Travel Tips

How to get your phone to work

The best option is to contact your cell phone provider and ask about international plans, which all major providers will offer. Another alternative is to download an eSIM on your phone. This will allow you to connect to the Italian cell networks and use data. Since it’s only a data option, it’s recommended to use WhatsApp for easy calling and texting.

We did both options, here’s the link to an eSIM app. Google if your phone is compatible before spending money.

Be patient

It’s Italian culture to relax and socialize during meals so be ready for meals to take longer and for restaurant service to be slower. It’s also rude for the waitstaff to drop off a bill without first being asked, so don’t be afraid to wave your server over to ask for the bill. We learned the hard way that they will let you sit there forever if you don’t ask.

Where to get euro’s

If you bring your debit card then you can absolutely use Italian ATMs to withdraw euros. If you get prompted, always take your bank’s exchange rate instead of the ATM company’s (the bank will give you a better rate!). You can get euro’s in the US, but many banks have stopped offering currency exchange services - give it a quick google before leaving the house. We opted to use ATM’s to also avoid traveling with extra cash.

Keep your stuff safe

In general Tuscany is a very safe place, however any place that’s popular with tourists will have pickpockets. To avoid getting anything stolen, try to keep your wallet in your front pockets. If you bring a purse, try to find one that zips closed and is small enough to wear in front of you. Don’t leave any belongings unattended in public.

Don’t tip

Tipping is not the standard in Europe and is never the expectation when you’re out to eat at a restaurant or even just getting a coffee. You might feel awkward, but in our experience you’ll only get a weird look if you try to tip!

Use google translate

It may sound simple, but using google translate can be extremely helpful when traveling abroad. Most people in the popular areas of Italy will speak enough english for you to order food or ask for directions, but you can always use google translate in a pinch. It also has a feature to translate pictures, which is great for reading menus.

Bonus tip: the best restaurants will have little-to-no english on their menus, and definitely no pictures!

Power outlet adapters

Your normal phone charger will not be compatible with European outlets, so make sure you bring an adapter to charge your cell phone or anything else that needs to be plugged in. Here’s a link to the adapter we bought that worked great.

Use your cards

Most debit cards will work in Italy, and all Visa’s and Mastercards will work while also automatically converting payment to euros. Almost everywhere will have tap-to-pay or at the least a card reader. Check with your bank or credit card provider to see if they charge foreign transaction fees.

Download google maps

Even if you connect your phone to the Italian cell networks, there’s always a chance you’ll be in an area with little to no service. In those scenarios it’s great to have a downloaded map that you can use to find your way around. Click here to read on how to download maps on your phone.

Quick Tips

Public Restrooms

Be sure to have extra euro’s as some public restrooms require you to pay a small amount of money to use.
Pharmacy

Italian Walgreens but way smaller. Try to bring medications if possible. You will not find American brands here and medication is not over the counter. You may need to ask the pharmacist for help.
Convenience Store

Tabacchi = Italian 7-11 but smaller. You can also purchase bus tickets here. Signs may be blue or black but look for the big “T”.
Everything is Smaller in Italy

Cars, bathrooms, showers, streets, everything. So keep that in mind when packing and renting a car!
Emergency Numbers

In case of an emergency, dial 112.