Where in Italy do you usually go on exchange?

I'M GOING TO ITALY AND WAS TOLD BEST TO GET YOUR EXCHANGE BEFORE YOU GO. WHERE IS THE CHEAPEST PLACES TO GO FOR THAT IN MY AREA. PA.?

• Answer:

  That's not necessarily the best. The cheapest would be to use your ATM card to withdraw money in Euro when needed. You do need to let your card provider know that you'll be using the card overseas. Otherwise, the security software may see the card as potentially stolen and block the card until you call in to confirm that it's in your possession. If you do this, check with your bank on what foreign transaction fees (exchange rate) will be applied. Take out bigger and fewer withdrawals to minimize fees. In the 13+ years when I lived in Italy, my US bank reimbursed my account for any fees charged by other providers which was a very good, but unusual deal. FYI - an ATM in Italy is called a bancomat. However, if you want to exchange dollars for Euro before you go, go to the bank where you have an account for the best rates. Even if your local branch doesn't have a currency exchange, they can order euro for you from a main branch that does have a currency exchange. You'll need a couple of days lead time if they need to order the money.