Italy travel tips: language, money and phrases
By Parlo · Checked
At a glance
| Currency | Euro (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Plugs | Type C, F and L, 230 V |
| Emergency | 112 |
| Driving | On the right |
| Tap water | Safe to drink |
| Tipping | Not expected; many restaurants add a cover charge (coperto) |
The language
Italian is spoken everywhere, with strong regional accents and dialects. English is common in tourist areas; a few words of Italian earn real warmth.
Phrases worth learning first
All 30 phrases are in the phrasebook.
Good to know
- Validate regional train tickets before boarding, or you can be fined.
- City centres often have limited traffic zones (ZTL); driving in without a permit brings fines.
- Coffee is cheaper standing at the bar than sitting at a table.
Before you go
Visa rules, health requirements and safety advice change often, so check your government's official travel advice for Italy before you book and again before you fly. Australians can use Smartraveller.