Italy

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 112 for police.
• Dial 112 for ambulance.
• Dial 1522 for toll-free domestic violence hotline.

Terrorism

Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad. They are using simpler methods of attack like knives, guns, and vehicles to target crowds. They often go after unprotected or vulnerable targets.

Terrorists may target:

• Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Tourist sites
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation (subways, buses, trains, and commercial flights).

Demonstrations 

Demonstrations are common. They can be anti-American in nature or near U.S. facilities and military bases. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on significant holidays, and during large events.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations. 
• Past demonstrations have turned violent.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.
• Strikes and other work stoppages often affect transportation including airlines, airports, trains, and buses.
• If you're traveling during a strike, make sure to reconfirm your reservations and check with your carrier.
• Security alerts for U.S. citizens pertaining to demonstrations can be found on the U.S. Embassy’s website.

Political violence  

Most political violence is connected to Italian internal political developments or social issues. However, sometimes protesters target Italian authorities and foreign diplomatic buildings. These events can include protests or more serious violent acts. 

These attacks often happen at night. We are not aware of any U.S. citizens hurt or targeted so far. However, you should always stay aware of your surroundings. Report any suspicious activity to local authorities. 

Crime

• Italy has a moderate rate of crime. Although there are incidents of theft, violent crimes are rare. Pickpocketing is common, particularly in congested areas and on public transport. Break-ins of rented vehicles are also common throughout the country.

Theft

Most reported thefts in Italy occur at:

• Crowded tourist sites
• Public transportation including on buses, metros, and trains, and at major metro and railway stations 
• Airports
• Cars parked in city centers and tourist sites

Safety tips

• Be alert to criminal schemes.
• Organized groups of thieves and pickpockets operate at major tourist destinations, in train stations, bars, and cafes. Criminals may use drugs to assault or rob. 
• Thieves on motor scooters regularly snatch purses or bags off pedestrians. Resisting can be dangerous.
• Park cars in well-lit areas. Ensure doors and windows are locked. Do not leave personal possessions, including luggage and passports, in unattended vehicles.
• Never leave baggage unattended in a car, including in a closed trunk.
• Do not leave bags unattended in public places. 
• Italian train travel safety tips

Safety at ATMs

To protect yourself from the risk of skimming devices at ATMs:

• Use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or secured inside a bank or business.
• Cover the keypad with one hand as you enter your PIN.
• Check for gaps, tampering, or other flaws between the ATM's metal faceplate and the card reader.
• Avoid card readers that are not flush with the face of the ATM.
• Closely check your account statements for unauthorized transactions.

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.   

Financial scams and internet romance scams are common in Italy. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help. 

Common scams include: 

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• Romance and online dating 
• Money transfers 
• Lucrative sales
• Contracts with promises of large commissions
• Grandparent and relative targeting 
• Free trip or luggage 
• Lotteries 
• Inheritance notices 
• Work permits and job offers

If using dating apps or websites in Italy:

• Criminals may use dating apps to target potential victims for robbery or assault.
• Let your friends and family know where you are and consider sharing your location on your phone.  
• Meet in a popular public place. 
• Tell your family or friends all the details about the person you are meeting and how you met them (which app).
• Set up and talk using a video call before agreeing to meet in person. 
• Avoid locations where you can be isolated, like hotel rooms, private apartments, or houses.
• Never leave food or drinks unattended at a bar or restaurant.
• Observe the preparation of your food or drink order when possible.
• Refuse offers of food or drinks from strangers.
• Have a communication plan with friends or family. Send updates to them on an agreed schedule.

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 112.

Review our information for Victims of Crime.  

The U.S. embassy or consulate can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care.
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.  
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys. 
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States. 
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need. 
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Child abuse help

• Children and Adolescent Emergency help line. Dial 114 – Toll-free 24/7 - Helps in all emergency situations, when a minor is in danger. It also helps victims of sexual, physical, and psychological abuse, drug problems, and runaways.
• Telefono Azzurro. Dial 19696 - Listening line for adolescents and children to express their concerns. It is toll-free 24/7. 
• Missing Children. Dial 116 000 to report missing children, provide information on cases, sightings, and findings. It is toll-free 24/7.

