US State Dept. issues warning for Americans traveling to Italy
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U.S. issues travel warning for Italy: here’s what you need to know if you plan to visit this summer 2025
Italy consistently ranks among the top international countries visited by U.S. travelers. The country is one of the most popular destinations for many Americans offering spectacular city breaks in the likes of Rome, Bologna, Florence and Venice. Earlier this week, the US State Department issued a Level 2 travel warning for Italy, urging travelers to “exercise increased caution” due to terrorism. There are four levels for international travel advisories: Level 1 (‘exercise normal precautions’), Level 2, Level 3 (“reconsider travel”) and Level 4 (’do not travel’) The U.N. has 60 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Italy, including the Colosseum, Pantheon, and Vatican City.
Italy is a hugely popular tourist destination for Americans. and consistently ranks among the top international countries visited by U.S. travelers, often alongside Mexico, Canada, and the UK.
Italy is a veritable open-air museum, boasting the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world (60). Cities like Rome (with the Colosseum, Pantheon, and Vatican City), Florence (Renaissance art and architecture), and Venice (canals and unique charm) offer an unparalleled immersion in ancient history, art, and vibrant traditions.
Everyone goes to Italy for Rome, Venice, and Florence.
But the real marvels?
They’re hidden.
They’re ancient.
They’re nearly forgotten.
Here are the soul-stirring places in Italy that tourists miss but you shouldn’t this summer. 🧵 pic.twitter.com/ByuE1lFGM5 — Culture Explorer (@CultureExploreX) May 14, 2025
Italian food is beloved globally, and experiencing it authentically in Italy is a major draw. From pizza in Naples to pasta in Emilia-Romagna, regional specialties, fresh ingredients, and the communal aspect of Italian dining are highly appreciated by American tourists.
General view as boats are seen while Napoli players celebrate on a bus as fans cheer during the victory parade MATTEO CIAMBELLI
Beyond its cities, Italy offers diverse and breathtaking landscapes, including the dramatic cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, the picturesque lakes of the north (Como, Garda), the rolling hills of Tuscany with vineyards and olive groves, and the spectacular peaks of the Dolomites.
Level 2 warning
However, future travellers to Italy will need to be aware that earlier this week, the US State Department issued a Level 2 travel warning for Italy, urging travelers to “exercise increased caution” due to terrorism.
Italy previously had the basic Level 1 advisory that most European countries share, simply telling travelers to “exercise normal precautions” when visiting.
However, due to the increased threat of terrorist-related violence, the State Department increased Italy up to Level 2.
There are four levels for international travel advisories: Level 1 (“exercise normal precautions”), Level 2 (“exercise increased caution”), Level 3 (“reconsider travel”) and Level 4 (“do not travel”).
🚨JUST IN🚨
The U.S. State Department has issued a Level 2 travel advisory for Italy, recommending that travelers “exercise increased caution” due to the threat of terrorism.
The advisory notes, “There is a risk of terrorist violence, including potential attacks and other… — Breanna Morello (@BreannaMorello) May 27, 2025
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US renews travel advisory to popular destination amid ‘terrorism fears’
The U.S. Department of State has issued a level 2 travel advisory for Italy. The advisory urges travelers to “exercise increased caution” due to “terrorism” The warning comes as concerns over potential attacks in popular tourist destinations and public areas heighten in Italy. Italy is considered one of the world’s most culturally important countries and is home to 54 World Heritage Sites, the most in the world. The State Department said they review travel advisories on a regular basis and would update alerts “any time conditions change substantially,” a spokesperson told Fox News Digital. The department is also encouraging travelers to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive messages and alerts from the U.s. Embassy in the event of an emergency. The U.N. World Tourism Organization has also issued travel warnings for 21 countries, ranging from the lowest level 1 to the highest level 4.
On May 23, the department reissued a level 2 travel advisory for travel to Italy, urging travelers to “exercise increased caution” due to “terrorism.”
“There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Italy,” the warning read.
The advisory warns that terrorists “may attack with little or no warning” and encourages Americans to be aware of common targets, including tourist spots, transportation centers, shopping malls and markets, local government buildings, hotels, clubs, restaurants, religious sites, parks, sports and cultural events, schools, airports and public areas.
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The travel advisory also emphasized the importance of “staying alert in tourist spots” and “to check local media for breaking news.”
“Be prepared to adjust your plans and prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations,” the advisory read.
The State Department has issued a Level 2 travel warning for Italy, urging travelers to exercise increased caution due to the risk of terrorism. (Getty Images)
The department is also encouraging travelers to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive messages and alerts from the U.S. Embassy, stating it “makes it easier to locate you in an emergency.”
