The Italian borders have been closed since Spring of 2020. Last year I was one of the few Americans that did return to my home in Italy as a dual citizen. However, I realized quickly it was not the Italy we once knew. The restrictions, curfews, and even lack of hugs and bacione from my friends left me with a feeling of uncertainty and sadness.

However, returning in 2021 has been the welcome we all have been waiting for so patiently. With vaccinations being given throughout Italy, the USA and the world, Italy has opened its borders to Americans again… but on one condition.

As of May 16, 2021 Americans are welcomed back into Italy via a COVID Tested only.

Overall this is exciting news. But I am sure if you are reading this blog you are curious about all the fine print. Well, I am ready to share! Prior to my departure, I did tons of research as a travel planner. And I now I have officially flew on a Delta COVID Tested flight this week.

Here are some details and FAQs regarding my personal experience flying from New York JFK to Rome FCO Direct…

American travelers are welcome into Italy on a COVID-Tested flight only.

COVID-Tested flying is available for American visitors. These flights require 2-3 tests on your way to Italy.

Delta Airlines is running COVID Free flights to Rome (FCO) and Milan (MXP) from select USA destinations. American Airlines has just begun to offer this service as well. United Airlines is planning to start offering flights with testing next month. Airline requirements and destinations into Italy are always changing so be sure to follow up directly with your airline of choice!

Quick Tip: Not all flights on these airlines are COVID-tested to Italy. So be sure you book the correct one!

Tell Me About These Required Tests…

Before departure (and at your own expensive) you must have a PCR Test or Rapid Antigen.

This must be done 48-72 hours before your trip to Italy. Again, this depends on your flight so don't forget to follow up with your airline and be sure to check the details of your connecting flight (this can change things quite a bit)!  

Rapid Tests: You will also be given a rapid test before departure in the USA and upon arrival in Italy.

• Your Rapid Test in the USA is included in the price of your flight. Currently they are offering rapid tests about 3-3.5 hours before your flight. And not before.

• Upon arrival into Milan or Rome you will be directed to register for a test. The airport staff will walk you through this process. When you arrive into Italy you follow the instructions of the on site team. They will explain that prior to taking your test you must pay pay 20 Euro on site (per person). My booth took credit card only. Then they will direct you to the testing area.

How long did you wait for your results of these rapid tests?

In NY I waited 45 minutes. In Italy I waited 15 minutes.

What if I have a connecting flight to another part of Italy via Rome?

Let them know upon arrival into Rome and have your ticket handy to show proof.

What’s the flight like?

The flight feels normal. Actually, it feels the same as 2020. Masks must be worn (with or without a vaccine) and there is a meal service. Some may see the service for food, snacks and drinks as a bit lighter than usual but overall it feels safe and comfortable.

Do you have to test on your return to the USA?

My situation is a bit different because as a dual citizen I spend half the year here. And I have only just arrived. So in full disclosure, I have not returned yet. But the short answer (as a travel planner organizing trips for other visiting Italy), Yes. As of now you must have a copy of a negative PCR or approved antigen rapid test 72 hours before boarding your flight back home to the states.

How do we get a PCR test in Italy?

This varies between regions. Contact your travel provider for the best results. We are helping each of our clients individually depending on their final stop in Italy.

What happens if I test positive?

If you test positive in the USA or have a positive PCR test, they will not allow you onto the plane.

Can I Avoid a COVID Tested Flight? After all I am vaccinated? What will happen?

Both vaccinated and non-vaccinated must complete the same steps for the COVID-free flights. But having your vaccination is a bonus for potential travel restrictions that may be put into place throughout the country. There is no word yet but we are waiting on details of the “Green Certificate” which will allow you to travel freely from region to region. It’s only in the works but I provide a brief summary of this possible restriction being put into place below.

Can you avoid the flight or try to come into Italy another way? I can’t say for sure but as far as I understand if you try to arrive on another flight (if available) you will have to quarantine for 7-10 days.

I heard the EU is allowing vaccinated travelers?

Yes, so have I. However, it’s not clear what this means to Italy. I think you will have to be patient of flexible. And I personally would still book the COVID free flight. Better safe than sorry right?!

Is Italy fully open?

At this time you can travel between same-colored zones.
If you are not familiar Italy has a 4 Color Category.

• White: Safe and Fully Open.

