Travel Insurance for Italy
Italy is one of the most visited countries in the world and is a popular tourist destination for those who love food, wine, and culture. Even in a beautiful country like Italy, things can go wrong that are outside of your control, which is why it’s import to have travel insurance. An Oasis travel insurance policy will cover your emergency medical expenses, legal costs, lost baggage, and more.
Emergency Contact Information
When travelling to Italy, you should know the emergency numbers in case you need to use them. The general European emergency number is 112. This number can be called free of charge from a mobile phone or a landline and will put you through to all emergency services. Other emergency numbers you should know are 113 to contact the police, 115 to contact the fire department, 118 for medical emergencies, and 1530 to contact the Italian coast guard.
The British Embassy in Rome can assist you if you have an emergency, such as cancelling a lost or stolen passport and notarising an emergency travel document, providing help if you become ill, or supporting you if you become the victim of a crime.
Travel Safety Tips
No matter where you are in the world, it’s important that you travel safely. In Italy, be aware of common tourist traps, such as people standing outside cafes, restaurants, and clubs who usher tourists in. Reputable businesses don’t need to rely on such tactics attract customers. Avoid ordering from the specials board if there aren’t any listed prices, as these establishments will overcharge unsuspecting tourists. Many places like this have overpriced items on the menu, so it’s best to check the prices before ordering.
Pickpocketing is a form of theft tourists should be aware of, so keep your wits about you in crowded places. Keep some extra money in a zippered pocket and don’t flaunt your valuables, such as your phone and digital camera in public as these are what pickpockets and thieves will target. Travel insurance with optional gadget cover will provide cover for theft, loss, damage, and unauthorised use of your gadgets while you’re away. If something happens on your trip to Italy and you need to make a claim, head to our claims information page.
Before you leave on your trip, consult the FCDO travel advice for Italy for information on entry requirements, safety and security, and health advice.
Places to Visit in Italy
Each city and region in Italy have their own unique appeal. Italy’s distinctive landmarks, cuisine, and natural beauty entices roughly 65 million tourists each year. If you’re not sure where in Italy you should go, here are 5 recommendations:
Rome
Rome, known as the “Eternal City”, is rich with culture and is known for its fascinating history. Tourists can visit ancient monuments and historical sites such as the Colosseum, Pantheon, and the Roman Forum. The Trevi Fountain is a short walk from the Spanish Steps, and from there you can stroll to the Piazza Navona. Many people travel to the Vatican City within Rome to tour St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel.
Pisa
Pisa has much more to offer than its famous leaning tower in the Piazza dei Miracoli. In the same square you can find the Cathedral of Pisa and Pisa Baptistry. The Borgo Stretto is the perfect place to shop and have lunch with a glass of chianti, and from there travellers amble along to the Arno River. Pisa has some scenic mountain biking trails, but before booking an excursion, read your policy documents or make sure it’s covered by your travel insurance policy.
Venice
It’s worth taking a trip to Venice in February to see the intricate masks and colourful costumes at the Carnival of Venice, before stopping by Caffè Florian, the oldest coffee shop in the world. Lake Misurina is popular among hikers and cyclists in the summer, and people can ice skate on the lake and go skiing in the nearby mountains in the winter. To learn about Venice’s art and history, take tours of St Mark’s Basilica, the Palazzo Ducale, and Scuola Grande di San Rocco. The best way to experience the Grand Canal and to see the Rialto Bridge is by gondola, and you can get the waterbus to Burano Island to see the vibrant houses and the market stalls in the Piazza Baldassarre Galuppi.
Milan
Milan has something for everyone. If you’re an art lover, you can stop by Santa Maria delle Grazie to see The Last Supper, wander down to the Brera District, or watch an opera at La Scala. Those who like motorsports can tour the museum at the Monza Circuit or experience a track day. Those looking for a more relaxing vacation can stay at a resort at Lake Como and explore the neighbouring towns. Milan is known as the “Fashion Capital of the World” and is home to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, where visitors can indulge in a day of shopping, followed by some gelato.
Breuil-Cervinia
The best ski resort can be found in Breuil-Cervinia. The main appeal for visitors is the Matterhorn, a well know mountain in the Italian Alps. Breuil-Cervinia boasts of a long skiing season, and many tourists go during the summer months. Evenings can be spent in a cosy chalet, enjoying fondue prepared with locally made Fontina. If you plan to take part in winter sports during your trip, then you’ll need Oasis winter sports and ski travel insurance.
