U.S. Warns Travelers to Italy to ‘Exercise Increased Caution’ Due to Terrorism

The U.S. State Department this week issued a new advisory for Americans traveling to Italy, warning of a potential risk of terrorism.

The Level 2 advisory is not a call to avoid travel. Rather, it urges travelers to be aware and exercise increased caution. Italy remains two levels below a “Do Not Travel” warning in the State Department’s four-tier system.

“There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Italy,” the advisory reads. “Terrorists may attack with little or no warning. Common targets include tourist spots, transportation centers, shopping malls and markets, local government buildings, hotels, clubs and restaurants, religious sites, parks, sporting and cultural events, schools, airports, and other public areas.”

While the warning may sound alarming, it’s worth noting that Italy shares the same Level 2 designation as other major European destinations, including France, Belgium, and Germany.

Italy still remains one of the top five international travel destinations for Americans this summer, according to EY, along with Mexico, Canada, the U.K., and the Dominican Republic.