To call an Italian phone number from abroad, dial the international exit code (usually +), followed by Italy's country code 39, then the full Italian number including the area code or mobile prefix. The universal dialing sequence is: hold 0 until + appears, enter 39, then enter the complete Italian number and place the call.
How to call an Italian phone number from abroad
The correct dialing sequence for any Italian number from outside Italy is straightforward. Open your phone app and go to the keypad. Enter + by holding the 0 key until the plus sign appears. Then enter Italy's country code, 39. Finally, enter the full Italian number, including the area code for landlines or the network prefix for mobiles, and place the call. This method works on all phones and is the foundation of international calling codes and dialing.
Dialing an Italian landline number
Italian landline numbers consist of an area code (the "prefisso telefonico") followed by the subscriber's local number. Major cities have distinct area codes; for example, Rome's area code is 06. When calling from abroad, the format is +39 followed by the area code and the local number. For a landline in Rome, you would dial +39 06 XXXX XXXX, where "06" is the Rome area code and "XXXX XXXX" is the subscriber's unique number. The number should be entered as +39 plus the full local number, including the Italian area code as dialed for domestic calls. When dialing from within Italy to a landline, you simply dial the complete 10-digit number including the area code.
Dialing an Italian mobile number
Italian mobile numbers use network prefixes that identify the carrier, such as 3, 33, 34, 32, or 39. Italian mobile prefixes include 3, 33, 34, 32, and 39, each serving as an identifier for the respective network. The format from abroad is +39 followed by the network prefix and the subscriber's number. For example, a mobile number might appear as +39 3XX XXX XXXX, where "3XX" is the network prefix and "XXX XXXX" is the subscriber's individual digits. Use the same sequence as for landlines: +39 plus the mobile number. When dialing an Italian mobile from within Italy, dial the complete 10-digit number starting with the network prefix.
iPhone-specific steps
On an iPhone, open the Phone app and go to the Keypad. Touch and hold 0 until + appears, then enter 39 and the full Italian number. Tap Call to place the call. For automatic prefix handling, go to Settings → Phone → Dial Assist. On iPhone, Dial Assist is a GSM feature (not available on all carriers). This feature can automatically add the correct international or local prefix when you call contacts and favorites on supported iPhones with GSM carriers.
Android and other phone steps
On Android and other phones, use the cross-platform method: open the phone app and go to the keypad, enter + by holding 0, enter 39, then the full Italian number including area code or mobile prefix.
Tips for successful calls to Italy
Before calling, verify the dialing sequence to ensure you have the correct country code (+39), area code for landlines, and network prefix for mobiles. Be aware of time zone differences between your location and Italy to place calls at appropriate hours for the recipient. Confirm the contact details are accurate before dialing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I call an Italian phone number from the US?
Alternatively, dial + directly by holding 0 or the + key, then 39 and the number.
How do I call an Italian phone number from abroad?
If the Italian number is 0123456789, dial +39 0123456789.
What is the format of Italian phone numbers?
Italian phone numbers include the country code +39, followed by an area code (for landlines) or a network prefix (for mobiles), then the local subscriber number. Landline numbers have varying digit lengths depending on the area code.
Are there any special considerations when calling Italian mobile numbers?
No special considerations exist beyond the standard international dialing format. Use +39 followed by the mobile number, including its network prefix (3, 33, 34, 32, or 39). The same sequence applies as for landlines.
Can I use my regular phone plan to call Italy?
Check with your phone service provider for international calling rates and any additional charges. Some providers offer international calling plans that can reduce costs.
Are there alternative methods for making calls to Italy?
Yes, internet-based calling services such as VoIP apps offer cost-effective options for international calls to Italy by using your data connection instead of traditional phone lines.
For the wider topic, see international calling codes and dialing.
