Karmactive Staff
American tourists planning trips to Italy face a heightened alert from the U.S. government. The State Department warns visitors to be more careful due to possible terrorist threats.
On May 23, officials reissued a Level 2 travel advisory for Italy, maintaining the “exercise increased caution” status the country has held since April 2022. This warning points to terrorism concerns in a country that attracts millions of American visitors yearly.
“There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Italy,” the advisory states plainly. It adds that attacks could happen “with little or no warning.”
The warning lists places where terrorists might strike: tourist spots, train stations, airports, shopping centers, government buildings, hotels, restaurants, churches, parks, sporting events, schools, and other public spaces.
For those still heading to Italy this summer, safety tips include staying alert in crowded areas, keeping up with local news, and having backup plans ready if problems arise. The State Department also urges travelers to sign up for STEP – a program that sends embassy alerts and helps locate Americans during emergencies.
Italy isn’t alone. France, Germany, Spain, and the United Kingdom all carry the same Level 2 rating. The system uses four levels, with Level 4 being the strongest “Do Not Travel” warning.
Similar Posts
This isn’t a new concern for Italy. A State Department spokesperson noted the country has held this Level 2 status since April 2022, making this more of a reminder than a fresh alert.
The advisory comes as summer vacation season begins and as Italy prepares for Jubilee 2025 in Rome, which will bring even more visitors to the country that already sees around 65 million international tourists each year.
Travel advisories get regular reviews – Level 1 and 2 countries every year, with higher-risk nations checked twice yearly.
“We take seriously our commitment to provide U.S. citizens with clear, timely, and reliable information,” a State Department spokesperson said.
The warning doesn’t tell people to cancel Italian vacations. Instead, it encourages awareness and preparation while traveling in one of the world’s most popular destinations.
