Italy is renowned for its wine, limoncello, and Campari-sipping culture, sure. But whether you’re a student backpacking through the country, a curious traveler, or a wine connoisseur, you might be wondering about the legal drinking age in Italy.
After all, it’s hard to resist the temptation of sipping a glass of Chianti in a quaint Florentine trattoria or enjoying an Aperol Spritz on a terrace overlooking the Colosseum. And if you’re over the age of 18, you don’t have to — the current legal drinking age is 18 in Italy, which is on par with most other countries in the European Union.
From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the bustling streets of Rome, join us on a journey to discover all there is to know about Italy’s drinking laws and whether or not you can let your teen child or college students sample some Italian tipples on their next visit and experience the real meaning of la dolce vita.
What is the Minimum Drinking Age in Italy?
According to Italian law, the minimum legal drinking age is 18 years old. This means Italy aligns itself with the majority of the other member states of the European Union, where the minimum drinking age is established at 18 years as well.
As is the case in the United States, establishments that serve alcohol are required to request identification to verify the consumer’s age. However, they don’t always do that, and you’ll notice that it’s less common in European countries where there isn’t as much stigma around drinking.
Come to think of it, we’ve never seen any bartender or waiter card a guest at a restaurant In Italy. We have, however, seen younger adults and teenagers drinking with their families. Perhaps we simply haven’t noticed anybody getting carded, or perhaps it’s simply because, once again, alcohol consumption is much less of a taboo subject than it is in the United States.
Our Suggestion: While you have to be 18 years old to legally consume alcohol in Italy, it’s important to note that different regions or municipalities within Italy may have their own regulations regarding alcohol consumption. If you’re traveling with your teenage or college-aged children or a group of students, we suggest checking local laws and regulations.
What is the Minimum Age for Purchasing Alcohol in Italy?
It’s the same as the minimum age for consuming alcohol. In Italy, the minimum age required by law to purchase alcohol in public establishments is 18 years old. This means that individuals this age or older can legally buy alcoholic beverages in restaurants, bars, and other similar establishments. However, as mentioned above, you’re not likely to get carded as long as you don’t look like a child.
Also Read: What is the Capital of Italy?
Reasons Why Alcohol is Prohibited for Minors in Italy
As you savor a glass of Chianti or a crisp Peroni beer while strolling through Italy, you may wonder why minors are not allowed to partake in these boozy delights. The answer is simple, and it has to do with the Italian government’s concern for the safety and well-being of its youth.
Italy has long recognized the many harmful effects that alcohol can have on young people, including stunting brain growth, contributing to risky behavior, and increasing the likelihood of alcoholism later in life.
Their beliefs are backed by the World Health Organization (WHO), which states that alcohol consumption is linked to various health problems, including mental and behavioral disorders, alcohol dependence, liver cirrhosis, certain types of cancer, and cardiovascular diseases. Moreover, underage alcohol consumption can interfere with physical and cognitive development, leading to long-term health issues.
That’s why, with few exceptions, you must be at least 18 years old to purchase alcohol in Italy. Plus, in a country where wine is practically a birthright, they want to ensure that minors learn to appreciate it the right way and with the right amount of responsibility.
Fun Fact: 11 European Union member states don’t have any age requirements for the consumption of alcohol. This includes countries like Croatia, Denmark, Finland, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Poland, Romania, and Slovenia.
Rules Governing Alcohol Consumption in Italy
Traveling with a teenager to traverse the Italian countryside this summer? Want to know if you can consume alcohol while studying abroad in Milan? Typically, as long as you’re over the age of 18, you’ll be fine.
However, the government has implemented several regulations to prohibit the sale and consumption of alcohol by minors to guarantee their safety, well-being, and integrity and avoid potential harm. These laws include the following:
- Prohibition of Sale: It’s currently illegal for retailers, such as bars, restaurants, and shops, to sell alcohol to anyone under the age of 18.
- Identification: Establishments selling alcohol are required to verify the age of their customers by asking for identification documents, such as an ID card or passport. But again, we’ve never actually seen this occur in Italy.
- Place of Consumption: Consuming alcoholic beverages in public places is strictly regulated. It is illegal for underage persons to consume alcoholic beverages in public. However, unless a minor is found wandering the streets belligerently drunk, local police aren’t likely to do much.
