Italy Travel Advisory – Details, episodes & analysis

Listeners planning travel to Italy should be aware that November 2025 brings several important safety and logistics updates. Italy remains open to visitors, but travel disruptions are widely expected due to ongoing strikes impacting air traffic, trains, ferries, and local transport services in key cities such as Rome, Milan, and Palermo, according to reports from Travel and Tour World and FTN News. These strikes may result in delayed or canceled transportation, longer journey times, and require travelers to adjust their plans and allow extra time for transfers.

For those attending large events, the Jubilee 2025 is ongoing in Rome through January 6, 2026. The city is experiencing unprecedented crowds, public gatherings, heavier security presence, and possible traffic and movement disruptions. Italy also prepares to host the Milan Cortina Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games in early 2026, so listeners intending to visit northern Italy for winter sports should book accommodations and travel arrangements in advance.

Security advisories from multiple government sources, including the US State Department and the UK Foreign Office, recommend exercising increased caution due to a persistent risk of terrorism. Italian authorities maintain a public alert system, especially during major events and holiday periods. Targets may include government buildings, places of worship, transportation hubs, tourist attractions, restaurants, and public areas. Travelers are urged to stay alert, monitor local news, and avoid protests and large gatherings, as demonstrations have occurred recently, with alerts—the most recent demonstration occurred in Rome on November 7, 2025—issued by the US Embassy.

Travelers should also be vigilant against petty crime, which remains common in crowded tourist sites like the Colosseum, Vatican City, and train stations. Pickpocketing and theft are more common at night and during busy events. Listeners are advised to secure valuables, use anti-theft bags, utilize hotel safes, and watch for distractions in crowds.

For winter sports enthusiasts, a new law effective November 1, 2025, requires skiers, snowboarders, sledders, and tobogganers to wear CE-certified helmets at all ski resorts, regardless of age or activity. Failure to comply may result in fines up to €200 and suspension of ski passes. Third-party liability insurance is mandated and can be obtained with ski passes. Off-piste activity carries avalanche risks, and appropriate safety equipment is legally required.

Another operational update is the newly implemented European Entry/Exit System. All non-EU nationals—including Americans, Australians, and Canadians—must register biometrics, resulting in longer border queues.

Entry requirements remain generally stable: most visitors from the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and many other nations can travel to Italy visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism or business. Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date.

Health precautions include monitoring for tick-borne encephalitis if hiking or camping in forested areas during April to November, respecting beach warning flags and coastal conditions, and being cautious of strong currents and riptides.

Travel insurance is strongly recommended and, depending on the itinerary, may be mandatory for certain activities. Listeners should check their own government's latest advisories and register with their nearest embassy while abroad.

Italy remains a rewarding travel destination but requires increased planning and vigilance throughout late 2025. Be aware of strikes, crowds, security advisories, pickpocket risks, and new travel regulations to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.

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Italy currently welcomes visitors without covid-19 vaccination requirements, but international listeners should be aware that the United States Department of State issues a Level 2 travel advisory, urging increased caution due to risks of terrorism and petty crime as of May 23, 2025. Pickpocketing, bag-snatching, and theft from cars remain frequent in city centers, major tourist sites, and transport hubs. The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office specifically warns about drink spiking and theft near busy attractions, airports, train stations, and popular nightlife districts. Listeners are advised not to leave drinks unattended and to keep valuables secure at all times to avoid falling victim to distraction techniques and opportunistic thieves.

Rome is expected to be extremely busy due to Jubilee 2025, a significant religious event occurring from December 24, 2024, until January 6, 2026, with large crowds, public gatherings, traffic disruptions, and heightened security, especially around major sites and places of worship. Monitor local news and avoid public demonstrations or protests, as general strikes—some already planned through the end of the year—are increasingly disrupting train, metro, and airport services in Rome, Milan, Florence, Pisa, and other major cities, according to Euronews. Infrastructure maintenance strikes began on October 21, 2025, impacting trains at all levels and bus services.

