Published on August 8, 2025 |
Italy continues to inspire wanderlust in nearly every globetrotter. By 2025, Canadian explorers will flock to the Colosseum in Rome, gaze at Florentine masterworks, glide through Venice’s shimmering canals, indulge in Naples’ vibrant street life, shop in Milan’s high-fashion boutiques, and soak in the rugged beauty of Sicily and Sardinia.
However, the Canadian government’s August 2025 advisory recommends exercising extra caution. Risks like pickpocketing, card scams, cybercrime, sudden protests, and natural threats remain. The Jubilee 2025 celebrations in Rome, running from December 24, 2024, to January 6, 2026, will draw millions, intensifying crowds, traffic, and a visible military presence.

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Canadians should stay alert in train stations, on buses, at major sights, and during any large gathering. Pickpockets, bag snatchers, drink spiking, and skimming carts are known hazards. Seasonal risks also pose a threat: Venice can flood, wildfires can spread in Sicily, and avalanches occasionally roar through the Alps.
Canadians can enter Italy without a visa for stays of up to 90 days and can move freely within the Schengen Area for the same 90 days in any 180-day period. Be sure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date. Customs officers check these rules closely. Also, if you drive, you’ll need an International Driving Permit, proof of insurance, and to understand the restricted traffic zones, known as ZTL, found in many historic city centers.

This report covers every detail you need for a successful trip in 2025, from safety and security mandates to health guidelines, cultural customs, and advice on the country’s natural hazards. With this information, you can plan confidently and enjoy Italy’s rich beauty and heritage without any worries.

Risk Level – Why Italy Requires a High Degree of Caution

Understanding the Advisory Classification

Italy is considered a high-caution travel destination by Canadian authorities. While it is not a “Do Not Travel” location, the advisory stresses that travellers must remain vigilant due to security risks, opportunistic crime, and sudden public order disruptions.

The Terrorism Threat in Italy and Europe

The risk of terrorism in Europe remains active, with past incidents in major cities targeting crowded public spaces and high-profile events. In Italy, no direct threat is currently imminent, but the possibility exists.
Potential targets include government offices, religious venues during services, airports, railway stations, metro networks, tourist attractions, shopping centres, cafés, and event venues.

Heightened Security Presence

Visitors should expect police and military patrols at key landmarks, security checkpoints at event venues and religious sites, and bag checks at major museums, transport hubs, and public squares. The visible presence of armed forces is designed to deter attacks but also signals the seriousness with which authorities treat potential threats.

Safety and Security – Protecting Yourself in Italy

Petty Crime in Tourist Zones

Petty crime is the most frequent issue for visitors. In Rome’s Trevi Fountain area, Florence’s Piazza del Duomo, and Venice’s Rialto Bridge, tourists may encounter pickpockets working in pairs or groups, bag snatchers on scooters, and thieves targeting luggage in train stations.
Prevention measures include: using cross-body anti-theft bags, keeping valuables out of sight, and avoiding street distractions from strangers.

Residential and Vehicle Theft

Burglary incidents have been reported in both city apartments and holiday rentals. Vehicle break-ins are common, especially for rentals. Avoid leaving items visible inside cars, even when parked briefly.

Sexual Assault and Safety for Women Travellers

Reports of sexual assault, though rare, include incidents involving foreign visitors. Women travelling alone should avoid poorly lit areas at night, use official taxi or rideshare services, and contact the 1522 helpline in emergencies.

Fraud, Credit Card Skimming, and Cybercrime

Credit card skimming devices may be hidden on ATMs in tourist-heavy areas. Cybercriminals may also target travellers through unsecured Wi-Fi networks.
Precautions: use ATMs inside banks, cover PIN entries, and avoid online banking on public networks.

Major Event Spotlight – Jubilee 2025 in Rome

The Holy Year celebrations will transform Rome’s visitor landscape. The event will run from December 24, 2024, to January 6, 2026, centred around Vatican City, basilicas, and pilgrimage sites. Security will include metal detectors, crowd control barriers, and police patrols. Accommodation should be booked well ahead, and extra travel time should be factored in. Large religious gatherings present both an atmospheric cultural experience and a heightened need for vigilance.

Demonstrations and Strikes – Impact on Travel

Frequency and Locations

Protests and strikes occur across Italy, often in Rome’s Piazza Venezia, Milan’s city centre, and Naples’ public squares.

Risks for Travellers

Even peaceful gatherings can escalate, causing disruption to public transport schedules, street closures, and occasional clashes between demonstrators and police. Travellers should monitor local news and avoid joining large crowds.

Outdoor and Water Safety – Adventure with Awareness

Hiking, Skiing, and Mountain Activities

Italy’s Dolomites and Alpine resorts attract hikers and skiers year-round. Mountain weather can change quickly, certain trails require technical climbing skills, and avalanche risks rise in winter. Always inform someone of your route and hire certified guides.

Swimming and Boating

Respect beach flag warnings — green for safe, yellow for caution, red for danger. Dangerous navigation zones include the Strait of Bonifacio between Corsica and Sardinia and the Strait of Messina between Sicily and mainland Italy. Check that boats are not overloaded and have life vests for all passengers.

