Canada just updated its travel advisory for parts of Italy ahead of a major sporting event.
The Canadian government issued the new travel alert last Friday, warning tourists of safety and security risks in northern Italy during the upcoming Milan Cortina Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.
The Olympic Winter Games are set to take place from Feb. 6 to 22, 2026, followed by the Paralympic Winter Games from March 6 to 15, 2026.
“Venues for the Games will be spread out across several destinations in northern Italy,” reads the travel advisory. “Roads and public transportation services may be impacted by winter weather or increased demand.”
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The alert advises Canadians to plan their trips carefully and leave plenty of time to travel between locations.
It’s also warning travellers to be aware of thieves and pickpockets in crowded areas.
“People may approach you on the street to sell tickets to events. You should only purchase event tickets through the official Milan Cortina 2026 website or reputable resale services,” reads the alert.
The notice says to expect the following during the games, especially in areas near the event centres:
- An increased presence of security forces
- Major disruptions to traffic and movement
- Large crowds and public gatherings
Besides the update for the Milan Cortina Olympic Winter Games, the Canadian government is also warning travellers to “exercise a high degree of caution” in Italy due to the “threat of terrorism.”
“There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities, and further attacks elsewhere in Europe are likely,” it reads. “Attacks in Italy cannot be ruled out.”
The alert states that targets could include:
- Government buildings, including schools
- Places of worship
- Airports and other transportation hubs and networks
- Public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners
The notice advises Canadians to always be aware of their surroundings when in public spaces, and to be vigilant when attending sporting events and religious holiday celebrations.
“The Government of Italy maintains a public alert system on terrorism. Alert level changes are communicated mainly through local media,” notes the alert. “Enhanced security measures are also deployed in various strategic locations and transport hubs.”
Increased police and military presence can also be expected during the holidays and in public spaces, including tourist locations and major landmarks.
Italy isn’t the only country that Canada has designated with a risk level of “exercise a high degree of caution.” Last week, the travel advisory for India was updated due to a serious security risk.