Tickets for city buses are often sold at tabacco shops (they're indicated by a big T hanging outside the door) and newsstands, but not usually on the buses themselves. And don't forget to validate your ticket when you first get on the bus – in some places, not doing so can result in hefty fines.

Yes, you absolutely have to pay for the bus in Italy, and the system relies on a "buy before you board" principle that often confuses tourists. You cannot typically buy tickets from the driver; instead, you must purchase them in advance from a Tabaccheria (T-shop), a newsstand, or via a mobile app like Mooney or the local transit authority's app (such as ATAC in Rome or ATM in Milan). In 2026, most major cities have also introduced "Tap & Go" contactless payment systems where you can use your credit card directly on the reader. The most critical step is validating your ticket: once you board, you must insert your paper ticket into the small yellow or green machine to get a timestamp. Failure to do so—even if you have a physical ticket in your hand—can result in an immediate and non-negotiable fine of €50 to €100 if an inspector boards. "Fare dodging" is taken very seriously in Italy, and inspectors often target popular tourist routes specifically. If you are using a contactless card, you simply tap once when you board, and the system handles the rest, ensuring you are always traveling with a valid and paid fare.