PROTESTS have spread across Europe with cities like Milan and Rome affected – and with more strikes on the horizon, is it still safe to travel to?
Here’s everything you need to know right now about travelling to Italy right now.
Where are the demonstrations and strikes in Italy?
Following the unrest in France, around 100,000 people in more than 40 cities across Italy took part in a demonstration called “No Meloni Day” last Friday.
Some of the destinations most affected include Rome, Bologna, Milan and Turin.
The strikes have been around the rising costs of living, a new government budget plan and students are protesting over school conditions.
Over the weekend, protests in Milan descended into violence with clashes with police, vandalism and looting.
Italy has said as a result, it will introduce stricter anti-riot laws. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said: “Demonstrating is a right, but destroying our cities is not.”
The new law will impact anyone joining a group of at least five people and will endanger public safety during protests with penalties up to five years in prison and a maximum fine of €20,000 (£16,759).
It’s not just demonstrations – there are strikes across the country for the next few months affecting public transport and air travel.
Ground handling staff at Bologna Airport have confirmed a four-hour walkout listed for October 29 between 12pm to 16pm, according to Italy’s transport ministry strike register.
The largest strike however is scheduled for October 30 which is a 24-hour walkout by workers in many public sectors across the country.
This includes ENIT/ENAV air traffic control and local aviation services at airports such as in Tuscany, Pisa and Florence.
Rail staff will also walkout affecting services on the Metro, on the motorways, staff and toll services are set to strike too.
Dockworkers and port staff are also set to strike and on the day there could be closures at attractions like museums.
Is it safe to travel to Italy right now?
The FCDO recently updated its advice: “Recent demonstrations across northern Italian cities have led to violent riots and looting.
“There is an increased presence of police and military personnel in Milan. Further demonstrations may take place in major cities. See Political demonstrations.
“A national strike is planned for 30 October and is expected to affect transport systems. Check with your travel provider for the latest information.”
However, Italy still remains a safe place to travel.
Are flights still going to Italy?
Currently flights are still going to and from Italy. But there could be problems in the coming days.
Wizz Air has warned its customers that flights to or from Italian airports could face delays because protests and road blockades are disrupting fuel supplies for several airports.
The airline added: “Our operational teams are closely coordinating with airports and fuel suppliers and reviewing alternative arrangements to minimize the impact on our customers, while maintaining safety as our highest priority.”
It’s advising customers to check the status of their flight before travelling to the airport.
On October 30, the planned strikes are scheduled to start at 12am until 11.59pm.
Passengers flying to or from Italy should check their airline’s flight status and monitor updates before travelling.
What if I have a holiday to Italy booked?
The FCDO has advised caution for anyone travelling to Italy, but a ‘do not travel’ warning has not been issued.
Holidaymakers can still visit Italy, and travel insurance should remain valid, but check your policy details.
If you decide not to go on a booked holiday, operators won’t have to give a refund because travel advice says it is still safe for travel.
Flight compensation rules
A look at your rights if a flight is delayed or cancelled, when your entitled to compensation and if your travel insurance can cover the costs.
What are my rights if my flight is cancelled or delayed?
Under UK law, airlines have to provide compensation if your flight arrives at its destination more than three hours late.
If you’re flying to or from the UK, your airline must let you choose a refund or an alternative flight.
You will be able to get your money back for the part of your ticket that you haven’t used yet.
So if you booked a return flight and the outbound leg is cancelled, you can get the full cost of the return ticket refunded.
But if travelling is essential, then your airline has to find you an alternative flight. This could even be with another airline.
When am I not entitled to compensation?
The airline doesn’t have to give you a refund if the flight was cancelled due to reasons beyond their control, such as extreme weather.
Disruptions caused by things like extreme weather, airport or air traffic control employee strikes or other ‘extraordinary circumstances’ are not eligible for compensation.
Some airlines may stretch the definition of “extraordinary circumstances” but you can challenge them through the aviation regulator the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
Will my insurance cover me if my flight is cancelled?
If you can’t claim compensation directly through the airline, your travel insurance may refund you.
Policies vary so you should check the small print, but a delay of eight to 12 hours will normally mean you qualify for some money from your insurer.
Remember to get written confirmation of your delay from the airport as your insurer will need proof.
If your flight is cancelled entirely, you’re unlikely to be covered by your insurance.