Canada updates Italy travel advisory after demonstrations in Turin
Global Affairs Canada warns travellers to Turin of possible ongoing demonstrations and increased security measures. Be prepared to change plans and monitor local updates.
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By Torontoer Staff
Global Affairs Canada has updated its travel advisory for Italy following violent demonstrations in Turin on Jan. 31, 2026. The government warns the possibility of further unrest cannot be ruled out and asks travellers to be prepared to modify plans.
Thousands protested the forced closure of the Askatasuna social centre, and clashes with police left officers injured. The changes to the advisory urge people visiting Turin to stay alert, follow local instructions and expect greater security measures.
What happened in Turin
Demonstrations that began on Jan. 31 escalated into violent clashes between protesters and police. Media reports say more than 100 officers were injured when confrontations broke out during attempts to clear the site, and authorities increased their presence across the city.
Turin is a frequent destination for visitors because of its Baroque architecture and food scene. The advisory stresses that demonstrations and strikes occur regularly in larger Italian cities, often with little notice, and that even peaceful gatherings can disrupt transport and daily plans.
What the advisory says
On Jan. 31, 2026, violent demonstrations and civil unrest took place in Turin. The possibility of further demonstrations cannot be ruled out.
Global Affairs Canada
The advisory asks travellers to avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place, to follow the instructions of local authorities and to be ready to change itineraries "in case of disturbances." It also warns people to expect more security measures and an increased police presence.
Milan and the broader context
Turin is not the only northern Italian city seeing large protests. Hundreds of people gathered in Milan to protest the announced involvement of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents in security at the Winter Olympics. The announcement prompted outrage among demonstrators, according to reporting.
Canada’s advisory ahead of the Winter Olympics in Milan remains in place, with instructions to avoid demonstration areas and to monitor event-related security updates as the games approach.
Practical tips for travellers
- Monitor the Global Affairs Canada travel advisory page for Italy and any city-specific notices.
- Register with Registration of Canadians Abroad so authorities can contact you in an emergency.
- Keep flexible travel arrangements and allow extra time for transit, especially near demonstration sites.
- Avoid areas where protests are taking place and follow directions from local police or organisers.
- Carry identification and proof of accommodation, and have copies stored securely online.
- Check public transit and airport status before travelling, as strikes and disruptions are possible.
- Limit late-night travel in affected neighbourhoods and choose well-lit, populated routes.
- Have contact information for your embassy or consulate saved on your phone.
Staying informed before you go
Local news outlets and municipal websites will report demonstrations and transport disruptions first. Follow official channels from local police and emergency services for instructions on road closures and safety zones. Airlines and rail operators also post service alerts that could affect schedules.
If you are already in Italy, stay in contact with friends and family about your plans and consider changing visits to affected neighbourhoods to different days or locations until the situation stabilises.
Travellers should balance their plans against the advisory. For short stays focused on tourist areas, common-sense precautions are usually sufficient. For longer visits or travel that requires crossing urban centres, travellers may need to be more flexible.
Global Affairs Canada will update its advisory as circumstances change. Check official sources before departure and while travelling, and be prepared to adapt plans if demonstrations or security measures affect your route or activities.
Italytravel advisoryTurinCanadatravel safety