Victim compensation in Italy

Italy pays victims of terrorism, organized crime, hit-and-run accidents, and violent crimes. To apply, file with the local Prefect's office (Prefettura) where the crime occurred. Provide details about the incident, including:

• Where the crime happened
• Date
• Location 
• Injuries and losses resulting from the crime

U.S. citizen victims of crime in Italy should consult an Italian attorney for guidance on the legal process and victim compensation programs.

Helpful resources

Victims of terrorism and organized crime - Information on victims of terrorism and organized crime compensation programs is available at local Prefecture’s office websites. You can find information under the “Servizi on line.”  Dial +39064651 for more information.

• Victims of hit and run drivers - Information on victims of hit and run drivers’ compensation program is available by reaching out to an Italian non-governmental organization called Associazione Italiana Familiari e Vittime della Strada, “Association of Italian Family Members and Victims of Hit and Run Drivers.” Dial 0641734624 for more information.

Sexual assault and domestic violence 

U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance. 

U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance. 

Resources for victims of sexual assault, rape, domestic violence, and stalking:

• National Antiviolence Hotline for Women. Dial 1552 – Toll-free 24/7 hotline for victims of sexual assault, rape, domestic violence, stalking, counseling and referrals.
• Antiviolence Centers in Italy - Complete list of antiviolence centers in Italy, addresses, telephone contacts and emails. It offers legal assistance, counseling, safe homes, and shelter programs. Dial 366 or 3540689.
• Telefono Rosa - Helps victims of sexual, physical, psychological, and financial violence, mobbing, and stalking. Offers legal assistance, counseling, safe homes, and shelter programs. Dial 0637518282.
• Differenza Donna (For the district of Rome and Latium Region) - Helps victims of sexual, physical, psychological, and financial violence, mobbing, and stalking. Offers legal assistance, counseling, safe homes, and shelter programs. Dial 066780537.

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications.
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.

Drones

Drone use in Italy is regulated.

• Foreign visitors may fly drones in Italy but must register as an operator, obtain a remote pilot license, carry insurance, and comply with no-fly zone restrictions.
• You must maintain a minimum 8 km distance from airports and heliports.
• You can find more information on drone usage on the Italian Civil Aviation Authority website.  

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is regulated:

• Rules and safety inspections are regularly enforced.
• Dangerous areas and activities are marked with signs.
• Trained and certified staff are usually there to help with organized activities.
• If you get injured, you can usually get medical help locally.
• In rural areas, it might take longer for medical help to arrive and help.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance. 
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.  

Adventure travel 

• Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tips for Adventure Travel.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

U.S. citizens must follow local laws. If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.  

• Travelers who accidentally break local laws have been detained. Sometimes, this can be for a long time. They may also face criminal charges and even be convicted of a crime.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Italy seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.

Common tourist fines

Tourists can be fined or detained for: 

• Buying counterfeit goods like fashion accessories
• Damaging historic monuments
• Using aerial drones

Public spaces rules

Many cities in Italy have rules for fountains and monuments that ban activities like eating, drinking, sitting, or bathing. There are also restrictions on drinking alcohol after certain hours. Tourists should check each city's official website for more details.

Arrest notification 

If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate immediately.  

• Your U.S. passport will not prevent you from being detained, arrested, or prosecuted.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations. 

• They may be illegal according to local laws.
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods: 

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection 
• U.S. Department of Justice

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources:  

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex sexual relations, the provision of information or services to persons on the basis of real or perceived sexual orientation, or the organization of events focused on sexual orientation in Italy.

• Same-sex civil unions are legally recognized in Italy. 
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

The law in Italy prohibits discrimination against people with physical, sensory, intellectual, or mental disabilities. The law is enforced.

• Accessibility in Italy is uneven. Most lodgings and buildings are accessible, but public transportation and some services may have limited access. This is especially the case in smaller towns and rural areas. Many sidewalks do not have ramps to and from the street or crosswalks.
• Passengers with reduced mobility can request free assistance on board trains and in stations that are part of Italian Railway’s Sala Blu network. To receive assistance, passengers must communicate their needs to the railway company or station manager. Bookings should be made at least 24 hours in advance in person, online, by phone and email, or using the SALABLU+ app. For additional information, review the Sala Blu site or SalaBlu+ app for iOS and Android.
• Rental cars with hand controls are available from major rental companies. But it's important to reserve it well in advance. 
• Italy uses a 220-volt electrical system. You may need a transformer and plug adapter to recharge a power wheelchair.
• If traveling with a guide dog, bring the required EU documents.
• Equipment and repair services are usually accessible. Sign language interpreters and personal assistants are available in many locations. Contact the U.S. Embassy in Italy for a list of providers.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.