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The warning comes as concerns over potential attacks in popular tourist destinations and public areas heighten in Italy, which remains one of the top European destinations for American tourists.
In May, the State Department issued travel advisories for 21 countries worldwide, ranging from the lowest level 1, which alerts travelers to “Exercise Normal Precautions,” to the highest advisory at level 4, which means “Do Not Travel.”
Italy has been under a level 2 advisory since April 2022, according to the State Department.
France, Germany, Spain, Switzerland and the United Kingdom also currently have level 2 advisories from the State Department.
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The State Department said they review travel advisories on a regular basis and would update alerts “any time conditions change substantially.”
Level 1 and 2 advisories are reviewed every 12 months, while levels 3 and 4 are reviewed at least every six months, the department added.
A State Department spokesperson told Fox News Digital that there is “no higher priority than the safety and security of U.S. citizens overseas.”
“We take seriously our commitment to provide U.S. citizens with clear, timely, and reliable information about every country in the world so they can make informed travel decisions,” a State Department spokesperson told Fox News Digital. “The Department of State routinely updates our Travel Advisories and destination information pages based on a comprehensive review of all available safety information and ongoing developments.”
Italy is considered one of the world’s most culturally important countries and is home to 54 World Heritage Sites, the most in the world. Italy’s political system is also traditionally volatile, and, as of 2018, saw a populist coalition rise to power.
Stepheny Price is a writer for Fox News Digital and Fox Business. She covers topics including missing persons, homicides, national crime cases, illegal immigration, and more. Story tips and ideas can be sent to stepheny.price@fox.com
Find more updates on this story at FOXNews.com.
The US Raises Travel Advisory for Italy Amid Terrorism Concerns: What Comprehensive Guide for Travelers You Need To Know
The US Department of State has raised its travel advisory level for Italy from Level 1 (Exercise Normal Precautions) to Level 2 (Ex exercise Increased Caution) This update serves as a critical reminder for American tourists and business travelers heading to one of Europe’s most beloved destinations to remain vigilant and prepared. The updated advisory highlights that Italy faces ongoing threats of terrorist violence, which may include attacks conducted with little or no warning. Terrorist groups often target locations where large numbers of people gather, and in Italy, such locations include: airports, train stations, and bus terminals. The advisory provides practical guidance for travelers, encouraging them to: Remain aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded or high-profile places. Follow local media and news sources for any emerging threats or incidents. Be flexible and ready to alter travel plans if necessary, including changing routes or avoiding certain areas. Enroll in STEP: The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) allows US citizens to register their travel plans with the nearest US Embassy or Consulate.
The US Department of State has recently raised its travel advisory level for Italy from Level 1 (Exercise Normal Precautions) to Level 2 (Exercise Increased Caution), reflecting concerns about potential terrorism risks in the country. This update serves as a critical reminder for American tourists and business travelers heading to one of Europe’s most beloved destinations to remain vigilant and prepared.
Italy, renowned for its historic landmarks, world-class cuisine, and vibrant culture, remains a top global tourist destination. However, as global security dynamics evolve, the US government emphasizes the importance of heightened awareness when traveling abroad.
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Understanding the US Travel Advisory System
The US State Department issues travel advisories to inform citizens about safety and security risks in foreign countries. These advisories fall into four distinct levels:
Level 1 – Exercise Normal Precautions: Lowest threat level; general travel safety recommendations apply.
Lowest threat level; general travel safety recommendations apply. Level 2 – Exercise Increased Caution: Some risks exist; travelers should stay alert and be prepared.
Some risks exist; travelers should stay alert and be prepared. Level 3 – Reconsider Travel: Serious risks may affect travel; reconsider your plans.
Serious risks may affect travel; reconsider your plans. Level 4 – Do Not Travel: Highest warning; conditions are dangerous or unstable.
Italy’s elevation to Level 2 indicates that while travel is still possible, there are increased risks, particularly related to terrorism.
Key Points from the Latest Italy Travel Advisory
The updated advisory highlights that Italy faces ongoing threats of terrorist violence, which may include attacks conducted with little or no warning. Terrorist groups often target locations where large numbers of people gather, and in Italy, such locations include:
Popular tourist attractions such as historic monuments and cultural sites
Transportation hubs like airports, train stations, and bus terminals
Shopping centers and open markets
Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by travelers and locals
Religious institutions and places of worship
Parks, sporting events, and other public venues
Government buildings and official centers
Travelers are urged to remain vigilant at these sites and maintain situational awareness, as terrorists may exploit crowded or iconic locations for attacks.
