Are you wondering how your flat irons, blow dryers will work in electrical outlets in Italy? Or how your phone will get charged when the plugs are totally different from the United States? I get the confusion. But, understanding the Italian voltage and power isn’t quite as hard as you might think, and a simple plug adapter is probably all you need in order to use all your electronics.
Answers to Your Questions about Adapters for Italy Voltage
What is a Plug Adapter?
A plug adapter is a device that changes a foreign outlet into one that will fit the plugs on your electronics. For Americans traveling to Italy, it would have a round 2 or 3-prong plug on one end that would stick into the wall and the other end would be US style to plug your items into. It does not change voltage (you would need a converter for that).
Which Type of Power Plug Outlets are in Italy?
There are three main types of plugs that Italy has:
- Type C: Two round pins, slightly thinner than Type F, so it will work in a Type F socket.
- Type F (Schuko Plug): Two round pins, slightly thicker than Type C
- Type L: Three round pins.
I have traveled to 60 different countries (including Italy 5 times) with my Mintong Universal Adapter that includes a Type C without any issues. If you want to be safe, you could also bring the Tessan Type L which is a three round pin.
What Voltage is Used in Italy?
Italy uses 220V-230V, whereas in the USA we mostly use 110V-120V. This means that if you’re bringing electronic devices, you’ll need to check if they’re compatible with Italy’s voltage and frequency. Some devices may require voltage converters, which is different from a plug adapter.
What is a Converter?
A converter changes the voltage of an outlet from one voltage, like 110V to a different one, like 220V.
Do I Need A Converter in Italy?
That depends on the electronics you are traveling to Italy with, but most likely not. You just need to check the input range for the electronics you’re bringing, which can typically be found on the device (or its power source). It will have an input range that should include 220v to 230v, like this one from my canon camera:
Most newer electronics can be brought to Italy without having to purchase a converter. I’ve traveled all over the world with my flat iron (The Nition Titanium Straightening Flat Iron), Iphone, Macbook and Canon camera batteries that needed charging and have never needed one. But, if you do then Bestek makes a highly-rated voltage converter that you can purchase on Amazon.
What are the Best Plug Adapters for Outlets in Italy?
Here are the top 3 plug adapters on Amazon. I have been using the first one for years, and it has traveled with me to 60 countries with no issues.
1.
Mintong Universal Adapter
MINGTONG $16.99
Get ready to conquer the world with this international plug that covers a whopping 160+ countries! Don’t worry about leaving any devices behind – this USB-C Smart Charging feature can charge up to 3 devices at once, all while delivering the fastest possible charging speed.
2.
Tessan Type C
TESSAN $11.99
Heading to Italy (or somewhere else in Europe)? Don’t forget this trusty plug adapter that works in most European countries. Compatible with most cellphones, tablets, cameras, and more.
3.
Tessan Type L
TESSAN $15.99
Though the Type L sockets in Italy aren’t quite as common as the Type C ones, it’s good to have one in your travel bag just in case.
With your perfect plug adapter in hand, you can now enjoy all the wonders that Italy has to offer without worrying about finding a compatible electrical outlet. From the renaissance architecture in Florence to the rolling hills of Tuscany, there’s no end to the beauty and adventure waiting for you. And with your electronic devices fully charged, you’ll be able to capture every moment and stay connected with loved ones back home.
This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through my links, I earn a commission that helps to keep this blog running—at no extra cost to you. For more information read my full disclosure.
More Things to Do in Italy
25 Best Walking Shoes to Wear in Italy: Spring to Summer
Florence Bucket List: 40 of the Best Things to Do in Italy’s Top City
Italian Food Bucket List: 50 Best Foods From Italy to Eat
How to See the Pope at the Vatican in Rome: The Papal Audience
Recipe: Italian Sausage & Oven Roasted Eggplant Farro Risotto
Walk on the Via Dell’Amore Trail in Cinque Terre
10-Day Northern Italy Itinerary
Hi…have been visiting your website for a few months now….
Anyways…I travel overseas a lot and have had similar dilemmas. Yes apple chargers are dual voltage. I have used them in a few continents now and they work like a charm everytime. As for a straightener I used the Conair Flat Iron 2" and never had any issues with it. I had a friend who brought her expensive Chi and it started smelling like it was burning inside after about 5 minutes. Converters definitely do not work with things like straighteners.
I also got this adapter kit that has names of the countries it works in. It's great if you travel a lot. Just grab the ones you need and go.
God bless you for wearing heels in Italy! Italy really did a number with my ankles, and the cobblestone kills. They get slippery during those sporadic rains too. So be careful! I used the Merrell Siren traveling/hiking in South America and they were great (however I used them when hiking a sand dune and months later I am still finding sand in them).
Have fun drinking cheap wine, and make sure to get lost in Venice (it's part of the experience).
Thanks for the tips! I am leaving tomorrow morning and I’m sure I will not be able to sleep tonight. I’m pretty sure my feet will be hurting by the end of day 2, but I hear Italy makes the best shoes, so I’ll just have to get some comfy ones there. I’ll post when I return how my adapters, flat irons and shoes work out. I hope this trip is just the start of my travel experiences and that I learn something from each one.
Arrivederci!!!
GREAT article. Thanks so much. I am going to Italy and Greece in 3 weeks and I was freaking out about my flat iron. Thanks for the info. Happy travels
I was in a “flat iron” panic before my trip, but the adapters worked great. Have fun!
Hi-
So did the flat iron you bought with the adapter work out for you? Or, I'm considering just investing in a really cute hat! :)
Amy
LOL! Yes, the flat iron (& adapter) worked at every hotel in Italy. No problems. But, a hat would be easier and cheaper ;)
This was so helpful. I travel to Italy once a year and have blown up endless Chis. I researched and found the GHD brand of flight iron with dual voltage @185.00. Hoping it works. I have extremely curly think frizzy hair so I have to have the bestter brand!!
Thanks for the helpful tips!!
Happy to hear it was helpful! My dual voltage hasn’t failed me yet :)