Italy Quick Facts

Language Italian

Currency Euro (€)

Emergency Number 112

Plug Types C, F & L

Voltage 230V / 50Hz

Time Zone CET / CEST

Tap Water ✅ Safe to Drink

Credit Cards Widely Accepted

Tipping Optional

Money Matters

Currency

• Currency: Euro (€)

• Credit cards are widely accepted, but carry a small amount of cash for cafés, markets, taxis, and public restrooms.

• Many businesses prefer contactless payments.

Tipping

Tipping isn't expected the way it is in the United States.

• Restaurants: Service is often included. Leaving a few euros for excellent service is appreciated.

• Cafés: Round up or leave small change.

• Taxis: Round up the fare.

• Hotel housekeeping: €2–€5 per day.

• Hotel porter: €1–€2 per bag.

• Tour guides: Optional but appreciated.

VAT Refunds

Non-EU visitors may qualify for a VAT refund on eligible purchases.

Remember to:

• Ask for a tax-free form when shopping.

• Keep your receipts.

• Allow extra airport time for customs validation before departure.

Helpful Resource

• Global Blue VAT Refund Calculator

Safety & Emergency Information

Emergency Number 112

The nationwide emergency number for police, fire, and medical assistance.

Pharmacies

Look for the bright green cross.

Typical hours:

• Monday–Saturday

• 8:30 AM–1:00 PM

• 3:30 PM–7:30 PM

Many close for lunch.

Every town has an on-duty pharmacy (Farmacia di Turno) for evenings, Sundays, and holidays.

Getting Around

Train Apps

• Trainline

• Trenitalia

• Italo

• The Man in Seat 61

Taxi Apps

Recommended apps:

• Free Now

• itTaxi

Tip: Official taxis in Italy are white. Avoid accepting rides from unofficial drivers, and always confirm the fare before getting in.

Rental Cars

U.S. travelers should obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) before their trip. The IDP is an official translation of your U.S. driver's license and must be carried along with your valid U.S. driver's license when driving in Italy.

An IDP is valid for one year from its effective date.

Where to Get One

U.S. Department of State – Driving Abroad
AAA is authorized by the U.S. Department of State to issue International Driving Permits.

Apply for an International Driving Permit through AAA

You can apply online, by mail, or at a participating AAA location. You do not need to be a AAA member to apply.

You'll generally need:

• A valid U.S. driver's license

• Two passport-style photos if applying in person

• A completed IDP application

• The $20 permit fee

Check your rental company's requirements before booking, as individual rental companies may have additional requirements.

U.S. Department of State – Driving Abroad

Dining & Local Customs

Restaurant Etiquette

• Dinner usually begins after 7:30 PM, with many locals eating between 8:00–9:00 PM.

• Reservations are recommended.

• Bread is served without butter.

• Meals are meant to be enjoyed—don't feel rushed.

• Ask for "Il conto, per favore." when you're ready for the check.

Sunday Closures

You may not want to arrive on a Sunday as many smaller businesses close on Sundays and Monday mornings.

Always verify opening hours before you go.

Helpful Information

Public Restrooms

Public restrooms are available, but not always free.

• Expect to pay €0.50–€1.00.

• Carry coins although some take credit cards.

• Cafés usually reserve restrooms for customers so plan to purchase something if you need to use the facilities.

• Major train stations have paid facilities.

Helpful Apps

• Flush

• Fontavio

Drinking Water

Italy has excellent drinking water.

• Public fountains ("nasoni" in Rome) provide clean, safe drinking water.

• Bring a reusable water bottle.

• Restaurants usually serve and charge for bottled water unless you specifically request tap water.

Helpful Apps

• Acquea

• Fontavio (Worldwide)

Electricity

Plug Types

• Type C

• Type F

• Type L (occasionally)

Voltage

• 230V

• 50Hz

Most phones, tablets, and laptops work automatically, but always check hair dryers and other heating appliances.

Time Zone

Central European Time (CET)

Summer:

Central European Summer Time (CEST)

Italy is generally 6 hours ahead of U.S. Eastern Time during most of the year.

Good to Know

✔ Validate paper train tickets before boarding (if required).

✔ Comfortable walking shoes are essential—many streets are cobblestone.

✔ Carry some cash for small purchases.

✔ Keep valuables secure in crowded tourist areas.

✔ Most restaurants charge a small coperto (cover charge) per person.

✔ Public drinking fountains provide safe water in most cities.

✔ Download offline Google Maps before you arrive.

Helpful Italian Phrases

Hello → Ciao

Good Morning → Buongiorno

Good evening → Buonasera

Please → Per favore

Thank you → Grazie

You're welcome → Prego

Excuse me → Mi scusi

Do you speak English? → Parla inglese?

How much? → Quanto costa?

Where is the bathroom? → Dov'è il bagno?

The check, please. → Il conto, per favore.