Calling in Italy
Content
Making calls and browsing the internet with your mobile phone in Italy is now as easy as at home. However, it's still important to remember the correct area code, the emergency numbers – and to be aware of Switzerland on your way there, as it can get expensive.
Key facts at a glance
- Italy dialing code: +39 or 0039 – for landline numbers, the 0 of the area code vote.
- Germany's country code: +49 or 0049 – the 0 of the area code is omitted here.
- Emergency call: 112 (Europe-wide, free of charge, even without credit).
- roaming: In Italy, you can make calls and browse the internet using your German tariff at domestic rates. Please note: Switzerland is not included.
Primary elections: How to vote correctly
From Germany to Italy
Wählen Sie +39 oder 0039 und dann die komplette italienische Nummer. Anders als bei uns bleibt bei italienischen Festnetznummern die 0 der Ortsvorwahl erhalten: Florenz erreichen Sie also unter +39 055 …, Siena unter +39 0577 … Italienische Handynummern beginnen mit einer 3 und haben keine 0 davor.
From Italy to Germany
Dial +49 or 0049 , then the area code without the 0 and the phone number – for Berlin, that would be +49 30 …, mobile phone numbers +49 171 … etc.
Within Italy
Within Italy, you always dial the complete number, including the area code, even if you are calling within the same town or city. There is no separate local area code dialing in Italy.
Emergency numbers in Italy
For all emergencies, the Europe-wide emergency number 112 applies – free of charge, around the clock and even without credit. The existing numbers will continue to work:
- 113 – Police
- 115 - Fire department
- 118 – Ambulance service / Emergency physician
- 1530 – Distress call at sea (Coast Guard)
- 803 116 – ACI breakdown assistance from the Italian network; from German mobile phones: 800 116 800 (Toll-free)
Many seaside resorts offer a Guardia medica turistica during the summer , a medical clinic specifically for tourists. Inquire at your accommodation or pharmacy. Lost your mobile phone or bank card? Then our article on blocking cards while on holiday can help.
Mobile phone, roaming and internet
EU roaming: Home rates in Italy
Since June 2017, the EU has had a "Roam like at home" policy: you can make calls, send texts, and browse the internet in Italy under the same conditions as in Germany. This rule has been extended until 2032. For unlimited or very large data plans, the provider may set a fair-use limit; details can be found in your contract. Special service numbers (e.g., 0180, 0900) and calls from Germany to Italy are not covered – these are considered international calls.
Caution on ferries and cruise ships: On the high seas, your mobile phone may connect to a ship's or satellite network for which EU roaming does not apply. As a precaution, switch off data roaming there.
Traveling through Switzerland: Beware of roaming costs
Switzerland is not part of the EU. With many German mobile plans, calls and mobile internet there cost extra – often even if your phone is just checking for new messages in the background. Switch off data roaming before crossing the border or use a plan that includes Switzerland.
Our tip!
Since we frequently travel through Switzerland, we ourselves use the FRAENK tariff.
EU roaming including Switzerland
- Telephone and SMS flat rate
- Without contract / can be canceled monthly
- D network quality
- Data volume varies depending on your plan – use our code “KATA43” to receive additional data volume when you register.
Current prices and data volumes can be found directly with the provider, as tariffs change regularly.
Italian SIM card or eSIM?
For a typical holiday, you don't need an Italian SIM card. However, it can be worthwhile for very long stays: Italian providers like TIM, Vodafone, WindTre, or Iliad offer affordable prepaid plans. You'll need identification to purchase one; often, an Italian tax identification number (codice fiscale) is also required.
Wi-Fi on the go
Most hotels, holiday apartments and campsites offer Wi-Fi, as do many bars and restaurants. With Wi-Fi calling, WhatsApp or other messaging apps, you can also make calls where the mobile network is weak – for example, in remote valleys.
Frequently asked questions about making phone calls in Italy
How do I call Italy from Germany?
Wählen Sie +39 oder 0039 und dann die komplette italienische Nummer. Bei Festnetznummern bleibt die 0 der Vorwahl erhalten, z. B. +39 055 … für Florenz. Handynummern beginnen mit 3 und haben keine 0.
How do I call Germany from Italy?
Dial +49 or 0049, then the area code without the 0 and the phone number, e.g. +49 30 … for Berlin.
Does roaming in Italy cost extra?
No. Thanks to the EU regulation "Roam like at home," you can use your German plan in Italy at domestic rates. For very large data volumes or unlimited plans, the provider may set a fair-use limit.
What is the emergency number in Italy?
The emergency number 112 is for all emergencies. The old numbers 113 (police), 115 (fire department) and 118 (ambulance service) still work.
Do I need an Italian SIM card in Italy?
Not for a normal holiday – your German plan will work thanks to EU roaming. An Italian SIM card is only worthwhile for very long stays.
Why is it so expensive in Switzerland?
Switzerland is not in the EU, therefore EU roaming does not apply there. Many German mobile plans charge high fees in Switzerland. Switch off data roaming when passing through or use a plan that includes roaming in Switzerland.
