When you think of Italy, its renowned cuisine—authentic pasta, pizza, gelato, and more- inevitably comes to mind.
From the birthplace of Margherita pizza in Naples to traditional Carbonara in Rome, and the rich wines of Tuscany, Italy offers an abundance of culinary delights unique to its rich culture.
While Italy’s charm is undeniable, proper preparation before your trip is essential for a worry-free experience. Among these preparations, one of the most crucial steps is purchasing travel insurance.
Common Illnesses During a Trip to Italy
- Food Poisoning is caused by seafood, cured ham, etc.
→ Mild symptoms: Doctor consultation and prescriptions may cost €100–€300
→ Severe cases requiring hospitalization: Costs can range from €2,000–€3,000
Preparing for such unforeseen situations is key to enjoying your trip with peace of mind. Additionally, pickpocketing and bag-snatch
ing are common in tourist areas in Italy, making careful management of one’s belongings essential. Travel insurance can provide protection and peace of mind in this area.
The following travel insurance options offer medical coverage as well as protection against theft and loss of belongings. They’re easy to apply for online and provide comprehensive coverage.
| Safety Wing | World Nomads | Heymondo | |
| Insurance Cost (4 weeks) | $56.28 | $215.38 | $113.05 |
| Minimum Coverage Period | 5 days ($10.05~) | 1day ($24.15~) | 1day ($13.21~) |
| Medical Insurance | $250,000 | $5 million | $5 million |
| Flight Delay | $200 | $500 | $450 |
| Dental Treatment | $1,000 | $300 | $300 |
| Theft Compensation | None | $2,500 | $1,700 |
| Waiting Period | None | 72 hours | 72 hours |
* If you are viewing on a smartphone, you can scroll left and right.
In this article, we’ll delve into the importance of medical insurance for traveling in Italy and introduce recommended insurance services that you can easily apply for online.
Italy’s Medical Standards and Medical Costs
Italy is considered to have one of the highest healthcare standards in Europe, with public and private medical facilities available nationwide.
In major cities like Rome and Milan, hospitals equipped with the latest medical technology offer a wide range of services, from general treatments to advanced medical care.
However, travelers are not covered by Italy’s public health insurance system, meaning medical expenses must be paid entirely out-of-pocket.
Below are some examples of typical medical costs in Italy:
| Category | Approximate Medical Costs |
| General Consultation | €50~€150 |
| Emergency Room Visit (Low Urgency) | €25-€50 |
| Prescription Medications | €10~€20 |
| Ambulance Service | €100~€200 (depending on distance) |
| Hospitalization Cost (per day) | Private Room: €200-€500 ICU: €1,000~ |
If you need general consultation or emergency room services in Italy, the costs can exceed €100–€200 depending on the treatment, especially if you don’t have insurance.
Furthermore, if hospitalization becomes necessary, medical expenses can increase significantly.
To enjoy your trip to Italy with peace of mind, it is highly recommended to purchase travel insurance in advance.
Is Insurance Mandatory Upon Entry or During Stay in Italy?
In some countries, it is mandatory to have medical insurance upon entry for international travel.
For example, in the Czech Republic, travelers are required to present proof of medical insurance upon entry, and failure to carry it during their stay can lead to fines.
Reference: Which countries require travel insurance when entering the country?
However, in Italy, travel insurance is currently not mandatory. Despite this, it is highly recommended for the following reasons:
- Unexpected medical expenses
- Theft or loss of belongings
- Changes or cancellations to your travel itinerary
- The need for emergency repatriation
Pickpocketing and bag-snatching are common in Italy’s tourist areas. To be prepared in case of such incidents, it is advisable to opt for travel insurance that covers theft compensation.
Examples of High Medical Expenses in Italy
While traveling in Italy, you may be faced with high medical costs if an injury or illness occurs.
