I visited Italy from Australia and I was left shocked by a popular menu item - here's my warning if you're heading there this summer

A traveller has warned Aussies not to order a particular dish while visiting Italy as they could be making a rookie mistake.

Traveller Montana On Tour issued a stern PSA on TikTok for Australians wanting a parmigiana abroad: 'It's not going to look like the one at home.'

'You're not going to get the pub parmi that you're used to,' she said.

Those expecting cheese, tomato and ham on a fillet of crumbed chicken with chips and salad popular in most Australian pubs will certainly be surprised. 

Instead they will be faced with a plate of saucy 'layers' that looks more like a lasagna than chicken.

Italians take parmigiana to be parmigiana di melanzane, a traditional and rustic baked dish with layers of eggplant, tomato and cheese

Italians take parmigiana to be parmigiana di melanzane, a traditional and rustic baked dish with layers of eggplant, tomato and cheese, originating in Naples. 

Montana said the Italian version was more delicious. 

'It's way better here, not joking,' she said in her TikTok video, which has since been liked more than 5,000 times.

Italy is a popular destination for Australians seeking delicious food

Followers were quick to point out that parmigiana with eggplant 'is also in Australia at restaurants' and the parmigiana of 'parmi' fame is more commonly referred to as a 'chicken parmigiana'. 

But others appreciated the Mediterranean travel tip, with many admitting they had no idea about the difference beforehand.

Montana shared more Italian travel tips on Instagram.

'The Italian standard schedule is nothing like we experience back home,' she said.

'You need to factor in these three daily rituals which will help your itinerary flow and let you effortlessly fall into the gentle rhythm of Italian daily life.'

Riposo 'is the Italian version of siesta' and sees most businesses shuttered for a few hours around midday. 

Aperitivo is the 'cultural pre-dinner ritual designed to open the stomach'.

And Passeggiata is the 'cherry on top' late-night stroll after dinner through romantic and lively piazzas.