Italy
Southern Europe • ITA
Last updated: September 13, 2026
Italy is a Mediterranean masterpiece offering an unparalleled blend of ancient history, world-class art, and iconic culinary traditions. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the historic streets of Rome, it remains one of the most culturally enriching destinations in the world.
Visa Requirements
Citizens of many countries, including the US, Canada, and Australia, can enter Italy for tourism for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa under the Schengen agreement; the ETIAS authorization system is expected to be implemented soon.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport valid for at least three months beyond the date of departure
- Proof of accommodation
- Return or onward travel tickets
- Proof of sufficient financial means
- Travel insurance covering medical expenses
Popular Attractions
The Colosseum is an iconic Roman amphitheater that stands as a powerful symbol of the Roman Empire's architectural prowess.
The Vatican Museums house an immense collection of art amassed by the Catholic Church, including the breathtaking Sistine Chapel ceiling painted by Michelangelo.
The Amalfi Coast features dramatic cliffs and pastel-colored villages overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, offering some of the most scenic coastal views in Europe.
Florence's Duomo and the Uffizi Gallery serve as the heart of the Renaissance, displaying world-renowned masterpieces from artists like Botticelli and Da Vinci.
The canals of Venice provide a unique romantic atmosphere where visitors can explore historical architecture and bridges via traditional gondola rides.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Italians value dressing well; wearing modest clothing is required when visiting churches, meaning shoulders and knees should be covered.
Tipping is not mandatory or expected in the same way as in the US, as a service charge is often included in the bill.
Coffee culture is specific, with cappuccinos typically consumed only in the morning and espresso ordered throughout the day.
Dinner usually starts late, often between 8:00 PM and 9:00 PM, and locals prefer to take their time enjoying their meals.
Greeting people with a polite 'Buongiorno' (good morning) or 'Buonasera' (good evening) is highly appreciated in shops and restaurants.
Safety Tips
Beware of pickpockets in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation, especially in major cities like Rome and Naples.
Keep your passport and valuables in a secure place, such as a hotel safe, and carry only a photocopy while sightseeing.
Use only official, licensed taxis found at designated ranks to avoid being overcharged by unauthorized drivers.
Be cautious of unsolicited help or street scams, such as 'friendly' strangers offering flowers or bracelets, which are often used to distract tourists.
Always validate your train ticket in the machines before boarding to avoid hefty fines from conductors.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Yellow Fever
Source: CDC
No yellow fever vaccination requirements for travelers entering Italy.
View sourceCore Vaccines
COVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines before travel.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to provide general immunity.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP)
Source: CDC
Ensure vaccinations are up to date before traveling.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers, especially those who may eat or drink in settings where hygiene is poor
View sourceTdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
Source: CDC
Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date before traveling to Italy.
View sourceMMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Source: CDC
Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date before traveling to Italy.
View sourceMMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella)
Source: CDC
Routine vaccine, recommended before travel if not adequately vaccinated
View sourceFor Most Travelers
Food and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
Practice food and water safety to prevent travelers' diarrhea and other foodborne illnesses.
Eat and drink safely by consuming only properly prepared food and treated or bottled water.
View sourceFood and water safety
Source: CDC
Practice food and water precautions to prevent traveler's diarrhea and other foodborne illnesses.
Eat and drink safely by consuming pasteurized dairy and thoroughly cooked foods.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
Use insect repellent and wear protective clothing to prevent tick-borne diseases like Tick-borne encephalitis.
View sourceInfluenza
Source: CDC
Year-round vaccine recommended, especially for those traveling during flu season.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may have sexual contact with new partners, get a tattoo or piercing, or have medical procedures.
View sourceFood and Water Safety Measures
Source: CDC
Important for reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses while traveling
Drink bottled or boiled water and eat cooked food.
View sourceFlu vaccine
Source: CDC
Recommended especially for those traveling during flu season
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
Strongly encouraged to reduce the risk of severe illness
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may eat or drink in areas with poor sanitation.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers due to risk of exposure through food or water.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
Hepatitis B
Source: CDC
Consider if you may have sexual contact with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or require medical procedures.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers involved in outdoor and other activities in remote areas that might put them at risk for animal bites.
View sourceCOVID-19 precautions
Source: CDC
Follow health guidelines related to COVID-19 during travel.
View sourceFood and water safety recommendations
Source: CDC
Practice safe food and water consumption to avoid illness.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures (repellents, nets)
Source: CDC
Recommended for outdoor activities, especially in rural areas.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
Use insect repellent and wear long sleeves to prevent insect bites.
View sourceRabies pre-exposure prophylaxis
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may have close contact with animals, particularly those spending extensive time outdoors or in rural areas.
View sourceSeasonal flu vaccine
Source: CDC
Vaccination is recommended annually, especially for those traveling in winter.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
Ensure vaccination for COVID-19 to prevent severe illness and complications.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures (e.g., repellents, suitable clothing)
Source: CDC
To avoid diseases transmitted by insects, especially in rural areas during warm months.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccinations
Source: CDC
Recommended to be fully vaccinated before traveling to mitigate the risk of COVID-19.
View sourceInsect Bite Prevention
Source: CDC
Essential for those traveling to rural or outdoor areas, especially during warmer months
Use repellents with DEET, wear long sleeves and pants.
View source