PLEASE READ AT LEAST 3 MONTHS PRIOR TO TRAVEL

Cash is king in Italy. Visa and Mastercard are the big credit cards accepted. Be sure to tell your bank about your travel dates and cities prior to arrival (Ask about travel insurance while you’re at it!!). Best ways to exchange currency:

1.) Your Bank: 1st and best place to exchange your money is at your local bank. You’ll get the best exchange rate and some larger branches should have EURO on hand. To be safe, go to your bank 2-4 weeks before your travel date.

2.) An Italian ATM: Try your best to avoid the “convenient” currency exchange booths immediately after exiting airport security. You will likely have higher (10%) exchange fees. The fastest and easiest way to get EUROs overseas, simply use your debit card at an ATM. Credit card withdrawals are not recommended as they typically have maximum fees.

Make sure the ATM is bank-affiliated. Bancomats affiliated with a main bank do not charge fees. You receive the established government exchange rate without a commission fee (assuming you are using the ATM to withdraw funds from your US checking account). Avoid independent ATMs; the most popular being EURONET. Typically random ATMs on street corners, liquor stores, etc (fees vary).

3.) Small shops and cambios: small Italian boutique shops for these types of services. Be aware of the “tourist traps” like transportation hubs. This refers to small shops within villages and towns.

Once in Europe; PLEASE keep a small amount of cash on you while site-seeing. Safely secure the remainder of your funds in a locked bag or safe at hotel/villas. Be extra cautious. We want everyone to have the trip-of-a-lifetime. Let’s avoid any potential tragedies! 💰 🔒 We also highly recommend exchanging all of your EUROs and coins back to US dollars! You’ll be surprised how quickly change can accrue in your pockets over the week!

It is common for electrical outlets to require adapters in Italy for devices with American plugs with flat pins for 120V. You can buy these adapters online or from any electronics store. Plug adapters do not convert the electricity and can damage your devices if used improperly for your device. We recommend you read this article before purchasing any adaptors.

The villas use plugs that have two or three round prongs, and the voltage is 230V. For phones, laptops, and most electronics, you should be fine with just a plug adapter, as most chargers (like for iPhones, MacBooks, and other major brands) are dual voltage (100-240V) and automatically adjust. You can check the label on your device’s charger it should say something like “Input: 100-240V” if it’s compatible. You can find universal plug adapters on Amazon or at most travel stores.

https://www.tripsavvy.com/electricity-in-italy-1548048

To travel around Italy with a car service, you can hire a private driver or chauffeur service which allows you to pre-arrange transportation with a dedicated driver who can take you to various destinations across the country, offering flexibility to explore places not easily accessible by public transport; this is a good option if you want a convenient and personalized travel experience without needing to rent a car yourself. Please contact a car service in advance and invite family/friends to split services. For a more scenic option (and typically more affordable), try the train. There are several stops on public transportation that make for easy and accessible travel around the county. After any train stop you will need a car service to the wedding destination.

2025 is the “Jubilee Year” in Italy. This will bring a significant influx of pilgrims to Rome, particularly around the Vatican. Be prepared for longer wait times at attractions, restaurants, transportation etc. And take extra precautions against pickpocketing in crowded areas. As when traveling anywhere, be aware of fake tours, experiences and any other scams. There are VAT taxes (10%) and “coperto” fees for tables service and bread. A 10% tip at a restaurant or to service-staff is considered very kind for a pleasant experience. Please be respectful to locals and remember the laid-back atmosphere of their dining. Feel free to flag down waiters if you need something promptly.

*More tips in our Welcome Home for the Week Guide*

K&K

Wedding Day