The introduction of the European Union Entry/Exit System (EES) on October 12, 2025, means listeners who are non-EU nationals, including U.S., UK, Australian, and Canadian citizens, will have their fingerprints and photos taken at the border, potentially resulting in longer queues. Required documentation on entry includes a valid passport with at least three months’ validity and, if necessary, a visa according to nationality. Most tourists from the U.S., Canada, the UK, and Australia can visit for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa.

Driving in Italy can be hazardous due to congestion, narrow streets, unpredictable driver behavior, and poorly maintained rural roads. Pedestrian safety in cities requires vigilance, and there are fines for not using marked crossings. Travelers intending to drive must respect local regulations, including ZTL (limited traffic zones) passes for city centers and congestion charges, especially in Milan and Rome. During winter, skiers, snowboarders, and tobogganers must wear CE-certified helmets at all ski resorts from November 1, 2025, with third-party liability insurance mandatory. Off-piste activity requires appropriate safety equipment due to avalanche risks.

The EU Entry/Exit System may slow border crossings, while increased police and military presence, especially in tourist areas and during major events, is normal. The threat of terrorism remains present across Europe, and visitors should stay alert in government buildings, transportation hubs, busy public areas, and places of worship, particularly during holidays and large gatherings.

Listeners planning water activities should heed safety warnings, avoid swimming in poor weather, and not dive in unfamiliar waters due to risks of riptides, rockfalls, and hidden dangers. Italian coastal waters, especially near Corsica, Sardinia, and Sicily, can be daunting for navigation because of strong currents and unpredictable weather.

Travel insurance covering medical emergencies, theft, and sports activities is strongly recommended, as is registering with one's own embassy for up-to-date advisories. For any emergency within Italy, call 112 for assistance, 113 for police, 115 for fire and rescue, or 118 for medical emergencies.

In summary, Italy remains a wonderful destination, but listeners should exercise increased caution, monitor current events, and prepare for travel disruptions and heightened security, especially in Rome during Jubilee 2025 and ongoing strike actions affecting transport throughout the country.

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Listeners considering travel to Italy should be aware that as of August 2025, there are several important advisories and recent developments to keep in mind for a safe and informed trip. Due to the 2025 Jubilee, an event bringing millions of extra visitors to Rome and Italy, security measures have been significantly heightened throughout the country. This means there will be a noticeably increased presence of police, law enforcement, and even military personnel, especially in and around Rome. Italian authorities and travel experts stress that all visitors must carry their original passports at all times, as enforcement of identification checks will be stricter than in previous years. Using only a photocopy or image of your passport is unlikely to be accepted, and not having your original document could result in fines or other penalties.

The U.S. Department of State currently advises travelers to exercise increased caution when visiting Italy, primarily due to the risk of terrorism and common petty crimes such as pickpocketing, especially in crowded city centers, at major tourist attractions, and on public transportation. According to The Street and the U.S. State Department, threats include potential terrorist activity at hotels, clubs, restaurants, public transportation hubs, shopping centers, parks, and during cultural events. Attacks may occur with little or no warning, so staying vigilant in crowded areas is essential.

Criminal activity, while generally not violent, frequently targets tourists in large urban centers like Rome, Milan, Florence, and Naples. Petty theft, like pickpocketing and bag snatching, is common in train stations, on public transit, and at popular attractions such as the Colosseum and Vatican. Thieves may use distractions as a tactic and often operate in teams. Travelers should use anti-theft bags, keep valuables secure and out of sight, and avoid carrying large sums of cash or all important documents together. The UK Foreign Office further warns about scams targeting drivers, including staged breakdowns and requests for help, so it’s advisable not to stop for strangers on the roadside.

Be especially cautious on beaches and in coastal waters, as waves and riptides can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak seasons. Always heed lifeguard advice and warning flags. When boating, make sure the vessel is well-maintained and properly equipped with safety gear, and avoid overloaded boats.

