Telephone dialing codes: the international dialing code for Italy is +39.

The outgoing dialing code from Rome is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). All numbers need to be preceded by the digit 0, whether originating in Italy or out, unless calling a mobile phone.

There can be high surcharges on calls made from hotels. Check with the hotel first before dialing especially if it is an international call. It is generally cheaper to use a calling card. These phone cards can be bought from newsagents and tobacconists. Public telephone boxes take phone cards for local and international calls.

The local mobile phone operators use GSM networks and have roaming agreements with most international operators. Make sure that you phone your mobile phone service provider before you leave home and have an international roaming faciity added to your phone.

Internet cafes are available in the main towns and resorts, and some of these have a facility to make international calls for a fixed rate.

VOIP or voice over internet protocol is becoming more and more widely used. This allows a computer operator with a broadband connection to speak to another computer person free of charge or for very little cost.