In most cases, EU citizens with an EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) are entitled to free care in Italy from the national health system, the SSN (Servizio Sanitario Nazionale). Non-EU citizens should take out comprehensive travel insurance, and make sure the policy covers cancellations. As the UK is no longer a member of the European Union, arrangements for UK citizens may change. Check before travelling.
There will be a hospital, clinic or health unit (Azienda Sanitaria) with a pronto soccorso (casualty/first-aid department) in every town of any size. Pharmacy staff are trained to assist with minor problems. If a pharmacy is closed, look for the card in the window with the schedule of the farmacia di turno (the closest one open. Most doctors and pharmacists speak rudimentary English.
A full list of current travel clinic websites worldwide is available here. For other journey preparation information, consult Travel Health Pro or CDC: Traveller’s Health. All advice found online should be used in conjunction with expert advice received prior to or during travel.
Safety
Umbria and the Marche have a very low crime rate, but it’s always best to take the same precautions you would take elsewhere.
Women travellers
Women travelling alone should not encounter any problems. If possible, try to avoid arriving or leaving big city stations late at night. There have been complaints of harassment, though no more or less than in any other European city.
LGBTQ+ travellers
In country towns and villages, a certain amount of discretion may be called for as you may encounter confusion, especially among the elderly. A list of LGBTQ+ friendly hotels, B&Bs, bars, and more in Italy is available here.
Travelling with children
Italians adore children, and you shouldn’t encounter any problems travelling with yours. However, if you are travelling with minor children with different surnames, you may need proof of guardianship. Contact your Italian consulate before you leave.
Many hotels and agriturismi offer family rooms. Under 18s are usually given free or half-price admission in museums. Children aged 4–11 years inclusive pay the child fare on Trenitalia; on long-distance trains those under 15 qualify for the child fare. Children under four travel for free, although you’ll still have to pay a small fee for a reservation.