Italy

Italy

Use Normal Level of Caution

The Italian Republic is located in southern Europe on the Italian Peninsula and borders Switzerland, France, Austria and Slovenia in the north. Italy has many islands, including the two largest islands in the Mediterranean Sea, Sicily and Sardinia.The population of Italy is approximately 61 million.

The government is a republic with a president as chief of state and a prime minister as head of government.

Italy is a founding member of the European Union, is the world's eighteenth most-developed country, and enjoys a very high standard of living. Italians have a high public education level and a highly educated labor force.

This country is the world's fifth most visited country. Italy is known for fashion, art and culture and as the birthplace of the Renaissance. Rome was the capital of the Roman Empire and ancient Roman ruins are throughout the city. There are more UNESCO World Heritage Sites in this country that any other.

Currency EUR: Euro
Language Italian
Capital Rome
Recent Alerts 11
Latest Alert July 22, 2021 - National Strikes by UNICA, UGL-TA, Local Strikes on 26 July - Italy

Diseases To Be Aware Of

The diseases listed below are those which occur most often in Italy. Other, less frequently encountered diseases might be displayed within the Travel Alerts section if they have occurred recently.

Tick-Borne Encephalitis

There is a low risk of this infection in some areas of the country below 1,400 meters. A small number of cases have been identified around the cites of Florence, Trento and Belluno, and the Friuli Venezia Giulia region. The transmission season varies, however, ticks are most active during early spring to late autumn (March to November).

West Nile Fever

Outbreaks of West Nile virus have occurred.

Hepatitis A

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this country.

Hepatitis B

There is a risk of hepatitis B in this country.

Rabies

Rabies may be present in bats in Italy.

Chikungunya Fever

There have been outbreaks of chikungunya reported in Italy.

Vaccinations to Consider

The following is a list of recommended vaccinations for travelling to Italy.

Tick-Borne Encephalitis Vaccine

The vaccine for tick-borne encephalitis is not normally given to travellers to this country.

Rabies Vaccine

The rabies vaccination is recommended for those travellers whose activities or work may bring them into contact with bats.

Hepatitis A Vaccine

Although the risk of hepatitis A in Italy is low, the vaccine is recommended.

Hepatitis B Vaccine

Although the risk of hepatitis B in Italy is low, the vaccine is recommended.

Medications to Consider

The following is a list of recommended medications for travelling to Italy.

None required.

Safety and Security in Italy

Emergency Numbers

112

Personal Safety

Most travellers to Italy do not experience any safety or security risks as the country is generally safe. However, petty crime, such as pick-pocketing, can occur at tourist sites, on public transportation, at night clubs, airports and other public areas. Travellers should ensure their valuables are kept hidden and secure and that their personal belongings are not left unattended. It is advisable not to carry large sums of money or to show signs of affluence, such as wearing expensive clothing or jewellery.

Scams targeting foreigners have been known to occur at gas stations or on trains. Travellers should be wary of people attempting to distract them, since thieves often work in pairs or groups. There have been reports of roadside emergencies, like a flat tire, being staged to persuade drivers to pull over. There have also been reports of railway passengers being offered drugged food or drink and then robbed or assaulted while sleeping. Make sure your railway compartment door is securely locked.

There have been reports of assaults and robberies after being drugged near Rome’s Termini train station, the Coliseum, at bars and cafés in the vicinity of Rome’s Campo de Fiori and Piazza Navona, and at bars or cafés in the center of Florence and Naples. Do not accept any food or drink from strangers as it may be drugged.

Forest fires occur seasonally in Italy, between June-September. Heavy rains and flooding, as well as avalanches may also present risks to the traveller during the winter months. Italy is located in an active seismic zone. Earthquakes can severely damage infrastructure and disrupt travel. Mount Etna, Europe's most active volcano is located in Sicily and other active volcanoes are also found in Italy. Monitor weather reports closely. If a natural disaster occurs, follow advice and evacuation procedures of local authorities.

It is illegal to purchase counterfeit merchandise. Doing so could subject you to severe fines.

Do not take photos of government and military installations; always seek permission from authorities before doing so.

LGBTI traveller should note that although same-sex sexual activity is legal in Italy, same-sex marriage is not. Avoid public displays of affection due the conservative attitudes of the country.

Political Unrest

Demonstrations occur often. These should be avoided, along with other large public gatherings in the streets as they can sometimes escalate unexpectedly.

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