Read the revised Covid-19 rules for Christmas in Italy here.
New Covid-19 rules will apply throughout Italy for Christmas, starting December 4, in an effort to avoid a third wave. The main measures are tighter restrictions on travel and an extended curfew over the New Year. The decree is currently at an advanced draft stage, so this article will be updated as soon as details are confirmed.
Via Tornabuoni, ph. Valeria Raniolo
Can I leave/come to Florence for Christmas?
No travelling will be allowed outside the city limits on on December 25 and 26 and on New Year’s Day, and no travelling will be allowed between Italian regions from December 21 to January 6. There’s also a ban on using second homes. The usual reasons for travelling will continue to apply: for work, health, necessity, or to return to your place of residence, domicile or home.
Can I spend Christmas with a friend or family member?
Although there is no legal ban, the government strongly recommends that households do not mix over the holiday season. You are legally allowed to travel to care for a family member or friend. Partners who habitually live in separate places can be reunited for the holiday season. Other waivers are expected to be detailed in the next few days.
What about New Year’s?
Efforts are being made to curb New Year’s celebrations with the introduction of an extended curfew from 10pm on December 31, 2020, to 7am on January 1, 2021. Self-certification for work, health or necessity will be required if you are outside of your home.
Will restaurants be open?
Restaurants will still be required to close at 6pm, but are allowed to provide lunchtime table service during the festive period, including Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day and January 6 (Epiphany), for a maximum of four people who all live together. Takeaways are allowed until 10pm and there’s no time limit on home deliveries. The current nationwide curfew will remain in place from 10pm to 5am.
Is Tuscany coming out of lockdown this weekend?
On Friday, December 4, Italy’s Minister of Health, Roberto Speranza, is expected to announce that the “red zone” lockdown measures will be lifted to “orange” status in Tuscany this weekend, meaning that you must remain within the city limits and that shops may reopen.
What about the schools?
Secondary schools are expected to resume fifty per cent of in-class teaching on January 7.
Stay updated in these ever-changing times…
Sign up to The Florentine’s newsletter for updates about everything happening in our city, including the latest news, events edit and retail offers for Florence lovers.
