Italy (IT)
Italy is a parliamentary republic of 20 regions stretching from the Alpine peaks of the Dolomites to the sun-baked coasts of Sicily and Sardinia, celebrated worldwide for its unparalleled Renaissance art and architecture, UNESCO-laden historic cities from Rome to Florence and Venice, world-defining cuisine and wines, passionate football culture, and a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle that has drawn expats, artists, and retirees for centuries.
Currency & Money
Practical money tips for living in Italy.
Denominations
Coins: 1c, 2c, 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, €1, €2. Notes: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, €500.
Payment Culture
Italy has been shifting towards card and contactless payments, though cash (contanti) remains important — especially in smaller towns, markets, trattorias and for tipping. POS machines are now mandatory for all businesses above a minimum threshold, but rural and traditional establishments still prefer cash. Satispay is the popular Italian instant-transfer app between bank accounts, widely used for splitting bills and paying at small businesses. Always carry €20–50 in cash as a backup.
ATM Tips
Use your own bank's ATMs (Bancomat network: Intesa Sanpaolo, UniCredit, BancoBPM, MPS) to avoid fees. Non-customer ATM withdrawals can cost €1.50–4. Standalone Euronet ATMs in tourist zones charge up to €5 — avoid. Always choose to be charged in EUR, not your home currency (DCC trap). Bancomat is Italy's domestic debit card network; Visa/Mastercard widely accepted.
Exchange Tips
Avoid airport and tourist-zone exchange bureaus. Wise, Revolut, N26 or Fineco offer much better rates. For large transfers, use Wise or CurrencyFair rather than a traditional Italian bank, which may charge 2–4% spread plus €10–25 in fees.
Pro tip: Best apps for expats
- • Wise — Send money internationally at near-interbank rates
- • Revolut — Multi-currency account, free ATM withdrawals (limits apply)
- • N26 — German IBAN, free account, good for EU residents