About the CC - last trip we found that they have different CCs over there, each one has a chip in it, and the PIN they talk about works with the chip for that particular card. It's a totally different technology. Some banks here now offer the possibility of a chip and signature card, but they won't work over there. OTOH, most businesses in France and Italy could also take the mag-strip and signature cards we carry here (I think because Visa and MC require it) but some wouldn't. And we found that gas pumps and the metro required the chip-and-pin card for the unattended pay points or cash at the attended kiosks.

Have a great time, and I hope you worry less and enjoy much!