Changing pounds to euros for your holiday: 5 things you need to know

Planning a holiday in Italy? From sipping cappuccinos in Rome to exploring the canals of Venice or the beaches of Sicily, one thing is essential: having euros in your pocket. Before you go, let’s take a closer look at the smartest way to exchange your pounds to euros.

In this article, you’ll find five key tips to help you convert your currency easily, securely and cost-effectively — and discover how Forexchange can support every step of your Italian journey.

1. Book your currency exchange online before departure

Waiting until the last minute to exchange money can result in higher costs and limited options. Local exchanges may offer less favourable rates or additional fees. With Forexchange, you can book your currency exchange online before you travel. This allows you to:

• Secure a better exchange rate
• Avoid extra commissions
• Choose a convenient pick-up location
• Skip queues on arrival

It’s a simple and reliable way to ensure you start your holiday with peace of mind and cash in hand. Book your currency exchange now.

2. Collect your euros at your convenience

Forexchange has locations across Italy in all the key spots: international airports, central train stations and city centres in major tourist destinations.
Whether you’re landing in Rome, Venice, Milan, or Florence, you’ll find a Forexchange branch nearby. You can pick up your pre-booked euros at:

• Rome Fiumicino Airport
• Milan Malpensa and Linate Airports
• Venice Santa Lucia Station
• Rome Termini Station
• Florence Santa Maria Novella Station
• Pisa Airport, Verona, Naples, Bologna and more

During the online booking, you simply select the most convenient branch and collect your cash on arrival.

3. Carry some euros — not everything is contactless

While Italy is becoming increasingly card-friendly, many smaller businesses still prefer or accept only cash, especially in rural towns, at local markets, or beachside kiosks. Having cash on hand allows you to enjoy local experiences without interruption — whether it’s grabbing a coffee at a traditional bar or tipping a tour guide. When using a card abroad, always choose to be charged in the local currency (euros) rather than pounds. This helps avoid poor exchange rates imposed by your bank.

4. Stay flexible and manage your travel budget

One of the benefits of Forexchange’s service is the flexibility. You don’t need to exchange your full budget in one go. You can start with a comfortable amount and, if needed, top up later at any Forexchange location during your stay in Italy.

This helps you track your spending more easily and adjust as you go — particularly useful for those planning budget trips or sticking to a daily budget.

If you’re wondering where to go on a budget-friendly holiday, Italy offers great value when planned smartly. Scenic train rides, local trattorias, free walking tours and beach days make it possible to enjoy the country without overspending.

5. More than just currency exchange: discover all Forexchange services

Forexchange is more than a currency exchange provider. It offers a full suite of services designed for travellers visiting Italy.

• Travel eSim: Avoid roaming charges with an international eSim. It’s a digital, easy-to-use option for staying connected throughout Italy. Find your travel eSim.
• Audio guides for Italian cities: Discover Rome, Florence and Venice at your own pace with downloadable English audioguides. Discover audio guides.
• Guided tours and experiences: From skip-the-line tickets at the Vatican to food tours in Trastevere, Forexchange offers curated experiences across Italy. Explore the Experiences.
• Travel insurance: Protect your trip against medical emergencies, cancellations, or delays with tailor-made insurance plans. Get covered.
• Tax refund assistance: Non-EU residents can claim VAT refunds on purchases made in Italy. Forexchange offers fast, multilingual support to simplify the process. Read about tax refunds.
• Western Union money transfers: Send or receive funds easily through Forexchange’s trusted Western Union service — ideal for covering unexpected expenses while abroad.

Travel smart with Forexchange

Changing pounds to euros doesn’t have to be complicated. With Forexchange, you can plan ahead, save money and enjoy Italy stress-free. From airport currency pick-up to travel services that enhance your trip, Forexchange is your reliable partner every step of the way.
Book your currency exchange now and discover all Forexchange services!