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Travel insurance for Italy

Travel insurance for Italy

There's the timeless allure of Rome's ancient ruins and the dreamy canals of Venice. Sicily's full of rolling hillsides, and Sardinia's golden beaches invite you to unwind in true Mediterranean style.

Italy always leaves a lasting impression. So, if you're planning to live "la dolce vita", travel insurance is a must! If you’re ready, click ‘get a quote’ to start comparing policies. But, if you want to learn about what travel insurance you'll need for your Italian adventure first, read on.

Alvaro Iturmendi - Confused.com travel insurance expert

Reviewed by Alvaro Iturmendi Travel insurance expert 7 min read | Published 23/09/2024

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Important information

All insurance products exclude cover for known events. These are global events that can disrupt your travel and/or put you in danger. An example of this is the COVID-19 pandemic. This exclusion applies if the event was declared as a 'known event' when you bought your insurance.

If you travel against Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) advice or don't comply with entry requirements, you won't be covered by your travel insurance.

There's a current FCDO warning* for flooding in the region of Emilia-Romagna, there have been recent warnings for volcanic activity for Mount Etna and Stromboli which has now been lifted. It's always best to keep checking before you go due to the volatility of the volcanoes and weather.

If you’re travelling to Catania during this time of heightened volcanic activity, the FCDO recommends you contact your travel provider or Catania airport for guidance.

*Correct as of September 2024

Do I need travel insurance for Italy?

Getting covered with travel insurance is worth thinking about.

Travel insurance isn't a legal requirement for Italy. But, that doesn't mean that you shouldn't get it. With the right policy in place, you can have the peace of mind you're protected if anything goes wrong.

Going on a city break? Pickpocketing can be common in busy places like Rome and Milan. In this situation, travel insurance can cover the cost of stolen personal belongings.

Italy also has many volcanic regions. This can raise the chance of travel delays and disruption. If your flight gets delayed or there's changes to your holiday because of volcanic activity, travel insurance can help. Phew.

There's also been some changes to travel rules within Europe recently. It's a good idea to familiarise yourself with them before heading off on your Italian holiday.

Choosing the right policy for your trip to Italy

You'll need European travel insurance for your trip to Italy.

But, there's a variety of policy types available for you to choose from. The right policy for you depends on your personal needs and the nature of your trip.

So, let's take a closer look at each option below to see which might be ideal:

Single-trip travel insurance

Planning a break to Sardinia? Or, maybe a getaway to Venice? If you are, single-trip travel insurance is what you need. It can cover one trip up to 31 days - just perfect for those 'one-off' holidays.

Explore single trip travel insurance

Annual travel insurance

Do you like to take multiple trips a year? If you do, opting for annual travel insurance could save you money. It can cover multiple separate trips, usually up to 31 days each, over 12 months.

Explore annual travel insurance

Backpackers travel insurance

Is Italy part of a longer trip, like interrailing around Europe? If it is, backpacker travel insurance is what you need. It can cover multiple countries during a single trip, usually between 3 to 18 months.

Explore backpacker travel insurance

Family travel insurance

Are you planning on bringing the family to Italy? If you are, opt for family travel insurance. It can cover up to 2 adults and 8 children, including any living away from the address of the parents.

Explore family travel insurance

What our travel insurance expert says

"Whether you're exploring the art-filled streets of Florence, enjoying freshly-made pasta in Naples or cruising along the Amalfi coast, Italy is unforgettable. But, similar to many other popular destinations, things like pickpocketing can be common in certain cities. Volcanic activity can happen unexpectedly too, which can mean out of the blue travel disruption.

This is why getting travel insurance for your Italy trip is important. With the right policy in place , you can enjoy your holiday and not be out of pocket should the worst happen.’’

Alvaro Iturmendi Travel insurance expert

What does travel insurance for Italy cover?

What's covered:

Emergency medical treatment

If you need emergency medical treatment while abroad.

Repatriation to the UK

If you need to return to the UK for medical treatment. to the UK for medical treatment.

Theft, accidental damage or loss

If any of your belongings are stolen, damaged or accidentally lost. This is especially important if you're heading to a tourist area.

Travel disruption

Italy has many active volcanic regions, which can raise the risk of disrupted flights and holiday plans. Some travel policies can compensate you in these situations.

Cancellation cover

If you need to cancel your trip before it starts or cut it short for an unexpected reason. For example, illness.

What's usually not covered:

Travelling against government advice

If you travel against government advice, you could invalidate your policy. For example, if the FCDO advises against travel to a certain location but you go anyway.

Undeclared pre-existing medical conditions

Travel insurance can cover pre-existing medical conditions, but only if they're declared. If you don't make your insurer aware, any claims you make could be rejected.

Extreme sports and activities

Certain sports and activities insurers consider to be 'high-risk' aren't covered by standard travel insurance. For example, if you want to go hiking in the Dolomites, you'll need activity travel insurance.

