What happens if I get sick in Italy?

Start at a pharmacy — Italian pharmacists diagnose and advise for minor problems, and can dispense things that need a prescription at home. For anything more, a hotel can call a doctor who makes visits, typically €100–150, or you go to pronto soccorso, the ER, where you'll be triaged and treated regardless of insurance. Non-residents are billed, but the amounts are a fraction of American costs — an ER visit is often under €150. Keep the receipts for your travel insurance claim. Bring your own supply of anything you take regularly, since brand names differ.

This one changes. Last checked August 13, 2026 — confirm it close to your trip.