Brits have been given a major “security” warning from the government about traveling to Italy.

The number of Brits visiting Italy has increased steadily over the years; Approximately 6.2 million British tourists visited in 2024. With the Christmas season about to kick into full swing, many people will be opting for a festive getaway to Italy.

But the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued a warning to any Brits who may visit the country.

FCDO advises travelers on the risks of travel so they can make informed decisions, with warnings available for Rome and Vatican City.

According to the FCDO, the Rome region is expected to have a large number of visitors during the Holy Year 2025, especially during major events.

It read: “The Jubilee, known as the Holy Year, will take place in Rome from 24 December 2024 to 6 January 2026.

“The city is expected to be very busy, especially when major events take place.”

Poor management of queues or delays can result in a rush of people during this event and it is important to pay attention to exits. People are often at the mercy of the crowd’s movement, which can lead to them being crushed if not careful.

The FCDO also warned of security issues related to the “increased risk of petty crime” for those traveling to Italy during this solemn event.

The report added: “Crime levels are generally low, but levels of petty crime, particularly bag snatching and pickpocketing, are higher in city centers and major tourist attractions.”

Brits visiting these regions will experience Italy at its finest as preparations for the Holy Year include a number of infrastructure projects and public works to ensure the well-being of the region, providing a unique opportunity to experience Italy’s vibrant history and culture.

However, this major event will also see record-breaking crowds, as many destinations are packed beyond capacity and flight and accommodation prices reach sky-high prices.

In addition to rising prices on hotel and flight tickets, food is also expected to be significantly more expensive due to limited food availability for many things, including tours. If you are going to visit Rome during this time, it is highly recommended that travelers book in advance and plan their holidays meticulously.

The Holy Year occurs every 25 years, and the year 2025 is the Year of Jubilee in the Catholic Church and is a significant event.

The Jubilee 2025 theme is Pilgrims of Hope, which will attract approximately 35 million pilgrims to Rome and is expected to be a major media event.

The Italian Jubilee Year will run from Christmas Eve 2024 until the festival of Epiphany in January 2026 and will take place in Rome and the Vatican City.

This important event carries deep spiritual meaning and the pilgrimage is an opportunity for celebration, reconciliation and spiritual growth. The event begins with the opening of the Holy Door in St. Peter’s Basilica, marking the official start of the Jubilee.

This was later followed by St. John Lateran, Santa Maria Maggiore and St. Outside the Wall. The opening of other Holy Doors follows at three other papal basilicas in Rome, including Paul’s, and passing through these doors is considered a symbolic passage from sin to grace.