European Travel

Destination: ITALY

Essential Info
PreTrip Essentials
  For Travelers
  For Drivers
  Addresses
Customs/Money
Communications
Hours/Holidays
Health
Driving
Language
National Transportation
Offices to Serve You Abroad

ESSENTIAL FOR TRAVELERS

Travel, medical insurance	Required
Round-trip or onward airline ticket	Not Required
Local currency	Recommended
Traveler's checks	Not Required
Credit cards	Recommended
First-aid kit and medicines	Recommended
Health innoculations	Recommended

ELECTRICITY

Italy has a 220-volt power supply (in some areas, 125 volts). Electrical sockets take plugs with two round pins or sometimes three pins in a vertical row. American appliances will need a plug adapter and will require a transformer if they do not have a dual-voltage facility.

RESTROOMS

Finding a restroom (gabinetto/bagno ) can be difficult away from airports, rail and bus stations, highway service areas and museums. Leave a small tip (about 50¢) for the attendant. If using the facilities in a bar you will be expected to buy a drink. Some bars have separate restrooms for men (signori) and women (signore).

PHOTOGRAPHY

The light in Italy is usually very good, so you will probably be using film with a low ASA rating. Avoid taking shots around noon, when the shadows are harsh. Photography is banned in most museums and churches, but you may be allowed to shoot without a flash. Film (pellicola) and developing (sviluppo) are expensive, especially near popular tourist sights.

TIME ZONES