Is Venice safe to visit right now? (November 2026)

Travel advisories for Italy

What the advice says

• The US State Department rates Italy as Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution, a country-level advisory dated September 10, 2026, not specific to Venice.
• The UK FCDO advisory, last updated October 29, 2026, is also issued at the country level and notes a high threat of terrorism globally affecting British nationals, with attacks in Italy not ruled out. It advises staying aware of surroundings and following local authority instructions.
• Political demonstrations can occur with little or no warning in Italian cities. The FCDO advises avoiding protests, marches, and gatherings, and leaving the area if one is encountered, since transport services may be canceled at short notice.
• Petty crime, particularly bag-snatching and pickpocketing, is common in city centers and at major tourist attractions. Solo travelers should keep belongings in sight at all times and avoid carrying all valuables together, using a hotel safe for spare cash and valuables.
• Extra caution is recommended on public transport, in crowded areas, and at train and metro stations, where thieves may use distraction techniques. If a passport is stolen, note that a police report cannot be used to leave Italy.
• Travelers should not accept drinks from strangers or leave drinks unattended, as drink spiking has led to robbery and assault in some cases; alcohol served in Italian bars is often stronger than in the UK.
• Italian police can conduct identity checks at any time, so carrying photo ID is advised. Public transport tickets must be validated before travel, and local rules in Venice prohibit swimming in the canals, with fines of up to 10,000 euros for urinating in public.