Electric current in Germany and Italy

You need the "Euro" plug adapter with two round pins.

For anywhere on the Continent you'll need a two-pin plug adapter. Go to the travel store on this site to see what they look like. If you don't want to order one online, buy it at Radio Shack. If your iPad or any other appliance you take has dual voltage (INPUT: AC 100V - 240V, 50/60Hz), you won't need a voltage converter. All you'll need is a plug adapter.

Priscilla, The Voltage used in Germany, Italy and the rest of Europe is a nominal 230-volts (it can be slightly higher or lower at times). The current will depend on the design characteristics of the device being used. Most electronic devices have a very low current draw. You'll need the Euro-style Plug Adapters for use in both countries. The model shown is for use with ungrounded appliances. If any of your appliances are fitted with a grounded Plug, you'll need to buy separate grounding type Plug Adapters (Italy and Germany use different models). As the others have mentioned, you'll need to check the Input Voltage ratings of EACH device that you'll be travelling with, to ensure they're designed for operation from 100-240 VAC. The ratings will be listed somewhere on the device or on the Charger if it's a small electronic product. If you're only taking an iPad, these are normally provided with a "world" Charger. I'd suggest packing along at least two of each Plug Adapter that you need, as they're easy to misplace. Happy travels!

Now, to make things more complicated... if you stay in an older establishment in Italy, you may need a different three pin adapter. You can find them easily enough at Italian grocery stores. As the others have noted, if all you plan to take is an iPad, you will only need outlet adapters, not a transformer.

Thanks so much for your advice! Really helpful!