Here are a few examples of cases where significant expenses were incurred:
Case 01: Surgery and Hospitalization Due to a Heart Attack in Milan
While on a tour, a traveler experienced chest pain and was diagnosed with a heart attack. The following costs were incurred:
- Emergency Transport: €250
- Surgical Costs: €20,000
- Hospitalization (16 days): €8,000
- Family Member’s Travel Costs: €2,500
- Medical Escort for Transport: €5,000
→ Total: €35,750
Case 02: Facial Bone Fracture Due to a Bicycle Fall in Tuscany
During a cycling trip, the traveler fell and hit their face, resulting in a facial fracture. The following expenses were incurred:
- Emergency Transport: €150
- Surgical Costs: €7,000
- Hospitalization (8 days): €3,200
- Family Member’s Travel Costs: €1,000
→ Total: €11,350
Case 03: Heart Attack and Hospitalization in Rome (Vatican City)
A traveler experienced a heart attack while at the Vatican Museums, leading to the following costs:
- Emergency Transport: €200
- Surgical Costs: €15,000
- Hospitalization (18 days): €9,000
- Family Member’s Travel Costs: €1,50
→ Total: €25,700
Case 04: Femoral Fracture Due to a Fall in Rome
After falling down the stairs at St. Peter’s Basilica, a traveler suffered a femoral fracture, leading to the following costs:
- Emergency Transport: €300
- Surgical Costs: €18,000
- Hospitalization (14 days): €7,000
- Medical Escort for Transport: €5,000
→ Total: €30,300
Check Now! Travel Insurance Services Available for Online Enrollment
If you find yourself in an unexpected medical situation or accident during your trip to Italy, you could be faced with high medical bills.
Here are three recommended travel insurance services that can be easily applied for online:
- Safety Wing: A cost-effective travel insurance plan that can be purchased online the same day. It also allows enrollment from abroad without any waiting period.
- World Nomads: Offers comprehensive coverage, including medical insurance as well as protection against theft.
- Heymondo: Features plans tailored for long-term travelers, with options that include up to $10 million in medical coverage.
For a stress-free trip to Italy, it’s a good idea to consider purchasing insurance!
1. Safety Wing
Safety Wing offers highly cost-effective travel insurance designed for international travelers, especially recommended for digital nomads and long-term stayers.
One of its standout features is the ease of online sign-up, even for those who are already traveling. It has gained significant popularity for this reason.
Features of Safety Wing
- Monthly Premium: $56.28
- Insurance Period: Can be started from as short as 5 days
- No Waiting Period for Enrollment from Abroad
- 24/7 Live Chat Support
- Coverage for Flight Delays and Lost Luggage
- Easy Quote and Sign-Up Process
Here’s a look at the specifics of the insurance coverage:
| Coverage Type | Coverage Limit | Examples of Coverage |
| Medical Insurance | $250,000 | Hospitalization, nursing care, ambulance for hospitalization, MRI diagnostics, long-term care after discharge, prescriptions, complications of pregnancy. |
| Emergency Dental Treatment | $1,000 | Emergency dental treatment to resolve the onset of acute pain (sudden and unforeseen). |
| Emergency Transportation | $100,000 | Costs for emergency transport to a well-equipped hospital. |
| Medical Return | $5,000 | Emergency return costs for medical reasons. |
| Emergency Return | $5,000 | Transportation costs for emergency return due to the death of a family member. |
| Lost Checked Baggage | $3,000 | Compensation if baggage is not found after 10 days of being reported lost (maximum $500 per item). |
| Flight Delay | $200 | Meals and accommodation expenses for delays exceeding 12 hours (up to $100 per day for a maximum of 2 days). |
| Passport Theft | $100 | Costs for reissuing a passport or visa in case of theft. |
| Auto Accident | $250,000 | Accidental automobile accidents occurring while possessing a valid license and wearing safety equipment. |
| Trip Interruption (Return Home) | $250,000 | Circumstances necessitating return due to family death or similar reasons. |
| In the Case of Death | $20,000 | Costs for transporting remains back to Japan (up to $10,000 if buried locally). |
* If you are viewing on a smartphone, you can scroll left and right.
Safety Wing offers medical coverage up to $250,000, providing comprehensive protection for unexpected issues during your travels. With affordable premiums and extensive coverage, it ensures that you can enjoy your time abroad with peace of mind.
You can easily get a personalized quote that suits your needs on the official Safety Wing website.
Nomad Insurance for $56.28/month
* Easy estimate of insurance premiums according to your travel plan!
