Money & Currency

Currency

The official currency in Italy is the Euro. There are six different denominations in the current euro banknote series: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 and 500 and eight denominations of coins: 1c, 2c, 5c, 1Oc, 20c, 50c and 1 and 2 Euro. Travelers Checks are as good as cash, and several places accept foreign currency Travelers Checks. If using Travelers Checks, be sure to keep a list of check numbers separate from the checks themselves making replacement easier if they become lost or stolen. Most establishments honor credit cards so it is not necessary to carry large amounts of money on your person, and it is not advised. While Master Card and Visa are widely accepted, many stores and restaurants do not honor American Express.

Currency Exchange

Exchange facilities are available for all incoming and outgoing flights at all international airports in Europe. Exchange Bureaus also operate at many central-city-locations. Changing foreign currency and Travelers Checks can also be done quickly and efficiently at most banks.

Banks

Banks are open from 8:30am to 1:30pm and from 3:30pm to 4:30pm Monday to Friday. Hours change slightly from bank to bank. ATM Machines are in operation 24 hours a day and are available outside most bank branches. The most convenient way to obtain euros is by using the ATM machines.

Credit Cards

Cards such as Visa and MasterCard are the most accepted credit cards in Italy. American Express is not honored everywhere. Travelers checks and credit cards are accepted at most tourist areas, however, small restaurants and some shops only accept cash.

Post Office

Italy's postal service is not as efficient and inexpensive as the U.S. Postal Service. Stamps (francobolli) are sold at tobacconists (Tabacchi) and post offices. Posta prioritaria (priority mail) is the most efficient way to mail letters to the U.S.