12 Things You’ll Love About the Italy Pavilion at Epcot

Towards the center of World Showcase you’ll come across Italy, another pavilion known for its food. Like Germany, the Italy pavilion has more to offer than dinner and drinks. If you have the time to stop and look at the details, you’ll find there’s a lot at this pavilion to love.

12. Gelati

At Gelati, you can get so much more than gelato at this Quick-Service outdoors station. You’ll want to try the Gelato Sandwich which includes any of their flavors squished in between two large chocolate chip cookies. It’s delicious. You can also get a cannoli, tiramisu, wine and gourmet coffee here.

11. The Architecture

The architecture of the pavilion, like most of the World Showcase pavilions, is influenced by several areas of the country. Specifically, Venetian, Florentine, and Roman styles can be seen from the outside of the gift shops and restaurant. The buildings are meant to look like St. Mark’s Square, Palazzo Ducale, and the Bell Tower of St. Mark.

10. The Gondolas

Deserving of its own spot on our list, the gondolas show off another part of Italy, Venice’s water ways. The boats are accurate examples of the gondolas you can find in Italy and the bridges allow you to get up close to see the details. Keep in mind these are for show only and are not for guests to ride or sit in.

9. The Neptune Fountain

The Fontana Di Nettuno is meant to pay homage to the Trevi Fountain in Rome. Hidden away in the back corner of the pavilion, most guests pass by it without giving it a second thought. Drop a coin in and make a wish. It might come true!

8. Sergio

During select times throughout the day, guests can stop and watch Sergio, an Italian juggler and comedian. He’s also been known to pull out some mime tricks and get park guests to participate in his act. Look for him in the courtyard.

7. The Shopping

Shopping at the Italy pavilion is a lot of fun because there’s so much to see. Not only do you get a chance to take home some regional snacks, but you can purchase cookbooks here to make authentic Italian dishes at home. You’ll definitely want to visit La Bottega Italiana where you can find beautifully decorated Venetian masks.

6. Il Bel Cristallo

Not only does the outside of this gift shop look like the outside of the Sistine Chapel, but this shop is where you can find the high-end items. Designer handbags, glassware, jewelry, porcelain, and crystal gifts can all be found here.

5. Sbandieratori Di Sansepolcro

If you’re looking for another kind of Italian entertainment, you can stay a little longer after Sergio and watch the Italian flag throwers. Their costumes are influenced from the Renaissance period and the performers are accompanied by musicians. It’s a very impressive display and one you won’t want to miss. Times for both entertainers will be posted outside the pavilion and can be found on the My Disney Experience app.

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4. Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar

If you’re looking for a quick drink and snack without a reservation, visit Tutto Gusto’s Wine Cellar. This lounge area offers a selection of bar fare with over 200 bottles of wine and beer. You can also get plates of cheese, meet pasta or desserts. It’s a warm and inviting area for those over 21 years of age.

3. Tutto Italia Ristorante

With seating indoors and on the outdoor patio, Tutto is a great place for some “old world” Italian cuisine. With an extensive wine selection, you can get traditional dishes that are also family friendly. In addition to the fancier dishes like steak and rosemary potatoes or roasted chicken, you can also get spaghetti or ravioli for those looking for a more familiar dish.

2. Via Napoli Resitorante e Pizzeria

Even though pizza isn’t really from Italy, you can still find great brick oven pizza over at Via Napoli. Order a whole pie for your table, order by the slice, or choose from one of the great entrees that are influenced from Southern Italy. This was also chosen as “Best Theme Park Restaurant” by Critic’s Choice of the Orlando Sentinel.

1. View of Illuminations

As Italy is one of the pavilions located towards the center of World Showcase, it offers a fantastic view of Illuminations at night. The bridges over by the gondolas are sometimes reserved for private viewing, but if they’re not booked, feel free to make your way over for a spectacular view.

The Italy pavilion in Epcot has a lot to offer in the way of food, entertainment, and detail paying tribute to its country. Take a look next time you’re at the park and see how many details you can spot.

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