Is kissing on the cheek when greeting polite in Italy?

Common social greeting. In Italy, cheek kissing (usually two kisses, starting with the left cheek) is a standard greeting among friends, family, and acquaintances at social gatherings. It is considered warm and friendly, though it is less common in formal business settings or with strangers. The gesture is widely accepted across most of the country, but the number of kisses can vary regionally (e.g., two in the north, sometimes three in the south).

When greeting, lean in for two light cheek kisses (air kisses are fine) and always start with your right cheek toward their right cheek to avoid bumping heads.

In the South, three kisses are sometimes given, while in the North two is standard; younger generations may also hug instead.