Italy is open for tourism…but …all your questions answered!
Yes! You can finally book that trip, get back to eating all the pizza, drinking all the wine and indulging in la dolce far niente.
But we’re sure you also have tons of questions as it seems we’re going from 0 to 100. We tried our best at answering all of them.
Please remember if there’s something you don’t see answered here, never hesitate to reach out and ask us a question. Without further ado…
Is travel for tourism open?
Yes, Italy is open for tourism. There are restrictions, not only for getting into Italy but also be sure to check your own country’s restrictions regarding traveling internationally.
Who can travel to Italy?
Currently visitors from the EU, UK, USA, Israel, Canada, Japan and the UAE can travel to Italy without needing to quarantine if they provide a negative COVID PCR test 48 hours before entering the country.
Additionally there are COVID-tested flights operating between Atlanta, GA to either Rome Fiumicino or Milan Malpensa as well as from New York JFK to either Rome Fiumicino or Milan Malpensa.
If I buy a flight to Italy but it’s not called “COVID tested” does it mean I can’t go?
No, the best way to be sure is to go through the flight buying process and to read the fine print.
But it will most likely mean you will need to have your own COVID test with proof of a negative result done 48 hours before entering Italy. (In some cases tests can also be done 72 hours in advanced but check with the airline you’re flying.)
So then what’s the difference on a “COVID tested” flight?
If you’re traveling on a COVID tested flight then you will still get a PCR test resulting negative 48-72 hours before and then upon arrival at the airport they will perform another rapid COVID test that should give you results in about 30 minutes. Upon landing in Italy they will repeat the rapid test.
What about restrictions inside the country of Italy?
There are still quite a few, which include:
masks are mandatory both inside and outside at all times for anyone over the age of 6
most sites, monuments and museums are open, but there are some places requiring reservation, so when you can call and reserve in advanced to be on the safe side
there is a curfew between 11pm and 5am, make sure you can make your way back to your accommodation by 11pm
restaurants in Italy are currently operating outdoors only, this is expected to change soon
Do be sure to respect the restrictions as they are heavily enforced in Italy, otherwise you shouldn’t have any problems.
Is it actually safe to travel to Italy?
It is safe to travel, Italy would be the first one to not let tourists in if they thought they we’re taking the proper precautions for both tourists and citizens.
However, check in with yourself, be realistic with what you’re comfortable with. We all have to do what we feel best with at the moment.
These guidelines are as of 21 May 2021.
We can definitely say even with restrictions this is a breath of fresh air seeing the possibilities and the country coming to life again.
Again, if you have any questions, please ask them, it’s still a confusing time and we are happy to help!