For those renting cars, note that driving habits in Italy can be unpredictable, with aggressive driving, frequent speeding, and improper passing not uncommon, especially by motorcycles and scooters. Roads in the countryside and mountainous regions may be narrow, winding, and occasionally affected by landslides or rockfalls. Parking theft is a risk, particularly in tourist hotspots and motorway service areas, so avoid leaving valuables in your vehicle.

Travel insurance is strongly recommended, as U.S. healthcare plans like Medicare and Medicaid do not provide coverage abroad. Comprehensive insurance should include medical coverage and protection against theft and loss. While there are currently no specific vaccination requirements for visitors to Italy, being up to date on standard immunizations is advised.

Looking ahead, beginning in late 2026, travelers from visa-waiver countries such as the U.S. will need to obtain an ETIAS travel authorization before entering Italy, but this is not yet in effect during 2025.

Listeners should consult their country’s embassy or consular services, check for real-time travel advisories, and stay updated on regulations that may evolve, especially during the Jubilee year with its exceptional security protocols and large crowds. Remaining vigilant and well-prepared will help ensure both safety and enjoyment during your Italian visit.

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Listeners planning to travel to Italy in August 2025 should know the US State Department raised its travel advisory for Italy to Level 2, meaning travelers are urged to exercise increased caution due to potential terrorism threats, especially with large crowds expected for the Jubilee 2025. This marks a change from previous years when Italy held the lowest risk rating, and it aligns with advisories now common for other major European countries.

Government statements specifically warn that terrorist violence and activity remain a risk and note that attacks can occur with little or no warning. Popular tourist attractions like the Colosseum, Vatican City, and Venice will see heightened vigilance, and visitors are advised to stay alert in busy public places, including hotels, shopping centers, churches, government buildings, sports venues, and public transport. The US State Department recommends enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program for embassy alerts and preparing emergency contingency plans before departure.

During Jubilee 2025, increased security will be visible throughout Italy. According to communications with Italian officials and the Italian Embassy, enforcement of passport regulations is stricter than previous years. Listeners must carry original passports at all times, as copies may not suffice and non-compliance could result in fines or other penalties. Anti-theft options for securing travel documents are strongly advised.

Petty crime is another prime concern, particularly in city centers and major tourist areas; pickpocketing and bag snatching are frequent. The UK government highlights that crime levels overall are low, but visitors should keep sight of belongings, avoid carrying all valuables together, and beware of distraction techniques commonly used by thieves. Extra care is needed in crowded locations, such as trains and public transport, especially at key stations like Rome’s Termini and during luggage unloading at coaches and cruise ships. Do not leave baggage unattended in vehicles, as theft from parked cars occurs in cities and at motorways.

Travelers should also be cautious with personal safety during beach and boating activities. Hidden rock formations, riptides, and sudden weather changes can pose risks at Italian beaches, especially during fall and winter. When boating, ensure vessels are not overloaded and that life jackets and emergency location devices are available.

Road conditions in Italy are generally good near major cities, but rural and mountainous areas may have poor maintenance, winding streets, or encounter seasonal hazards such as avalanches or landslides. Drivers—particularly those riding motorcycles and scooters—may disregard traffic rules, and speeding is common, so defensive driving is necessary and hitchhiking is not recommended.

To finish, eligibility for entry requires a passport with at least three months’ validity. U.S. citizens may stay for up to 90 days for tourism or business without a visa, but rules vary based on purpose and nationality. Always check for the latest updates from airlines and your own government’s travel portal.

Listeners should remain vigilant when visiting Italy this year, closely monitor local news, follow government guidance, and stay flexible with travel plans as security and procedures adjust to the increased visitor influx and evolving risks.

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Listeners planning travel to Italy should be aware that the U.S. State Department raised its travel advisory for Italy to Level 2 as of May 23, 2025, urging people to exercise increased caution due to terrorism concerns. This means visitors are advised to be especially vigilant in crowded places like tourist attractions, churches, shopping centers, hotels, government buildings, and sports venues. The updated warning reflects ongoing risks across much of Western Europe, not just Italy, and comes during a surge of travelers for the Jubilee 2025 celebration, which is expected to bring about 35 million visitors to Rome alone this year according to the US State Department and travel news reporting.

