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Home > travel-blog > Italy > How to Get A COVID Test in Italy to Return to the USA

How to Get A COVID Test in Italy to Return to the USA

Angel Castellanos Last Updated: June 14, 2022

Most Covid-19 test requirements have been dropped, but if you still need one, testing is easy and results are fast. If you are planning a trip to Italy, where can you get a Covid-19 test to return home and what are the requirements? The good news is that I have done it, and it was super easy, so no need to worry. Here is how to get a Covid-19 test to return to the USA from Italy.


Update June 12, 2022: As of midnight on June 12, 2022, the United States will no longer require a negative Covid-19 test result for travelers flying into the U.S. If you are traveling elsewhere, please check with your local authorities, airline, or cruise ship for current requirements.

Update April 30, 2022: All Covid-19 restrictions to enter Italy have been dropped for all travelers. Please check specific rules at hotels, restaurants, and attractions.

Update March 2022: Starting March 1, 2022, you only need to present a vaccine card to enter the country without quarantine or random testing. Unvaccinated travelers must show a negative test result and quarantine for five days upon arrival and test again at the end of those five days. These rules are expected to be reduced even further on April 30, 2022.

Click the button below to reserve your Covid-19 rapid antigen test for the day before your departure from Italy.

Headed to Italy? Great idea! Definitely check out our Italy tours for the most memorable experience. We take away the guesswork about getting into the main attractions, and an experienced guide will elevate your visit to the next level!

SEE ALL COVID TESTS IN ITALY FOR TRAVEL

Covid-19 Questions About Returning to the USA from Italy

Here are some common FAQs that I have received about how to get a Covid-19 test to return to the USA from Italy.

Do you need to get a Covid-19 test to return to the states?

A Covid-19 test is no longer required to return to the U.S. as of June 12, 2022.

When should you get a Covid-19 test in Italy to return to the USA?

Quick Answer: You no longer need a Covid-19 test to return to the U.S., however, you can still take one if you prefer.

I recommend going to a Red Cross site or a private clinic a day prior to your flight. Getting a test at the airport is also possible, but you’re definitely adding extra stress on the day of departure, especially if you happen to test negative. A savvy traveler takes care of it in advance.

That means that getting a Covid-19 test done the day before departure is usually the best since antigen results arrive within a couple of minutes or hours. I received my antigen test result just hours after my test at a private clinic in Como.

SEE the top locations for COVID TESTS IN ITALY

Do I have to schedule my test in advance?

Quick Answer: Yes, it’s better to plan this due to the time requirements.

There are many places in Italy, especially in Rome or Milan, where you can get your test without an appointment that I’ll cover below. I flew home from Milan after ending my trip in Lake Como. I had to schedule an appointment because there are only private clinics in Como. There are Red Cross centers in Rome and Milan that do not require appointments.

The airports do not require appointments for Covid-19 tests. But if you are testing at a private clinic, you need to schedule in advance. I’ll discuss my process for scheduling my appointment in Como down below in the Milan section.

What is the cost of a Covid-19 test in Italy?

Quick Answer: €20 to €100 with an average cost of €20 to €35.

Antigen tests are inexpensive in Italy, especially compared to PCR tests. That’s another reason to visit Italy during this time. At a private clinic in Milan, I paid €35. At the airport in Rome, Sean paid €30. For another trip, I took a PCR test at a private clinic in Milan. That cost €100.

Which train stations in Italy have tests available?

Unfortunately, the Red Cross ended their popular free testing program in the middle of September. For example, at Roma Termini, you might still see the white tent where free tests were previously administered, but Covid-19 tests are no longer given.

Each major train station has a pharmacy. Check the pharmacy when you are at the station about when and how you can get a Covid-19 test to return to the USA. The Roma Termini station has a pharmacy that administers the test and there is also a pharmacy down the street that I recommend.

Book your COVID TEST IN ITALY

How to Get A Covid-19 Test in Italy

After reading the above FAQ, you know that you need a test, so here is how to get it!

Where to Get a Covid Test in Italy

You can get a Covid-19 test very easily in any major city in Italy. The Tour Guy has done the work and made booking a Covid-19 test stress-free for major cities in Italy. There are three basic places to get a Covid-19 test in Italy to return to the USA:

  • Pharmacies
  • Private clinics
  • Major airports

Each major city has these options, and I’ve written about these in detail.

Where to Get a COVID Test in Rome
Where to Get a COVID Test in Milan
Where to Get a COVID Test in Florence

First thing you see when entering Terminal 3 Arrivals at FCO Airport

Getting a Covid-19 Test at Rome FCO Airport

The testing center is located in departures Terminal 3. Sean walked through the door at 5:00 am to get his test. (Two people directed him to the test center.)

Operating hours are from midnight to 4:00 pm (16:00). If you have a flight after 4:00 pm, get to the airport well before it closes, or better yet, don’t wait to take the test there.

Reserve Ahead

Before arriving at the airport, you must register for your test by using this link to get a COVID test at FCO Airport in Rome. This reservation number will be required when you sign in to get tested.

Sign in

Getting a Covid Test at Rome Airport FCO
What the test registration desk looks like as of 6/30/121

You turn left, and there is a small queue to approach a series of desks. You can barely see it, but you must grab a number before they sign you in. These stations are where they take your RSVP number from the online confirmation.

In the early morning, the whole process took 26 minutes total.

To summarize, you need:

  • Online RSVP number
  • Ticket number from the airport computer

Take a Test

COVID test center at Rome Airport
Next step after registration, the test!

