Canada has issued travel advisories for 9 European destinations due to the terrorism threat
If you're planning a European getaway, whether it's sipping wine in Paris, cycling through Amsterdam, or soaking up the history of Rome, you'll want to check Canada's latest travel advisories before you go.
Government travel advisories are classified according to four risk levels, from "Take normal security precautions" and "Exercise a high degree of caution" through to "Avoid non-essential travel" and "Avoid all travel."
The Government of Canada has flagged several popular countries, including France, Spain, Italy, and the U.K., as places where Canadian travellers should exercise a high degree of caution due to ongoing security concerns.
Keep in mind that these advisories don't mean you should cancel your trip, but they do highlight the importance of staying aware, being particularly careful in high-risk areas, and keeping up with local security updates.
What's more, some of these countries have had terrorism threat advisories in place for months, if not years, so there's not necessarily any need to hold-off on booking your ticket if these spots are on your bucket list.
Here's what you need to know before jetting off to some of Europe's most popular destinations.
United Kingdom
Last Updated: February 18, 2025
Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution in the United Kingdom due to the threat of terrorism.
Details: From iconic landmarks like Big Ben and Buckingham Palace to charming countryside escapes, the U.K. is a dream destination for many Canadians.
Whether you're catching a West End show, enjoying a proper Sunday roast, or exploring centuries-old castles, there's no shortage of things to see and do.
However, officials warn that terrorism remains a serious concern across the country. Attacks, including knife incidents, vehicle rammings, and explosions, have occurred, mostly in London but also in other cities. High-risk locations include government buildings, public spaces, and popular tourist hotspots like markets, bars, hotels, and transit hubs.
The U.K.'s national terrorism threat level is currently at 3 out of 5 ("substantial"), meaning an attack is considered likely. In Northern Ireland, the threat level is even higher at 4 ("severe"). Travellers should stay alert, especially at major events, religious gatherings, and busy public areas.
Italy
Last Updated: February 18, 2025
Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution in Italy due to the threat of terrorism.
Details: Rome is already one of the most visited cities in the world, but with the Jubilee 2025 set to take place from December 24, 2024, to January 6, 2026, expect an even bigger influx of tourists and pilgrims. This Holy Year will bring large-scale religious events, processions, and massive gatherings across the city, making planning ahead essential.
If you're heading to Rome during this time, be prepared for crowds, traffic disruptions, and heightened security measures. Police and military presence will be increased at major landmarks, transit hubs, and public spaces.
Stay alert, be mindful of your surroundings, and allow extra time for security checks if you're visiting major sites or attending Jubilee events.
France
Last Updated: February 18, 2025
Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution in France due to the elevated threat of terrorism.
Details: France is a bucket-list destination, whether you're sipping wine in a Parisian cafe, strolling through the lavender fields of Provence, or hitting the slopes in the Alps. But while the country offers beautiful architecture, culture, and food, officials warn that terrorism remains a concern.
Over the past few years, several attacks, both planned and opportunistic, have occurred, resulting in casualties. The French government has implemented the Vigipirate plan, a national security strategy designed to protect citizens and respond quickly to threats. France is currently at level 3 ("attack emergency"), the highest on the country's terrorism alert system.
As part of Operation Sentinelle, military brigades regularly patrol public spaces, transport hubs, and tourist hotspots, especially in Paris. Visitors should expect an increased security presence in busy areas.
Potential targets for attacks include government buildings, cultural sites, places of worship, major landmarks, markets, and public transit hubs.
Spain
Last Updated: February 18, 2025
Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution in Spain due to the threat of terrorism.
Details: From Barcelona's stunning architecture to Madrid's lively plazas and the sun-soaked beaches of the Costa del Sol, Spain is a dream destination for many. But while the country is known for its rich culture, delicious tapas, and vibrant nightlife, visitors must still be mindful of the terrorism threat.
Spain has experienced attacks in the past, some resulting in casualties. High-risk locations include government buildings, places of worship, transit hubs, and popular tourist areas such as markets, hotels, restaurants, and shopping centres.
Spain's national terrorism threat level is currently at 4 out of 5 ("high"), which means an attack is considered a real possibility.
Germany
Last Updated: February 18, 2025
Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution in Germany due to the threat of terrorism.
Details: Germany is a must-visit for history lovers, beer enthusiasts, and culture seekers alike. From the buzzing streets of Berlin to the fairytale castles of Bavaria, there's no shortage of incredible sights.
Whether you're wandering through a Christmas market, enjoying a bratwurst in a beer garden, or taking in world-class museums, the country is a bucket list spot for a reason.
That said, officials warn that Germany remains a potential target for terrorism. High-risk locations include government buildings, places of worship, airports, and public spaces like markets, shopping centres, bars, and hotels. Christmas markets, in particular, have been targeted in the past.
German authorities have a public alert system for terrorism, with updates communicated through local media. Expect visible security measures in busy areas, particularly in big cities.
Denmark
Last Updated: February 18, 2025
Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution in Denmark due to the threat of terrorism.
Details: Denmark is known for its fairy-tale charm, sleek Scandinavian design, and effortlessly cool cities like Copenhagen.
However, officials warn that Denmark, like much of Europe, faces a significant terrorism threat. Attacks have occurred in various European cities, and potential targets include tourist attractions, government buildings, transportation hubs, and public spaces like markets, bars, and hotels.
The Danish Security and Intelligence Service ranks the country's terrorism threat level at 4 out of 5, meaning an attack is considered a real possibility. Canadian visitors should stay alert, particularly during major events, religious holidays, and in crowded areas.
Sweden
Last Updated: February 19, 2025
Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution in Sweden due to the threat of terrorism.
Details: Whether you've dreamed of strolling through Stockholm's charming old town or exploring the northern lights in Lapland, Sweden is a dreamy spot for travellers worldwide.
However, officials warn that the country faces an increased terrorism threat. Sweden's national threat level was raised to 4 out of 5 in August 2023, meaning an attack is considered highly possible.
Security measures have been increased, especially in major cities, and updates on the threat level are communicated through local media.
The Netherlands
Last Updated: February 18, 2025
Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution in the Netherlands due to the threat of terrorism.
Details: The Netherlands is famous for its picturesque canals, world-class museums, charming tulip fields, and laid-back culture. However, authorities warn that terrorism remains a concern, and attacks in the Netherlands cannot be ruled out.
The country’s terrorism threat level is currently at 4 out of 5 (“substantial”), meaning an attack is considered likely. High-risk locations include government buildings, places of worship, major transit hubs, and public areas like tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, markets, and shopping centres.
Security measures have been increased, especially in busy areas, and the Dutch government regularly updates the public on threat levels through local media.
Belgium
Last Updated: February 18, 2025
Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution in Belgium due to the threat of terrorism.
Details: A must-visit for history lovers, foodies, and beer sippers, Belgium is a European hotspot that's brimming with charm and culture. That said, authorities warn that terrorism remains a concern here.
Belgium has experienced multiple attacks in the past, and further incidents cannot be ruled out. The national threat level was raised to 3 out of 4 following a shooting in Brussels in October 2023, meaning an attack is considered possible.
Security measures have been increased nationwide, with more police patrols, stricter security screenings, and heightened precautions in public spaces.
While the threat of terrorism is something to be aware of, it shouldn't stop you from exploring these incredible destinations.
Whether you're wandering through historic streets, indulging in world-class cuisine, or soaking in breathtaking landscapes, each of these countries has so much to offer.
These advisories are simply reminders to stay informed, be vigilant, and take common-sense precautions while travelling. As long as you do that, you'll be prepared for an amazing — and safe — adventure.
This article's cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.
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.
