Money
The Euro is the currency of Italy. Order some Euros several weeks before you leave. When you arrive, they’ll come in handy. If you don’t have time, there are locations in the airport where you may change your US Dollars to Euros for a higher fee; it’s simply a bit more expensive than what your bank will charge you. It’s also convenient to carry cash with you.In Italy, you can exchange money at a cambio (exchange office) or post office. When changing money, you’ll need your passport or other photo identification.
Credit Cards
The most widespread payment method is Visa, MasterCard, Eurocard, Cirrus, and American Express credit cards. Only cash is accepted in minor restaurants and pizzerias. Before you order, check to see whether credit card is acceptable.
VAT Tax Refunds
Italy charges a Value Added Tax (VAT) on all items and services. It is currently at 22%, with no upper limit. Some products and services are much cheaper than others. The VAT tax is included in the selling price of every item you purchase. You are entitled to a VAT refund while traveling as an EU citizen or as a non-EU resident. Ask for a tax-free voucher if you make a purchase. If there are several tax-free vouchers to pick from, go with Global Blue; it’s the most widely accessible in Italian airports. Nowadays, you must spend 175 Euros in one store to receive a refund, so buying as many things as possible in the same shop pays off. You only need to go to a customs window at your departure airport and hand over your coupons. Fill out your passport, airline ticket, and Customs Form D7301F (dated no later than two weeks before) before coming here. You have the option of applying the money to your credit card. You can also ask for cash back. You’ll receive Euros instead of dollars. nYou won’t get the entire 22% refund—there are other expenses involved. Expect to receive around 10% – 15% return on your investment.
Chauffeured Driving
Many individuals like to be chauffeured around. It is more affordable than a limousine, and it’s perfect for groups of people travelling together since there’s room for luggage. You may also relax and enjoy your vacation while a local driver tells you about off-the-beaten-path activities. Consider this alternative from your Real Destination Expert.
Driving Italy Yourself
Italy’s roads, on the whole, are in excellent condition, but driving in big cities can be a pain. Walking around ancient cities is the best way to get around. All drivers must have their car rental insurance and driver’s license with them at all times. In Italy, you drive on the right side of the road and yield to traffic coming from that direction. (As in the United States, pull over for emergency vehicles when necessary.) Roundabouts also include sculptures indicating sites and restaurants. Road signs are written in Italian. Kilometers are used to indicate distances (km). Signs usually do not bear the words “north,” “west,” “south,” or “east” because they refer to a city. That is, if you’re driving from Rome to Firenze (Florence) or Milan, you’ll see a sign for one of those cities instead of firenze (florence) or milano (milan).
A GPS is a godsend, so bring a pocket map of the country with you so you can get an idea of how cities relate to each other. Children under the age of 16 must always be in a car seat or booster seat, according to state law. According to state legislation, all drivers and front-seat passengers must use their seatbelts at all times. Children who weigh less than 97 pounds or are shorter than 4′ 9″ must also use a child car seat or booster seat. If you must use your phone while driving, make sure you have a hands-free device—three out of four accidents in Italy were caused by texting or talking on cellphones. While drinking wine is a part of daily life in Italy, it’s illegal to drive with a BAC of.5%. Those under the age of 21 must stick to 0%.
Speed Limits
The speed limit on all Italian roads is posted by a white and red circle with the speed limit in kilometers in the middle. Few police are on the highways, but there are several cameras, especially along high-speed routes. If you’re driving a rental car and break the speed limit,
Road Signs
The roadsigns you see are all in English and Irish. In rural areas, you may come across a sign that directs travelers to two different towns. Flip a coin if you’re brave. If your itinerary is fixed, use your GPS instead of relying on chance.
Marketplaces
You can eat and shop your way around Rome on nearly every major road. Leather goods, local wine, flowers, and fresh fruit are some of the interesting finds. The Via Sannio Flea Market near St. John Lateran Basilica is a free-of-charge open-air market with vintage clothing, cuisine, and collectibles. South of Florence lies the former site of the Ancient Fair Arezzo, an indoor marketplace that sells unique meals as well as quirky antiques since 1873.The Santo Spirito Market is located just beyond the city limits of Florence, where you can find fresh produce and Italian cooking equipment. (The food straight from the Tuscan countryside is heavenly.) Make a point of going to Asti’s Piazza Campo de Palio on Saturdays and Wednesdays when in the Piedmont region. You may pick apples, chestnuts, and sparkling wines at the Ballaro Market in Palermo, Sicily. The Ballaro Market in Palermo, Sicily is a colorful and unique experience. Take pleasure in the produce as well as street cuisine, but immerse yourself into the scene for a real feeling of Sicilian culture.
Roll out the Fun!
Italy has a lot of things to do. The Lake Maggiore Zipline is 1,000 feet above sea level and reaches speeds of up to 70 mph, making you feel like a hawk gliding over some of the world’s greatest scenery. Natural hiking trails with tiny inns along the routes for traditional cuisine are available in the Lake Como area. Cycles are popular on Lake Como; it’s also great for sailing, kitesurfing, and windsurfing. Sailing, kitesurfing, and windsurfing are all options on Como.
In the hill country, medieval Siena invites you to try your hand at adventure at Saltalbero. This peaceful retreat with views of the Ombrone River Valley has paths between trees and ground activities. There’s something for everyone here! Adventure Park II is a mile from the city center in Florence, overlooking the hills above the city. You may have an extraordinary Escape Room Adventure in Rome!
What to Pack
Bring a pair of sturdy walking shoes—many streets are made of cobblestones, and you’ll want good footing. Bring your cap, sunglasses, and sunscreen. In Italy, what you wear matters. Even in the countryside, looking good is important in Italy. Milan, in particular, has a lot of style. A decent pair of pants or stylish jeans for males is always a plus; no clothes with holes allowed!
In the summer, you may wear shorts, t-shirts, sandals, and sleeveless tops. When eating out, dress in long sleeves. For dining out or evenings when it’s chilly, keep a light cardigan handy. Unless it’s winter, you’ll only need a thin coat. Pack your electrical adaptor, a copy of your passport, and credit or debit cards. (Bring only two or three if possible.) Make photocopies of your health insurance coverage. Keep your prescriptions, important documents, and some cash in one small, convenient bag.
Health
Pharmacies are the place to go for drugs and treatments. Pharmacies, also known as chemist shops, are identified by a green cross or simply a large green sign with the word “pharmacy.” If they’re closed, they’ll post a notice indicating which pharmacies are open. You can buy most necessities for minor medical problems. Advise, but if you’re in a big city the pharmacist may not speak much English. Request an ambulance if you need medical care; dial 118 from anywhere in Italy.
