How to Eat Well in Italy for 20 Euros a Day

Italy is one of the world’s culinary powerhouses, but you don’t need deep pockets to enjoy its flavors. With just €20 a day, you can eat your way through espresso bars, pizzerias, and trattorias without ever feeling like you’re missing out. Here’s how to savor Italian cuisine on a budget—without sacrificing taste or authenticity.

Where and What to Eat on a Budget

• Espresso bars: Start the day with a cappuccino (€1.30) and cornetto (€1.20) standing at the bar like locals do.
• Pizza al taglio: Grab square slices of pizza sold by weight. A full meal can cost €3–€5, and the variety is huge.
• Supermarkets: Stock up on fresh bread, cured meats, cheese, and fruit for picnic-style lunches under €6.
• Trattorias and tavole calde: These simple, informal restaurants offer pasta dishes or lunch menus starting at €7–€10.
• Street food: Look for arancini, panzerotti, or porchetta sandwiches—all hearty and under €5.

Meal Timing and Local Habits

Italians generally have a small breakfast, a larger lunch, and a lighter dinner. Lunch is the best time for a sit-down meal with daily specials and set menus. Dinner can be simple and DIY—many Italians eat cold plates of cured meats, bread, and cheese at home. Markets often close early, so plan ahead if you’re buying ingredients for dinner.

North vs. South: Price Differences

Southern Italy tends to be more affordable than the north. In cities like Palermo, Bari, or Naples, you’ll find generous servings and lower prices. Northern cities like Milan or Venice offer quality too, but you may pay more—especially near tourist centers. Choosing local spots and avoiding big-name piazzas will stretch your euro much further.

Sample Budget Meal Plan – €20/Day

• Breakfast: Cappuccino (€1.30) + Cornetto (€1.20)
• Lunch: Pizza al taglio with a drink (€5.00)
• Dinner: Pasta at a trattoria or DIY bread, cheese, olives, and fruit from a supermarket (€9.00)
• Snack: Gelato or espresso (€2.50)

Total: €19.00 – Leaving room for a small sweet or espresso refill.

Italian Food You Can Still Try on a Budget

• Panini – Loaded sandwiches found everywhere, usually €3–€5.
• Gelato – One of Italy’s most beloved treats, with cones from €2.50.
• Pasta alla Norma or Cacio e Pepe – Regional favorites, often under €8 in small trattorias.
• Focaccia – Soft and savory, great for breakfast or a snack.

Stretching the Budget: Treats Worth an Occasional Extra Euro

• Antipasti plates at traditional trattorias (€10–€12)
• Local wine by the glass – Often €2–€3, especially in the south.
• Regional pastries – Try sfogliatella in Naples or cannoli in Sicily (€2–€3).

Final Tips to Keep Costs Down

• Eat standing up at cafés to avoid service fees.
• Refill your water bottle from public fountains—safe and free.
• Check for daily specials or menù del giorno at local eateries.
• Visit neighborhood markets in the morning for fresh and cheap options.
• Picnic in parks, piazzas, or by the beach.
• Choose trattorias over tourist restaurants for better prices and quality.

Final Thoughts

With thoughtful planning and a willingness to eat like the locals, enjoying Italy on €20 a day is totally achievable. Savor the country’s traditional recipes, snack smart, and explore local eateries—you’ll discover that flavor doesn’t have to come with a high price tag. Buon appetito!