You Can Do the Same
You don’t need a big Italian family to create meaningful traditions. Start small with something special:
- A Sunday meal with loved ones, even if it’s just one or two people.
- A seasonal tradition, like making a special dish together in the fall or baking cookies for the holidays.
- Weekend activities that bring connection, whether it’s a family outing, a movie night, or a simple ritual like setting the table together.
The key is consistency. Over time, these little moments become cherished traditions that bring joy and connection.
6. Buy the Best You Can Afford (From Food to Clothes)
Italians have a well-known appreciation for quality, and when it comes to their lifestyle, they tend to prioritize buying the best they can afford, whether it’s food, clothes, or home goods. It’s about investing in items that will stand the test of time and bring joy every day.
For example, growing up, my family always made it a point to buy high-quality ingredients for meals. My mother would often say, “If you buy good ingredients, you don’t need to do much to make it taste great.” And it’s true. Simple, fresh ingredients make all the difference. Whether it was the best olive oil, fresh produce from local markets, or a well-aged cheese, the focus was always on quality over quantity.
Italians also carry this principle into their clothing. Instead of buying many cheap items, they prefer investing in a few well-made, timeless pieces.
My grandmother, for example, always had a classic wardrobe—tailored coats, beautiful scarves, and the finest leather handbags, which she took care of to make them last for years.
How You Can Do the Same
You don’t need to spend a fortune to follow this principle. Start with small steps:
- Prioritize quality over quantity when shopping for food or clothing.
- Invest in a few staple pieces for your wardrobe that you truly love and will wear for years.
- Support local producers when possible, especially when it comes to food—freshness and quality are key!
By focusing on quality, you’ll find that you enjoy your purchases more and, in the long run, they’ll pay off.
7. Take Pleasure in Cooking and Even More in Eating
Food is at the heart of Italian culture, and it’s not just about eating—it’s about enjoying the experience, both in the kitchen and at the table. Italians don’t rush their meals; they take their time, savoring each bite, and turning mealtime into a celebration of flavors, memories, and love.
For example, I remember my mom spending hours preparing a Sunday lunch, especially when we were expecting guests. She’d start early, making fresh pasta, slow-cooking sauces, and seasoning with just the right amount of herbs. I can still recall the aroma that would fill the house, drawing us all together. But it wasn’t just the cooking—it was the act of sitting down at the table, family gathered, sharing stories, and tasting the fruits of all that time and effort.
One of my fondest memories is eating homemade scacciate (Sicilian pies) made from scratch with my grandmother. And don’t get me started on the homemade bread we would eat piping hot out of the oven, right after making it together in the garden kitchen. Just a drizzle of locally sourced extra virgin olive oil and a dash of salt. I can still taste it in my mouth!
How You Can Do the Same
You don’t need to spend hours cooking to enjoy food the Italian way. Here are some simple ideas:
- Take your time when cooking—don’t rush through it. Enjoy the process and appreciate the ingredients.
- Embrace homemade meals, even simple ones. Homemade pasta, a fresh sauce, or a simple salad can bring joy and fulfillment.
- Sit down with loved ones and enjoy the meal. Make mealtime an event, not just a task.
Let cooking and eating become a ritual that you cherish. It’s about finding pleasure in the small moments.
8. Make Time for Friends
Italian life is centered around community. Whether it’s sharing a meal, taking a stroll, or simply enjoying a good conversation over coffee, friendship is integral to the Dolce Vita lifestyle.
My parents spent many of their weekends hosting or being hosted at their friends’ houses. That was the best way to discover new recipes and bring them home.
I remember one Sunday in particular. We were spending the day in the countryside at my mum’s friend’s holiday home. She served us the best-tasting pasta I had ever eaten, one I had never tried before. Since then, my mum started making it at home. It was a pasta with tomato sauce, sautéed vegetables, Parmesan, extra virgin olive oil, and Sicilian salted ricotta cheese. Incredible!
How You Can Do the Same
Making time for friends doesn’t have to be grand or complicated. Here are some simple ideas:
- Invite friends over for a simple meal or coffee—sometimes the best moments are unplanned and intimate.
- Set aside time to meet up even if it’s just a walk in the park or catching up over the phone.
- Celebrate the joy of being with others, no matter how small the occasion.
