Electrical outlets in Italy
Content
Short answer: Do I need a power adapter in Italy?
- Yes, mostly for Schuko plugs. The typical Italian electrical outlet is type L (three pins in a row). Thick, round Schuko plugs (hairdryer, kettle, laptop power adapter with cable) do not fit in it.
- Flat Europlugs fit (Mobile phone charger, tablet, razor) – even without an adapter.
- No voltage converter required: 230 volts / 50 Hz as in Germany.
- Our advice: An adapter Schuko → Type L plus a German multi-socket outlet – then you can charge all devices simultaneously with one adapter.
In Italy, electrical plugs are different from those in Germany. However, the mains voltage is also 220/230 volts AC. In Italy, you'll primarily find type L sockets, but newer buildings and many holiday homes also have Schuko sockets (type F) or combination sockets that accept both. You won't need a voltage converter – at most, you might need an adapter.
An adapter is needed for "large" plugs.
If you're bringing your hairdryer, baby bottle warmer, or other electrical appliances, you'll usually need a plug adapter. Whether the large, round, grounded plugs ("Schuko plugs") will fit depends on the socket: You can plug them directly into Schuko and combination sockets (often labeled "Schuko/Bipasso" or "Universal"). However, they won't fit into standard Type L sockets because the pin spacing and design are incompatible. Since you rarely know in advance what kind of sockets to expect in a hotel or vacation rental, an adapter should definitely be in your luggage.
We always pack this travel adapter from Tessan . It can also be used if you have a layover in Switzerland.
Which plug fits where?
In Italien begegnen Ihnen drei Steckdosen: die italienische Typ L (drei Löcher in einer Reihe, in einer kleinen 10-A- und einer größeren 16-A-Variante), die Typ F (Schuko) wie in Deutschland und Kombi-Steckdosen, in die sowohl Schuko- als auch Typ-L-Stecker passen. Neuere Hotels und Ferienwohnungen haben oft Kombi- oder Schuko-Steckdosen, in älteren Gebäuden ist die reine Typ L weiterhin verbreitet. Netzspannung (230 V) und Frequenz (50 Hz) entsprechen Deutschland.
| Your plug | Type L (10 A) | Type L (16 A) | Schuko / Kombi |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flat Europlug (mobile phone, laptop power adapter) | fits (often loose) | usually fits | fits |
| Round Schuko plug (hair dryer, kettle, power strip) | only with adapter | only with adapter | fits |
| Contour plugs (flat-round, e.g. razors) | only with adapter | only with adapter | fits |
The German "narrow" plugs usually fit.
The "slim" Europlugs (Type C), such as those found on mobile phone chargers or simple electrical appliances, fit into most Italian sockets – including the small Type L socket (10 A). However, they often fit somewhat loosely. The third, middle pin of Italian plugs is the protective earth (ground); Europlugs do not have one and do not need it.
our recommendation
To help you keep track of the wide range of travel adapters available, we have selected three products from Amazon:
 |  |  | |
| Link | SKROSS 1.302930 World Adapter MUV USB* | SKROSS Travel Adapter Pro, adaptable adapter plug for travel to the UK, Australia, China or the USA, compact & safe universal adapter* | TESSAN Travel Adapter Worldwide, Universal Travel Plug with 2 USB A and 2 USB C, International Socket Adapter, Universal Adapter for England USA Japan Thailand Australia, Travel Adapter* |
| Test result | RatingVery good! | ||
| Price | Price not available Price incl. VAT., Excl. Shipping | Price not available Price incl. VAT., Excl. Shipping | Price not available Price incl. VAT., Excl. Shipping |
| Manufacturer | CROSS | Skross | Zhuhai Tessan Power Technology CO., LTD. |
| Availability | |||
| Price | Price not available Price incl. VAT., Excl. Shipping | Price not available Price incl. VAT., Excl. Shipping | Price not available Price incl. VAT., Excl. Shipping |
| View product | View product | View product | |
| Buy now on Amazon* | Buy now on Amazon* | Buy now on Amazon* | |
| Additional offers |
| Manufacturer | CROSS |
| Availability |
| Manufacturer | Skross |
| Availability |
| Manufacturer | Zhuhai Tessan Power Technology CO., LTD. |
| Availability |
Tip for motorhomes and caravans
Campsites usually have the blue CEE socket – your usual power cable will fit. However, the circuit protection per pitch is often lower than usual; ask at reception about the amperage before using a kettle and a space heater simultaneously. More information can be found under " Motorhome Tours in Tuscany".
Comparison of socket types F (Germany) and L (Italy)
| feature | Type F (Germany) | Type L (Italy) |
|---|---|---|
| Common name | Schuko | Italian or Chilean |
| Form | Cow | Flat, linear arrangement |
| Pin arrangement | Two round pins with side ground contacts | Three pins in a row |
| Grounding method | Side grounding clips | Central earthing pin |
| amperage | 16A | 10A or 16A versions |
| Compatibility | Can accommodate Type-C connectors | Can accommodate Type-C plugs (in 10A version) |
| security features | Recessed socket, with lock | Partially recessed socket |
| pin diameter | 4,8 mm | 4 mm (10A) or 5 mm (16A) |
| Pin spacing | 19 mm between the pins | 19 mm (10A) or 26 mm (16A) between the outer pins |
| Socket depth | About 15 mm | About 10 mm |
Frequently asked questions about electrical sockets in Italy
Do I need an adapter for my devices in Italy?
For devices with the round Schuko plug, usually yes, because the common Italian Type L socket doesn't accept it. Flat Europlugs (e.g., mobile phone chargers), on the other hand, fit without an adapter. Newer buildings and many holiday apartments also have Schuko or combination sockets – but you shouldn't rely on these.
What is the voltage of the power grid in Italy?
230 volts at 50 Hz – just like in Germany. So you don't need a voltage converter, but at most a plug adapter.
What is the difference between type L 10 A and 16 A?
Die kleine 10-A-Variante hat dünnere Stifte mit geringem Abstand, die große 16-A-Variante dickere Stifte mit größerem Abstand. Viele italienische Steckdosen sind „bipasso“ und nehmen beide Größen auf. Ein guter Reiseadapter sollte auf beide Varianten passen.
Can I buy an adapter in Italy?
Yes. Adapters (“adattatore” or “spina adattatrice”) are available in supermarkets, hardware stores (“ferramenta”), and electronics stores. It's more convenient to bring one from home so you don't have to search for it on the evening of your arrival.
What electrical hookups are available at campsites in Italy?
At campsites – as in the rest of Europe – the blue CEE socket (230 V) is most common. Motorhome and caravan owners therefore need the same CEE cable as at home. The circuit breaker for each pitch is often lower than usual; using a kettle, hairdryer, and space heater simultaneously can quickly trip the breaker. Ask at reception about the amperage rating.
Will my USB charger fit into Italian sockets?
Most USB power adapters have a flat Europlug and fit directly. Many accommodations now also have USB ports in the wall sockets or by the bed.
