We are in Italy right now, and have been for over a week. I just want to let you all know that the only thing that will look out of place is zip off pants-shorts.
The Italians and Germans are very casual in dress. I have seen shorts on men and women. Tennis shoes and athletic style sandals...and Crocs (yuck in my book)
The only people that look out of place are those that think zip off tan colored pants are fashion or comfortable.
you are better off in a nice pair of longer shorts for a guy, or a cute skirt for a gal.