Risk level(s)

Safety and security

Crime

Petty crime such as pickpocketing and purse snatching occur:

• at tourist sites
• on public transportation
• at major airports and railway stations

Foreigners are targeted.

If possible, avoid carrying handbags. Motorcyclists frequently grab bags and other personal belongings from pedestrians, often resulting in injury to the robbery victim.

There have also been thefts of unattended belongings at beaches.

Thieves often work in pairs or groups and will attempt to distract the victim while their accomplices rob them. Be particularly careful of offers to help with flat tires or if someone spills food or a beverage on you; these are common ploys used by groups of thieves.

The number of lost and stolen passports increases during the summer months. To prevent loss or theft, exercise caution and carry a photocopy of your passport, rather than the original.

Pay attention to your surroundings. Avoid showing signs of affluence and carrying large sums of cash on you.

Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times. 

Never travel with your passport and proof of Canadian citizenship (birth certificate or Canadian citizenship certificate) in the same bag or pouch. Keep a photocopy of your passport in case of loss.

Exercise caution and be alert while travelling by road and rail. Foreigners are often targeted by criminals.

On the road

Theft of items from vehicles is common and can occur at gas stations and service areas along the highway, as well as in parking lots.

Be especially vigilant when stopped at traffic lights. Thieves on scooters or on foot often snatch bags from passenger seats.

• Keep your windows closed
• Keep bags and handbags out of reach
• Make sure your car doors are locked at all times
• Never leave personal belongings unattended in a vehicle
• Use secure parking facilities, especially overnight

On public transportation

Train passengers have been robbed while distracted or sleeping, and there have been thefts on the train connecting Fiumicino Airport to central Rome.

Thefts on public transit (buses, subway and trams, particularly those servicing major tourist sites) are common, with thieves often hassling or crowding their victims. Keep your valuables secure and out of sight.

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as they may have drugged the item to put you at risk of assault and robbery. Incidents of this sort have occurred even in small towns known to be frequented by tourists.

Rail passengers have received drugged food or drink and were then robbed or assaulted while sleeping. Keep your compartment door securely locked.

Terrorism

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities and further attacks are likely.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant if attending sporting events and during religious holidays and other public celebrations, as terrorists have used such occasions to mount attacks.

Because of the ongoing threat in Europe, Italy has set its terrorism threat level at 2 out of 3 levels. Expect increased security and more police and armed forces, particularly at airports, large events and major landmarks. Such security measures are further increased during religious holidays.

Demonstrations and strikes

Demonstrations and protests occur regularly, particularly in larger cities and often with little notice. They can lead to significant disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

Transportation strikes are also common and affect travel by air, rail and public transportation services. Plan on having to make alternate travel arrangements and regularly check with transportation providers for any schedule change.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Useful links

• More about mass gatherings (large-scale events)
• Information on planned strike action - Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport (in Italian, only)

Fraud

Fraudulent electronic readout devices are sometimes used at ATMs in Italy. These devices are designed to capture the account information stored on the card’s magnetic strip through a card reader fixed over the legitimate reader. The customer’s PIN is recorded with a small video camera installed above the keypad. The victim’s banking information is then sold or traded online.

To avoid being a victim of this type of fraud:

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

More about overseas fraud

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety can vary greatly throughout the country.

City streets are often narrow, winding and congested. In mountainous areas, roads are often winding and narrow, and weather conditions can make driving conditions dangerous. Avalanches or landslides can occur and block access routes to small isolated towns.

Drivers do not always obey road rules and may use excessive speed and reckless manoeuvring. In cities, signage, traffic lights and road markings may be non-existent, unclear or ignored.

Pay close attention to road conditions and refrain from driving during or immediately after severe storms. Monitor local news and follow the advice and warnings issued by local authorities.

In northern Italy, be aware of the potential for ground fog and poor visibility, especially in winter.

Be cautious when using pedestrian crossings as drivers do not always stop, even though they are required to by law.

Public transportation

Only use officially licensed taxis equipped with roof lights and meters. If you call a radio taxi, be aware that the meter starts to run as soon as the cab leaves to pick you up.

