This may show up my ignorance; but as a US citizen do i need a visa to enter Italy? please I am now begining to worry that i waited too late to apply for one. Thanks

Stop your worrying. No visa is needed for US citizens entering Italy.

Patrick is correct..start getting other things in order.

thanks so much. you have put my mind at ease. I will get on to planning other stuff. thanks again

Wouldn't it depend on how long one was intending to stay and/or what sort of "moving on" proof one has with them (generally a return ticket)?

Most "tourists" will not stay anywhere near 90 days,maximum for Italy without a visa for US citizen....but if so it can be extended without much problem...as far as the "moving on" etc,the standard funds to sustain oneself and ticket for onward next destination restrictions apply.

Just be sure to get a visa in Italy for returning to the US.

I hope no one takes jsmith seriously.

Damn, I knew I shouldn't take seriously information I got from Mussolini in 1938.

shak,

Do you have a passport?

Shaquille is going to Italy??

Hope he's flying business or they will need a crane to get him out of the economy seat!

Ira- yes i have a passport, thanks.
BeachBoi- what do you mean by "the standard funds to sustain oneself...restrictions apply"? do i have to show the immigration officials my travelers checks/cash? please clarify for me.

shak, you won't have to show anyone at Immigration what is in your wallet. You will be asked why you are in Italy (vacation, business, to visit family/friends, etc.), where you are headed and how long you will be in Italy. All Immigration officers ask these questions no matter what country you are entering. What they don't want is for you to exile in their country and end up being on their public welfare system.