Italy received nearly 50 million international arrivals in 2022. So, to say it’s a popular tourist destination is an understatement. The country that’s home to Rome, Milan, and Venice is a bucket list vacation spot for many, and travel to Italy is poised to only grow through 2023.

Like most of the world, Italy has done away with its COVID-19 entry requirements. Tourists are now free to enter the country with no proof of vaccination, testing, etc. But there is one COVID rule that’s still in place: quarantine.

It’s true. Anyone who tests positive for COVID-19 in Italy without symptoms is directed to self-isolate either for a period of five days, or until they receive a professionally administered negative COVID test result; whichever happens sooner. Those with symptoms must also quarantine, and either must test negative or show no symptoms for two days before ending their isolation.

Those who choose to end quarantine without taking a test are directed to continue wearing a high-grade facemask until 10 days after their first onset of symptoms or first positive test result.

The current quarantine rule has been in place since December 31, 2022. And according to former health director Giovanni Rezza in an interview from May 7, there is currently no expiration date for the decree, which he signed into law. This may mean it will be in place until further notice.

Do You Have to Quarantine If You Test Positive for COVID in Italy?

Legally? Yes. But practically, well… Being as Italy does not require a COVID-19 test for tourists to enter the country, the only way anyone would test positive is if they took the test voluntarily. And even if the result was positive, no government official would necessarily enforce the quarantine rule. In other words, Italy’s current self-isolation decree is voluntary and based upon the honor system. While travelers should always be encouraged to take steps to prevent those around them from getting sick, it is ultimately up to the individual as to whether or not they will comply with the rule.

Travel Insurance for Italy is Highly Recommended

The right travel insurance for Italy will largely depend upon your situation and individual needs. So, it pays to take the time to consider what features are most valuable to you.

Anyone who requires a Schengen visa to visit Italy is also required to purchase Schengen visa travel insurance. Providing proof of insurance is part of your Schengen visa application process, so this is not an optional step.

Those traveling to Italy without a Schengen visa who are primarily interested in protecting their health from the high cost of international medical care should consider travel medical insurance. Remember, socialized healthcare is often not available to you as an international tourist, and your domestic health insurance is unlikely to be accepted in Italy. In order to avoid getting stuck with an expensive hospital bill if you get sick or injured abroad, be sure to buy travel medical insurance.

Those who want coverage for emergency medical care but are mainly interested in protecting their prepaid trip costs should look into travel insurance. It is designed to reimburse you for eligible expenses if you must cancel, interrupt, or delay your trip for a covered reason. You can even purchase cancel for any reason insurance to give you additional trip-planning flexibility.