Currency in Italy: EUR Send & Spend FX Guide
Resources for Expats, Travelers, and Entrepreneurs Navigating Life and Trade in Italy with the Euro.
What's in this Italy currency guide?
What currency is used in Italy?
The official currency of Italy (country code: IT) is the Euro, with symbol € and currency code EUR.
What is a good Euro exchange rate?
The BestExchangeRates.com currency comparison table below helps you see the total cost of your currency transaction by showing the exchange rates offered by different providers. It also makes it easy to spot potential savings from market-leading FX services compared to bank rates.
To see a full list of rates, enter your transaction type, currencies and amount then click ‘GET RATES’:
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Good things to know about the Euro
As of June 16, 2025, the Euro (EUR) has experienced notable developments affecting travelers, expats, and business owners:
- Interest Rate Adjustments: The European Central Bank (ECB) has reduced its key interest rates multiple times since April 2025, with the deposit rate now at 2%. This easing cycle aims to stimulate economic growth amid global uncertainties. (ft.com)
- Inflation Trends: Eurozone inflation has moderated, with the latest data showing a decrease to 2.4% in November 2024, bringing it closer to the ECB's 2% target. (nbcdfw.com)
- Eurozone Expansion: Bulgaria is on track to adopt the euro on January 1, 2026, following successful convergence assessments. This expansion may influence currency dynamics and economic interactions within the euro area. (en.wikipedia.org)
These developments are crucial for individuals and businesses engaged in international transactions, as they can impact exchange rates, purchasing power, and overall economic conditions.
For more EUR information check out our selection of Euro news and guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What currency should I use in Italy?
The domestic currency in Italy is the Euro.
What is the Euro currency code and symbol?
The three letter currency code for the Euro is EUR — symbol is €.
What does the Euro look like?
Here is an example Euro banknote:
Which countries use the Euro?
It is the domestic currency in Eurozone, Aaland Islands, Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Cyprus, Estonia, Finland, France, French Guinea, French Southern Territories, Germany, Greece, Guadeloupe, Vatican City, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Martinique, Mayotte, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, Portugal, Reunion, Saint Barthelemy, Saint Martin, Saint Pierre and Miquelon, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia and Spain.
Is the Euro a closed currency?
No, the Euro is freely available and convertible. See guide: What is a closed currency?
What are equivalent amounts of USD and EUR?
Here are some popular conversion amounts for USD to EUR (US dollar to Euro)*.
*Converted at the current USDEUR interbank exchange rate. Calculate actual payout amounts for Send Money and Travel Money exchange rates.
Travel money for Italy
Using Wise for Euro travel money is a smart choice for savvy travelers. With its competitive exchange rates and low fees, Wise allows you to convert and manage multiple currencies effortlessly.
Be careful when using your own bank's Debit/Credit Card, as your bank may also charge an extra 3% as an “Overseas Transaction Charge” plus “Overseas ATM” fees for withdrawing cash on top of the standard Visa/Mastercard 2.5% from market mid-rate.
For card purchases, if you are offered a choice of currencies always select to Pay in Euro otherwise you will typically get much worst dynamic currency conversion (DCC) exchange rates.
If you really want Euro cash before departure, you can save money by ordering online. You generally get better rates and can pick up the EUR cash locally or even on travel day at the airport.
Italy: Travel Guide
Traveling to Italy requires careful financial planning to ensure a smooth and cost-effective experience. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate currency considerations and manage your money effectively during your visit.
Italy is a country located in southern Europe. It is home to the city of Rome, and is also known for its association with the Roman Catholic Church. Italy is a popular tourist destination, and is known for its food, fashion, art, and architecture.
Rome is a stunning city, try to find a rooftop bar such as the Grand hotel de la Minerve, to enjoy sunset and gorgeous view. You can just walk around old city and catch all the sights if you have a decent map to follow.
Best things to do and see in Italy
There are so many wonderful things to see and do in Italy, it's hard to narrow it down! Some of our favorites include visiting the ancient ruins of Pompeii, strolling through the stunning Tuscan countryside, exploring the picturesque canals of Venice, and spending time on the beautiful Amalfi Coast. Of course, no trip to Italy would be complete without indulging in some of the country's delicious food and wine!
Top Travel tips for Italy
1. Book your tickets in advance
2. Study the map before you go
3. Learn some basic Italian words and phrases
4. Travel with a tour group
5. Visit the smaller villages and towns
6. Sample the local cuisine
7. Dress appropriately
8. Use common sense and be cautious
9. Respect the culture and the people
Italy’s legendary food, evocative countryside, plethora of excellent wine, and prominent long history make it a wonderful country to visit.
The Italian language is famed for its romance, beauty and musicality, so learning a few words to get by on during your trip will never go to waste. It'll be appreciated by the Italians, even if they do reply in English - they like to practice what they've learnt too. Once there you'll notice that the Italian's love to wave their hands around when talking and these gestures are far from random. Italian's apparently use more than 250 hand gestures in everyday conversations and the more common one's such as - finger in the dimple of the cheek meaning "delicious" are worth learning for fun.