While there were no major terrorist incidents in Italy during the past two years, authorities continue to be proactive, having made recent arrests for terror-related activities, often in cooperation with international agencies such as the FBI. Italians and tourists alike will notice significantly heightened security throughout the Jubilee period, with an increased presence of police and military personnel, especially in Rome and at major religious and cultural sites as confirmed by advisories referenced in Rick Steves’ travel forums and various government sources.

Travelers should exercise a high degree of caution not just because of security threats but also due to higher rates of petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag-snatching, especially in city centers, crowded transport hubs like Rome’s Termini station, and famous sites such as the Colosseum and Venice's landmarks. The UK government warns that distraction techniques are commonly used by thieves, so listeners are advised to keep valuables secure, avoid carrying too much cash, and never leave bags unattended, particularly on public transportation and when arriving or departing from airports and train stations. There is also a risk of thieves targeting parked cars in urban centers and tourist areas such as Pisa and Ostia; avoid leaving valuables in vehicles.

With rigorous enforcement of passport regulations during the Jubilee, all travelers must carry their original passports with them at all times. Officials are unlikely to accept copies, and failure to produce the original document if requested can result in fines or other penalties as discussed by frequent Italy travelers and confirmed by government advisories.

For those planning to drive, Italian road conditions can vary. City streets are often narrow and congested, signage may be inadequate, and driving habits among locals sometimes disregard traffic laws, especially with motorcycles and scooters weaving through cars and even riding on sidewalks. Roads in rural or mountainous areas may be poorly maintained and subject to closures from landslides or avalanches. Defensive driving and advance planning for less-developed areas are strongly recommended by travel authorities and embassies.

When participating in water activities, especially during fall and winter, travelers should respect local warnings, as unpredictable waves and strong riptides are dangerous. Beach and boating safety standards vary; always check with operators about safety measures and carry appropriate personal safety equipment.

Lastly, always monitor local news, avoid large gatherings or protests, and consider enrolling in travel alert programs such as the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program for updates from embassies. Listeners should confirm all entry requirements including minimum passport validity and possible visa needs according to their nationality. For the most up-to-date travel protocols, especially if passing through other countries en route to Italy, always check with airlines and official government travel sites before departure.

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Listeners interested in traveling to Italy in August 2025 should be aware that Italy remains under a Level 2 Travel Advisory from the U.S. Department of State, which means travelers are urged to exercise increased caution. This is largely due to risks such as terrorism and petty crime, with thefts like pickpocketing and bag-snatching commonly reported in major cities and tourist destinations. The UK government and other international agencies also point out that city centers, especially Rome’s Termini Station and main attractions in cities like Milan and Pisa, see higher rates of these crimes. Thieves frequently use distraction tactics or operate on crowded public transport and in busy tourist areas. Extra caution is recommended with your personal belongings and when using public transportation or visiting crowded places.

A major highlight for 2025 is the Jubilee Holy Year in Rome, running from December 2024 to January 2026. This event is expected to bring millions of additional visitors, especially to Rome, significantly increasing congestion at key sites. Due to the Jubilee, travelers should prepare for heightened security measures, including a much greater presence of police, military, and other law enforcement in Rome and major transportation hubs. According to information shared by Rick Steves Travel Forum and UK government advice, strict enforcement of passport regulations is in effect during the Jubilee. All travelers—especially non-EU visitors—must carry their original passports at all times, as copies or digital versions are not likely to be accepted. Failure to comply can result in fines or being denied entry to certain venues. Anti-theft passport carriers are recommended for comfort and security.

In 2025, new EU-wide biometric entry and exit checks were introduced. Citizens of countries outside the EU and Schengen area, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and the UK, will now be required to submit biometric data, including fingerprints and facial images, when entering or leaving Italy. Entry requirements currently stipulate that your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay. For most travelers from the USA, UK, Australia, and the EU, no visa is required for stays under 90 days, but always check the latest requirements for your citizenship.

