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In Italy, the acceptance of Discover cards is not as ubiquitous as some other major credit cards. However, the landscape is changing, with more businesses embracing the In Rome, it is not as widely accepted as other credit cards. Many merchants, restaurants, and shops might not take Discover, primarily due to the card’s lower I hate to tell you but Discover is unfortunately not accepted throughout Europe. I chose my Discover card specifically for it’s no foreign transaction fee benefit for the trip I’m currently on Italy experiences moderate Discover acceptance, particularly in tourist-heavy locations such as Rome, Florence, and Venice. According to a 2025 survey by the Italian Visa and Mastercard are Italy’s most commonly accepted credit cards, but American Express and Discover cards can also be used, especially in tourist-hotspot areas. The short answer is NO. I tried Discover card in many places, but it was rarely accepted. In my memory, only UNIQLO Gae Aulenti in Milan accepted my Discover In spite of the people at discover telling you that it is widely accepted, it is not. I'm sitting here in Florence Italy right now kissing the Discover card people for telling me Discover card is not widely accepted in Italy. While some merchants may accept it, it is recommended to have an alternative payment method available.

Is Discover Accepted in Italy? What Travelers Need to Know

Planning a trip to Italy and wondering if your Discover card will work? The short answer is: acceptance of Discover cards in Italy is limited. While the landscape is changing, it's not as ubiquitous as Visa or Mastercard.

Discover Card Acceptance: A Mixed Bag

Many travelers have found that Discover is not widely accepted throughout Italy. In spite of what Discover might tell you, relying solely on your Discover card can lead to frustration. Experiences range from rarely accepted to occasional acceptance in specific locations.

I hate to tell you but Discover is unfortunately not accepted throughout Europe as widely as other cards. One traveler, in Florence Italy, expressed gratitude that Discover did not lead them to believe it was widely accepted. This highlights the importance of having backup payment options.

Where You Might Have Luck

Italy experiences moderate Discover acceptance, particularly in tourist-heavy locations such as Rome, Florence, and Venice. You'll have a slightly higher chance of using your Discover card in these areas.

According to a 2025 survey by the Italian Payment Association, Visa and Mastercard are Italy’s most commonly accepted credit cards. American Express and Discover cards can also be used, especially in tourist-hotspot areas, but don't rely on them.

One traveler reported success at UNIQLO Gae Aulenti in Milan, suggesting that larger international retailers might be more likely to accept Discover. However, this is not a guarantee.

The Reality on the Ground

In Rome, Discover card acceptance is lower than other major credit cards. Many merchants, restaurants, and shops might not take Discover, primarily due to the card’s lower penetration in the Italian market and merchant fees.

The short answer is NO. One traveler shared their experience of trying to use Discover in many places with little success.

I chose my Discover card specifically for its no foreign transaction fee benefit for the trip I’m currently on. This shows that many travelers are drawn to Discover for its benefits, but it’s crucial to understand its limitations in Italy.

Recommendation: Have a Backup Plan

While some merchants may accept Discover, it is strongly recommended to have an alternative payment method available. Visa and Mastercard are your best bets. Carrying cash is also a good idea, especially for smaller establishments or markets.

Don't be caught off guard – plan ahead and enjoy your trip to Italy with peace of mind knowing you have reliable payment options.

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