Friendship, like good food, should be savored. So make sure to cherish your time with friends as part of your Dolce Vita experience.
9. Admire and Celebrate Beautiful Things
In Italy, beauty is in the details—whether it’s a piece of art, a beautifully set table, or the way a local dresses. Italians take great pride in appreciating and celebrating the beauty around them, from the grand to the simple.
That’s why Italians love to travel so much, even if it’s within our own country. We love visiting museums, admiring beautiful buildings, and feeling proud of the beauty of our country.
Equally, we also appreciate that the rest of the world has a lot of beauty to be discovered, and as long as we can find good food to accompany it, we are happy folks!
How You Can Do the Same
Incorporating beauty into your life is easier than you think. Here are a few ways:
- Appreciate the beauty around you, whether it’s your own home or the surroundings.
- Complement people who are dressed nicely—this creates an atmosphere of admiration and positivity.
- Take a day trip to explore a beautiful spot in your country—there’s beauty everywhere waiting to be admired.
- Keep visiting Italy (ha ha) to continue discovering its endless beauty!
Celebrating beauty in your life makes the ordinary feel extraordinary, and that’s the secret of La Dolce Vita.
10. The Most Important – Learn To Be and Just Do Nothing
One of the cornerstones of living the Dolce Vita lifestyle is the art of doing absolutely nothing. Italians are known for their ability to slow down, relax, and savor the present moment. It’s not about being lazy, but rather about giving yourself permission to truly rest and enjoy life without rushing.
As much as Italian life can be as busy as everyone else’s, we understand the importance of stepping back, letting go of the pressures of life, and simply being. It’s in the slow coffee breaks, the long afternoons spent with family, and the quiet moments of reflection. Italians know that life is meant to be enjoyed, not just to be filled with tasks and obligations.
How You Can Do the Same
To truly live La Dolce Vita, you need to prioritize rest and mindfulness in your daily life. Here’s how:
- Schedule time for yourself without feeling guilty.
- Take a long walk in nature with no agenda—just to be.
- Go out to town without a special errand to run—let the day unfold. You could stop for aperitivo, or lunch, or both—who knows!
- Sit down with a glass of wine, not for a quick sip, but to enjoy the flavors and the company.
Sometimes, doing nothing is the most productive thing you can do for your soul.
11. Live Like There’s No Tomorrow
Italians are known for their zest for life, embracing every moment with passion and joy. The idea of living fully and enjoying the present, regardless of the future, is deeply ingrained in Italian culture. This mindset can be seen in everything from the way Italians celebrate life to the way they enjoy their meals and relationships.
In fact, Italians are often criticized for their tendency to live in the moment, without worrying too much about savings or future planning. However, it’s this very outlook that allows them to savor the beauty of life, free from the weight of constant stress and anxiety about what’s ahead.
How You Can Do the Same
While planning for the future is important, we can all learn a thing or two from the Italian approach of living fully in the now. Here’s how:
- Take spontaneous trips without worrying about every detail or expense.
- Say yes to plans with friends or family, even if you’re tired or busy.
- Indulge in the things you love—whether it’s good food, clothes, or a hobby —without hesitation.
- Celebrate the little victories and take time to enjoy life’s simple pleasures.
It’s about finding joy in the now and making the most of every moment.
12. Celebrate and Embrace Your Roots
For Italians, family and heritage are everything. There’s a deep connection to their roots, whether that’s the region they come from, their family traditions, or the customs passed down through generations. This respect for one’s origins can be seen in how Italians honor their family’s history, celebrate local traditions, and maintain strong connections to their community.
Italians are often fiercely proud of their regions, and you’ll hear them speak with affection about where they come from—whether it’s the sun-kissed shores of Sicily or the rolling hills of Tuscany. This connection to their roots provides a sense of identity and belonging that is at the core of the Italian way of life.
How You Can Do the Same
Embracing your roots doesn’t necessarily mean staying tied to the past, but it’s about celebrating where you come from and the values that have shaped you. Here’s how you can honor your own roots:
- Learn about your family’s history, ask relatives to share stories about their past.
- Celebrate family traditions, even if it’s just cooking a recipe passed down through the generations.
- Take pride in where you’re from, no matter where you live now. Share your background with others and appreciate the uniqueness it brings.