For road travel, conditions are generally good around major cities, but rural or mountainous routes may be narrow, poorly maintained, or affected by landslides, especially following heavy rain. Italian drivers can be aggressive, and traffic laws, especially for scooters and motorcycles, are not always observed. Exercise defensive driving if you plan to rent a car. On the coast and in the mountains, heed local safety advice, particularly regarding beach swimming, boating, and the risk of sudden weather changes or erosion.

Travelers should also be alert to risks of drink spiking and avoid taking drinks from strangers or leaving beverages unattended in bars and clubs. The UK government has reported incidents where travelers have been robbed or assaulted after consuming spiked drinks.

Finally, Italy is considered a stable and safe destination for tourists. However, travelers should remain vigilant about their belongings, check for updated advisories before travel, secure appropriate travel insurance, and follow all instructions from local authorities, particularly during large-scale events like the 2025 Jubilee in Rome.

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Listeners planning to travel to Italy in August 2025 should be aware that Rome and other major cities are experiencing high visitor numbers due to the ongoing Jubilee of Youth, a major religious celebration continuing until January 2026. The UK’s Foreign Travel Advice notes that the city is particularly busy from July 28 to August 3 due to special Jubilee events, and heightened security measures are in place throughout the remainder of 2025. This includes a notable increase in police and military presence across major tourist sites. Italian authorities are strictly enforcing identification regulations, requiring travelers to carry their original passports at all times; copies will not be accepted and non-compliance could result in fines or other penalties.

Travelers do not need proof of COVID-19 vaccination to enter Italy as of August 2025. Most visitors from the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and the European Union can travel visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. However, passports must have at least three months’ validity beyond the intended departure date. Those entering or leaving the European Union will be subject to new biometric checks, including fingerprints and facial photographs.

Health advisories include recommendations to consult healthcare professionals at least eight weeks before travel for advice about mosquito-borne diseases such as West Nile virus, dengue, and chikungunya. The U.S. CDC reports that measles continues to be a risk when visiting Italy.

Crime levels are generally low, but petty theft and pickpocketing are common in city centers and at crowded tourist attractions, especially in Rome, Milan, Pisa, and at cruise ports. Guidance from both the UK and U.S. governments urges visitors to remain vigilant, keep belongings secure at all times, and never leave food or drinks unattended due to incidents of drink spiking. Stronger measures around transport security are highlighted, particularly on trains to and from airports and at central stations such as Rome’s Termini. Theft from parked cars, especially in tourist hotspots and coastal areas, is also a concern. Use hotel safes for valuables and avoid leaving luggage in vehicles, even briefly.

Road and driving conditions vary across Italy, with congestion and aggressive driving—especially from motorcycles and scooters—frequently reported in urban areas. Mountain roads can be narrow and hazardous due to landslides or avalanches. Recent travel reports confirm there are no major strikes affecting transportation in August 2025, but listeners should still be prepared for delays and potential closures due to special events and routine disruptions.

If planning water activities, pay attention to official warnings and weather conditions, as unpredictable riptides and rough sea conditions are common. When boating, ensure the operator follows established safety standards and all passengers have access to life jackets.

Travel insurance covering medical treatment and possible evacuation is strongly advised, especially for those with pre-existing health conditions or who are pregnant.

In summary, while Italy remains a sought-after travel destination, listeners are urged to plan carefully, stay updated on event schedules—particularly during the Jubilee year—comply with all local regulations regarding identification and transport, and take standard safety and health precautions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

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Listeners planning a trip to Italy should be aware that 2025 is a historic and very busy travel year, especially in Rome, with the Jubilee of Youth taking place from July 28 to August 3 as part of a broader Holy Year celebration that runs through January 6, 2026. Government advisories, including those from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and the Canadian government, are emphasizing higher security measures in anticipation of huge crowds and a significant influx of international visitors. You can expect a visible increase in police, military, and law enforcement, especially in Rome, with security presence at religious sites, tourist hotspots, and public transport hubs. Travelers should exercise a high degree of caution during this period according to both the Canadian and US government advisories, mainly due to the persistent threat of terrorism and increased opportunity for petty crime.

