Living Expenses – FAQ
How much does it cost living in Florence?
As an average, the monthly living expenses are about Euro 800, accommodation excluded. The actual cost depends on each student life style.
* Please note that abrupt changes in the Euro exchange rate occur frequently, thus the above-mentioned figures are only approximate.
Post information
During Italian holidays periods (Christmas, New Year’s Eve, Easter, summer vacations), delays in the postal shipping might occur. Moreover, please note that due to customs procedure, even express shipping by your own country may be subject to delays. We strongly suggest limiting your luggage and buying what you need directly once you arrive in Italy.
How to make phone calls
When you call Italy from abroad, first of all dial the international country code 0039 plus the area code (it varies according to the city you are calling).
Is it possible to have a mobile phone in Italy?
It is possible to purchase a prepaid mobile phone and a SIM card, showing your passport. Each cell phone provider has numerous rate packages for voice, messaging, and data. For practical details, please check directly upon your arrival in Italy.
About the Internet connection
The availability of telephone lines and Internet connection depends on each apartment. The number of students using Internet Points and Cafes is recently increasing. In alternative, it could be useful to purchase a USB terminal from a mobile phone company (called “chiavetta” in Italian). Within Accademia Riaci WIFI connection is available.
Using the computer in Italy
The software used at Accademia Riaci is only in Italian. If you prefer to use software in your native language, please bring your own laptop. Also for students who attend Design classes we recommend to bring with them their computers.
Electricity and voltage
Electricity in Italy, as in the rest of Europe, comes out of the wall socket at 220 volts alternating at a 50 cycles per second. Note that there are cases when it comes out at 125 volts. Not only the voltages and frequencies, but also the sockets themselves are different. Plug in Italy is C type.
In some flats, plug adapters are required. Travel-type iron, dryer and water heater can be useful since there is no need to purchase a transformer.
How to carry money to Italy
It is recommended that you bring a credit card and enough cash for the first 2 days. In addition, international cash cards that can be used in Italy are very convenient.
Is there anything I should bring from home?
It can be useful to bring with you those things that you will not easily find everywhere, such as a dictionary, guidebook, transformers, power conversion plug, medicines, etc. In Italy is cheaper to purchase electrical products, such as dryer.
Public safety in Italy
While you’re unlikely to be a victim of violent crime in Italy, when traveling in tourist areas in big cities you may be a target for pickpockets or purse-snatchers. Use the same common sense you would use in a big city anywhere in the world. Always be aware of your surroundings and don’t put your purse, or camera where someone could snatch it.