Air travel

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

General information about foreign domestic airlines

Mountain activities

If you intend to do mountaineering or skiing:

• never do so alone and always hire an experienced guide from a reputable company
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• ensure that you’re properly equipped and well informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary, including when you expect to be back to camp
• know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be fatal
• obtain detailed information on trekking routes or ski slopes before setting out and do not venture off marked trails or slopes

Information on avalanche risk - Meteomont

Entry/exit requirements

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Italian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Schengen area

Italy is a Schengen area country. Canadian citizens do not need a visa for travel to countries within the Schengen area. However, visa-free travel only applies to stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Stays are cumulative and include visits to any Schengen area country.

If you plan to stay in the Schengen area for a longer period of time, you will need a visa. You must contact the high commission or embassy of the country or countries you are travelling to and obtain the appropriate visa(s) prior to travel.

• General information about the Schengen area
• Foreign diplomatic missions and consulates in Canada

Passport

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you expect to leave the Schengen area.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest diplomatic mission for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Visas

Tourist visa: Not required for stays up to 90 days
Business visa: Not required for stays up 90 days
Work visa: Required
Student visa: Required

Other entry requirements

Customs officials may ask you to show them a return ticket, proof of the purpose of your visit to Italy and/or proof of sufficient funds for your stay. Having more than one source of funds (for example, cash, traveller’s cheques, credit card, bank card) is recommended.

General information for foreign nationals - Polizia di Stato (Italy’s national police)

Declaration of presence

Canadians arriving from a Schengen area country, staying less than 90 days and not staying in commercial accommodations must file a declaration of presence (dichiarazione di presenza) with the local police office (questura) within 8 days of arrival.

Commercial accommodations will generally file the declaration of presence on behalf of travellers, but the traveller is responsible to ensure that it is done.

Obtain a copy of the registration form from the hotel. Failure to comply with this regulation could result in expulsion from Italy.

If arriving from a non-Schengen country, ensure that border officials place an entry stamp in your passport, as this is the equivalent to a declaration of presence.

More information about entering Italy - Polizia di Stato

Children and travel

Learn about travel with children.

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Health

Medical services and facilities

Good medical care is widely available in Italy, but services may be limited in rural areas.

Doctors and nurses may not be able to communicate in English (or French) and not all hospitals have translation services available.

Medical treatment for life-threatening emergencies and in an emergency room is free of charge. Hospitals charge up front for any convalescence or follow-up care.

Decompression chambers are available in major hospitals throughout the country.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

Laws & culture

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Canada and Italy are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Italy to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Italian authorities.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Italy.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Italy, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.

General information for travellers with dual citizenship

Identification

Authorities may require you to present identification at any time.

Keep a photocopy of your passport in case it is lost or seized.

Hotels and other commercial accommodation providers must provide the Italian authorities with personal details on their guests. For this reason, foreign visitors are often required to present a passport upon check-in. Wait at the reception while they have taken the details or made a copy of your passport.

Illegal activities

Buying counterfeit merchandise, such as sunglasses or purses, is illegal. Local authorities may impose heavy fines on tourists caught buying counterfeit merchandise.

It is illegal to photograph government buildings and military installations without permission from local authorities.

Observe public notices about conduct, which are found in and around tourist areas in major cities. Visitors may be issued tickets and fines for dropping litter or for sitting, eating or drinking on steps and courtyards around the main churches and public buildings in Florence and Rome.

Recreational and commercial flying of unmanned aerial vehicles or drones is regulated. Failure to comply with regulations may lead to confiscation of equipment and heavy fines.

More about flying drones - Italian Civil Aviation Authority (in Italian only)

Illegal drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences or heavy fines.

Driving

You may drive for up to one year with a valid Canadian driver’s licence and an international driving permit, or an official translation by a recognized translator of the Canadian licence.

You must also have an international car insurance plan.

If driving a foreign car, an adhesive sticker indicating country of origin must be displayed on the back of the car.

• More about driving in Italy - European Commission
• More about the International Driving Permit

Traffic regulations

Penalties for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs are severe. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%. Convicted offenders can expect heavy fines, your driver’s licence may be confiscated immediately and you could face imprisonment.

You can’t turn right at red lights.

The use of a cellular telephone while driving is prohibited, unless it is fitted with a hands-free device.

The use of headlights on highways and major roads, even during the day, is mandatory.

You may be required to pay fines for minor traffic violations immediately, in cash.

Vehicles must be equipped with safety equipment, including a warning triangle and reflective jacket.

Seasonal regulations

You must use snow tires in winter. Alternatively, you can carry snow chains on board and affix them to the tires in the event of snow.

