Where can I exchange money?

If you're planning a trip to Italy, figuring out where to exchange your money is often a top priority. The currency used in Italy is the Euro (€), and before you can enjoy Italy's world-renowned food, art, and attractions, you'll need to have some on hand. Here's your comprehensive guide to where you can exchange money in Italy.

International Airports

Most travellers often exchange their money at the airport upon arrival. Major Italian airports like Rome's Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport and Milan's Malpensa Airport house a number of exchange bureaus where one can easily convert their foreign currency to Euros. These airports are open 24/7, giving visitors a convenient way to exchange money regardless of their arrival time.

Banks

Italian banks like Unicredit, Intesa Sanpaolo, and the Bank of Italy offer currency exchange services. Be sure to consult with your bank regarding fees and exchange rates before you depart, as rates can vary depending on the bank and current international exchange rates.

Keep in mind that Italian banks usually operate from Monday to Friday, between 8.30 am and 1.30 pm and from 3 pm to 4 pm. Some banks open on Saturdays with shorter hours.

Exchange Bureaus

Money exchange kiosks or bureaus are typically found in major cities like Rome, Milan, Florence, and Venice. Some of the popular and reliable companies include Forexchange and Eurochange. While exchange rates at these bureaus may not be as favourable as at banks, they often stay open longer and can be found in high tourist-traffic areas for convenience.

Hotels

Some hotels in Italy also offer currency exchange services, primarily for their guests. While this is a highly convenient option, the exchange rates may not be as attractive compared to banks or dedicated exchange bureaus.

ATMs

ATMs, locally referred to as Bancomats, can be found virtually anywhere in Italy. If your home bank doesn't charge high fees for international transactions, withdrawing cash directly in Euros from an ATM could potentially offer the best exchange rate.

It's crucial to let your bank know beforehand that you will be travelling to Italy to ensure your card doesn't get blocked due to unusual foreign activity.

Considerations and Tips

Plan ahead - Keep track of forex market trends before your trip and plan your exchanges accordingly to get the most out of your currency.

Be wary of 'commission-free' offers - Often, these places make up for it with poor exchange rates. Always calculate the final amount you will receive after all charges before choosing where to exchange.

Keep some cash - While cards are widely accepted in Italy, having some cash can be useful for small purchases, tips or in places that don't accept cards.

With this comprehensive guide, exchanging money for your Italian adventure should be a breeze. Buon viaggio!