Some Italians still take a siesta during the day from 2-4 pm. It is somewhat of a past tradition but some of the shops still close and it’s best not to call on an Italian, as they might be having a nap.
Accommodation in Italy is not cheap, but there are plenty of options from 5 star hotels to airbnb and hostels.
Getting around in Italy
The best way to get around Italy is via their extensive train network. Fast trains (Eurostar) cost between 35-65 EUR per trip. The slower regional trains cost between 6-23 EUR per trip. These are a fabulous option if you have the time and enjoy the views.
Public transport are at a good price, and of course now there are cheap flights in Europe that can save you a lot of time.
Rome is a stunning city, try to find a rooftop bar such as the Grand hotel de la Minerve, to enjoy sunset and gorgeous view. You can just walk around old city and catch all the sights if you have a decent map to follow.
Venice is beautiful and unique, but is so full of tourists you may find it a bit claustrophobic. it's a much more pleasant and romantic place to visit in the winter when the throngs of tourists thins out a little. You can see what you need to within a few days, unless you know some locals.
Renting a car is a good option, as you can drive across Italy within a few hours.
Is Italy safe?
Stay alert while in the Italian big cities as theft, bag snatching and breaking into cars is common. Theft is also common on trains – day and night, so keep your eyes peeled. Try to avoid carrying passports, credit cards, travel tickets and cash together in handbags or pockets. Only carry with you what you need for the day and make use of safety deposit facilities in hotels.
Everyday Costs in in Italy
How much does it really cost to live, work, or travel in Italy? Here's what to expect for daily expenses and expat living.
Currency Guide – Italy (ISO Code: IT)
For travelers planning a week-long mid-range stay in Italy, budgeting around €1,000 to €1,500 is reasonable to cover expenses comfortably without cutting too many corners. Daily costs can vary depending on your location and personal preferences, but here’s a quick overview of typical expenses you might expect while exploring The Boot:
- 🍽️ Meal at a local restaurant: €15–€30
- ☕ Coffee: €1–€2
- 🚉 Public transport fare: €1.50
- 📱 Prepaid SIM card: €10–€20
- 🏨 Budget hotel or Airbnb: €70–€120 per night
Given these estimates, Italy can be classified as an average-cost destination. When compared to the United States, a similar mid-range trip may run slightly higher in Italy due to meal prices and accommodation choices. This is particularly true in tourist hotspots like Rome or Venice. In contrast, Canada often reflects similar travel costs to Italy, though you may find some activities and attractions here to be a bit less expensive than in Italy's bustling cities.
For Expats in Italy
For expatriates living in Italy, typical monthly living costs can range from €1,500 to €2,500, depending on your lifestyle choices and location. Major cities like Milan and Rome will generally push costs to the higher end of the scale, while smaller towns may offer more affordable living options. When managing your finances, it’s worth noting that utilizing a local banking account can provide benefits, such as lower fees for ATM withdrawals and local bill payments. In terms of card usage, Mastercard and Visa are widely accepted, but ensure you inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with your cards.
As for exchanging money, it’s generally more efficient to utilize online transfer services like Wise or OFX for better exchange rates compared to traditional banks or local currency exchanges. These platforms typically offer lower fees, saving you money when sending or receiving Euros. It’s advisable to exchange a small amount locally for immediate expenses, but for larger transactions, rely on these online services to optimize your currency conversion experience.
USD/EUR Market Data
The below interactive chart displays the USD/EUR change and UP📈 DOWN📉 trends over the past 1 Year.
Recent Euro Market News
Recent Developments Affecting the EUR Price
1. Eurozone Inflation Rates: Recent data shows inflation in the Eurozone remains elevated, affecting ECB monetary policy decisions. (Source: Reuters, ECB)
2. ECB Interest Rate Outlook: Comments from ECB officials indicate a potential pause in interest rate hikes, causing speculation about the EUR's stability.
3. Economic Growth Concerns: GDP growth figures for the Eurozone show signs of slowing, impacting confidence in the Euro.
4. Geopolitical Tensions: Ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly regarding trade relations with the US and UK, influencing market sentiment around the Euro.
5. Energy Prices: Fluctuations in energy prices due to global supply concerns are affecting Eurozone economies and, consequently, the EUR. (Source:
6.Eurozone Expansion: As of June 2025, Bulgaria is set to become the 21st member state of the eurozone, with the euro adoption scheduled for January 1, 2026.
For more EUR information read our News and guides to the Euro.
Send Money to Italy - Best Rates
To get a good (and fair) exchange rate when sending money to Italy you need to find and compare exchange rates for International Money Transfers (IMTs).
