Learn what to do in case of emergency in Italy: important phone numbers, hospitals, pharmacies, and tips for tourists in urgent situations!

🚑 What to do in case of emergency in Italy

Emergencies can happen anytime during your trip. Knowing who to call and where to go in Italy can make all the difference. Here’s a guide to help travelers handle unexpected situations.

📞 Emergency numbers in Italy

112 – European emergency number (works for police, fire, and medical)
118 – Medical emergencies (ambulance)
115 – Fire department
113 – Police

👉 Tip: Dial 112 anywhere in Italy for English-speaking operators.

🏥 Hospitals and healthcare

Public hospitals (ospedali) are available in every city and are free in emergencies.
For non-urgent cases, private clinics may offer shorter wait times.
EU citizens can use the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for treatment.
Non-EU travelers should have travel insurance covering medical expenses.

💊 Pharmacies in Italy

Pharmacies (farmacia) are easy to recognize by a green cross sign.
Many close at lunch but there’s always a rotating pharmacy open in each area.
Pharmacists can give advice for minor health problems and medications.

🛡️ Safety incidents

In case of theft, go to the nearest police station (questura) to file a report.
Contact your embassy or consulate for passport issues.
Block stolen cards immediately — see our guide on Payment in Italy.

❓ FAQ about emergencies in Italy

What number should I call first in an emergency?

Always call 112. It is the EU-wide emergency number and works everywhere in Italy.

Are hospitals in Italy reliable?

Yes, Italian healthcare is generally very good, especially in larger cities.

Do pharmacies in Italy speak English?

In tourist areas, many pharmacists speak basic English and can assist travelers.

🔎 Final thoughts

Being prepared for emergencies in Italy gives you peace of mind. Save important numbers, know where to find pharmacies, and always travel with insurance for extra safety.

📌 Useful external resources:
– EU – Emergency Number 112
– Italian Ministry of Health
– US Embassy in Italy
– UK Government – Travel Advice for Italy

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