Destinations / Italy
Here's everything you need to know — currency, tipping, language, safety, and the tips that actually matter.
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Language
Italian
Emergency
112
Plug Type
Type C / Type L (two or three round prongs)
Voltage
230V / 50Hz
Driving Side
Right
Tap Water
Safe to drink from the tap (many public fountains too)
U.S. Embassy
Rome: +39 06 4674 1
Not expected. Some places add 'coperto' (cover charge) of €1-3. Rounding up is generous.
Round up to the nearest euro.
€1-2 per bag. Housekeeping tipping is uncommon.
Not expected. Leave small change if at a sit-down bar.
| English | Italian | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello / Good morning | Buongiorno | bwohn-JOHR-noh |
| Thank you | Grazie | GRAH-tsee-eh |
| Please | Per favore | pehr fah-VOH-reh |
| The check, please | Il conto, per favore | eel KOHN-toh |
Coffee at the bar is cheaper than sitting at a table
Cappuccino is a morning drink — ordering one after lunch gets you a look
'Coperto' on the bill is a cover charge, not a tip
Smaller shops and trattorias often prefer cash
Validate your train ticket before boarding or face a fine
Cover shoulders and knees for churches (carry a light scarf)
Comfortable shoes — cobblestones destroy anything flimsy
Sunscreen and sunglasses, especially in summer
A Type C or Type L power adapter
Currency, tipping, phrases, emergency info, and city guides for Italy — offline and instant.