Using Credit and Debit Cards in Italy

One thing I didn't realize is that when you use a credit card overseas the credit card company charges a fee. I have 2 different credit cards and I called both to check on the fee. The first credit card, through my credit union, charges a 1% fee. That fee is the same if you are using credit or using an ATM machine. Of course the specific ATM will also charge a fee.

The second credit card, which is a Citibank card charges a 3% fee per transaction. Quite a difference between the two cards.

I let both credit card companies know the dates of my travel and asked them to email me if they had a concern with the card use.

I decided that I will take both cards, but only use the credit union card, unless it is stolen or lost or there is an emergency.