Rome is known to be one of the worst cities in Europe for changing currency, with high commission and bad exchange rates meaning you are often left out of pocket. For this reason, whenever possible, arrive with Euros that you have already exchanged in your home country. We have guides to
the best exchange rates in London and
Paris available and both of these cities will give you more euros for your money.
If however, it’s not possible for you to change your money elsewhere, we have done the leg work to find you the best exchange rates in Rome. Here’s a list of the places to change your money in Rome as well as some extra advice on credit card use and ATMs.
Ria is widely regarded as the best place to exchange money in Rome. With two locations – one near the Vatican City and the other the Pantheon – they are centrally located and easily reachable for most tourists. Use their online convertor before visiting to see how much you will get because they add no commission so the amount you see there will be the amount you get.
This Florence-based company was founded in 1999 and is very near to the Column of the Immaculate Conception and about a minute away from the Spanish Steps. Perfectly located for keen sightseers. They change most currencies and even accept travellers cheques which are becoming less and less popular. Take the metro to Spagna to find Best and Fast Change.
There are a few branches of Forexchange around the city so it will be easily reachable from most places that you’re likely to be staying. You can easily calculate their rates online and order currency in advance to put your mind at rest. This is one of the most convenient currency converters in Rome.
Some advice on ATMs
If you are comfortable doing so then we recommend withdrawing euros with your debit card at ATMs instead of changing your currency at an exchange shop. The rate will be better and if you choose a reputable Italian bank then the fees will be small. When you arrive at the airport, avoid using the ATMs here if you can because they will be linked to a currency exchange company which will take commission meaning you’ll get less for your money. Always make sure to pick an ATM in a well-lit area and shield your pin when you’re making withdrawals.
Card payments
Lots of places do take credit and debit card payments in Italy and if you’re shopping at big Italian brands like Prada and Fendi then you’ll have no problems. But if you’re venturing off the beaten track and visiting independent boutiques, quaint trattorias and typical espresso bars then you will need cash. Lots of these places will only take cash. Some will take Visa and MasterCard and very few will take American Express.
