What Currency Does Italy Use?

Italy uses the euro (EUR) as its official currency. Learn what UK travellers need to know about spending in Italy.

What Currency Does Italy Use? (UK Traveller’s Guide)

If you're heading to Italy from the UK, whether for a city break in Rome or a beach holiday in Sicily, knowing what currency to take is essential for budgeting and avoiding unnecessary charges. Italy is part of the European Union and uses the euro as its official currency. This guide explains what currency Italy uses, how it works in practice, and what UK visitors should know before spending abroad.

What Is the Currency of Italy?

The official currency of Italy is the euro (EUR).

  • Currency name: Euro

  • Currency symbol: €

  • ISO code: EUR

  • Subunit: 1 euro = 100 cents

The euro is issued by the European Central Bank and has been Italy’s official currency since it replaced the Italian lira.

When Did Italy Start Using the Euro?

Italy adopted the euro in 1999 for non-cash transactions and introduced euro banknotes and coins in 2002, fully replacing the Italian lira (ITL). Since then, the euro has been used across all sectors in Italy—public, private, and commercial.

How the Currency Works in Practice

In Italy, euros are used for:

  • All in-store purchases, restaurants, travel and public transport

  • ATM withdrawals and contactless card payments

  • Online shopping and hotel bookings

UK visitors will see prices clearly displayed in euros, and payments using cards will be automatically converted to GBP by your card provider—usually at that day’s exchange rate.

Most major cards (Visa, Mastercard, etc.) are accepted, though some small businesses may prefer cash.

Benefits and Considerations for UK Travellers

Benefits:

  • Widely used and stable currency across the Eurozone

  • ATMs are common and easy to use

  • Contactless and mobile payments widely accepted in cities

Considerations:

  • Some small shops or cafés may prefer cash, especially in rural areas

  • If you pay by card, always choose to pay in local currency (EUR) to avoid dynamic currency conversion charges

  • Using GBP directly is not possible in Italy

Best Way to Pay in Italy from the UK

To get the most out of your money:

  • Use a fee-free travel card such as Chase, Monzo, Starling or Wise

  • Withdraw cash in euros from Italian ATMs (avoid airport kiosks)

  • Decline any offer to pay in GBP at the point of sale—this often includes a poor exchange rate

  • Carry a small amount of euros for tipping, taxis or small cafés

FAQs

Can I use pounds in Italy?
No. Only euros are accepted for payment in Italy.

Do I need to carry cash?
While card use is growing, it’s a good idea to carry some cash, especially in smaller towns or markets.

Are euros accepted across the entire country?
Yes. From Venice to Palermo, the euro is the sole legal tender.