Entry Requirements
Visa requirements for Italy depend on which passport you hold. Check the Traveller visa tool to see whether your passport needs a visa and, if so, how long you can stay.
Check if you need a visa for ItalyEmergency Numbers
- General
- 112
- Police
- 113
- Ambulance
- 118
- Fire
- 115
Currency
- Name
- Euro
- Code
- EUR
- Symbol
- €
Power Outlets
- Outlet types
- Type C, Type F, Type L
- Voltage
- 230V
- Frequency
- 50Hz
Time Zone
CET (UTC+1) — CEST (UTC+2) in summer
Best Time to Visit
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
July–August is very crowded and hot in southern cities
Tipping Customs
| Venue | Typical | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurants | 5–10% optional | Coperto (cover charge) is separate and mandatory — check the bill |
| Coffee bars | Leave small coins | On the counter if you liked the service |
| Taxis | Round up | — |
| Hotels | €1–2 per bag | Tip in cash directly to staff |
Dress Code
- Cover shoulders and knees when visiting churches — guards turn people away
- No flip-flops or beachwear in restaurants or city centres
- Smart casual for evening dining; Italians dress well even casually
Social Etiquette
- Greet with a firm handshake; two light cheek kisses with acquaintances
- Use Signore/Signora with strangers until on first-name terms
- Cappuccino is a morning drink — ordering one after a meal marks you as a tourist
- Long lunches (1–3pm) are the main meal — restaurants may be full
- Don't rush the meal; asking for the bill without being ready to leave is unusual
Local Laws
Laws change. Verify current rules with your country's official travel advisory before departure.
- Sitting on historical monuments or steps in many cities = fines up to €450
- ZTL (Limited Traffic Zones) in city centres — rental cars get fined without a permit
- Buying counterfeit goods is illegal for the buyer, not just the seller
- Jaywalking is technically fineable in many cities
- Alcohol purchase age is 18
Common Phrases
| English | Local | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello / Goodbye | Ciao | CHOW (informal) |
| Good day | Buongiorno | bwon-JOR-no |
| Thank you | Grazie | GRAT-see-eh |
| Please / You're welcome | Prego | PREH-goh |
| Excuse me | Scusi | SKOO-zee |
Plan Your Trip
Planning a trip to Italy?
Traveller builds your personalised packing list, checklist, and travel brief in seconds.
Plan this trip with Traveller