Italy offers a diverse range of television and radio options that cater to both local and international audiences. This guide provides expats with detailed insights into navigating the Italian broadcasting landscape, including important information on licensing, channel offerings, and digital streaming solutions.
Introduction to Italian Broadcasting
Television and radio in Italy underwent a significant transformation with the transition to digital broadcasting in 2012. This shift enhanced the quality of broadcast and increased the number of accessible channels. Here, we explore the essentials of setting up and enjoying TV and radio in Italy.
Obtaining an Italian TV License
In Italy, all households with a television are required to pay an annual TV license fee, known as Canone Rai. This fee finances public broadcasting services. The fee, approximately €90 per year as of 2022, is conveniently charged through electricity bills, spreading the cost across several months.
Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) in Italy
Most modern TVs in Italy come equipped with built-in digital decoders. However, older TV models may require an external DTT decoder to access digital channels. These decoders, also known as set-top boxes, are readily available in electronics stores across Italy.
National and Regional TV Channels
Italy has an extensive selection of both national and regional TV channels:
- National Channels: Major broadcasters include RAI, Mediaset, and Discovery Italia. These networks offer a variety of channels catering to news, sports, entertainment, and more.
- Regional Channels: Regional channels provide local content which can be particularly engaging for those wanting to connect with their new community. Channels vary by region and are a great resource for local news and events.
International and English-language Channels
Expatriates looking for international or English-speaking media are not left out. Satellite services like Tivùsat and Sky Italia offer access to a range of international channels including BBC World News, CNN, and others.
Italian Satellite and Cable TV
For those seeking broader media options, satellite and cable services such as Sky Italia provide expansive channel packages that include sports, movies, and international content. Subscription fees vary, with comprehensive packages costing more.
Streaming Services in Italy
Digital streaming has revolutionized media consumption worldwide, and Italy is no exception. Services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and local options like TIMVISION offer extensive libraries of on-demand content accessible via the internet.
Using VPNs for Accessing Restricted Content
Expatriates may also use VPN services to access content from their home countries or secure their internet connection. Popular VPN providers in Italy include NordVPN and ExpressVPN.
Radio in Italy
Italian radio offers a mix of music, news, and talk shows. Major national stations include Rai Radio 1 and RTL 102.5, alongside numerous regional stations that provide community-specific programming.