Practical Safety Measures for US Citizens Traveling to Italy
The advisory provides practical guidance for travelers, encouraging them to:
Stay Alert: Remain aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded or high-profile places.
Remain aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded or high-profile places. Monitor Local News: Follow local media and news sources for any emerging threats or incidents.
Follow local media and news sources for any emerging threats or incidents. Prepare for Changes: Be flexible and ready to alter travel plans if necessary, including changing routes or avoiding certain areas.
Be flexible and ready to alter travel plans if necessary, including changing routes or avoiding certain areas. Enroll in STEP: The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) allows US citizens to register their travel plans with the nearest US Embassy or Consulate. This registration facilitates quick communication and assistance in emergencies.
Additionally, travelers should have contingency plans that include emergency contacts, access to local emergency services, and knowledge of evacuation procedures if needed.
Context of Terrorism Threats in Italy
Italy, like many European countries, remains vigilant against potential terrorist threats, which arise from various extremist groups. The Italian government collaborates closely with international intelligence and security agencies, including the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation (Europol), to mitigate these threats.
Incidents involving terrorism in Italy have historically targeted symbolic locations, public transport, and tourist sites. Authorities regularly implement security measures, including increased patrols, surveillance, and public awareness campaigns.
The Italian Ministry of the Interior provides up-to-date information on security measures and public safety initiatives.
Impact on Tourism and How Travelers Can Prepare
Italy’s tourism sector is vital to its economy, attracting millions annually. The advisory does not suggest that tourists avoid Italy but encourages them to take sensible precautions. Travelers should:
Keep valuables secure and avoid displaying expensive items publicly.
Use licensed transportation and reputable accommodation providers.
Stay in contact with family or friends back home to share travel plans.
Learn key phrases in Italian to facilitate communication in emergencies.
The US Embassy in Rome and Consulate General offices in Milan and Florence provide assistance to American travelers and issue safety updates regularly.
Comparing Italy’s Advisory to Other European Destinations
Italy is not alone in facing terrorism risks; many popular European destinations have similar travel advisory levels. Countries like France, Germany, Spain, and the United Kingdom also have Level 2 or higher advisories for parts of their territories due to terrorism or civil unrest.
The US State Department urges travelers to assess risks individually for each destination and adopt appropriate safety measures, especially in major cities or regions known for political demonstrations or heightened security alerts.
Role of the US Government and International Cooperation
The US government’s role includes providing timely information to its citizens abroad, supporting their safety, and coordinating with host countries to manage security threats. The Department of State works alongside the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and international partners to monitor and respond to global terrorism developments.
Travel advisories are regularly reviewed and updated based on intelligence assessments and changing conditions. Travelers are encouraged to stay informed and heed official guidance.
Summary and Final Recommendations
The US travel advisory update for Italy from Level 1 to Level 2 serves as a reminder that while Italy remains a relatively safe travel destination, risks related to terrorism are real and require vigilance. Travelers should exercise increased caution, remain informed, and utilize resources such as the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to ensure safety and preparedness.
By taking proactive steps, tourists can enjoy Italy’s rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and culinary delights while minimizing potential risks.
Source: Hindustan Times
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Summer vacations thrown into chaos as state department issues terrorism warning for iconic European destination
The US State Department has issued a rare travel advisory for Italy warning of an increased ‘risk of terrorist violence’ The advisory – a Level 2 – warned travelers that terrorists may strike with little to no warning, urging them to remain vigilant in locations commonly targeted. The agency did not elaborate why a more serious warning was issued at this time, especially since no recent incidents were cited to justify the change. France, Germany, Spain and the United Kingdom are among those with Level 2 advisories from the State Department. In May, a similarly vague advisory was issued for Switzerland, despite its longstanding reputation as one of the safest countries in the world.
Italy ranks as the fifth most visited country in the world, having welcomed an impressive 65 million international visitors last year alone.
Despite its popularity the US State Department has placed the European destination on its travel advisory list with an increase to a ‘Level 2’ warning, urging ‘increased caution’ over concerns of terrorist activity.
‘There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Italy,’ the department said in the report.
The advisory warned that terrorists may strike with little to no warning, urging travelers to remain vigilant in locations commonly targeted.
These include tourist spots, transport hubs, shopping malls, hotels, clubs, restaurants, religious sites, parks, sporting events, schools, airports and other public areas.
The US travel advisory system consists of four levels, with Level 1 being the lowest and Level 4 – reserved for countries in active war zones or with authoritarian regimes – being the highest.
Italy previously held a Level 1 advisory – the lowest level – shared by most European countries.
