Italy ... Public Telephone Tips
Like many Italian services, the public telephones may seem like a complete
mystery to the first time user. They have changed so frequently over the years
that whenever I return to Italy I expect to find a new system. Currently most
public telephones are operated using a prepaid calling card (scheda telefonica).
Supposedly they can be operated using coins, but this never seems to work
for me. I strongly recommend purchasing a calling card as soon as you arrive
in Italy and keeping it in your wallet--just in case.
Calling cards come in 5 and 10 Euro values. They can be purchased at a Tabacchi
store (look for a sign with a big blue T), a café or sometimes a newspaper
stand.
Step by step:
- Before using the card, tear off the scored corner.
- Insert the card
into the opening on the phone.
- Once inserted, the amount that
is still available on the card will appear on a small
digital screen. As you talk, the amount will decrease so you can keep track
of the time you have left.
- Dial the number.
- Good luck!
