I am planning a 10 day trip in late March to early April hitting Florence, Rome and possibly Venice with our family of four - includes 2 teenage daughters. I am looking for opinions on whether or not the upcoming (and heated) Italian elections in late February could result in any kind of issues for travel. My primary concern would be potential striking workers that may hamper travel or tourist sites. Am I being overly cautious?
Posted by
Atlanta, Georgia
565 posts
I have been there on a handful of elections and strikes and never had any issues. To be honest, it's kind of fun. I have stacks of political propoganda I gave away as gifts :). I understand where you are coming from though but my experience with strikes in Italy have been just watching a harmless march for union rights or a concert for legalizing pot. Both were the equivelent of a spring festival and all the usual tourist sites were open. I do realise this can change but I will probably be there again myself this time with no hesitation. Relax and have a great time! The weather is the best (ok, October ties) I have found that time of year.
Posted by
Forest Grove, OR
11334 posts
Hello David from my home state! Ditto what Leslie said. Elections here are no more heated then in the U.S., but may be slightly more entertaining. I would be no more concerned about your trip here than going to Washington, D.C., in early November of a Presidential election year. Strikes can happen any time, but are usually with notice. Keep an eye out for possible train strikes on this site no matter when your trip is so you can plan ahead or change plans. We had to do so mid-trip once when a train strike was set to occur on the day we were traveling half-way across the country. So we changed locations a day early to avoid problems.
Posted by
roswell, ga, usa
1501 posts
Be aware that if you're going to the Vatican it is now CASH ONLY! That is a recent change. No debit cards, no charge cards! Make sure you have enough EU on you for admission and souvenirs. I don't think you'll have a problelm with the election.
Posted by
Bergamo, Italy
118 posts
Strikes in Italy are not related to elections, the election period has no particular dangerousness nor any increase in problems. Usually, to strike, they expect a government in place and in full possession of its functions.
Posted by
San Francisco Bay Area (USA)
15193 posts
No worries. Elections will be inconsequential to travel when they occur, let alone a month later. They might even end up with the same prime minister Mario Monti anyhow.
Posted by
victoria, Canada
11507 posts
David, short answer to your last sentence. Yes.
Posted by
Toledo, Ohio, US
11613 posts
I lived in Rome on and off for several years and the government changed four times - if not for newspapers and tv I would. Of have known. Enjoy your trip!