A dumb wifi question

If it does automatically notify of the available wifi, go to settings, then choice wifi on, after a few seconds it will list available wifi sites and who is locked or unlocked.

you still have to check where you are by using settings. Not every wild wifi is what it purports to be - anywhere in the world.

Better to subscribe somewhere and let the phone log you in automatically at hotspots.

I have not been impressed by the street wifis in Italy. Not yet, anyway.

Italy has relaxed rules somewhat, but generally, there are very few unsecured hotspots or wifi connections since at one time all had to be secured and they had to record information for any users. There is lots of free wifi, in bars, restaurants, etc., but you may have to ask for the access code.

Or stick with your hotel wifi ... or internet cafes. We did four weeks in Italy that way -- even were able to follow World Series action using hotel free wifi.

Thank you. Nigel subscribe to what?? A service?? Is that done there or before we leave?!

There is such a need for WiFi for travelers, restaurants were advertising their free WiFi along with the menu. So maybe that could be your mid morning check in.

For emailing and skyping, I usually stuck to my hotel/apartment's WiFi. In Florence, if you purchase the museum pass, citywide WiFi came with it. I did not do this option, but others did and liked it.

WiFi access is changing fast in Italy. There is free municipal wifi access in Rome, Genova, Florence, and numerous other places since the law was changed last year. Look at the organization Free Wifi Italia, which provides a common login for the municipal systems. Information about the hotspot locations is hard to find, however. This blog has a Firenze map from last fall: http://tuscany-toscana.blogspot.it/2013/09/wifi-hotspots-in-florence-free-public.html#.U2Y8SCe9KSM

Free Wifi Italia is a good system for citizens of participating municipalities, and allows usage in each of the member cities, but it is limited to citizens.

For tourists to use it they have to pay.

Nigel that is not true. Free Italia WiFi is open to all. Identity verification can be done for example with a British cell phone or a US based credit card.

In which city, Mike? In Venice it seems pretty clear to me that if you are not resident or a resident student you must pay.

You are right Nigel that Venezia is offering WiFi for a fee to non-residents. Ironically, they are also one of the founding entities of Free WiFi Italia. Here's an article with some explanations and links. http://www.apathtolunch.com/2014/05/free-public-wifi-in-italy.html

Thanks, Mike.

That was a good site to see. I've registered in Genova and will be in Venice soon. I'll report back with my experiences.

Hello we have been here and loving venice for two days and a definite wifi problem outside of hotel. I go to settings some are locked (which I assume you can't get on) otherwise a lot of choices but always need to sign on or have a password! I found one spot Santa margharita in dosodoro. Wonder if florence ct and rome the same

I found this list :-)

http://www.wificafespots.com/wifi/city/IT--Venice

Just wander around and enjoy Venice!