- Support local businesses in your area, just as Italians cherish the small, family-run shops that line their streets.
13. Balance Indulgence and Moderation
Italians are masters at finding the sweet spot between indulgence and moderation, particularly when it comes to food. A typical Italian meal might consist of multiple courses, but the portions are often smaller and balanced, allowing room for enjoyment without excess. Italians savor their food, appreciating every bite, but they don’t overdo it.
Also, what you may not know is that what you eat on holiday in Italy is not what Italians eat on a daily basis. Of course, we go all out on special days and when we are having a meal together. But on an everyday basis, we eat balanced meals.
For example, pasta for lunch and a main course for dinner is a very common combination; no second portions, no antipasti, and no desserts. We like to eat, but we also love looking good in our clothes!
How You Can Do the Same
Here’s how to achieve that balance in your life:
- Enjoy your favorite treats, once a week—whether it’s a slice of pizza or a pastry, but savor the experience without going overboard.
- Balance work and play. Don’t let work consume your life. Make time for relaxation, hobbies, and spending time with loved ones.
- Be mindful in all areas of life. Whether you’re eating, working, or relaxing, do so with intention, focusing on the quality of the experience rather than quantity.
Balance doesn’t mean cutting things out entirely, but instead embracing life’s pleasures in a way that leaves you feeling fulfilled without going overboard.
14. Follow Your Dreams
In Italy, following your passion is something that is deeply ingrained in the culture. While we may be known for our love of beauty, art, and design, there is a quiet but powerful force behind many Italians’ lives—the pursuit of passion. Italians often follow their dreams, even if they are unconventional, because they believe in living a life of meaning. Whether it’s in the arts, fashion, food, or any other creative field, Italians are driven by what excites and fulfills them.
For example, there are many Italian artists, chefs, musicians, and designers who pursue their craft without concern for financial rewards, at least not initially. Even when money is tight, the dream and the joy of creating something beautiful take precedence. This passionate pursuit of one’s calling is central to the Italian identity.
How You Can Do the Same
- Make time for what excites you. Whether you want to paint, write, travel, or start a side business, don’t let life’s responsibilities completely overshadow your passions.
- Follow your intuition. Italians trust their gut instincts, and often it’s this sense of intuition that leads them to their dreams.
- Stay committed. Passion isn’t always easy, and the road can be long. Like many Italian artists who stick with their craft despite challenges, find ways to stay committed even when the path gets tough.
Living life on your terms and pursuing what makes your heart sing is truly living la dolce vita. And remember, it’s not just about the destination—it’s about enjoying the journey too.
15. Focus on the Simple Pleasures
Italians are masters at finding joy in the little things. From savoring the perfect cup of coffee to enjoying a walk in a beautiful piazza, life in Italy is full of simple pleasures that often go unnoticed in the rush of daily life. Italians embrace the art of slowing down and appreciating the moment, finding beauty in what others might see as ordinary.
If you think about it, the things you enjoy the most about your Italian holidays are the simplest – good food, beautiful sceneries, simple moments enjoying a coffee or an aperitivo, and laughing together making memories. Those same things you can enjoy back at home, so start doing so.
How You Can Do the Same
- Appreciate the present. Take a moment each day to notice the small joys around you: a beautiful sunset, the smell of fresh bread, or the sound of a song you love playing.
- Practice mindfulness. Try to live in the moment rather than constantly rushing to the next thing. This doesn’t mean you have to slow down your whole life, but giving yourself brief moments of pause can make a big difference.
- Enjoy everyday rituals. Like Italians, try to make daily habits—whether it’s cooking a meal, sipping coffee, or walking through your neighborhood—feel like a small celebration.
By embracing the simple things, you’ll find that life becomes richer and more fulfilling. After all, it’s the little moments that make life truly beautiful.
Read More About La Dolce Vita
I wonder: which aspect of the Dolce Vita lifestyle are you most attracted to? Is it the slow mornings, the long meals, or the passion with which Italians live life?
Well, either way, you’re always welcome to come to Italy and enjoy the real deal. But don’t forget to recreate those dolce vita moments in your everyday life.
For more inspiration, check out these articles:
And don’t forget to explore the posts I mentioned earlier—you’ll find even more dolce vita treasures to help you infuse your life with Italian charm.
A presto,
Alessia
