I've heard that high-tech credit/debit cards with implanted chips are common in Europe, and that American cards with old-fashioned magnetic strips are becoming problematic to use. What's the situation in Italy? I'll be traveling soon to Rome and the Amalfi region.
Posted by
Chicago
2876 posts
This topic comes up periodically on this board. Basically your American credit cards will be accepted at any establishment that displays the Visa/Mastercard/Amex logo. But your cards generally WON'T work at automated, self-service credit card machines, such as pay-at-the-pump gas pumps, electronic ticket-dispensing machines at train stations, credit-card-only lanes on toll roads, etc. These machines - with rare exceptions - accept the European "chip" cards only. At any place that has human clerks/attendants, you'll be fine. Should add that your debit cards WILL work at European ATM's, because these are PIN-based and do not require chip cards.
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23626 posts
No problems with ATMs and the newer ticket machines may required the chip card but generally there are old machine around that work just fine. A bigger problem, especially in small stations, is that all of the ticket machines are broken so no credit card works.
Posted by
US Pacific Northwest
10344 posts
This can be a problem at gas stations, if you have a car you have to make sure there's a human attendant.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32353 posts
Carrol, For travel in Italy, you shouldn't have any problems with the older magnetic stripe Credit Cards. The ticket machines at Termini and FCO seemed to work fine with them when I was there in May, and I had no problems at restaurants or other establishments. Your magnetic stripe ATM cards should also work fine for cash withdrawals (be sure your travel funds are in a chequing account!). However, the older cards are becoming more "problematic" as Europe transitions to "chip & PIN" technology. As the others have mentioned, some automated payment systems such as fuel pumps and other devices will now only accept the newer cards. One example in France is the automated ticket machines at CDG, which will ONLY accept "chip & PIN" credit cards (and Euro coins, I believe). I was able to use my "chip & PIN" credit card there, so the system will accept cards other than those from Europe. It would be great if you could post a short note when you get back, especially if you have any problems using the cards. Happy travels!