Phone Calls at the Colosseum – What Visitors Need to Know

Tips for Staying Connected in Italy

Grab a local SIM – It’s usually cheaper than roaming, and you'll get better coverage for calling Italy and using data on the go.
Use Wi-Fi whenever you can – Hotels, cafes, and even train stations often have decent Wi-Fi. Great for messaging and quick video calls.
Turn off data roaming (unless you’ve got a deal) – Roaming charges can sneak up on you fast if you're not careful.
Apps are your friend – WhatsApp, Skype, or Google Voice work great for calling Italy from the US without crazy fees.
Keep your phone charged – Sounds obvious, but with all the navigating and calling, battery drains fast. Carry a power bank.
Save key numbers – Keep local contacts, your hotel, and emergency numbers saved in your phone — just in case.
Check your plan before flying – Some U.S. carriers offer international add-ons. If you forget, things might get pricey.
Download offline maps – Handy when signal drops or you're out in the countryside. Google Maps works great offline too.

Plan Your Visit: Italy’s Country Code, Dialing Code & Area Codes

If you’re planning to make calls in or to Italy, knowing the basics helps a lot. First off, the country code of Italy is +39. You’ll need to dial that when calling Italy from the US or anywhere outside the country.

Now, about local numbers — Italy uses area codes even for local calls. Yep, even if you're calling someone just a few blocks away, you still have to dial the area code for Italy, and don’t skip the starting zero (it’s part of the number).

Area codes vary by city. Rome is 06, Milan is 02, and Venice is 041. For mobile numbers, they usually start with 3 and don’t need a separate city code.

If you're using a foreign SIM, just dial +39, then the number including the zero. Pretty easy once you’ve done it once or twice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Calling Italy

It’s +39. You’ll need to add that before the number when you’re calling Italy from abroad.

Dial 011 (exit code), then 39 (Italy's code), followed by the full number — area code and all.

Yes, always keep the leading zero. So for Rome (06), you’d dial it as is.

Yep! Just make sure your carrier allows international calls. You’ll still need to dial +39 first.

Landlines have area codes like 06 (Rome). Mobile numbers usually start with 3 and don’t need a city code.

It can be if you're using your regular provider. Try calling apps or international plans to save money.

Yes, if both of you have internet, WhatsApp works great and doesn’t cost anything extra.

Use apps like Skype, Rebtel, or Google Voice. They’re much cheaper than mobile roaming or landlines.

Sure, just include +39 before their number. Though apps like iMessage or WhatsApp are often easier.

Not necessarily, but without one, it could cost a lot. Check with your carrier or use a calling app instead.

Tips for Staying Connected in Italy

Plan Your Visit: Italy’s Country Code, Dialing Code & Area Codes

Frequently Asked Questions About Calling Italy

What is the country code of Italy?

How do you call Italy from the US?

Do I need to include the zero in the area code when calling Italy?

Can I call Italy from the US using a mobile phone?

What’s the difference between landline and mobile numbers in Italy?

Is it expensive to call Italy from the US?

Can I use WhatsApp to call someone in Italy?

What’s the best way to call Italy on a budget?

Can I text someone in Italy from the US?

Do I need an international plan to call Italy?