Italy announced that it plans to allow travel to and from abroad starting on June 3. In addition, regional travel will be allowed again and shops and restaurants will reopen under new social distancing rules on May 18.
This news come nearly two weeks after Italy started to ease the restrictions of one of Europe's strictest lockdowns. Italy was the first European nation to impose such a lockdown after experiencing a surge of coronavirus cases and deaths.
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Unlike other countries and even U.S. states, the Italian government says that a 14-day quarantine upon arrival will not be mandatory. However, governors in regions such as Sardinia and Campania are considering health passports and imposing their own 14-day quarantine requirements. Gathering in public places will still be prohibited.
After months of lockdown, many countries are eager to kick-start their economies starting with the summer tourist season. Greece also announced plans to reopen to tourists this summer so long as it successfully completes a three-part process. Once that happens, hotels will begin reopening as soon as June 1. Last year, Greece drew 34 million visitors who brought in over $19 billion in revenue, Reuters reported.
At the time of publication, the U.S. State Department lists Italy at a Level 3 travel advisory, advising citizens to "reconsider travel." Additionally, a global "Do Not Travel" health advisory is also currently in place due to the worldwide impact of COVID-19.
