- The best travel insurance plans for Italy
- Current travel safety in Italy
- Is travel insurance required by law to enter Italy?
- Travel Insurance for Italy
- What travel insurance for Italy should cover
- The cost of travel insurance for Italy
- How to Pay Less for Your Travel Insurance to Italy
- Relying on Your Current Insurance in Italy
- FAQ
- On the same topic
Travel insurance for Italy: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Italy covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and other unexpected travel disruptions.
2. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory for Canadians but is vital to cover potential high medical costs.
3. Healthcare cost: A hospital stay in Italy can cost over $700 per night for foreign visitors.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Italy typically costs between $40 and $80.
5. Good to know: Your Canadian passport must be valid for 3 months beyond your planned departure from Italy.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travellers every month. After analyzing 42 travel insurance policies available in Canada, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Italy.
The best travel insurance plans for Italy
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | CA$1.5M | The strongest cover for stays in Italy. - very high medical limit - broad emergency benefits - excellent repatriation terms |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | CA$1.5M | A quality insurer for classic travel with flexible guarantees. - strong assistance - 24/7 helpline - competitive deductible |
| Tourist Card | CA$750k | Good option for tourism with solid value. - good medical cover - emergency aid - travel delay handled |
| Travel Pass Monde | CA$1M | Balanced protection for versatile travelers. - high limits - hospital care abroad - multi-risk package |
| Globe Partner | CA$450k | A reliable choice for long stays or working holidays. - healthcare abroad - civil liability - affordable pricing |
| Globe Traveller | CA$750k | Accessible and targeted for short visits to Italy. - adequate ceiling - rapid claims process - essential guarantees |
- very high medical limit
- broad emergency benefits
- excellent repatriation terms
- strong assistance
- 24/7 helpline
- competitive deductible
- good medical cover
- emergency aid
- travel delay handled
- high limits
- hospital care abroad
- multi-risk package
- healthcare abroad
- civil liability
- affordable pricing
- adequate ceiling
- rapid claims process
- essential guarantees
Current travel safety in Italy
As of June 2025, the Government of Canada advises travellers to exercise a high degree of caution when visiting Italy, due to the persistent threat of terrorism and an increase in petty crime. Risk levels do not prohibit travel, but extra vigilance is recommended, especially in populous or touristic zones.
- Security risks: occasional terrorist threats and frequent petty crime have been reported, especially in major cities like Rome or Milan. Pickpocketing is common around train stations, on public transit, and in historic centres.
- Health risks: the public health system is reliable, but access in rural areas can be limited. Outbreaks of tick-borne encephalitis have occurred in the Alps and there have been cases of dengue from mosquitoes, especially in summer.
- Legal requirements: visitors must declare their presence to authorities within 8 days when entering Italy from another Schengen country. Proof of funds and a return or onward ticket may be requested at entry.
- Crowds and disruptions: special events like the 2025 Jubilee in Rome will draw large numbers of visitors, leading to major crowding and possible disruption in city traffic and public services.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the Government of Canada, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Italy.
Is travel insurance required by law to enter Italy?
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for Canadian citizens to enter Italy for short stays of up to 90 days.
Travel insurance is still strongly recommended because medical costs and emergency assistance abroad can be expensive. Italian hospitals may require payment upfront, and Canadian provincial health plans only reimburse a small part of the expenses. Travel insurance can provide higher medical coverage, repatriation, and additional benefits for loss or theft.
According to our data, 50% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Italy. This is because, although Italy is considered a very safe country in Europe, unexpected medical or travel incidents can result in significant costs.
Travel Insurance for Italy
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Italy.