The US State Department has issued a travel advisory for Italy , warning travelers of an increased ‘risk of terrorist violence’
The advisory – a Level 2 – warned travelers that terrorists may strike with little to no warning, urging them to remain vigilant in locations commonly targeted
Commonly targeted areas include tourist spots, transport hubs, shopping malls, hotels, clubs, restaurants, religious sites, parks, sporting events, schools, airports and local government buildings
A Level 1 advisory simply advises travelers to ‘exercise normal precautions’ when visiting international destinations.
The department has stated that their advisories are regularly reviewed and updated based on current intelligence, security conditions and other relevant factors to ensure the safety of US citizens abroad.
However, the agency did not elaborate why a more serious warning was issued at this time, especially since no recent incidents were cited to justify the change.
Nevertheless, travelers are urged to remain vigilant, follow local news and register with the US embassy either before or during their trip.
Italy previously held a Level 1 advisory – the lowest level – shared by most European countries
Italy ranks as the fifth most visited country in the world, having welcomed an impressive 65 million international visitors last year alone
The new warning places Italy alongside other Western European countries that face similar advisories, including France, Germany, Spain and the UK
Preparing a contingency plan for emergency situations was also recommended.
The Italian government has not yet commented on the renewed warning.
The new warning places Italy alongside other Western European countries that face similar advisories, reflecting broader regional concerns over potential terrorist threats.
France, Germany, Spain and the United Kingdom are among those with Level 2 advisories from the State Department.
In May, a similarly vague advisory was issued for Switzerland, despite its longstanding reputation as one of the safest countries in the world.
Summer vacations thrown into chaos as state department issues terrorism warning for iconic European destination
The US State Department has issued a rare travel advisory for Italy warning of an increased ‘risk of terrorist violence’ The advisory – a Level 2 – warned travelers that terrorists may strike with little to no warning, urging them to remain vigilant in locations commonly targeted. The agency did not elaborate why a more serious warning was issued at this time, especially since no recent incidents were cited to justify the change. France, Germany, Spain and the United Kingdom are among those with Level 2 advisories from the State Department. In May, a similarly vague advisory was issued for Switzerland, despite its longstanding reputation as one of the safest countries in the world.
Italy ranks as the fifth most visited country in the world, having welcomed an impressive 65 million international visitors last year alone.
Despite its popularity the US State Department has placed the European destination on its travel advisory list with an increase to a ‘Level 2’ warning, urging ‘increased caution’ over concerns of terrorist activity.
‘There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Italy,’ the department said in the report.
The advisory warned that terrorists may strike with little to no warning, urging travelers to remain vigilant in locations commonly targeted.
These include tourist spots, transport hubs, shopping malls, hotels, clubs, restaurants, religious sites, parks, sporting events, schools, airports and other public areas.
The US travel advisory system consists of four levels, with Level 1 being the lowest and Level 4 – reserved for countries in active war zones or with authoritarian regimes – being the highest.
Italy previously held a Level 1 advisory – the lowest level – shared by most European countries.
The US State Department has issued a travel advisory for Italy , warning travelers of an increased ‘risk of terrorist violence’
The advisory – a Level 2 – warned travelers that terrorists may strike with little to no warning, urging them to remain vigilant in locations commonly targeted
Commonly targeted areas include tourist spots, transport hubs, shopping malls, hotels, clubs, restaurants, religious sites, parks, sporting events, schools, airports and local government buildings
A Level 1 advisory simply advises travelers to ‘exercise normal precautions’ when visiting international destinations.
The department has stated that their advisories are regularly reviewed and updated based on current intelligence, security conditions and other relevant factors to ensure the safety of US citizens abroad.
However, the agency did not elaborate why a more serious warning was issued at this time, especially since no recent incidents were cited to justify the change.
Nevertheless, travelers are urged to remain vigilant, follow local news and register with the US embassy either before or during their trip.
Italy previously held a Level 1 advisory – the lowest level – shared by most European countries
Italy ranks as the fifth most visited country in the world, having welcomed an impressive 65 million international visitors last year alone
The new warning places Italy alongside other Western European countries that face similar advisories, including France, Germany, Spain and the UK
Preparing a contingency plan for emergency situations was also recommended.
The Italian government has not yet commented on the renewed warning.
The new warning places Italy alongside other Western European countries that face similar advisories, reflecting broader regional concerns over potential terrorist threats.
France, Germany, Spain and the United Kingdom are among those with Level 2 advisories from the State Department.
In May, a similarly vague advisory was issued for Switzerland, despite its longstanding reputation as one of the safest countries in the world.
Source: https://www.beaumontenterprise.com/news/article/us-upgraded-travel-advisory-italy-20351029.php