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Italy travel essentials

Italia

Italy uses Type C / Type F / Type L power outlets at 230V, 50Hz. The general emergency number is 112. Tap water is generally safe to drink.

Last reviewed

Verify visa and entry rules with official authorities before travel.

Quick answer

Italy uses Type C / Type F / Type L power outlets at 230V, 50Hz. The general emergency number is 112. Tap water is generally safe to drink.

Power
Type C/F/L / 230V
Emergency
112
Tap water
Generally safe
Driving
Right side
Capital
Rome
Currency
Euro (EUR, €)
Languages
Italian
Dialing code
+39
Time zone
UTC+1 (CET) / UTC+2 (CEST)
Continent
Europe
P

Power and plugs

C F L
Plug types
Type C, Type F, Type L
Voltage
230V
Frequency
50Hz

Italy runs at 230V. Travelers from 100–127V regions (US, Japan) need a voltage converter for devices that aren't dual-voltage.

E

Emergency numbers

General
112
Police
112 / 113
Ambulance
112 / 118
T

Travel notes

Tap water

Tap water is generally safe to drink.

Tipping

Tipping is optional in Italy. A service charge or cover charge may already appear on the bill. If service is good, rounding up or leaving a few euros is common, especially in sit-down restaurants.

Best season

April to June and September to October are the most comfortable months for major cities and cultural trips. July and August can be hot and crowded, while coastal areas are busiest during Italian summer holidays.

Visa basics

Italy is in the Schengen Area. Visa-free rules and Schengen visa requirements depend on nationality and recent stays in the region. Use the Italian foreign ministry or consular guidance for current entry rules.

Before you go: Italy checklist

  • Pack a Type C/Type F/Type L plug adapter for Italy.
  • Italy runs at 230V. Travelers from 100–127V regions (US, Japan) need a voltage converter for devices that aren't dual-voltage.
  • Bring a refillable bottle — tap water in Italy is generally safe.
  • Save the emergency number 112 in your phone before you arrive.
  • If you'll drive, remember traffic keeps to the right in Italy.

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Reference

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Questions

Frequently asked questions

Can I drink tap water in Italy?

Yes. Tap water in Italy is considered safe to drink.

What power plug and voltage are used in Italy?

Italy uses Type C, Type F, Type L plugs running at 230V, 50Hz. Italy runs at 230V. Travelers from 100–127V regions (US, Japan) need a voltage converter for devices that aren't dual-voltage.

What is the emergency number in Italy?

Dial 112 for general emergencies in Italy. Police: 112 / 113. Ambulance: 112 / 118.

When is the best time to visit Italy?

April to June and September to October are the most comfortable months for major cities and cultural trips. July and August can be hot and crowded, while coastal areas are busiest during Italian summer holidays.

Which side of the road do they drive on in Italy?

In Italy, traffic drives on the right side of the road, so the steering wheel is on the left.

What is the country calling code for Italy?

The international dialing code for Italy is +39. Dial this prefix after your exit code (e.g. 00 or +) to call a Italy number from abroad.

S

Sources

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