I understand that cash is king in much of Italy. Most likely I plan to use an ATM card and realize there are related fees. Is it easy enough to find ATMs in Venice and its airport? What about other locations in northern Italy? Do you recommend exchanging USD to Euro in the US where the exchange rate does not seem so advantageous. Do you usually keep a few days cash on hand, stored of course in a safe, and a money belt?
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32405 posts
Obtaining cash from ATM's (Bancomat) is usually the least expensive method, even if the bank does charge a fee. Be sure to notify your Bank that you'll be travelling abroad. I find that it's a good idea to pack along a backup ATM card, in case of problems with the primary card.
Wearing a Money Belt is a good idea, but what type of "safe" were you referring to?
Posted by
Medford, OR, USA
5837 posts
VCE a couple of years ago: ATM cash machine in the baggage claim area. The machine would only dispense 200 EUR.
Posted by
Austin
977 posts
Yes, there are ATMs you will see in Venice walking around, in the airport, in the train station. You can charge your Vaporetto tickets. There are plenty of banks: however last year in Barcelona I found that a bank i had usethe previous year had started charging about $5 to withdraw from their ATM.
I withdraw money every few days and wear it in different places; some in a bra safe with a credit card (instead of a money belt) , that day's amount in a handy spot like my tiny travel wallet that looks like cosmetic bag.. Some years I buy $100 worth of euros from my bank, but they charge 7%; it depends on where i am going after I land and if I need small bills. Not all hotels have in room safes. Split the money and credit cards up with your traveling companions.
Posted by
Rick Steves' Europe
16895 posts
We've had no trouble finding ATMs all over northern Italy and I don't see any trouble spots on your proposed itinerary.
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23666 posts
The locals have the same need for access to banking in Italy as in the US. ATMs and banks are plentiful in Italy. I always carry a hundred euro or so into the country just so I don't have to worry about finding an ATM at the airport or anywhere else in a hurry. Others prefer to hit the first ATM they can find. Haven't been in an airport that didn't have ATMs. We never look for ATMs, they always find us. If I need cash that day, I put the debit card in a secured pocket and go about normal sightseeing. Sometime that day I will see a bank and ATM. Load up, generally 500E at a time.