Road Safety and Transportation – Navigating Italian Roads

Road Conditions and Hazards

Urban centres have well-maintained roads, though congestion is frequent. Rural and mountain roads may be narrow, with sharp bends and minimal lighting. Winter conditions may require snow chains or tires.

Driving Culture

Drivers in Italy, especially in cities, may ignore lane discipline. Scooters often pass between moving vehicles or ride on pavements. Defensive driving is essential.

Public Transport Reliability

Train and metro systems are extensive but may face delays during strikes. Validate tickets before boarding to avoid on-the-spot fines.

Taxi and Rideshare Advice

Official taxis have a white “TAXI” sign and a meter; negotiate fares in advance if the meter is off.

Entry and Exit Requirements – What Canadians Must Know

Schengen Area Regulations

Canadians can stay in Italy visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Time in all Schengen countries counts toward this limit.

Passport Validity

Your Canadian passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond departure from Schengen.

Declaration of Presence

Required for those arriving from within Schengen without a passport stamp. Hotels usually file this automatically, but travellers should confirm.

Health Precautions – Staying Well in Italy

Vaccinations and Preventive Health

Ensure standard immunizations are current. Depending on activities, consider tick-borne encephalitis, hepatitis B, and rabies vaccines.

Safe Food and Water Practices

Drink bottled water if in doubt about local supply. Avoid swallowing water when swimming in lakes or pools.

Insect and Animal Risks

Mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue may occur in some regions. Avoid stray animals to reduce rabies risk.

Medical Care Availability

Urban hospitals offer high-quality care; rural areas may have limited facilities. Carry medication in original packaging with a copy of the prescription.

Laws, Culture, and Respecting Local Rules

Public Behaviour Regulations

Certain acts attract fines in tourist cities such as eating or drinking on monuments, bathing in fountains or canals, walking without a shirt or in swimwear outside beaches, and feeding pigeons in Venice.

Environmental Protection

Removing shells, sand, or pebbles from Sardinia’s beaches is prohibited. Protect fragile alpine vegetation in mountain areas.

Photography and Drone Regulations

Obtain permission before photographing military sites. Drones require EU registration; no-fly zones include military areas and mass events.

Natural Hazards – Weather and Geophysical Risks

Earthquake and Volcano Zones

Italy lies in a seismic zone with active volcanoes such as Mount Etna in Sicily, Stromboli in the Aeolian Islands, and Mount Vesuvius near Naples. Authorities monitor volcanic activity closely; heed all evacuation orders.

Wildfires

Peak risk during summer in Sicily, Sardinia, and Calabria. Smoke can affect air quality and visibility.

Flooding

Venice’s “acqua alta” tides cause seasonal flooding. Tuscany and Liguria face heavy rain risks in autumn.

Avalanches

Winter sports areas in the Alps and Dolomites can be impacted by avalanches. Check daily forecasts before skiing or mountaineering.

Money, Currency, and Customs Rules

The currency is the euro (€). Cash payments are generally limited to under €1000. Declare amounts over €10,000 when entering or leaving the EU.

Emergency Services and Canadian Assistance

Dial 112 for police, fire, and ambulance. The Embassy of Canada in Rome and the Consulate in Milan provide consular support to Canadian travellers

Conclusion

Italy offers a rich blend of history, culture, cuisine, and landscapes that make it a dream destination for travellers. However, the 2025 Canada travel advisory reminds Canadian visitors that preparation and awareness are essential for a safe and enjoyable trip. By understanding local laws, following safety precautions, respecting cultural norms, and staying informed about current events and natural hazards, travellers can minimise risks while exploring Italy’s treasures. Whether strolling through Rome’s ancient streets, admiring Florence’s art, gliding through Venice’s canals, or hiking in the Dolomites, being informed is the key to making unforgettable memories without unnecessary setbacks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is it safe to travel to Italy in 2025?
Yes, Italy is generally safe for Canadian tourists, but the Government of Canada advises exercising a high degree of caution due to petty crime, potential terrorism risks, and occasional public demonstrations.
2. Do Canadians need a visa for Italy?
No. Canadians can enter Italy visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period under Schengen Area rules, provided their passport is valid for at least 3 months beyond their departure date.
3. What are the main safety concerns for tourists in Italy?
The most common risks are pickpocketing, bag snatching, credit card skimming, and fraud. Visitors should also be aware of traffic habits, seasonal natural hazards, and local laws on public behaviour.
4. What should I know about Jubilee 2025 in Rome?
Jubilee 2025 runs from December 24, 2024, to January 6, 2026, and will draw large crowds to religious and cultural events in Rome. Expect increased security, transport disruptions, and heavy tourist activity.
5. Are there any specific laws tourists often overlook?
Yes. In cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice, it is illegal to eat on monuments, bathe in fountains, feed pigeons, or walk in swimwear away from beaches. Violations can result in fines.
6. What health precautions should I take before visiting Italy?
Ensure your routine vaccinations are up to date, consider travel vaccines depending on activities, carry medications in original packaging, and practise safe food, water, and insect protection measures.
7. How do I contact Canadian assistance in Italy?
In emergencies, call 112 for police, fire, or ambulance services. You can contact the Embassy of Canada in Rome or the Consulate in Milan for consular support.

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Tags: Europe, Florence, Italy, Milan, Naples

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