Travelers are advised to remain vigilant, particularly in city centers, at major attractions, public transport stations such as Termini in Rome, and in crowded places where pickpockets and bag-snatchers are active. The UK government emphasizes the importance of keeping valuables—including passports—secure and out of sight, and warns that stolen passports cannot be replaced with just a police report; you cannot leave the country without a valid passport. The US State Department’s updated advisory continues to maintain Italy at a “Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution” risk tier due to isolated risk of terrorist activity and the current security environment, particularly in large metropolitan areas like Rome. The State Department recommends monitoring local news and being ready to adjust plans if conditions change suddenly.

Due to the 2025 Jubilee, enforcement of passport regulations is very strict. Listeners are told to always carry their original passport, not just a copy, as authorities are unlikely to accept copies this year. Failure to carry your passport could result in fines or other penalties. Protect your passport with anti-theft options like a secure money belt or pouch. For Americans and many other nationalities, no visa is needed for tourist visits under 90 days, but your passport must have at least three months' validity beyond your planned departure from the Schengen area.

Health standards are high, but always check if you require any specific travel or health insurance for your trip, as recommended by the UK and Australian government advisories. It is smart to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, unexpected trip changes, and theft or loss, especially given the large crowds and heightened risks during this special event period.

If driving, listeners should remain cautious as driving behaviors can be unpredictable, especially with motorcycles and scooters in urban traffic. Rural and mountainous roads may have poor signage, and road conditions can vary. In case you are considering water activities, respect warning flags and weather forecasts, as coastal waters and straits can be unexpectedly dangerous due to strong currents and winds. Take particular care if boating between Sicily and the mainland, or in the Strait of Bonifacio.

Alcoholic drinks served in Italian bars are often stronger than those in some other countries, and there have been incidents of drink spiking leading to theft or assault. Never accept drinks from strangers, and keep your drink in sight at all times.

Finally, for up-to-date local conditions, official advisories urge travelers to register with their country’s embassy, follow local news, and remain flexible in case sudden changes demand a rapid shift in itinerary. With record crowds, increased police presence, and a heightened focus on public safety, a well-prepared trip to Italy in 2025 can still be both safe and memorable.

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Listeners considering travel to Italy in July 2025 should be aware of updated safety guidance and take several important precautions due to recent advisories, heightened security, and ongoing events. The U.S. State Department has raised its travel advisory for Italy to Level 2, meaning travelers are urged to exercise increased caution, chiefly due to potential terrorism threats coinciding with a major influx of visitors for the 2025 Jubilee in Rome. According to Travel Noire, authorities recommend remaining especially vigilant near popular attractions like the Colosseum, Vatican City, and the canals of Venice and to prepare for increased police and security presence, particularly in Rome and other pilgrimage sites.

Heightened security is in place throughout Italy for the duration of the Jubilee year, which runs until January 2026. The city of Rome will be exceptionally busy, especially during key events such as the Jubilee of Youth from 28 July to 3 August, when crowd sizes and police deployment will be at their highest. Authorities are strictly enforcing travel documentation rules—travelers must carry their original passports at all times, and failure to do so can result in fines or other penalties, as highlighted by the Rick Steves Travel Forum and British government advice.

While crime rates in Italy are generally low, petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag-snatching is common in crowded areas, major city centers, and at tourist hotspots. The UK Foreign Office and Government of Canada both warn to keep a close eye on your belongings, be wary of distraction techniques employed by thieves, and avoid carrying all valuables together. Thieves often target tourists on public transport, at train stations—particularly Termini in Rome—as well as at port and airport links and in the vicinity of big attractions. Car thefts are also reported in Rome, Milan, Pisa, coastal areas, and at motorway service stations. Do not leave valuables in parked cars, and be cautious of scams or individuals attempting to distract or stop you while driving.