In Italy, public hospitals like Policlinico Gemelli in Rome or Ospedale San Raffaele in Milan offer high standards of care, but non-urgent treatment for foreigners can be expensive and may require upfront payment. Private clinics such as Villa Stuart or Humanitas charge even higher fees, often without direct billing to Canadian insurers.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalization, medication, ambulance transport and emergency repatriation to Canada in the event of a serious incident.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Italy.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Ospedale San Raffaele | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | €1,900 (CA$2,800) | up to €1,000,000 |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | €1,200 (CA$1,750) | up to €1,000,000 |
| I need to be repatriated | €25,000 (CA$36,000) | up to €1,000,000 |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | €8,000 (CA$11,500) | up to €1,000,000 |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions. It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
What travel insurance for Italy should cover
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers emergency medical care, consultations, and outpatient care if you fall ill or have an accident in Italy. We recommend a reimbursement limit of at least CA$1,000,000 per person. |
| 🚑 Hospitalization costs | Covers stays in public or private hospitals, including intensive care units. We recommend a minimum reimbursement limit of CA$500,000. |
| 💊 Medication | Covers prescription drugs needed during your trip if prescribed after covered illness or injury. We recommend at least CA$5,000 for medication reimbursement. |
| 🚑 Medical repatriation | Covers the cost to transport you back to Canada if you cannot be treated locally or need evacuation for serious medical emergencies. We recommend a reimbursement limit of CA$500,000 per person. |
| 🚕 Ambulance and transport | Includes ground ambulance and, if necessary, helicopter evacuation to the nearest suitable hospital or facility. Reimbursement limit should be at least CA$50,000. |
| 🎒 Baggage loss or delay | Protects you from financial loss if your luggage is lost, stolen, or delayed for more than 12 hours. We recommend a reimbursement limit of CA$2,000 per person. |
| ✈️ Trip cancellation | Reimburses non-refundable travel expenses if you must cancel your trip for covered reasons such as illness or a family emergency. We recommend a limit of CA$5,000 per traveler. |
| ⏰ Travel delay | Covers additional accommodation or meal expenses if your flight is significantly delayed. We recommend coverage of at least CA$1,000. |
We recommend a reimbursement limit of at least CA$1,000,000 per person.
We recommend a minimum reimbursement limit of CA$500,000.
We recommend at least CA$5,000 for medication reimbursement.
We recommend a reimbursement limit of CA$500,000 per person.
Reimbursement limit should be at least CA$50,000.
We recommend a reimbursement limit of CA$2,000 per person.
We recommend a limit of CA$5,000 per traveler.
We recommend coverage of at least CA$1,000.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards often offers limited coverage, low reimbursement limits, and many exclusions. For better protection, compare leading insurers on HelloSafe and subscribe online for instant certification and full coverage before travelling to Italy.
The cost of travel insurance for Italy
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | CA$35 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | CA$58 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | CA$85 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | CA$190 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The cost of your travel insurance is shaped by several key factors: your age, trip duration, destination, desired coverage amount, and optional add-ons like trip cancellation. Understanding these elements is essential for selecting the right plan for your trip to Italy, ensuring you have adequate protection without overpaying for unnecessary coverage.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow to Pay Less for Your Travel Insurance to Italy
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Italy while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 👥 Number of travelers | Adding family members or traveling as a group can unlock discounts, making insurance more affordable per person. | Insure all travelers together to benefit from group or family rates offered by most insurers. |
| 📆 Trip duration | Prices rise with the length of your stay, so accurate travel dates help avoid unnecessary extra costs. | Only cover actual travel days and avoid rounding up. Selecting precise dates helps reduce premiums. |
| ⛑️ Level of coverage | Higher medical limits or extra benefits increase the price, but some options may be unnecessary for your needs. | Adjust coverage to what you really need. Choose essentials like medical and repatriation first. |
| 🌍 Geographic coverage | Some policies also cover neighboring countries, which may cost more than insuring just your time in Italy. | Select only the necessary regions. Avoid paying for expanded coverage if you won’t visit other areas. |
| 🎒 Type of activities | Adventure or sports increase risks and premiums, but standard plans cover most leisure travel needs in Italy. | Declare specific risky activities only if planned. Otherwise, stick to standard leisure coverage. |
| 🎂 Traveller’s age | Older travelers often face higher costs due to increased health risks, except with some insurers. | Compare offers by age. Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62—worth checking for seniors. |
| 🛡️ Deductible amount | A higher deductible means you pay more in case of a claim but lowers the annual premium significantly. | Choose a higher deductible if you can afford the out-of-pocket costs to enjoy a lower annual rate. |
Relying on Your Current Insurance in Italy
It is legitimate to wonder if your current insurances—such as public health insurance, private health plans, or your credit card—can cover you while travelling in Italy. Unfortunately, this coverage is often limited or insufficient. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Italy? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (provincial health plan) | Limited coverage | May reimburse up to CA$100/day for hospital stays abroad, never covers emergency evacuation, or private care. | Travel insurance can cover up to CA$1,000,000+ for medical or hospital care, repatriation, and offers 24/7 assistance. |
| Private health insurance (Manulife, Sun Life, Blue Cross) | Limited coverage | Some emergency medical, but often excludes repatriation and has claim limits of CA$10,000–CA$100,000 per year. | Travel insurance commonly covers up to CA$1,000,000+, including baggage delay, trip interruption, or missed connection and real-time local assistance. |
| Classic credit card (RBC Visa Classic, TD Classic Visa, Scotiabank Value Visa) | Limited coverage | Emergency medical up to CA$50,000, rarely covers hospitalization or repatriation, no coverage for cancellation or baggage. | Travel insurance will offer up to CA$1,000,000+ for medical, trip cancellation (CA$5,000+), baggage loss, and unlimited support in Italy. |
| Premium credit card (RBC Avion Visa Infinite, TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite, Amex Gold) | Limited coverage | Medical up to CA$200,000, trip cancellation up to CA$2,500, no full hospital or ambulance coverage. | Travel insurance covers as much as CA$1,000,000+ medical, CA$5,000+ trip cancellation, emergency repatriation, and higher limits for lost baggage. |
Example
While on a scooter in Tuscany, Chloe broke her femur. The hospital bill and surgery totalled CA$45,000. Her RBC Avion Visa's included insurance had a limit of CA$5,000, and her provincial health plan covered almost nothing. Without comprehensive travel insurance, she was left to pay the remaining CA$40,000 herself.
