Canada issued an updated travel warning for Italy as the country prepares to host the 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Daily Hive
Canada released a new travel warning for Italy last Friday. Officials raised concerns about safety in northern regions during the upcoming Milan Cortina Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. The two major events take place in early 2026. Travellers plan to visit the region in large numbers, so Canadian officials urged people to stay alert.
Major Events Ahead
The Olympic Winter Games run from February 6 to 22, 2026. The Paralympic Winter Games follow from March 6 to 15, 2026. The events unfold across several northern cities. Visitors will travel between mountains, arenas, and busy sports venues. Officials expect heavy congestion throughout the region.
Travel Challenges
The advisory points to several concerns. “Venues for the Games will be spread out across several destinations in northern Italy,” the notice says. The update also warns about winter conditions. Snow or icy roads may slow down travel. Public transit may also face pressure due to the large crowds.
Officials urge Canadians to plan ahead. They also ask travellers to give themselves extra time for every trip.
Safety Risks in Crowded Areas
The advisory includes warnings about theft. Pickpockets often target crowded areas during major events. Travellers should watch their bags and wallets closely.
Scammers also try to sell fake tickets ahead of large sporting events. “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,” the alert says.
What Travellers Should Expect
The update says travellers will likely see:
- More police and security teams
- Heavy traffic around event sites
- Large crowds in public spaces
These conditions may impact movement throughout the region. Visitors should monitor local instructions and stay patient during delays.
Broader Security Concerns
Canada also included a general warning for Italy. Officials asked travellers to “exercise a high degree of caution” due to ongoing concerns about terrorism in Europe.
“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,” the advisory states. “Attacks in Italy cannot be ruled out.”
Authorities say possible targets include:
- Government offices and schools
- Places of worship
- Airports and transit networks
- Tourist spots, restaurants, markets, hotels, and public squares
Travellers should stay alert in busy public areas. Holiday events and major celebrations may draw larger crowds, so officials ask visitors to stay aware of their surroundings at all times.
Local Measures in Italy
Italy uses a national alert system to inform the public about threats. Officials share changes through local news reports. Security teams often increase their presence in busy zones. Police and military officers monitor major landmarks, transit hubs, and popular tourist areas.
Travellers may notice even stronger security during holidays and major sports events.
Other Recent Updates
Italy is not the only country with a higher caution level. Canada recently updated its travel advice for India as well, due to a serious security concern.
