The euro, the new single European currency,
became the official currency of Italy and 11
other participating countries on January 1,
1999.However, the euro didn't go into general
circulation until early in 2002. The old currency,
the Italian lire, disappeared into history on
March 1, 2002, replaced by the euro, whose official
abbreviation is "EUR." Exchange rates
of participating countries are locked into a
common currency fluctuating against the dollar.Euro
notes are issued in denominations of 5, 10,
20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 euros, and coins in
denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents
and 1 and 2 euros
ATMs are prevalent in all Italian cities and
even the smaller towns. ATMs are linked to a
national network that most likely includes your
bank at home. Both the Cirrus (tel. 800/424-7787;
www.mastercard.com) and the PLUS (tel. 800/843-7587;
www.visa.com) networks have automated ATM locators
listing the banks in Italy that'll accept your
card. Or, just search out any machine with your
network's symbol
Important note: Make sure that the PINs on
your bankcards and credit cards will work in
Italy. You'll need a four-digit code (six digits
won't work), so if you have a six-digit code
you'll have to go into your bank and get a new
PIN for your trip. If you're unsure about this,
contact Cirrus or PLUS (above). Be sure to check
the daily withdrawal limit at the same time.
Credit
Cards And Travellers' Cheques
Banks
and exchanges