Road safety varies, with urban congestion, limited signage, and aggressive driving habits, particularly among motorcycles and scooters, requiring defensive driving. In mountainous or rural regions, roads may be poorly maintained and subject to closures from avalanches or landslides.

If you plan to swim or take part in water activities, heed local warnings at beaches and avoid risky areas during poor weather as coastal waters can be hazardous. For boating, especially in straits like Bonifacio and Messina, check vessel safety and consider carrying emergency communication equipment.

Listeners should check that passports have at least three months’ validity beyond their planned departure date from the Schengen area, though six months’ validity is recommended. Those entering Italy from countries subject to visa regulations must secure a valid visa before departure. To stay informed, travelers are encouraged to enroll in their home country’s embassy alert services.

Given the scale of international events and ongoing security concerns, authorities urge all travelers to register with their embassy, follow local news, remain flexible in travel plans, obtain comprehensive travel insurance, and avoid protests or large gatherings. Standard travel advisories stress vigilance in crowded spaces, careful safeguarding of documents, and routine awareness of evolving local conditions.

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Listeners considering travel to Italy in July 2025 should be aware of heightened security and recent advisories related to several factors impacting both safety and the travel experience this year. With the Jubilee 2025 or Holy Year underway in Rome—a major religious event taking place from December 24, 2024, to January 6, 2026—visitor numbers have surged sharply, especially around major celebrations such as the Jubilee of Youth from July 28 to August 3, 2025. According to the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, this influx is leading to crowded public spaces, significant demand for hotel accommodation, potential traffic disruptions, and a corresponding elevation in petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag-snatching, particularly in congested areas, public transport hubs, and tourist hotspots.

Italy continues to be rated at the second level on the four-tier travel advisory scale used by the United States and Canada, falling under “exercise increased caution.” This is similar to other major European destinations like France and the United Kingdom, and primarily reflects concerns about the risk of terrorism in crowded places. On May 23, 2025, the U.S. State Department issued an updated warning that cites the risk of terrorist violence, naming hotels, clubs, restaurants, transportation, shopping centers, parks, and cultural events as locations that could potentially be targeted in attacks with little or no warning. Travelers are encouraged to remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings, particularly during large public gatherings and major events.

Travel safety authorities including Smartraveller and the UK government recommend avoiding protests or political gatherings, as these can be unpredictable and occasionally volatile. Crowds in Rome are expected to be especially dense due to the Jubilee, which has also prompted Italian officials to amplify police, law enforcement, and military presence throughout the city for the remainder of 2025. Passports and identification requirements are being more strictly enforced—listeners must keep their original passports on their person at all times, as copies are no longer generally accepted. Losing your passport could create significant complications, as a police report will not allow departure from Italy if your original is missing.

Other key precautions include not leaving valuables in vehicles, especially in high-theft areas like Rome near the Colosseum, Ostia, Milan, and Pisa, and to use hotel safes where possible. Thieves may use distraction tactics or even fake car trouble to target tourists. On public transportation, especially trains to and from airports and metro or bus stations such as Rome’s Termini, exercise caution with belongings. Drink spiking has been reported, so keep drinks in sight and never leave them unattended.

Road conditions in Italy are generally good in urban centers, but be aware that rural areas or mountainous regions can have poorly maintained, winding, and sometimes dangerous roads. Traffic congestion is common, signage may be unclear, and driving habits, especially among motorcycles and scooters, can be unpredictable. Meanwhile, travelers participating in water activities should pay attention to weather warnings and local guidance, as coastal waters, especially in places like the Strait of Messina or Strait of Bonifacio, can be hazardous due to strong currents and unpredictable weather shifts.

Basic entry requirements to Italy include holding a passport valid for at least three months beyond your planned date of departure and, for some travelers, a valid visa. As protocols can change quickly, listeners should check the latest advisories on their government travel sites or contact the Italian embassy before departure, and verify airline-specific requirements.

With the increased tourist crowds, enhanced security, and the ongoing risk landscape, listeners should secure comprehensive travel insurance, remain vigilant in public and crowded settings, and keep up to date with the latest advisories throughout their trip.

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