Foreign Office issues new fine warning to Brits in holiday hotspot
Visitors have been warned to avoid doing one thing on holiday.
The Foreign Office has issued a warning to Brits visiting a popular holiday destination this summer. Italy saw 4.8 million visitors in 2025, according to the Office of National Statistics.
An alert has been issued by officials at the Foreign Office for anyone crossing the street, saying that people in the UK are used to being able to cross safely when the lights are on red.
In Italy, this could be dangerous, as drivers are allowed to turn right when the green pedestrian crossing sign is on. And the Foreign Office said people can also be fined for crossing the road.
In today’s update, it said: “Traffic can be busy, fast and chaotic, especially in the larger cities. Take care when crossing roads. Pedestrians should cross roads at a crossing. You can be fined for crossing the road if you are within 100 metres of a pedestrian crossing but do not use it.
“Drivers do not always stop, even though they are required to. The green pedestrian crossing signal also allows cars to turn right onto the crossing, so cross with caution.
“Exercise caution in poorly lit or unfamiliar areas, including in road underpasses. Emergency exits in vehicle tunnels are for emergency use only if you need to leave your vehicle and should not be used as pedestrian routes.”
The Foreign Office advises that, compared to the UK, petty street crime is higher.
It said: "Crime levels are generally low, but there are higher levels of petty crime, particularly bag-snatching and pickpocketing, in city centres and at major tourist attractions. "
Advice includes:
Keep sight of your belongings at all times
Beware of thieves using distraction techniques
Avoid carrying all your valuables together in handbags or pockets
Leave spare cash and valuables in a safe place, such as a hotel safe
Cars can also be targeted: "Thefts from parked cars is common across the country. Avoid leaving luggage in your vehicle, even out of sight in the boot, for any length of time.
"Thieves may use a variety of methods to distract you or encourage you to stop your car, including asking for help or directions or pointing out a fictional fault with your car. "
