American tourists planning trips to Italy now face heightened terrorism warnings as the State Department upgrades the popular destination to a Level 2 travel advisory, placing it alongside other major European countries under increased security scrutiny.
Key Takeaways
- The U.S. State Department has raised Italy’s travel advisory to Level 2, warning Americans to “exercise increased caution” due to terrorism threats
- Popular tourist attractions, transportation hubs, shopping areas, and religious sites are considered potential targets for terrorist activity
- Similar Level 2 advisories are in effect for France, Germany, Spain, Switzerland, the UK and other European nations
- Travelers are encouraged to stay vigilant, monitor local media, and register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for emergency alerts
- The advisory doesn’t discourage travel but emphasizes awareness of increased security risks
Understanding the Travel Advisory
On May 23, 2025, the U.S. Department of State reissued its Level 2 travel advisory for Italy, upgrading the country from its previous Level 1 status. The advisory specifically warns of terrorism concerns in the Mediterranean nation, which hosts 54 World Heritage Sites and remains one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations. The warning comes as part of a broader pattern of increased vigilance throughout Europe, with similar advisories in place for numerous European countries popular with American travelers.
“There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Italy,” According to the U.S. Department of State advisory.
The advisory scale employed by the State Department ranges from Level 1 (“exercise normal precautions”) to Level 4 (“Do not travel”). Italy’s new Level 2 status advises Americans to “exercise increased caution” while visiting the country. This classification has been in place for Italy since April 2022, though the recent issuance serves as a reminder of the continued concerns about potential terrorist activity targeting tourist-heavy areas.
Potential Targets and Security Concerns
The State Department’s warning highlights specific areas of concern where terrorists might potentially strike. These include tourist attractions, transportation centers, shopping districts, government facilities, hotels, restaurants, places of worship, parks, and airports. The advisory emphasizes that attacks could occur with little or no warning, underscoring the importance of maintaining situational awareness at all times while traveling throughout the country.
“Exercise increased caution,” According to the U.S. Department of State in its official advisory, highlighting the unpredictable nature of potential threats.
This advisory does not stand alone. France, Germany, Spain, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, Belgium, Denmark, Sweden, and the Netherlands all currently carry the same Level 2 designation, pointing to broader security concerns across the European continent. The State Department routinely reviews these designations, with Level 1 and 2 advisories reassessed every 12 months, while the more severe Level 3 and 4 warnings undergo review every six months.
Recommended Precautions for Travelers
For Americans still planning to visit Italy, the State Department offers several practical recommendations to enhance personal safety. Travelers should remain vigilant in public places, especially at tourist locations and transportation hubs. Monitoring local media for breaking security information and having a contingency plan for emergencies are also advised. Additionally, enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) enables Americans to receive alerts and makes it easier for officials to locate them during emergencies.
“No higher priority than the safety and security of U.S. citizens overseas,” the government’s commitment to protecting Americans abroad.
It’s important to note that these advisories don’t discourage travel to affected destinations but instead encourage awareness of potential safety and security risks. The State Department bases advisory levels on various risk indicators, including crime rates, civil unrest, natural disasters, health concerns, and risks of wrongful detention. While President Trump’s administration continues to prioritize American safety abroad, travelers should exercise personal responsibility by staying informed about conditions in their destination countries.
