I learned a few things during our recent trip to Italy. Please understand that I am not a seasoned European traveler (this is only my 2nd trip) so for those veterans who already knew this informtation, be kind!
Rick's guide books were ESSENTIAL to our enjoyment in Italy. We bought one for each region/city we visited as well as his Italian Phrase Book. They were invaluable.
Here's some tips I learned as well:
The purple Fanta is ginger flavored (or something of the sort).
Fried mozarella balls and olives are amazing.
The waffles they serve at most Gelato places in Florence have pea-sized clusters of sugar in them. Be advised they are VERY sweet.
Look around before settling somewhere in the city to eat a picnic. If there are no others doing it, don't.
One of our taxi drivers in Rome demonstrated to another Roman driver that the Hawaian "Hang Loose" sign means something completely different in Italy.
Unless you ask otherwise, pork chops are served rare in Florence.
Espresso in much stronger in Italy.
If the curtain is closed on the antique confessional, don't pull it aside to get a better look. (It wasn't me, I swear!)
Leave your cell phones at home. There's nothing worse than trying to imagine Ceaser leaning against one of the columns in the Forum and being interupted by a rude, obnoxious, American tourist talking loudly on a cell phone.
The yogurt-flavored Gelato is amazing.
As far as clothing is concerned, I got away with Travel Smith-type slacks and short sleeve, button-up shirts. Avoid jeans. I brought a pair and they never left my suitcase. I felt comfortable wearing a t-shirt in Florence, but didn't do it in Rome. Nice shorts seemed to be acceptable on "non-church" days.
Thanks for all the tips and comments. We had a great time!