For U.S. citizens, all you need is a valid U.S. passport to enter Italy. You do not need a visa. If you plan to rent a car in Italy you must obtain an International Drivers Permit. Please see the "transportation" section of this Q & A for details on getting a permit.

Here are some essential items to pack for your trip: - Passport (duh): Ensure that it is valid and does not expire within 3 months of your trip - International or European power adaptor You can find these adaptors on Amazon for about $20. Here is one we recommend: International Power Adaptor - Cash/Euros (make it rain baby). We highly recommend ordering Euros at your local bank before you leave for your trip to avoid the high commissions and fees at the currency exchanges in Italy. While you can withdraw from ATMs in Italy, be aware they may charge additional fees. - Credit cards: Please be aware that some credit cards charge a foreign transaction fee for any charge made in a foreign country. If you intend to use a credit card, please be sure to use a card that does not charge foreign transaction fees. Otherwise, it is advisable to pay with cash.

Cell service is not a necessity in Italy and WiFi is readily accessible in most public places. However, it is highly recommended to obtain a SIM card for data access. Having data will enhance your travel experience for GPS use, language translation apps, and conducting web searches. You can easily purchase and install a SIM card at the airport upon your arrival. Prior to your trip, please confirm with your cell service provider that your phone is unlocked and can accept international SIM cards. If your phone is locked, the SIM card will not work.