MONEY 

Italy is part of the EU and the currency is the Euro. North American bank cards work in Italian bank machines, there are lots of them and you will get the best exchange rate.  Be prepared to deal in cash FAR more than you're used to. Note that your bank card will NOT work in shops.

DO NOT bring Traveller's Cheques; they are a pain in the neck and expensive to cash (if you can get them cashed at all).  

Come with 50-100 Euro with you. Your bank may or may not have Euros and the rate of exchange will not be as good as a foreign currency exchange agency. Not a big deal if you're only getting 50-100 Euro, but if you are exchanging a large sum, go to a foreign exchange. Also call around first and compare rates; it can be surprising how much they can differ from agency to agency.

A NOTE ABOUT CARRYING ID: Everyone in Italy, citizens and tourists alike, are required to carry government issued ID at all times. You will also need to present your passport for all sorts of “odd” things -- like checking into a hotel, registering to use the internet, exchanging money or mailing a package.

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