If you’re dreaming of an Italian adventure in Rome, Venice, Sicily, Florence, or the Riviera, then you’re in luck.
However, Italy is currently on the UK government’s amber list, which means it’s not as straightforward to visit as booking a flight and high-tailing it over there.
There’s a lot to factor in before turning your travel dreams into a reality.
Check out the latest Italy travel news below.
Can I travel to Italy this summer?
Technically, as it stands: yes you can.
From May 17, Italy is on the amber list. This means it’s not advised to travel there for leisure, but you will be allowed as long as you complete certain requirements.
Before you travel, you’ll have to take a pre-departure PCR Covid-19 test.
On return to the UK, you’ll need take more PCR tests on your second and eighth day back on British soil.
You’ll also have to self-isolate for 10 days in your home – only emerging from isolation if you receive a negative test result after being home for five days.
So, you can technically travel there – but there’s a lot involved.
And that doesn’t even include Italy’s own entry requirements…
Will you have to quarantine on arrival in Italy?
Yes, you’ll need to self-isolate when you arrive in Italy.
The quarantine period there is just five days. On the fifth day, you’ll need to take a ‘molecular or antigenic test’ to prove you’re negative.
Molecular tests include PCR tests, while another name for an antigenic test is the lateral flow test. Both are commonly used here in the UK.
You’ll also need to call a special Covid-19 hotline in the region you’re visiting to let them know you’re there.
Also, to even fly to Italy, you’ll need proof that you’ve had a negative Covid-19 test result in the last 48 hours, and fill in this travel declaration form.
This info is correct up until May 14, according to the FCO website. After this date, Italy might change their rules or make an announcement.
Watch this space and keep an eye on ever-changing coronavirus rules.
What are the current lockdown restrictions in Italy?
Much like other parts of Europe, Italy’s lockdown rules are somewhat relaxing, but are still quite strict.
Unfortunately, it won’t be exactly like a pre-pandemic getaway.
There is a national curfew between 10pm and 5am, meaning you’ll need to be in your accommodation safely indoors by 10pm.
And face mask-wearing is compulsory here. You have to wear them in all public spaces: indoors and outdoors.
However, bars and restaurants are opening up now – so you’ll be able to peel off your mask once you’re at the table to eat or drink.
An English translation of the Italian government’s website, last updated on April 29, reads:
‘[Masks] must be worn not only in closed spaces accessible to the public, as in the past, but more generally in indoor spaces other than private homes, and in all outdoor spaces.
‘Exceptions are made in cases where, due to the characteristics of the place or the circumstances of fact, the condition of isolation from non-residents is continuously guaranteed.
‘This is without prejudice to the anti-contagion protocols and guidelines provided for any business, productive, administrative, and social activities.’
What is the Covid case rate like in Italy?
The number of new cases is on the decline – with 8,137 reported on average daily, according to Reuters.
As of May 14, Italy has had 4,139,160 cases and 123,745 Covid deaths since the pandemic began.
Meanwhile, 25,948,925 vaccine jabs have been administered in total.
Could Italy move off the amber list?
Every three weeks, the UK government’s travel traffic light system will be reviewed.
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That means that, over the coming weeks and months, Italy could be demoted to ‘red’ or granted ‘green’ status.
If it becomes red, you won’t be allowed to travel there at all.
And if it becomes green, you’ll be required to take fewer Covid tests and you won’t need to self-isolate when you get back to the UK.
But right now, for the next couple of weeks at least: Italy is amber.
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