Canada issued a new travel advisory for Italy and says to 'exercise a high degree of caution'

If you're planning a trip to Italy this year, you'll want to take note of new travel advice from the Government of Canada.

As the summer travel season begins, Canada has issued a new travel advisory for Italy, warning Canadian travellers to "exercise a high degree of caution," in the country.

On June 3, the Canadian government said it upgraded its risk level for Italy amid new safety and security concerns.

On X, formerly known as Twitter, the government said it changed the risk level for the country to "exercise a high degree of caution" due to "the threat of terrorism."

The new risk level means that there are "certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly," and that travellers should "be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities."

In its travel advisory, the Government of Canada says the threat of terrorism exists in Europe, including in Italy.

"Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities and further attacks elsewhere in Europe are likely. Attacks in Italy cannot be ruled out," it says.

The travel advisory notes that terrorist targets could include places like government buildings and schools, places of worship, airports and other transportation hubs, and public areas like tourist attractions, restaurants, coffee shops, malls, and other sites that tourists frequent.

According to the advisory, the Government of Italy maintains a public alert system on terrorism, with changes communicated mainly through local media.

Canadians travelling in Italy are advised to always be aware of their surroundings when in public places.

"Be particularly vigilant if attending sporting events and during religious holidays and other public celebrations, as terrorists have used such occasions to mount attacks," says the Government of Canada.

Travellers should also expect an increased presence of police and military forces during holidays and in public places, including tourist locations and landmarks in Italy.

Europe terrorism threat

Other popular European tourist countries are under the same risk level as Italy due to the threat of terrorism, including Germany, Spain, and France.

In France, the Canadian government's travel advisory warns travellers that there is an "elevated threat of terrorism."

In March, the French government raised the security threat level within its Vigipirate plan (a set of measures to prepare and protect the population and public places) to "attack emergency," the highest level in the plan, following a terrorist attack in Moscow claimed by the Islamic State.

The move came as Paris is set to host the Olympic and Paralympic Games over the summer, an event that will see public events taking place across France, as well as large crowds and public gatherings.

If you're planning to attend the Olympic Games or another large-scale event in Europe this summer, the Government of Canada has more information on how to stay safe during mass gatherings abroad.

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.