Italy, as the third-largest economy in the Eurozone holds considerable economic and geopolitical significance. Economically, Italy boasts a diversified industrial base, with strengths in manufacturing, particularly in sectors such as automotive, machinery, fashion, and luxury goods. The renowned "Made in Italy" brand symbolizes quality and design excellence, driving the country's export revenues. Additionally, Italy's services sector, notably tourism, plays a crucial role in its economy, attracting millions of visitors annually.
Italy's geopolitical influence is further underscored by its membership in prominent international organizations, including the Group of Seven (G7), the European Union (EU), and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). As a G7 member, Italy collaborates closely with other leading economies to address global challenges such as economic stability, security, and climate change.
Beyond Europe, Italy continues to wield influence in both regional and international geopolitical dynamics, contributing to global stability and cooperation. It maintains historical, cultural, and economic ties with regions such as North Africa and the Middle East, further expanding its geopolitical reach. Political and economic relations between Italy and the Asia-Pacific region are durable and reliable. Despite the challenges posed by global crises, the volume of trade between Italy and Asian countries remains significant, as does cooperation.
The currency used in Italy is the euro (€). You can convert your currency into euros at the airport and in large train stations, banks, and exchange agencies where you can withdraw cash or use related services. Banks (with 24/7 ATMs) spread across Italy, where you can exchange/buy traveller’s cheques. The denominations of coins and banknotes are as follows:
In addition to cash, you can pay for your purchases using the most popular credit cards. It is also possible to pay using your smartphone via the various dedicated apps.
Tipping in Italy is not compulsory and there are no established rules. Receipts and bills In Italy, all official commercial businesses are under obligation to issue a payment slip, and every citizen must receive one after every purchase, so as not to break the law.
Remember to keep the receipt or bill when you pay: this will allow you to justify your possession of goods and not incur fines in the event you are stopped and checked.
CET (Central European Time) applies throughout Italy. From early autumn to late winter, standard time applies, corresponding to the time zone UTC+1, one hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time.
Italians normally have breakfast from 7.00 a.m., but some bars and pastry shops open as early as 6.00 a.m. Hotels usually have a set time (approximately 10.00 a.m.) at which breakfast ends. Lunch in restaurants, diners or bars is usually served from 12.30 p.m. to 2.30 p.m. Dinner is normally served from 7.30 p.m. until 11 p.m.
In addition to Sundays, Italy also closes for national holidays. On these days, most of the country’s business activities stop, and public and private offices close. Some museums and cultural sites close on certain holidays. Bars, pastry shops and restaurants, however, often remain open. Be aware that the ADB AM 2025 starts the 4th of May. The 1st of May is a national holiday in Italy.
If you find yourself in serious difficulty and need help, the single number to call for emergencies in Italy is 112. This is a free number to dial without any prefix: the operator will put you in touch with the most appropriate authority or service.
Italy guarantees medical assistance to anyone who needs it and goes to a public hospital or similar facility (emergency rooms, polyclinics, doctor’s surgeries). In these cases, there is no charge. EU citizens can access medical services in Italy and all EU countries with their European Health Insurance Card (or E106 form). The EHIC allows free access to general practitioners, hospitals and A&E services (including surgical services). A co-payment is required for specific examinations or specialist visits. It is recommended to take out travel / health insurance before departure to be covered for any accidents and illnesses not covered by the National Health Service. For more information, please visit the Italian Ministry of Health’s website at the following link: https://www.salute.gov.it/portale/home.html. In the event of a medical emergency, you can call the emergency number 118 to receive first aid. For any further information about your trip to Italy, visit the website italia.it.
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