Incidents involving alcohol and drugs

If illness, injury or death occurs as a result of these substances.

Changing your mind

If you change your mind and decide you no longer want to go to Italy.

How much is travel insurance to Italy?

The price of travel insurance for Italy can vary depending on your personal circumstances.

But, to give you an idea, here's some examples of the cheapest travel insurance policies for Italy:

Policy type	Price¹
Single trip travel insurance	£4.75
Annual multi-trip	£10.85
Backpacker	£37.98

¹Cheapest price for a 30 year old with no medical conditions. Correct as of August 2024 - Confused.com data"

Medical care in Italy

Italy’s healthcare is considered to be one of the best in the world and meets UK standards.

You can use your Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) to get essential state healthcare.

But your EHIC or GHIC cards might not cover everything, which is why having travel insurance is important. If you don't have the right travel insurance policy in place, you might have to pay for:

Changes to travel and accommodation bookings
Additional standard costs for treatment
Medical repatriation to the UK
Treatment that's ruled non-urgent
Private healthcare

If you need emergency medical treatment, contact your insurance provider as soon as possible. Most providers have a 24/7 helpline for medical emergencies. So, it’s worth keeping the contact number handy in case you need it during your time in Italy.

Top tip: The FCDO has a directory of medical facilities and hospitals with English-speaking staff.

Travel insurance for activities in Italy

What do you plan to do during your time in Italy?

There's certain activities that aren't usually covered by standard travel insurance. So, make sure to read your policy wording to see if you need to get additional cover.

If you do, you can choose from a range of policy add-ons. They can be purchased for an additional cost, and include:

Golf travel insurance

Do you plan on playing golf? Italy is home to a variety of golf courses, including the popular Circolo Golf Villa d'Este. A golf add-on can protect you against golf-related problems. For example, loss, damage or theft of your golf equipment.

Explore golf travel insurance

Activity travel insurance

If you plan on doing activities like paragliding or hiking, you’ll need to get this policy add-on. It can offer enhanced cover for the risks associated with high-risk activities when travelling. For example, the cost of emergency medical treatment for any injuries sustained while partaking in the activity.

Explore activity travel insurance

Ski travel insurance

Whether you’re a seasoned skier or planning to try it for the first time, Italy has plenty of resorts worth exploring! If winter sports are on your itinerary, you’ll need this add-on. It can cover you for the unique things that can go wrong on the slopes, such as a lost ski pass or even mountain rescue.

Explore ski travel insurance

Helpful hint: Knowing what you have to get extra cover for can be confusing! If in doubt, check with your insurer for clarification.

Do I need a visa to travel to Italy?

No, UK tourists with a British passport don’t need a visa to travel to Italy as it's in the Schengen area.

You can stay for up to 90 days in any 180 day period. This includes tourism, business and education. Hooray!

But, you'll need to make sure your passport has the following:

Have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive. If you renewed your passport before 1 October 2018, it may have a date of issue that is more than 10 years ago. Check this ahead of time to make sure you meet this entry requirement.
Have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave. You'll need to make sure that your passport is in-date at least 3 months after the day of your return flight.

Helpful hint: If you want to work in Italy, there's different rules and requirements you'll need to follow. You can find more information on the GOV.UK website.

Tips for travelling to Italy

Whether you’ll be basking under a pergola in Positano or savouring Tuscany’s sun-drenched vineyards, follow our tips for a stress-free getaway:

Time zone

Italy is one hour ahead of the UK. So, you shouldn't have any trouble keeping in touch with loved ones back home.

Driving to Italy

If you drive your car to Italy, you should be covered for at least 30 days on your UK car insurance. But, it's likely it'll only be with third party cover. This means that you'll only be covered for damage to other people’s property. Double check with your insurer on your cover levels when driving abroad. You might want to consider upgrading to fully comprehensive.

Getting around

Hiring a car is one of the best ways to get around Italy. But, it can be expensive to book at the last minute. Try to book in advance to avoid paying an extortionate amount on the day.

Public transport is usually cheap and easy to access, especially in tourist areas. If you’re planning on getting the train to other areas of Italy, it’s generally cheaper than the UK. So, it'll be a good option if you want to wander further afield or go on a few day trips.

Plug type

Italy uses a Type C plug. So, if you plan to bring along any electronics from home, like straighteners or a laptop, you'll need to get an adapter.

Consider what time of year you travel

Did you know that August is considered a rest month in Italy? It's common for Italians to go on holiday during this month.

Small businesses may close or reduce hours, but tourist spots generally remain open. To avoid disappointment, research local closures in advance. Coastal areas like Puglia and the Amalfi Coast can be very popular, which can lead to crowded beaches and higher hotel prices. Planning ahead of time can help you secure the best rates.