Rules differ regionally and road signage across the country will indicate where and when snow tires or snow chains are mandatory. Pay particularly close attention to these requirements when driving in mountainous regions or other parts of the country prone to snow. Fines can be issued for non-compliance.

In the summer, only residents are allowed to take their cars to the islands of Capri, Ischia and Procida.

Limited traffic zones

The historic centres of many Italian cities have restricted traffic zones marked as ZTL, which stands for “Zona Traffico Limitato”. A special permit is necessary to have vehicle access to these zones. This permit is usually issued to residents and members of public organizations. Cameras may be used to record the license plate of vehicles that violate these restrictions.

If you enter these zones without a permit, you could be fined. If you rent a vehicle, the rental agency could receive the fine and may provide your contact details to the local authorities.

Sometimes, municipalities use the services of a private company in order to collect the fees abroad. Travellers have received traffic tickets by mail several months after their return to Canada.

• Pay close attention to street signage
• Obtain instructions from your hotel on how to access your hotel by vehicle if it is located in a ZTL

Public transportation

You must purchase bus, metro and tram tickets in advance (at kiosks in stations or at tobacco shops) and validate them at machines located on board or in the station. Failure to validate tickets may result in fines requiring immediate payment.

Money

The currency of Italy is the euro (EUR).

Payment in cash is restricted to transactions under €1000.

Credit cards are widely accepted. ATMs (known as “bancomat” in Italy) are widely available.

If you are carrying more than €10,000 or the equivalent in other currencies, you must make a declaration to customs upon your entry or exit to the European Union. The sum can be in cash, cheque, money order, traveller’s cheque or any other convertible asset. This does not apply if you are travelling within the European Union or in transit to a non-EU country.

More information about cash controls - European Commission

Natural disasters & climate

Seasonal risks

Forest fires occur often in the summer months, including on the islands of Sardinia and Sicily. In case of a major fire, stay away from affected areas, follow the advice of local emergency services personnel and monitor local media for up-to-date information. The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke and affect travellers with respiratory ailments.

In the fall, strong rainfall and winds often cause significant damage to roads and generate localized landslides in coastal regions, including popular tourist areas such as:

• Calabria
• Campania (Amalfi coast)
• Liguria (Cinque Terre)
• Sicily
• Tuscany

Pay close attention to road conditions and refrain from driving during or immediately after severe storms.

Venice is prone to flooding, particularly during periods of high water (acqua alta). Some streets and squares become impassable during these periods. Rome is subject to flash floods during periods of heavy rainfall. Monitor local news and follow the advice and warnings issued by local authorities.

In winter, avalanches and heavy snow pose a risk. They can make roads impassable and can cause power disruptions. These conditions can affect access to isolated areas, including to some tourist resorts. The conditions can also limit the ability of responders to reach these areas in case of emergency.

• Latest weather alerts - Italian Civil Protection Department
• Latest bulletins - National hydrogeological and hydraulic criticalities
• Weather reports - National weather vigilance
• Information on avalanche risk - Meteomont

Seismic activity

Italy is located in an active seismic zone.

Between August 2016 and January 2017, the country was hit by 5 powerful earthquakes of magnitudes between 5.0 and 6.5. The earthquakes caused deaths and damage to infrastructure, homes and property throughout the affected areas.

On August 21, 2017, a 4.0-magnitude earthquake struck the island of Ischia, in the region of Campania in southern Italy. The earthquake caused deaths, injuries and damage to infrastructure.

Further seismic activity may occur and can trigger landslides and avalanches, as well as further damage.

Information on seismic activity in Italy - Protezione Civile (Italy’s civil protection department)

Volcanic activity

Mount Etna, on the island of Sicily, is Europe’s most active volcano. If you are travelling to the area, closely monitor activity levels through local media, be aware of any risks and follow the advice of local authorities. 

Mount Stromboli, on the island of Stromboli, which is one of the Aeolian islands, is also active with regular minor eruptions and lava flow. 

Mount Vesuvius, near Naples, is the only active volcano on the European mainland, though it has not erupted since 1944. It is continually monitored by the local authorities. There are several other dormant volcanoes throughout the country that could erupt with little warning. Volcanic eruptions could result in airport closures.

Information on active volcanoes - Italian national institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (in Italian).

Assistance

Local services

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada in Rome and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.