Expert advice
Many bank cards and provincial health plans exclude key situations like trip interruption for a family emergency. Scrutinize your policies to avoid surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to subscribe to a dedicated travel insurance plan tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Italy?
Canadian citizens do not need a visa for stays in Italy up to 90 days within any 180-day period. You must, however, have a passport valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen area. For stays longer than 90 days, a visa is required.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Italy?
Start by comparing different insurance plans using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to find a policy that fits your needs. Pay attention to guarantees and exclusions, especially those specific to Italy, such as medical coverage and repatriation. Select your plan, buy it online, and receive your insurance certificate by email.
What documents are typically needed to make a claim on travel insurance in Italy?
You’ll usually need your insurance certificate, your passport, original medical bills, receipts, and a detailed medical report if the claim is for health care. Always keep copies of all documents related to your expenses and report incidents to your insurer as soon as possible.
Does travel insurance cover pre-existing medical conditions in Italy?
Most standard travel insurance policies exclude pre-existing medical conditions, but some specialized plans or extensions may offer coverage. It’s important to declare any conditions during the application process and verify with the insurer if coverage is available, as extra fees or waiting periods may apply.
How long before my trip should I purchase travel insurance for Italy?
It’s advisable to buy travel insurance as soon as you book your trip, especially if you want to be covered for trip cancellation or interruption. You can purchase a policy up to the day before departure, but buying earlier ensures you have maximum protection before and during your travels.
What should I do in case of a medical emergency in Italy?
Contact your travel insurer’s emergency assistance line immediately for instructions and support. They can recommend approved clinics, arrange ambulance transportation if needed, and help guarantee payment to medical facilities. Keep your insurance policy number and assistance phone number with you at all times during your stay.
Do I need a visa to travel to Italy?
Canadian citizens do not need a visa for stays in Italy up to 90 days within any 180-day period. You must, however, have a passport valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen area. For stays longer than 90 days, a visa is required.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Italy?
Start by comparing different insurance plans using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to find a policy that fits your needs. Pay attention to guarantees and exclusions, especially those specific to Italy, such as medical coverage and repatriation. Select your plan, buy it online, and receive your insurance certificate by email.
What documents are typically needed to make a claim on travel insurance in Italy?
You’ll usually need your insurance certificate, your passport, original medical bills, receipts, and a detailed medical report if the claim is for health care. Always keep copies of all documents related to your expenses and report incidents to your insurer as soon as possible.
Does travel insurance cover pre-existing medical conditions in Italy?
Most standard travel insurance policies exclude pre-existing medical conditions, but some specialized plans or extensions may offer coverage. It’s important to declare any conditions during the application process and verify with the insurer if coverage is available, as extra fees or waiting periods may apply.
How long before my trip should I purchase travel insurance for Italy?
It’s advisable to buy travel insurance as soon as you book your trip, especially if you want to be covered for trip cancellation or interruption. You can purchase a policy up to the day before departure, but buying earlier ensures you have maximum protection before and during your travels.
What should I do in case of a medical emergency in Italy?
Contact your travel insurer’s emergency assistance line immediately for instructions and support. They can recommend approved clinics, arrange ambulance transportation if needed, and help guarantee payment to medical facilities. Keep your insurance policy number and assistance phone number with you at all times during your stay.
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