Anyone planning to travel to Italy in 2025 should be aware of various updates, advisories, and precautions to ensure a safe and smooth trip. Italy remains a popular tourist destination, but travelers should take specific steps to prepare given recent developments. Italy is generally safe for visitors, but petty crimes like pickpocketing remain prevalent, particularly in crowded tourist areas such as the Colosseum in Rome, Milan, and Pisa. Travelers are advised to remain vigilant, avoid displaying valuables, and beware of distraction techniques employed by thieves. Theft from vehicles is also a concern, especially in major cities and coastal towns. Avoid leaving luggage or belongings in cars, even if concealed, and be cautious of anyone attempting to distract you by pointing out fictitious issues with your vehicle. Recent heightened security measures are another factor to consider, especially as 2025 marks a Jubilee Year in Italy, a significant Catholic celebration that is drawing millions of additional visitors to Rome and Vatican City. Increased law enforcement presence, stricter enforcement of passport regulations, and enhanced security screenings are in place across the country. Travelers must carry their original passports at all times as photocopies may no longer suffice. For those entering Italy, the European Union has introduced new biometric screening protocols as part of the Entry/Exit System (EES), affecting non-Schengen nationals such as U.S., Canadian, Australian, and UK citizens. Visitors should also ensure their passports have at least three months of validity beyond their planned departure date. Additionally, while COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, it is still recommended to consult a healthcare provider before travel to ensure vaccinations are up-to-date. While navigating Italian cities, travelers should be cautious of road safety issues. Driving can be challenging due to narrow streets, traffic congestion, and drivers frequently disregarding traffic laws. In rural and mountainous areas, roads may be poorly maintained or subject to closures from landslides and avalanches. If renting a car, consider carrying snow chains if traveling through snowy regions, as this is both a safety precaution and a legal requirement. Natural disasters such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, floods, and mudslides are also risks in Italy. Regions near Mount Etna in Sicily, for instance, can experience eruptions that temporarily disrupt travel. Travelers are encouraged to monitor local news and weather updates, particularly in seismically active or flood-prone areas. Coastal waters in the Strait of Messina and Bonifacio are known for strong currents, so caution is essential during activities like swimming or boating. To enhance personal safety, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption and monitoring drinks in bars is critical, as incidents of drink spiking have been reported. Solo travelers, especially women, should remain alert and consider sharing their itineraries with someone they trust. On public transportation, crowded systems like trains and subways can be hotspots for pickpocketing, so securing belongings with anti-theft measures is advisable. Travelers to Italy should also be aware of upcoming deadlines, such as the introduction of the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) by spring 2025, which will require pre-registration and approval for short stays by many non-EU nationals. This is in addition to the REAL ID requirements for domestic flights in the United States starting May 7, 2025. In summary, while Italy offers a rich cultural and historical experience, taking precautions against petty crime, adhering to new security protocols, and staying informed about natural risks and local safety advisories are essential steps for enjoying a safe and stress-free trip.
