Italy Travel Guide 2025: Essential Tips for Safety, ETIAS, Jubilee Events, and Navigating Tourist Destinations

Italy remains a popular tourist destination in 2025, but travelers should be aware of some important advisories and recent developments. The U.S. Department of State currently maintains a Level 2 travel advisory for Italy, recommending that visitors exercise increased caution due to the threat of terrorism. While violent crime rates are generally low, petty theft and tourist scams can be issues in major cities and tourist areas.

A significant event to be aware of is the ongoing Jubilee 2025, also known as the Holy Year, taking place in Rome from December 24, 2024, to January 6, 2026. The Italian government expects a large influx of visitors during this period, particularly for major events like the Opening of the Holy Door of Saint Peter's Basilica. Travelers planning to visit Rome during the Jubilee should anticipate large crowds, potential disruptions to traffic and movement, and an increased presence of security forces.

For U.S. citizens, it's important to note that starting May 7, 2025, a REAL ID will be required to board domestic flights within the United States. While this doesn't directly affect travel to Italy, it's a crucial consideration for any connecting flights within the U.S.

A major change for international travelers is the implementation of the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) in mid-2025. U.S. citizens and other visa-exempt travelers will need to obtain an ETIAS authorization before entering Italy and other Schengen Area countries. This is not a visa, but a pre-screening process aimed at enhancing security. The online application is expected to be straightforward for most travelers, with approvals typically granted within minutes.

Regarding health and safety, as of early 2025, there are no specific COVID-19 related entry requirements for Italy. However, the situation can change rapidly, so it's advisable to check the latest guidelines from Italian authorities before travel.

Natural disasters remain a consideration when visiting Italy. The country has several active volcanoes, including Mount Etna in Sicily, which has shown increased activity in recent years. Travelers should stay informed about volcanic activity and follow any local warnings or evacuation orders.

In terms of transportation, Italy continues to experience occasional strikes affecting public transit, including trains and airlines. These can cause significant disruptions, so it's wise to stay updated on any planned strikes that might coincide with your travel dates.

For those planning to drive in Italy, be aware that traffic laws and driving habits may differ significantly from what you're accustomed to. City streets can be narrow and congested, and in rural areas, roads may be poorly maintained.

Lastly, while Italy is generally welcoming to tourists, there have been discussions about implementing measures to manage overtourism in popular destinations like Venice. As of 2025, Venice has introduced a new tourist tax for day visitors on certain days of the year. Travelers should be prepared for potential fees or restrictions in heavily visited areas.

As always, it's recommended to stay informed about current events, respect local customs, and maintain awareness of your surroundings while enjoying all that Italy has to offer.