Where do Italians watch football (soccer)?

Yeah, you'll know before you walk in if they're showing soccer. And fyi, soccer in Italy is called "calcio", pronounced "KAHL-tshoh". Literally it means "kick". I had figured it would be called some variation of "futbol" like in other Romance languages. I was wrong.

Thanks! I'll know to watch out for the word calcio on a sign when I am checking out places for later.

When Soccer is on, nearly any place can become a venue. I vividly remember a small TV being trotted out at the bar in Riomaggiore, Cinque Terre; and the whole town nearly shutting down. In Milan, they had a stadium size screen set up in the Piazza in front of the Duomo, and the place packed for mid-day game (Italy vs USA...and the US won!!!) I can go on and on about similar experiences in other countries (England is even more crazy!!) during World and European Cups. Look around, ask at the Hotel, at a restaurant, it will be easy to find a place, and chances are it will be a very memorable experience.

We were in Sorrento, Italy during the World Cup in 2006 and there were large, flat screen tv's outside just about everywhere including every cafe/bar. It was so much fun. Like Super Bowl Sunday here - except it was everyday.

Many places showing the game will have banners in or around the bar/restaurant. I noticed them yesterday in my favorite restaurant, all emblazoned with the SkyTV logo. I'm guessing Sky sends these decor packages to the bars and restaurants with TVs, and those who are showing the games actually bother to put them up. And in addition to the places with the banners, every establishment with a TV will probably be showing the games :-)

Once I even saw a street vendor in Florence with a little TV set where his pals gathered to watch the game. Have watched games on TVs in bars and restaurants - but restaurants without TVs do exist, if it's a quiet meal you're after. If Italy wins an important game, watch out for the street celebrations, they can stop traffic ... I'm not hopeful that Italy can retain the trophy, though.

Check out the World Cup website....they are playing games on huge screens in some cities.

I can't remember if the big one for Italy wil be in Rome or Milan.

If I find the link I will post it.

http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/organisation/fanfest/international/cities/city=10016/index.html

It is in Rome....not sure what it will be like but maybe worth checking out.

In 2006 we started our trip in Provence, France, working our way down to Sorrento where we were for the final game when Italy beat France! It was so much fun and our kids will never forget all the excitment! We went to Pompeii the day of the final game and came back to even the manhole covers painted red, green and white. We chose a place for dinner and then just wandered around as many places had flat panels mounted outside to watch the game. When Italy won there were fireworks and an impromoptu parade down the main drag. We will never forget this experience!

Thanks for information about the big screen at the Borghese! Great link.