In Italy there are different plug connections for electrical devices than in Germany. However, the mains voltage is also 220/230 volts alternating current. Type F and type L are used as sockets in Italy.
An adapter is required for "large" plugs
If you're bringing your hairdryer, baby bottle warmer, or other electrical devices with you, you'll usually need a plug adapter. The large, round Schuko plugs don't work in Italy. They're usually designed for slightly more powerful electrical devices, but the pins on German plugs are too thick.
In our luggage there is always this travel adapter from Tessan If you have a stopover in Switzerland, you can also use this.
Which plug fits where?
The German “narrow” plugs usually fit
The "narrow" plugs (Type C), such as those used for cell phone chargers or simple electrical devices, usually fit, but sit quite loosely in the socket. For this reason, Italian plugs have a third pin in the middle, which serves solely to "stability" in the socket.
our recommendation
To help you keep track of the wide range of travel plugs, we have selected three products from Amazon:
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 between the outer pins |
| Socket depth | About 15 mm | About 10 mm |
Benötige ich einen Adapter für meine Geräte in Italien? Für die meisten deutschen Geräte benötigen Sie einen Adapter in Italien. Eurostecker (die schmalen, runden Stecker ohne Erdung) passen allerdings in die meisten italienischen Steckdosen vom Typ C. Geräte mit Schukostecker (mit Erdung) benötigen in der Regel einen Adapter für italienische Typ L Steckdosen.
Welche Spannung hat das Stromnetz in Italien? In Italien beträgt die Netzspannung 230 Volt bei einer Frequenz von 50 Hz – genau wie in Deutschland. Daher benötigen Sie keinen Spannungswandler, sondern lediglich einen Steckdosenadapter.
Last updated: 30.06.2025
