How much cash can I take to Italy?

Don't bring any more cash with you than you'd normally carry with you in your own country on a daily basis. Bear in mind the increased pickpocketing risk for a tourist in Rome. When you get to the airport, get one or two hundred euros out of one of the ATMs in the baggage hall just in case (they don't charge fees).



People Also Ask

In Italy, cash is still preferred in most restaurants, cafes and other establishments, although credit and debit cards are becoming more widely used throughout Italy and are an increasingly convenient way to pay for things. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted, although American Express is not.

MORE DETAILS

Since every region of Italy accepts the euro (including the Vatican City and the Republic of San Marino), you shouldn't have too much trouble managing your money.

MORE DETAILS

Compared to many other countries in Europe and around the world, Italy remains a predominantly cash-driven society. While you can still use your bank card in many establishments, many Italian restaurants, cafes, shops, and hotels still prefer cash.

MORE DETAILS

In my opinion 500 euros is sufficient for 10 days and if you feel you need more, just use your debit card to get some more. Carrying lost of cash is never a good idea and especially in Italy and not all hotels have safes. Make sure your PIN for your card has no more then 4 digits.

MORE DETAILS

Many Italian restaurants and shops prefer cash, making it essential that you have a little on hand as you travel. While it can be better value to buy the currency before you go (see our section on that below), you can also get currency once you arrive in the country.

MORE DETAILS

Does Italy Accept U.S. Dollars? Establishments in Italy do not accept U.S. dollars as a form of payment. You will need Italian currency for cash transactions in Italy. In places that do accept physical U.S. dollars, such as hotels, using them may result in very unfavorable exchange rates or additional fees.

MORE DETAILS

The waiter gets no extra tip (no tip at all) for bringing you the check. In fact Italian guests don't request the check at the table. They simply get up when they are ready and on the way out pay at the cash register (where the owner usually collect the money) more or less like when you go to the grocery store.

MORE DETAILS

Don't bring any more cash with you than you'd normally carry with you in your own country on a daily basis. Bear in mind the increased pickpocketing risk for a tourist in Rome. When you get to the airport, get one or two hundred euros out of one of the ATMs in the baggage hall just in case (they don't charge fees).

MORE DETAILS

Resist the urge to buy foreign currency before your trip. Some tourists feel like they just have to have euros or British pounds in their pockets when they step off the airplane, but they pay the price in bad stateside exchange rates. Wait until you arrive to withdraw money.

MORE DETAILS

Only a passport is needed to enter Italy from the U.S., Canada, the U.K. and other European countries. No visas, no vaccinations (unless you're traveling from a known infected area). Getting through customs is typically a lax affair, with the customs officers barely taking notice of your presence.

MORE DETAILS

The average price of a 7-day trip to Italy is $1,170 for a solo traveler, $1,859 for a couple, and $2,034 for a family of 4. Italy hotels range from $50 to $232 per night with an average of $80, while most vacation rentals will cost $150 to $420 per night for the entire home.

MORE DETAILS