Women travelers  

• Review our information for Women Travelers. 

• Review our information on Marriage. 

• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health

Health Resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Italy Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations. 
• CDC Medical Tourism information 
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance
• NASA’s Air Quality Forecast
• U.S. Embassy in Italy’s list of hospitals and doctors

Emergency number 

• Dial 112 for emergencies.  

Ambulance services

• Ambulance services are widely available. Training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses abroad.  Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Italy. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Lack of payment may bar future travel to Italy.
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.
• If you purchase supplemental insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from the insurance provider. Follow their instructions for filing claims.

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities 

Health facilities are available throughout Italy, but it may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas.

• Health services, particularly at public hospitals, may be below U.S. standards.
• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Public hospitals cannot provide an itemized bill, as required by many U.S. insurers. The Italian National Health Service charges one rate for services and room and board.
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment upfront prior to service or admission. You may get reimbursed later by your insurance company.
• Before agreeing to any medical care, travelers should gather full details on billing, pricing, and proposed medical procedures.
• Medical staff may speak little or no English. The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of interpreters. We do not endorse or recommend any specific interpreter.
• Generally, in public hospitals only minimal staff is available overnight in non-emergency wards. Consider hiring a private nurse. Another option is to have family stay the night with the patient, especially a child.
• In most cases, patients must cover all costs for transfer to or between hospitals. 
• In Italy, end-of-life instructions are not legal. Hospitals must keep providing life-saving treatments. This is true even if a person has stated their wishes in a will or advance directive.

Prescription medications 

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. 

• The Italian Ministry of Health sets rules on who can bring prescription drugs into Italy, and how to do it. However, the Ministry of Health website does not have information in English. 
• The Ministry of Health indicates that foreigners can bring up to 30 days' worth of personal medications into Italy. Bring a copy of your prescription. 
• You cannot bring prescription drugs for other people.
• Bringing medications into Italy by mail or courier is tightly controlled by Italian Customs. All medication shipments, even small amounts for personal use, must be cleared by customs. Delays are common.
• The person taking the medication must provide a letter from a doctor in Italy, stating: the medication is essential for the patient’s health; that they would be in a life-threatening situation without it; and that there is no substitute or similar medication available in Italy.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States. If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally. 

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States. 

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Non-traditional medicine 

• U.S. citizens have had serious complications or died while getting care from non-traditional “healers” and practitioners in Italy.  Make sure you have access to licensed emergency medical facilities in such cases.

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and Surrogacy

If you are considering traveling to Italy to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad. 

• Surrogacy is illegal for foreigners in Italy.  For additional information, visit the Italian Ministry of Justice website.  

• It is illegal for Italians, including dual U.S.-Italian citizens, to travel outside Italy to use or arrange surrogacy. Breaking this law can result in up to 2 years in prison and fines of up to $1 million euros. The law also affects Italian parents, spouses, or partners of U.S. citizens who use surrogacy. It applies to actions after 2024.

Water quality and food safety 

• Tap water is generally safe to drink and use in cooking. It meets high safety standards.
• In restaurants and hotels, bottled water is typically offered for purchase. Tap water may not be served unless you ask for it.
• Ice in beverages is generally made from potable water.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.

Altitude

Most major Italian cities are at or near sea level. However, if you plan to visit mountainous areas like the Alps or Dolomites, be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and take precautions before you travel.

• If you have a pre-existing medical condition, like diabetes or high blood pressure, talk with your doctor before traveling to high altitude areas.
• Visit the CDC website for more information about Travel to High Altitudes.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Italy.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page. 
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow. 
• Many cities in Italy have air pollution levels similar to those in major U.S. cities. 
• In some parts of Italy, poor trash disposal and few incineration sites can lead to garbage piling up. In some cases, people have burned the trash, causing harmful fumes that can make breathing problems worse. 
• Visit the European Environment Agency’s website for information on air quality in Italy.
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Transportation

Resources 

• Driving and Transportation Safety
• Automobile Club d’Italia (A.C.I.)
• Transportation and Driving in Italy
• Dial +407-444-7000 for AAA information on international driver's licenses

Road conditions and safety 

In Italy, you may find very different road conditions than in the United States, such as: 

• Drivers often disobey the limited traffic signals.
• Motor scooters are very popular, and their riders may behave unexpectedly. 
• Drivers often pass on superhighways (autostrada) at high speeds.
• Cars are often parked in driving lanes or on sidewalks. 
• Rural roads are generally narrow and often have no guard rails and inconsistent speed limits.
• Be careful when crossing streets. This is true even with a green walk (avanti) light in a marked crosswalk. 