The available FX rates for sending money abroad can be very different to the mid-market (wholesale) rate which you see reported online and in the News.
You should especially compare your own bank's exchange rates to those available from Money Transfer specialists to see how much you can save - we make that calculation easy in the below table.
Get a better deal for foreign transfers to Italy
When sending money to Italy it’s important to compare your bank’s rates & fees with those we have negotiated with our partner money transfer providers. To get a better deal you should follow these 4 simple steps :
- Open an account with a BER reviewed FX provider (id docs may be required)
- You specify the local or Euro amount you want to transfer
- Make a local currency domestic transfer for the requested amount to the provider's bank account in your country
- Once your funds are received by the provider the converted EUR amount will be transfered to the recipient account you specify in Italy.
Use the above calculator to compare the exchange rates of FX specialist providers rates versus your bank's standard rates you can hopefully save around 5% and maybe more - end result is more Euro deposited into the recipient bank account and less margins and fees kept by the banks!
Managing money while living and working in Italy
Managing your money effectively while living and working abroad can be challenging, but there are several steps you can take to ensure that your finances are in order.
Understand Euro currency exchange rates: Exchange rates can have a big impact on your finances, so it is important to keep an eye on the EUR exchange rate and consider using a money transfer specialist or a credit card that does not charge foreign transaction fees to get the best exchange rate.
Use a local Euro bank account: A local EUR bank account can make it easier for you to manage your finances and pay bills while you are in Italy. It may also be more convenient to use a local EUR bank account to make purchases and withdraw cash.
Research local laws and regulations: It is important to understand the local laws and regulations that apply to financial transactions in Italy. This can help you avoid legal issues and ensure that you are complying with local requirements.
Consider the tax implications: It is important to understand the tax implications of living or doing business in Italy. This can help you plan your finances and ensure that you are paying the correct amount of tax.
Seek financial advice: If you are unsure of how to manage your finances in Italy, it is a good idea to seek the advice of a financial professional who is familiar with the local financial system. This can help you make informed decisions and avoid financial pitfalls.
We have put together some key points to help managing your money effectively, you can reduce financial stress and enjoy your experience living or doing business in Italy.
How is the cost of living in Italy?
The cost of living in Italy is relatively high.
How is the expat life in Italy?
Expat life in Italy can be very rewarding. There is a strong sense of community among expats, and many opportunities to experience the country's rich culture and history. Italy is also a great place to learn a new language or improve your existing language skills.
Any laws in Italy that foreigners should be aware of?
There are a few things that foreigners should be aware of when travelling to Italy. Firstly, it is important to note that Italy has a strict visa policy, and travellers from certain countries will need to obtain a visa before entering the country. Secondly, travellers should be aware of the fact that Italy has a very high crime rate, and it is important to take precautions when travelling around the country. Finally, it is worth noting that Italy has a number of laws and regulations that may be unfamiliar to foreigners, so it is always advisable to research these before travelling.
What is doing business like in Italy?
Doing business in Italy can be complex due to the country's bureaucracy. It can be difficult to establish a business due to the high cost of rent and labor. Additionally, businesses must contend with corruption and organized crime. Italy has a relatively high tax burden, which can make doing business challenging.
How is the economy in Italy?
The economy in Italy is in a state of flux. The country is currently in the midst of a recession, and the unemployment rate is high. However, there are also signs of growth, and the country's GDP is expected to grow in the coming years.
Italy’s Bargain €1 Homes program
Italy's "Bargain €1 Homes" program is a government initiative that aims to revitalize small towns and villages by selling abandoned properties for just €1 (about $1.20) to people willing to renovate and restore them. The program was launched in 2016 and is targeted at towns and villages that have seen a decline in population and a lack of investment.
The properties available through the program are usually dilapidated and in need of significant repairs, but they offer a unique opportunity for people to own a piece of Italian history and culture. In exchange for the low price, buyers are expected to invest a certain amount of money in renovating the property within three years. The amount of money required for renovation varies depending on the property's condition, but it is usually around €15,000 ($18,000).
The towns and villages that participate in the program are located in various regions of Italy, such as Sardinia, Sicily, Calabria, and Abruzzo, and include both rural and urban areas. The program has been popular among both Italian and foreign buyers, with the majority of the properties being sold to Italian citizens.
The "Bargain €1 Homes" program is not without its issues, as some towns and villages have struggled to sell all of their properties and renovation work has been slow to start in some cases. Additionally, due to high demand, there have been instances of properties being auctioned off at higher prices. Despite these challenges, the program has been successful in attracting new residents to small towns and villages, and helping to preserve Italy's rich cultural heritage.
Are there property taxes for foreigners in Italy?
A twice-yearly property tax is payable on non-primary residences. Stamp duty is 9 percent for non-residents.
What is the Italian flat-tax deal for foreigners?
Italy has been trying to lure wealthy foreigners: in 2017 it introduced a flat tax of €100,000 on worldwide income.