I understand the no shorts, no bare shoulders dress code for cathedrals and churches for adults, but does this apply to kids as well? My 10 year olds are waiting for this answer!

Are women okay to wear a just above or at the knee length skirt into the cathedrals/churches or do the knees have to be completely covered?

Thanks. CCMP

Proper attire for churches, etc. is not limited to adults.

The rule is that knees and shoulders need to be covered. "Just at the knee" or above is not covered. Why nitpick this?

<<Are women okay to wear a just above or at the knee length skirt into the cathedrals/churches or do the knees have to be completely covered?>>

Knees covered. Wearing a skirt "just at" or "above" the knee is not worth taking a chance of being turned away at the door -- or being escorted out of the church if you manage to get in.

The churches are amazing so you'd best comply with the rule, even if it seems outdated.

Have a great time in Italy.

Thanks for the answers! Although my skirts are not miniskirts by any stretch of the imagination, I guess I will buy some longer, calf length skirts. CCMP

I try not to dress like a tourist when I go to Italy. Women wear skirts (knee to mid calf) and tops with short sleeves (in summer) and some wear capris. Hardly any shorts above the knees.

I hear tennis shoes is tacky American ..but to walk all that way...what do we wear?

Walking shoes: Cole Hahn, Ecco, Keens, Merrells, etc. all made very comfortable and stylish walking shoes.

Pumas are very popular there and I bring a pair of black and silver ones but they do not provide great support so I do not wear them for marathon walking days.

I wouldn't worry about looking like an American by wearing sneakers - people know we're Americans anyway.... I don't happen to like sneakers for touring, as previous poster said, I actually think there are more comfortable shoes - I'm a Mephisto fan. If you're going to wear sneakers, buy some black ones (or other color) that's not quite so athletic shoe looking - that might make you feel less conspicuous.... Italy is gorgeous - have a GREAT trip.