Italy uses the euro. Cards are widely accepted, and it is customary but not compulsory to tip close to 10 percent when you are happy with the service. Sockets are type C or L at 220 volts.
At a glance
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Tipping
Not compulsory. About 10 percent is customary when you are satisfied
Cards
Most popular credit cards accepted
Electricity
220 V, 50 Hz, type C or L sockets
Packing checklist
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Documents
Clothes and footwear
Personal and health needs
Electronics
Money
Money and forex (EUR)
Rules checked 22 Oct 2026
The currency used in Italy is the euro (€). italia.it lists coins from 1 cent to 2 euros and notes of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 euros.
Cash and cards
italia.it says you can pay with the most popular credit cards (including Mastercard, Cirrus and Maestro), and in larger centres with your smartphone through payment apps. Keep some cash for small purchases.
ATMs and fees
italia.it says banks have ATMs open around the clock. Check your card issuer's ATM fee policy and any ATM operator charge shown before confirming. If the ATM offers currency conversion, review its exchange rate and markup separately and choose whether to accept it. Sources: Mastercard, Frequently Asked Questions (ATM fees); Visa, Dynamic Currency Conversion.
Backup plan
Carry a second card and a little cash in euros.
Trips to Italy
We have no open trip to Italy right now. Tell us your dates and we will help you find one.
italia.it says tipping is not compulsory and there are no fixed rules, but it is customary to leave close to 10 percent of the bill when you are satisfied with the service.
Which plug do I need?
Type C (2 or 3 holes) or type L, at 220 volts and 50 Hz, per italia.it. Adapters are sold in supermarkets and most hotels.
