Can I use my US credit card in Italy?
Can I use my US credit card in Italy? Credit cards from major card companies like VISA, Mastercard, and American Express are generally always accepted in Italy. However, it's important to remember that acceptance may vary depending on the individual business, so checking in advance is a good idea. What are the fees to use my credit card in Italy?
How should I pay for things in Italy?
In Italy, cash is still preferred in most restaurants, cafes and other establishments, although credit and debit cards are becoming more widely used throughout Italy and are an increasingly convenient way to pay for things. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted, although American Express is not.
Do I need a PIN for my credit card in Europe?
Check with your card issuer about foreign transaction fees and currency exchange fees. Unlike the U.S., European credit card machines usually require a PIN. You can get this from your card issuer before you leave home.
Is it better to use cash or credit card in Italy?
Definitely use credit cards as much as possible. You don't need to bring any cash. You might want to get 100 Euro from an ATM at the airport when you arrive in Italy and hit ATMs as needed throughout you trip. Consider getting larger sums to avoid the (roughly) $2 ATM fee everytime you use an ATM.
How much cash should I bring for 2 weeks in Europe?
It all depends on where you're going and what you plan to do during your trip. As you can see from our travel costs table above, some European cities are cheaper or more expensive than others. As a general rule, though, it's a good idea to budget at least $100 a day for your vacation.
Is it best to take euros or pay by card?
While credit cards are accepted in most situations, currency can be more convenient for public transportation and small vendors. It's also wise to carry an emergency fund with enough cash for a few days, just in case your card gets lost or stolen.
Should I get euros before going to Italy?
Resist the urge to buy foreign currency before your trip. Some tourists feel like they just have to have euros or British pounds in their pockets when they step off the airplane, but they pay the price in bad stateside exchange rates. Wait until you arrive to withdraw money.
Do you tip in Italy?
If you ask locals “Do you tip in Italy?”, they'll explain that while they sometimes leave a small tip, it's generally not necessary. In Italy, gratuity (or una mancia, pronounced oo-nah MAN-chah) is considered a bonus for exceptional service. And it's not often that you'll find a tip jar at a register.