Passports
British citizens need a valid 10 year passport. It is advisable to ensure that the expiry date is at least six months after your return date. EU nationals do not require a visa. All other visitors should check with the Italian Consulate.

Please remember that all children not already included on a parent's passport by 5/10/98 must now have their own passport.

Opening times
Opening times vary from region to region but generally Monday - Friday shops will be open in the morning from around 8.30-12.30 or 1.00, then open up again at 3.30 or 4.00 until around 7.00 or 7.30 pm. In tourist areas you may find that shops may remain open throughout the siesta period.

On Saturdays, particularly in the smaller towns and villages, it is best to shop in the morning as afternoon opening can be unreliable. Most shops will be closed on Sundays, but for basic provisions the supermarkets at some motorway service stations are useful.

Some shops will be closed on Mondays, particularly in the larger towns.

Museums and Galleries are usually closed Mondays and sometimes also on Public Holidays.

Stamps
Stamps ("Francobolli") may be bought not only at the Post Office (PTT) but also at tobacconists. These have signs outside showing a large white T on a black background.

N.B. Postcards can take up to a month to reach the UK! A trick is to bring an envelope with you and put the postcard inside. Write AIRMAIL or put an airmail sticker on the outside and hope it arrives before you get home!

Public Holidays

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