ATM and credit cards in Italy

Credit card payments are very widespread in Italy. A law stipulates that even the smallest amounts can be paid by credit card.

Even on the beach, there are ambulant vendors who accept credit card payments.

Correspondingly, you will rarely see establishments that, for whatever reason, do not accept electronic payment. Very rarely will you find a freaky guy in a bar or restaurant who has hung the card reader under the ceiling for decoration.

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Credit cards

Cashless payment is possible everywhere in Italy. However, you should pay attention to which card you take with you. Visa and Mastercard are accepted practically everywhere. Other payment systems, such as American Express, are often not accepted.

Cash withdrawal

ATMs in Italy are called Bancomat and pay out a maximum amount of 250 euros in one transaction. The amount of the fees depends on the conditions of your bank. There are also private ATMs that collect additional fees.

Some ATMs display quite adventurous translations. In most cases, however, you only have to select the desired amount, enter the PIN and confirm with the green button. Some ATMs still ask if you want a receipt. After that, you should get your money.

If your card is denominated in a currency other than euros, it is usually cheaper to have the conversion done by your home bank rather than by the bank of the ATM making the withdrawal.

Only use ATMs from banks. In Rome, you will find many ATMs in front of stores and bureaux de change, which often charge exorbitant fees.

In the restaurant

Payment by credit card is common in restaurants. Either the waiter comes with a portable reader or you pay at the cash register. As a rule, the PIN is always required.

It is not common in Italy to pay tips by credit card. Either leave the tip, 1 – 2 euros per guest, at the table or drop it at a collection box at the cash register.

In the store

It is possible practically everywhere to pay amounts up to 25 euros, in some stores up to 50 euros, without entering the PIN.

When refueling

Most gas stations in Italy have automatic fuel dispensers. Credit card payment is usually possible. After entering the PIN, a maximum amount of 100 euros is released and the exact amount is settled later.

Car rentals

For car rentals, the same credit card must be used to sign the contract as for the reservation. Debit cards are not accepted. A deposit is usually taken at the time of rental, which can be more than 1,000 euros depending on the rental company and the type of vehicle. Your card must therefore have adequate coverage.

In case of loss of the card

If you lose your card, you must have it blocked immediately. To do this, make a note of the card number and the relevant telephone number of your bank or credit card company. You must also report the loss or theft (smarrimento o furto) to the police or carabinieri.

The Italian telephone numbers of the credit card companies are: