Tips for Saving Money in Italy (Photo from drpinna.com)

When traveling in Italy things are beautiful, but with the Euro/Dollar conversion things can get very expensive, so let's look at some great ways to save some money when travelling in Italy.

The first issue is where to exchange money. Of course the easiest solution is to get money from an ATM on an as-needed base but if you have cash, the cheapest way to exchange dollars into Euros is at an Italian bank. For some reason American banks charge high fees but this isn't the case in Italy. Some people change money at airports, but the small exchange booths there will charge a steeper fee than an Italian bank. You could also pay with a credit card but of course there are the associated fees with each transaction so it could cost you more than just change all the cash at a bank.

Let's start with the number one issue, the cultural one. Common sense and basic rules are usually very similar from country to country, but that little grey area of difference can save you a few bucks. The classic example of this is tipping. Italians are not big on tips, especially in restaurants, and definitely not in night clubs or bars. So forget the 15-20% rules so popular in America, in Italy your server won't be expecting the same. If the service is impeccable then you leave 10%, which is considered a very good tip. Don't forget, waiters and bartenders are on a full salary with benefits and all. When having drinks, tipping is not necessary and very uncommon. Feel free to leave spare change, but nothing more is required. Another difference is the issue with refills. Don't expect countless refills of Coke or coffee in Italy; you'll probably have to pay for each one.

Speed control Italy

When it comes to transportation, things are pretty much like in the US. In big cities things like taxis cost more. In a city like Rome you'd probably be better off walking or using the bus if you can due to the traffic and limited reach of the subway in some areas.  Be careful when renting a car, as speed cameras are all over the place and fines are very very expensive. Cameras are also strategically positioned to make money and speeding fines start at about 180 Euro. If you see a sign like the one to the right, slow down. Most are probably (but not always ) within a mile or two of a speed machine.

Another way to save money is to eat at restaurants off the tourist paths. Just as with most other parts of the world, the restaurants near where tourists tend to gather have much higher prices than those sometimes just around the corner. Ask to see a menu if one is not posted, and never feel obligated by the sometimes insistent hosts telling you how hungry you are.

In most restaurants in Italy, water will cost you because it is always bottled. Remember that in Rome, water is free... in the many fountains around the city, and these are quite safe to drink from. Also, again in Rome and other larger cities, if you stop in a coffee bar for a cappuccino or other drink to take a break from sightseeing, you might pay more if you sit down at a table instead of stand at the counter. Make sure to ask the cashier.

Overall, traveling in Italy can be reasonable. Do some research before you go and enjoy!