If you’re planning a trip to Italy, be prepared to fall in love, for this country is widely acknowledged as the most romantic country in the world. From ancient history and culture, world-renowned food and wines to beautiful lakes and pretty beaches, Italy works its charm on even the most discerning traveller.
With close to 50 UNESCO heritage sites, quaint and charming villages to explore, islands from Capri to Stromboli and pasta and pizza aplenty, you’ll need to plan your Italy travel budget well – so let’s explore how much spending money you should take to Italy…
First things first:
What currency do they use in Italy?
Italy’s currency is the Euro (EUR).
Prices of dining out in Italy
Everybody knows Italian food is simply divine – certainly a huge reason to book a holiday to Italy. There’s several staple Italian dishes that must be tried when you’re dining out, for example – Milan and its famous risotto, Bologna for tortellini and Naples for spaghetti and the margherita pizza, and of course Italian gelato which is a speciality from all over Italy.
Average meal costs:
- At a mid-range restaurant, a three course meal for two could cost between £50 – £80
- If you’re opting for a light lunch, like a pizza or pasta, a meal could be around £9 – £13
Gelato costs:
- A (delicious) scoop usually costs £1.75 – £2.60
The price of drinks in Italy
The perfect accompaniment to a delicious Italian dish if course an Italian drink – whether your tipple is an aromatic white wine, an almond liqueur or a refreshing cocktail, there’s something for everyone.
Prices of soft drinks:
- A can of a soft drink like Coke, Sprite or Fanta, can range from £1.75 – £2.60 in restaurants and cafes.
Prices of hot drinks:
- An espresso or cappuccino at a local café typically costs £1.30 – £2.20 – perfect for a mid-morning or afternoon pick-me-up.
Alcoholic drink costs:
- A glass of house wine can typically cost between £2.60 – £4.35 in a mid-range restaurant
- A pint of the local beer can average around £4.35
- Hugely dependant on the venue type, cocktails can range from £5 – £10.
Popular excursions and prices
With rich history, beautiful landscapes, charming villages and romantic cities, there’s a ton of activities and sights to see in Italy.
For the history buffs:
- Explore the Coloseum and surrounding historic sites – typically costing £40 – £60.
- Discover the magnificence of the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica – a tour typically costing around £150.
For the art lovers:
- Skip the queues and browse the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, as well as surrounding sights – typically costing £80.
- Secure tickets for the Accademia Gallery – typically costing around £26.
For the foodies & wine enthusiasts
- Enjoy an authentic pizza cooking class in Sorrento– typically costing around £60.
- Head on a wine tasting tour in the beautiful Lake Garda – typically costing around £50.
For the adventurous & outdoorsy
- Adventure through Mount Versuvius National Park with a tour guide – typically costing around £60.
- Explore the Dolomites and soak in the surrounding breathtaking views – typically costing around £65.
What is the tipping etiquette in Italy?
Tipping in Italy is not a must – just a complimentary bonus.
Restaurants sometimes include a service charge on the bill (servizio incluso) so be sure to check first.
If you like to tip while on holiday, here’s a few ways you can do it in Italy:
- Casual settings, like a cafe: rounding the bill to the nearest Euro, or adding a Euro per person to the bill,
- In a formal restaurant setting: 10% added to the bill
- Taxis: rounding your fare up to the nearest Euro
- Hotel services, like concierge or cleaning: tipping is not expected, but €1-€2 a day is a good rule of thumb.
How much spending money should I take to Italy?
Your Italy travel budget should be based on your style of travel – more affordable or luxurious – and the kind of holiday you’rea fter – jam packed with activities or chilled out.
Budget travellers – £40 to £60 (€50–€70 per day)
- For those sticking to cafés, casual lunches, public transport, and sightseeing.
Mid-range travellers – £90 to £130 (€100–€150 per day)
- Includes three-course meals at mid-range restaurants, a few excursions, and the occasional taxi.
Luxury travellers – £170+ (€200+ per day)
- Ideal for fine dining, guided tours, private transport, shopping, and the extra luxuries!
Now you should be set for budgetting and prices in Italy it’s time to book your holiday – we’ve got a vast selection of incredible Italy holiday deals available, with something for every type of holiday!
*Prices are all up to date at the time blog was last edited in October 2025.
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