After more than 15 years of living in and traveling across Italy, I could write a whole book of travel advice, especially about visitor etiquette. But if I had to narrow it down to the one most important tip for being a better traveler in Italy, it would be two simple words. Dress nicely.

Of course, that’s in addition to being polite, respectful and patient, as you hopefully would anywhere you’re a visitor. But in a country known for its fashion, design and sense of style, as well as its long-standing traditions, dressing decently in Italy is a way of showing respect and courtesy, not just for yourself, but to the people you’ll encounter and the places you’ll visit.