Listeners considering travel to Italy should be aware of several important updates and precautions in effect for 2025. Italy remains a sought-after destination, but the U.S. State Department currently maintains a Level 2 travel advisory, recommending travelers “exercise increased caution” due to threats of terrorism, a measure that has been in place since April 2022. Europol reported 20 terrorist incidents in Italy last year, underscoring the need for vigilance, particularly around large gatherings and high-profile public events like the Jubilee, which is drawing record crowds to Rome and other key cities this year, according to Islands.com.

Heightened security is a visible feature of the 2025 Jubilee year. Italian officials have deployed extra police, law enforcement, and military throughout urban centers and at major attractions. If you plan to visit during the Jubilee, expect stricter enforcement of passport regulations and keep your original passport on you at all times—copies will not be accepted, and not complying may result in fines or other penalties. Anti-theft passport protectors or similar security measures are strongly recommended as travel forums like Rick Steves’ confirm.

Petty crime remains an ongoing problem, particularly in tourist hotspots such as Rome, Milan, Florence, and Venice. Pickpocketing is notably frequent; researchers and travel insurance providers consistently rank Italy as having some of the worst rates in Europe. Most thefts occur at outdoor cafés, crowded attractions, and aboard trains, subways, or buses. To avoid loss, listeners should keep bags zipped, valuables secured, and remain alert, especially in busy areas. Scammers often operate under the guise of police officers or sell counterfeit goods; genuine police do not randomly inspect personal documents on the street, and buying counterfeit products is illegal.

Road travel in Italy is generally safe, with major city infrastructure in good condition, but rural roads can be poorly maintained. Urban driving is often congested, and drivers—especially those operating scooters or motorcycles—may disregard traffic laws. Defensive driving is strongly advised, as recommended by Canada’s official travel advisory.

Those interested in water activities should heed local warnings related to waves, riptides, and coastline erosion. Weather conditions can change rapidly, particularly in the fall and winter. The Canadian government also warns against diving in unfamiliar waters due to hidden rocks.

Entry requirements as outlined by Untold Italy and the Italian government remain unchanged for most travelers: listeners from the U.S., UK, Australia, and EU can visit without a visa for short stays (under 90 days) but must carry a valid passport with at least three months’ validity. In 2025, Italy will implement the new EU Entry/Exit System, involving biometric data collection for non-EU nationals, including fingerprints and facial photographs, on arrival and departure.

Travel insurance is sometimes mandatory, depending on your nationality and the arrangements made with airlines. It is strongly recommended to check your own country’s government travel advisory and confirm entry requirements with your airline and the Italian embassy before departure. Although Italy is considered safe for most travelers, staying informed on travel advisories and local news is essential, especially before attending demonstrations or public events. Safe travels.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI