In Italy, it is not possible to buy Bitcoin from tobacconists. In other countries in the world, yes. The growing popularity of Bitcoin, probably induced by the imminent halving, is driving even non-experts to buy and look for even the simplest methods to do so.
Unfortunately, however, going to the tobacconist and making a cash transaction for Bitcoin at the moment is a utopia, at least in Italy. However, there are other ways to buy Bitcoin quickly and safely.
Such is the case with Bitcoin ATMs. These devices are very similar to ATMs, where with a few simple steps it is possible to open a wallet (or insert one of your own) and make a Bitcoin purchase by paying in cash.
CoinATMRadar provides a list of Bitcoin ATMs scattered throughout Italy. The list is quite updated, showing the 10 locations in Rome and Milan and also one of the most recent ones installed in Genoa.
In France, Bitcoin can be bought from tobacconists
While in Italy this is not possible, France, on the other hand, is at the forefront when it comes to buying Bitcoin directly from tobacconists.
The company Keplerk has in fact made available cards that can be bought directly from tobacconists, worth 50, 100 and 250 euros. By buying the cards, very similar to telephone top-ups, it is possible to open a wallet (or use an existing one) on Keplerk and deposit the correspondent in Bitcoin. With this initiative, Keplerk has practically made available the purchase of Bitcoin in over 5,200 tobacconists scattered throughout the country.
Sadly at present, this initiative does not seem to have been extended to other countries as well.
Other ways to buy Bitcoin
For those who were overwhelmed by FOMO (Fear of Missing Out), there are other ways to buy Bitcoin, suitable also for beginners, such as exchanges. Among the most used in the world, there are Coinbase and Binance, but the alternatives are not lacking.
However, it is always worth taking a look at the fees. In addition, it is advisable to keep in mind the high volatility of Bitcoin: those who choose to invest in this sector must be aware of the possibility of high gains and the risk of equally severe losses.
