Updated December 18, 2022
Italy was one of the first countries to be hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic and has subsequently worked hard to get the disease under control. At this point, the country has largely reopened, which means that travelers can enjoy the fantastic food, culture, and history that makes Italy such an electric destination.
As COVID travel restrictions go, Italy has lifted most of them and travel feels much like it did pre-pandemic. But is Italy safe to visit?
When the coronavirus pandemic first emerged in 2020, it hit Italy especially hard with a devastating first wave in March 2020. Like most places, Italy has seen more waves of COVID over the past few years. But strict travel restrictions and a vaccination campaign that has resulted in 80% of the country fully vaccinated as of September 2022 have helped keep the virus at bay as much as possible.
At this point, the CDC gives Italy a Level 3 rating, which means that cases are high. They recommend that all travelers get vaccinated before going to Italy.
So what kind of COVID travel policies does Italy have in place? And what should travelers expect when they arrive in cities like Rome, Venice, or Naples?
Both vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers may visit Italy (although the CDC recommends vaccination before travel). Neither vaccinated nor unvaccinated travelers need to present a negative COVID test.
Right now, the only nationwide requirement to keep in mind is that FFP2 masks are required on public transportation and in healthcare settings. Individual businesses are also allowed to require masks at their discretion.
Travel in Italy feels almost like it did pre-COVID. More people wear masks (and they’re still required in some places). It’s smart to pack COVID rapid tests and be mindful of the local case levels. If you happen to get COVID during your trip, you’ll need to self-isolate for 5 - 14 days.
But day to day, you can take a passeggiata in the evenings, go for a cappuccino at a corner cafe in the mornings, visit museums, and enjoy long leisurely meals like you could before the pandemic.
That said, things could change at any time and it’s important for travelers to respect local rules and regulations.
Things to do in Italy range from exploring the rich history in Rome to feasting on seafood in Venice, soaking in the art scene in Florence, or simply sitting down and ordering some handmade pasta.
Plus, you’ll find some fantastic places to stay in Italy. If you love old cities, history, and good food, you can’t beat going to Rome. If you’re looking for rolling countryside and heart-stopping sunsets, then maybe you’ll want to go to Tuscany. Then again, it’s hard to beat the glitz and glam of Milan.
All in all, travelers will still be able to plan an Italy trip that fits their travel style. If you’re looking to get out of the cities and avoid crowds, Italy has tons of places to visit that you’ll like. But if you’re ready to see the world again and dive into an Italian city, then you can find that, too.
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