Currency 

The currency in Italy since January 1, 2002 is the Euro. In some shops both Lira and Euros are displayed in the prices. Euro coins come in sizes of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 cents, 1 and 2 Euros. Bills come in sizes of 5, 10, 50, 100, 200, 500 €. The shops accept all bills but we strongly recommend not use 200 and 500 € bills. Most shops accept a variety of credit cards. 
 
Language 

In Italy the national language is Italian, however we will be happy to welcome you speaking in French, English, German or Spanish, fluently.

Electricity 

In Italy the electric current is 220 volts.  
 
Banks
 
Usually banks are open from 8:20 am till 1:15 pm and from 3 pm to 4:30 pm (time may vary, confirm to reception). Cash machines are well visible outside the bank buildings.

Mail

The post offices are usually open between 8:30 am and 6 pm continuously (time may vary, confirm to reception).

Shop opening hours 

Shops open from 9 am to 1 pm and from 4 pm tol 7 pm, however, in many big supermarkets and malls open hours will be continued from 9 am to 8 pm and some days even to 10 pm. Few shops are also open on Sunday. 

Useful numbers 

112: State Police (carabinieri)
115: Fire Brigade 
113: Local Police  
118: Ambulance
892021: Trains 
803116: Automobile Club of Italy
1240:  Directory information

Airports

There are three airports in Milan: Malpensa - Linate - Orio al Serio

Italian festivities
   

How to call abroad from Italy

To call abroad dial the international country code, followed by the area code without the zero, then the telephone number. 
 
How to call Italy from abroad 

To call Italy from abroad, dial the international prefix for Italy: 0039, then the area code with the zero (for Milan 0039 02), then the telephone number . To call a mobile phone in Italy form outside your country of residence, use the country code for Italy, then the area code without the zero (for example 0039 348). It is not necessary to use the international country code to call a mobile phone in Italy from your country of residence.