2. World Nomads
World Nomads offers one of the most comprehensive travel insurance plans available, covering not only medical expenses but also theft protection, such as for pickpocketing.
The insurance is easy to apply for online, and you can select a flexible plan based on your travel destination and duration, allowing you to travel with confidence.
Features of World Nomads
- Insurance Rates: Vary depending on your destination
- Medical Coverage Limit: Up to $5 million (or unlimited)
- Coverage for Flight Delays and Lost Luggage
- Protection Against Theft (including pickpocketing)
- 24/7 Support (phone/email)
Here are the specific details of the coverage:
| Coverage Type | Coverage Limit | Examples of Coverage |
| Medical Insurance | $5 million | Hospitalization, nursing care, emergency ambulance for hospitalization, MRI diagnostics, long-term care after discharge, prescriptions, etc. |
| Emergency Dental Treatment | $300 | Emergency dental treatment to resolve acute pain (sudden and unexpected onset). |
| Medical Transportation | $500,000 | Costs for emergency transportation to an equipped hospital. |
| Emergency Return | $500,000 | Costs associated with emergency return due to sudden illness or injury. |
| Baggage Coverage | $2,500 | Coverage for theft, damage, or loss of baggage that occurs during travel. |
| Flight Delay | $500 | Compensation for additional accommodation and transportation costs incurred due to flight cancellation or delays over 12 hours. |
| Trip Interruption (Return Home) | $3,500 | Costs for returning due to family illness or death. |
| In the case of Death | $15,000 | Transportation costs for repatriation of remains to Japan, or costs for local burial. |
* If you are viewing on a smartphone, you can scroll left and right.
Additionally, the premium is adjusted based on your travel destination, and applying online is straightforward. You can easily add or update your insurance during your trip, making it ideal for long-term travelers or those facing unexpected issues.
Start by visiting the official World Nomads website to get a quote that fits your travel plans.
3. Heymondo
For those planning a long stay in Europe, including Italy, Heymondo is a highly cost-effective option. With a 3-month plan, you can reduce your monthly premium while benefiting from coverage that includes up to $10 million in medical expenses.
In addition to medical insurance, Heymondo also provides extensive coverage for theft, such as pickpocketing, ensuring peace of mind during your long stay.
Features of Heymondo
- Cost-effective 3-month plan for long-term stays
- Premiums vary depending on your travel destination
- Medical coverage up to $5 million (or $10 million)
- Coverage for flight delays and lost luggage
- Theft protection, including for pickpocketing
Here are the specifics of the coverage:
| Coverage Type | Coverage Limit | Examples of Coverage |
| Medical Insurance | $5 million | Hospitalization, nursing care, ambulance for hospitalization, MRI diagnosis, long-term care after discharge, prescriptions, etc. |
| Emergency Dental Treatment | $300 | Emergency dental treatment to resolve acute pain (sudden and unexpected onset). |
| Extended Stay Costs | $1,800 | Emergency transportation costs to a well-equipped hospital. |
| Emergency Medical Transport | $5 million | Emergency return costs for medical reasons. |
| Baggage Coverage | $1,700 | Transportation costs for emergency return due to family bereavement. |
| Flight Delay | $450 | Meal and accommodation expenses for delays over 12 hours (maximum $100 per day for 2 days). |
| Trip Interruption (Return) | $3,500 | Circumstances requiring return due to family death, etc. |
| In the Case of Death | $100,000 | Transportation costs to return the body to Japan (up to $10,000 for local burial). |
* If you are viewing on a smartphone, you can scroll left and right.
Heymondo offers a variety of insurance plans to suit different needs. In addition to the standard “Travel Insurance Top” plan, you can also choose from more comprehensive plans that include up to $10 million in medical coverage.
You can easily get a detailed quote for your insurance needs by visiting the Heymondo official website, so be sure to check out the options and find a plan that offers the peace of mind you need.
Thank you for reading to the end!!
If you’re looking to find the best travel insurance for your needs, be sure to check out the details through the following link.
The Best Nomad Insurance; We highly recommend Safety Wing [$56/month].
We’ve summarized the features and benefits of popular insurance services for travelers, making it easy for you to compare and choose the best one for your trip.
