There is one pavilion in EPCOT’s World Showcase that is all about slowing down and soaking it in.

The Italy Pavilion may not have a headliner ride, but it has food, drinks, and atmosphere that people regularly call a must-do. If you breeze through it, you’ll miss some of the best hidden gems in the park. So, we’re breaking down the unspoken rules that will help you get the most out of your stop here.

Always Pause and Watch the Pizza Being Made

If you’re eating at Via Napoli, the pizza is the star of the show. But there’s something about watching the process that’s just as magical as eating the final product. You’ll see dough flying through the air, chefs sliding pies into massive wood-burning ovens, and flames working their magic on those bubbly crusts.

This is not the time to bury your face in your phone until your order arrives. Pause and actually watch the action, because it gives you a whole new appreciation for why people swear this is the best pizza in Disney World. The ovens are even named after Italian volcanoes—how cool is that?

It’s not just about filling your stomach here. Watching the pizza being made is part of the experience, and skipping it is basically like missing half the fun of Via Napoli.

Click here to check out our most recent review!

Always Get the Gelato

Gelateria Toscana might not look like the biggest deal at first glance, but skipping it is a huge mistake. EPCOT days are long, and the Florida sun doesn’t mess around. Gelato here is the perfect refresher, and it’s not just a quick sugar fix — it’s genuinely delicious.

The menu rotates with seasonal flavors and sundaes, and no matter what you pick, it feels like the ultimate treat. It’s not unusual to see people grab a scoop here before moving on, then circle back later in the day for round two. Yes, it’s that good.

If you want to make your EPCOT day feel extra special, this is one of those little indulgences that’s absolutely worth it. Trust us, this is one rule you’ll be glad you followed.

Click here to check out our most recent review!

Don’t Write Off the Festival Food Here

During EPCOT’s many festivals, the Italy Pavilion usually brings out a booth with seasonal offerings. Here’s the thing—if you skip it every time, you might miss out on some surprisingly good bites.

We’ve had some festival dishes in Italy that were forgettable, but in the past, we’ve also had ones that left us talking about them for weeks.

The unspoken rule? Give it a fair shot. At least try one item. Sometimes it’s a miss, but other times you’ll discover a festival favorite hiding in plain sight.

Click here to check out our most recent review!

Leave Time to Browse the Shops

The shops in Italy might not scream “must-do” at first glance, but they’re worth your time. This is where you’ll find authentic perfumes, Italian wines, handcrafted masks, and beautiful ceramics. Even if you’re not planning on spending money, browsing here feels like a mini trip to Venice or Florence.

Take a few extra minutes to wander through. Smell the perfumes, admire the artistry of the masks, and let yourself slow down. EPCOT days can feel like a race to the next ride or reservation, but this is one of those spots where you can catch your breath while still feeling immersed in the experience.

The unspoken rule here is simple: don’t rush. Let yourself enjoy this pavilion like you would if you were strolling through the real thing.

The Italy Pavilion is one of those places that can easily become a “walk by” for guests trying to squeeze in as much as possible, but slowing down here pays off. From pizza to gelato to festival finds and shops, there’s so much to love when you follow these simple unspoken rules.

Stay tuned to DFB for more Disney World tips!

The Unspoken Rule You Should Follow at the Land Pavilion in EPCOT

What’s your favorite thing to do at the Italy Pavilion in EPCOT? Let us know in the comments below.