Traffic laws 

• Seat belt use is mandatory. 

• When driving outside of cities, you must always use headlights. 

• In autumn and winter, you must have winter tires or snow chains on certain roads, especially in mountainous regions.  

• If authorities stop you while driving a car registered abroad, you must pay the ticket immediately under certain conditions. Be prepared to pay in cash in local currency. Local police can confiscate your car if you cannot pay the fine. 

• Authorities fine drivers without the proper permits in historic downtown areas of cities and towns across Italy.  

• Cameras take pictures of license plates for cars driving illegally in areas that need a permit. The authorities send fines for these violations to the drivers' home in the United States for payment. 

• For legal advice or to contest a fine, you may wish to consult a lawyer licensed in Italy.

Taxis and ride-shares

• Taxis and ride-share apps such as Uber and FREENOW (run by Lyft) are available and generally safe to use in Italy. Use marked, licensed taxis and reputable ride-share apps to ensure your safety.
• As with any popular tourist destination, remain alert and maintain situational awareness, particularly in busy urban areas and high-traffic locations. Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings when waiting for or exiting a vehicle.

Public and commercial transportation 

Italy has a well-developed public transportation network, including buses, trains, and metros. These are generally safe and reliable options for travelers.

• Some buses and trams accept onboard contactless payment (“tap to pay”) using a bank card or mobile digital wallet.
• Travelers must buy train, bus, or metro tickets at tobacco stores, kiosks, or through apps or SMS (short messaging service). Before boarding, you must validate your ticket at a machine (usually near the entrance). If you don't, an inspector may fine you. If you don’t pay right away, the fine will double and be sent to your home address. 
• Petty crime is the main concern of public transit. Intercity train stations and other high-traffic areas with large numbers of tourists and commuters are particularly vulnerable to pickpocketing and distraction theft. Keep a close eye on your personal belongings in these areas and be especially alert in crowded or busy transit hubs.
• Visit the website of Italy’s national tourist office and national authority responsible for road safety. 
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad. 

Aviation safety oversight 

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Italy meets international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.

Maritime travel 

Rules for operating and maintaining boats in Italy may be different from those in the United States. New rules went into effect October 2024, but they are not always followed.  

If you rent a boat or go on a boat trip, ask the vendor or operator about safety measures. You can find information in English about watercraft safety standards in Italy on the Sailing News (Giornale della Vela) website. 

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Italy should check the following:

• U.S. Maritime Advisories 

• U.S. Maritime Alerts 

• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings  

• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons 

Weather

Helpful resources 

• Civil Protection Italy 
• Ready.gov
• Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia

Weather conditions

These events are the most frequent and impactful in Italy. Weather varies by region. The north has more snow and is colder. The south has hotter summers.

• Heatwaves – High temperatures are common in the south, especially in summer. 
• Thunderstorms – Heavy rain, lightning, and gusty winds are common mainly in spring and summer. 
• Snowstorms – Common in northern and mountainous regions during winter months. 

Natural disasters

The Italian Civil Protection agency is well-equipped to help both Italians and visitors during natural disasters.  

• Earthquakes – There are several major fault lines that cross Italy. Earthquakes are frequent.  
• Flooding – High tides in Venice can cause flooding. 
• Avalanches – Common in mountainous areas. May occasionally occur after heavy snowfall in the winter. 
• Volcanoes – There are several active volcanoes, including Mt. Etna in eastern Sicily. Travelers to Sicily should be aware of the possibility of travel disruptions, including airport closures, in the event of volcanic activity. Italy has many other areas of potential volcanic activity, especially near Naples. Any visit to an active volcano or volcanic field is risky. Eruptions can occur with little to no warning. Exercise caution, follow posted instructions, stay on authorized trails, and use well-known tour operators. 

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.

Embassies and consulates