Italy

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Frequently Asked Questions

• When is the best time to travel to Italy?
• What kind of currency is used in Italy and where can I find a currency converter?
• How long will it take to travel between Italy's major cities?
• Will I need a passport?
• What is the time difference in Italy?

Q: When is the best time to travel to Italy?

A: The Spring (April-May) and Autumn (October-November) seasons are the best time to visit Italy. Try to avoid travelling in August, this seems to be when most Italians take their vacations so many of the businesses and shops are closed.

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Q:What kind of currency is used in Italy and where can I find a currency converter?

A: Italy now uses Euro as their currency (previously they used Lira, which is no longer accepted). Euro is divided into 100 cents. Paper currency is available in denominations of Euro 500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10, and 5. Coins are in denominations of Euro 2, Euro 1 and 50, 20, 10, 5, 2, and 1 cents. You can exchange currency and travelers checks throught Italy at most major banks, airports, large hotels, or at a money exchange center. Make sure to check around for the best rates. Feel free to check the difference in currency by using the Currency Converter

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Q:How long will it take to travel between Italy's major cities?

A: There are several ways to travel while in Italy including air, sea, rail, road, urban transportation (subway, tram, bus, or taxi), and of course there are tours. Below you will find some of these:

1. If traveling by train, the fastest would be the Eurostar trains although they are a little bit more expensive and require reservations. You can find fare information by visiting Rail Europe. The following are the approximate traveling times:
   
   
   • Between Rome & Florence - 1hr 35mins
     
     
   • Between Milan & Florence - 2hrs 45mins
     
     
   • Between Venice & Florence - 2hrs 45mins
     
     
   • Between Milan & Rome - 4hrs 30mins
     
     
   • Between Milan & Venice - 2hrs 45mins
     
     
   • Between Rome & Naples - 2hrs
     
     
2. If traveling by bus, you can find fare information by visiting Busabout. The following are the approximate traveling times:
   
   
   • Between Florence & Pisa - 1hr 30mins
     
     
   • Between Rome & Siena - 5hrs 30mins
     
     
3. If you prefer to drive while in Italy you can visit InItaly. for various information about driving in Italy, including drving distances between cities.

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Q:Will I need a passport?

A: A valid passport is required for travel into Italy. For more information you can contact the Embassy of Italy directly at

	1601 Fuller st NW
	Washington, DC 20009
	(202) 328-5500
	or visit them online @ www.italyemb.org

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Q:What is the time difference in Italy?

A: When it is 10:00 a.m. in New York then in Rome it will be 4:00 p.m. To check other cities you can refer to the Speaking-Clock.com.

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© Copyright 2005 by Cheryl Damico. All rights reserved.