• Yellow: Cases still present be cautious and some restrictions.

• Orange: Cases higher than yellow zone therefore there are stricter rules. And closures can happen at any time (I was there last year and can 100 percent confirm they will do this if necessary).

• Red: Dangerous, this is a region on high alert and all non-essentials businesses are closed.

Basically, there are talks that you will need proof of vaccination or a test (possibly at your own expense) each time you travel from region to region in Italy. Or you may have to do this between different color regions. A region is basically a state so (for example) going from Rome to Amalfi Coast is going between regions. Right now I have not been questioned during my travels. So that’s a good sign. TBD on final details!

Side Note: Masks are still mandatory indoors and outdoors and there is a curfew in place for 11:00 pm. But this is changing quickly and often.

What happens if Italy goes into Lockdown again?

I have no idea. As the owner of a travel planning company, I can say it’s not something I ever want to imagine for travelers again. It was a painful and scary year rushing clients out of Italy and also canceling hundreds of trips.

Therefore, I just want to say your fear is valid. However, overall, it feels much better here now than last year. But the truth is we won’t know until we know. And that’s it. The virus is full of unanswered questions and unpredictable outcomes. My advice is to focus on the best and the more comfortable way to stay safe, keep others safe and take the journey with flexibility.

What’s Your Overall Thoughts? Should I go or Wait?

I have so many thoughts and my opinion changes daily. I am a travel planner, a “nomadic” traveler and also a person who is sensitive to the current situation. I also have a split life living six months in New York and six months in Italy every year which gives me another perspective too. (For those new to the page, I am based mostly around the Amalfi Coast but do live out of suitcase for three months traveling all twenty regions of the country. When in NY I am typically in Brooklyn or Manhattan).

Since the pandemic hit I haven’t quite been the same. In NY I barely left my home in both 2020 and 2021. During my stay in Italy in 2020, I was based in one area of the Amalfi Coast for five months.

I was cautious but hopeful.

And I feel the same this year but with a bit more motivation.

Now that I have arrived here in 2021, I am finally feeling ready to travel safely again. And that’s big for me to say after suffering some personal trauma from this experience. And the great news is I already have journeys set from Veneto to Sicily so I hope you are following along on Instagram.

In the end, I would say …

Do what feels right. Italy is open but the virus is unpredictable. So I say it’s your choice. I have taken the step and do not regret it.

So I will leave you with that. And with a virtual salute to you from the train I am on from Roma to Naples. We are looking forward to welcoming back to Italia soon. In the meantime, I will have a lemon spritz in Sorrento or Atrani for you later today. ;)

Will you be traveling? I would love to hear your thoughts below! And if you are looking for assisting in planning or even just some consulting on your already planned trip be sure to reach out to us!

Note: I will always keep an eye on the developing situation. I am traveling in a way that is safe and comfortable for myself and also for the local people. :) We have an interview series on Instagram and Facebook called #LifeBeyondTourism where we ask the locals to share their stories and thoughts on Italy travel (especially the past year). We will continue to update this with hopes it inspires you or even answers your questions on Italy travel for now or the future.

June 1 Update via a kind Instagram Follower - Miquela Rose who fly JFK to Rome via American Airline: American Airlines requires only two tests. One test 48 hours prior to departure. During check in at JFK you must show your proof of a negative test. Then you will complete the same forms as Delta (that will assist you in the Rome Airport). Upon arrival in Rome FCO you will take a test as noted above. She noted it was organized and a quick process!

MEET CASSANDRA

Cassandra on the road above Positano - 2020

Cassandra Santoro is the CEO and Founder of Travel Italian Style, a boutique travel company. As a personal trip planner, she has visited all 20 Regions of Italy and spends 6 months each year traveling the country with a focus on finding inspiring and real experiences for her clients and followers. She also co-hosts the Rediscover Italy Podcast where she shares stories of locals, life and travel in Italy. Cassandra also enjoys speaking about her journey on other radio shows, podcasts and in press in both Europe and NY. Her highlight appearance was speaking in Germany for TEDx DHBW Mannheim.

Cassandra is currently living in the south of Italy bouncing around between the Amalfi Coast and Sorrento while taking short trips throughout the country. You can follow her adventures on Instagram.

MY EXPERIENCE FLYING A COVID TESTED FLIGHT TO ITALY