Using the currency exchange places at the airport is very expensive. When we went to Venice a few years ago, we exchanged a very small amount of money at the airport in Philadelphia - just enough to get us some cash on hand when we arrived in Venice. We actually found that exchanging money at our hotel front desk was the most economical way to do it. They had a very good exchange rate and did not charge a fee. Alternatively, as others have suggested, the best way to go is just use your debit card at an ATM. Make sure you call your bank in advance and advise them of your travel dates and where you will be. They will mark this on your account. You don't want to be on vacation in Italy and have your card shut down because of suspicious activity.