It’s important to note that these rules aren’t in place to hamper your study abroad experience or high school trip. The Italian government has implemented these rules to protect young people from the potential harms associated with excessive alcohol consumption.
Legal Drinking Age in Italy with Parents
Don’t knock traveling with your parents to Italy, especially if you’re underage. Italy allows minors to consume alcohol at pretty much any age under parental supervision. Yes, you read that right. Sipping on a glass of Chianti at the dinner table with your parents is completely legal and culturally accepted in this boot-shaped country.
But don’t let this friendly gesture fool you. Italians take their food and drink seriously, and it’s not uncommon for young Italians to have already acquired a well-developed palate for the finer things in life. From sipping on a fruity Prosecco to devouring a creamy Gorgonzola cheese, experiencing the local cuisine and beverages with your loved ones is an essential part of Italian culture.
Where to Buy Alcohol in Italy
This might surprise you if you grew up in a part of the United States where you had to drive 30 minutes outside of town to a dedicated liquor store just to buy a bottle of tequila, but alcohol is available in nearly every grocery store, mini-mart, and bodega in Italy.
In fact, it’s quite common to see locals enjoying a bottle of Chianti or a beer at lunchtime on a sunny day. For the discerning drinker, however, there are outlets dedicated solely to the sale of alcohol. Enotecas, or wine shops, stock Italy’s top wines, complete with knowledgeable staff to advise on pairings and vintages.
Where to Sample Wine in Italy:
When in Rome, head to the Enoteca Regionale Palazzo Venezia, where you can sample a slew of over 1,000 exceptional wines and enjoy presentations from the spot’s expert sommeliers. If you’re in Milan, the Enoteca Red Red Wine is a top-rated and classic spot, while the Vineria Sonora is where you’ll find some of the best natural wines in Florence.
Most Popular Italian Drinks to Try
Ah, nice. You are — checks ID — of legal drinking age in Italy. Are you excited to explore the country’s incredible selection of mouth-watering drinks? From refreshing cocktails to bold liqueurs, there’s something for everyone to try. Here are some of the most popular Italian drinks that you have to try when traveling to Italy.
Wine
First up, let’s talk wine. Italian wines are world-renowned and for good reason. Did you know that the vineyards of Italy have over 350 indigenous grape varieties? Plus, Italy is the world’s largest wine producer.
Each region has its unique flavor and aroma. From the dry and crisp Pinot Grigio of northern Italy to the bold and full-bodied Chianti of Tuscany, there’s a wine for every palate. Pair a glass (or bottle, why not?) with some local cheese or cured meats for the true Italian experience.
Cocktails
Look at you gettin’ bold. If you’re eager to sample some of the best Italian cocktails, you’re in for a treat.
First up, we have the ever-famous and Insta-worthy Aperol Spritz. This cocktail is a favorite among locals, particularly during summertime. The bright orange aperitif is mixed with prosecco, soda water, and an orange wedge to create a refreshing drink that’s perfect for sipping on a sunny terrace.
Looking for something slightly sour and refreshing? Try a Limoncello. This sweet liqueur is made from the zest of lemons mixed with alcohol and sugar. Sipped after a meal as a digestivo, it’s a deliciously refreshing way to end a traditional Italian feast.
For those who prefer something stronger, the Negroni is a classic cocktail made with gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari. It’s a bold and bitter drink that’s perfect for sipping on a cozy winter evening.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old do you have to be to drink in Italy?
The legal drinking age in Italy is 18.
Can you drink alcohol in public in Italy?
Italy has no national laws regarding drinking alcohol in public. This is typically left up to each municipality. However, In Italy, it’s generally not permitted to drink alcohol in public places except for specific designated areas or licensed establishments.
Can I drink at 16 in Italy?
Not legally, no (or unless you’re with your parents). In Italy, the legal drinking age is 18.
Do bars ID in Italy?
Officially, yes. In Italy, bars often require identification to ensure customers are of legal drinking age. They might check your passport, ID card, or driver’s license before serving you. But we’ve never seen this happen, honestly (although we wouldn’t suggest risking it).
