Italy is known for its history, vibrant arts, and culture. Travellers can explore the country’s diverse regions, dialects, historical sites, and landscapes, including the northern Alps, the Tuscan countryside, and islands such as Sicily and Sardinia in the south.
The standards for patient care and medical services in Italy may differ from your home country. Healthcare generally meets international standards and doctors and nurses are trained to this standard. However, the quality and availability of health services is not consistent throughout the country. The north is often perceived to have better equipped facilities and access to high quality care than in the south.
In the event of a medical emergency, contact your travel health insurance company immediately. Hospitals in Italy require upfront payment, regardless if you have travel health insurance. Ensure that you have accessible funds to cover upfront fees and adequate travel health insurance. Before you depart, check with your insurer about the extent of their coverage in Italy.
The availability of pharmacies in Italy can vary by region. Prescriptions for medications must be obtained from a doctor. Pharmacists in Italy are trained and licensed.
If you are travelling with medication, check with Italy’s embassy, consulate, or Ministry of Health for details on medication allowances and restrictions. If your medication is a psychotropic or narcotic, you can review Italy’s regulations on the International Narcotics Control Board. Note that these sources may provide incomplete or out-of-date information.
Roads in Italy are well maintained, but poor traffic enforcement can lead to dangerous driving conditions in some regions. Seat belts must be worn by all passengers in vehicles at all times. Helmets are not mandatory for cyclists, but should be worn for safety.