Next is the testing center. They take your passport, hold it, and then take the ticket number from the airport computer.

Once they have that information, you cross from the left side to the right side of the room. That’s where the test is administered, and there is a party in your nose where everyone is invited.

Results

COVID Testing Center
Waiting room. Cue the elevator music!

After the test is administered, you walk away without your passport. The same thing happened when I arrived at the beginning of June, which is momentarily scary but perfectly normal. You then have to wait in the area pictured below. The wait time can be anywhere from 15-30 minutes.

The ticket number from the airport computer appears on the screen when your results are ready. They give you a particular document for your final destination country and put a sticker on your boarding pass.

The escalator to departure is right next to where you come into Terminal 3 arrivals.

Antigen Covid Test at FCO Rome Airport
The document you’ll receive. They’ll ask your final destination and create the document in your home language.

Where to Get A Covid-19 Test in Milan

Getting a Covid-19 test at Malpensa Airport

Travelers wishing to take an antigen test at Malpensa airport in Milan must register in advance by using this link. The website to register for an antigen test at Malpensa is a bit tricky. Sometimes the location is listed as Palazzo Della Salute, but you will take the antigen test at Malpensa. The cost is €36. For more details, please visit the Malpensa Airport website.

The Covid-19 rapid antigen test is available every day from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm in the Arrivals area. The testing center is located in the Arrivals section of Terminal 1 at door number 4 on floor zero. On the map below, it is located at D4 in arrivals.

A Private Clinic

Getting an antigen test at a private clinic in the Milan area is also another option. There are various clinics located throughout the city. This is also a good option if you are ending your trip in Lake Como like I just did. I’ve tested at two different private clinics in Lake Como and both processes were very similar. One clinic, Analisi, had a great English-speaking staff. They called me to confirm my appointment in English.

The first step to take an antigen test at a private clinic for returning to the USA is to register online. In Lake Como, the clinics and testing centers will be in Como town. If you are staying in Bellagio, Tremezzo, or Lezzeno, you will have to go to Como for your test.

For Analise, I registered using this link. For Bianalisi, I registered using this link. Both are located in Como.

At Analise clinic, located in the center of Como, all of the registration was done ahead of time. I showed up for my appointment at 10 am. At the front desk, I showed them my confirmation email for my appointment and then paid for my test. The test was a quick swab of the nose, and I was out within 10 minutes. I received an email with my results later that day.

Benefits


There are three clear benefits to getting the test early at the train station or at a private clinic. The first is the elimination of unnecessary stress by getting it done ahead of time. Second, you will have your test in hand, and if you fly American Airlines as I do, you can use the Verifly app to upload your results making check-in at the airport simple and straightforward.

Third, and probably most importantly, the códice fiscale, which is kind of like an ID number, is generated by the private clinic. The códice fiscale is often asked for when taking a Covid-19 test in Italy. The private clinics provide a little bit more service and answer more questions for you.

The only extra step I had to take at the check-in this morning was to show my Verifly pass and that was it. I didn’t need to show my Covid test or any sort of printout.

I flew American Airlines back to the United States. All of those extra steps, questions, and forms are done directly through the app after the negative Covid tests results are uploaded.

Book your COVID TEST IN ITALY
  • Where To Get a COVID Test in Florence, Italy?
    Where To Get a COVID Test in Florence, Italy?
  • Where To Get a COVID Travel Test in ROME, Italy
    Where To Get a COVID Travel Test in ROME, Italy
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    Where to get a COVID Test in Athens
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    Where To Get a COVID Test in Milan
  • Where To Get a COVID Test in London Right Now
    Where To Get a COVID Test in London Right Now
  • Where To Get a COVID Test in Amsterdam
    Where To Get a COVID Test in Amsterdam

About Angel Castellanos

Angel Castellanos, www.AngelsTravelLounge.com , is a multi-media travel expert and travel journalist that has appeared on BBC News, Los Angeles Times, Fox News, ABC, NBC, CBS, Univision, Frommers Radio, USA Today. Angel is also an acclaimed speaker appearing as a featured travel expert with the Travel & Adventure Show and New York Times Travel Show. 80+ Countries, 5 Continents and counting. He's passionate about travel to Europe, especially to Italy & France, countries he's visited every year of his adult life.

Reader Interactions

Comments (103)

  1. Janet Columbro

    July 9, 2021

    I am traveling to Aviano and flying into Venice. Will I have the Red Cross option there? Where would I go otherwise for a covid test?

    Reply
    • Sean Finelli

      July 9, 2021

      Here are the cities with Red Cross tents near the train station, Venice incluced:
      Bari, Bologna, Cagliari, Florence Santa Maria Novella, Naples Centrale, Palermo, Reggio Calabria, Turin Porta Nuova and Venice Santa Lucia.

      Reply
  2. Tony H.

    July 20, 2021

    Thanks so very much for the helpful info on getting covid tests prior to departure for U.S.

    Reply
  3. Anna

    July 20, 2021

    Do the Red Cross testing locations provide results in English?

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      July 20, 2021

      All results in Italy are in English and Italian.

      Reply
  4. Lynn A.

    July 23, 2021

    Very useful, thanks!

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      July 23, 2021

      Our pleasure. Thanks for the comment. Feel free to share.

      Reply
  5. Kelly

    July 23, 2021

    This is AWESOME information. Are the tests the 1in swab in the nose or does it go all the way back? I ask because my youngest son had a horrible experience and I need to know to prep him before our trip.

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      July 23, 2021

      Hi Kelly! Every test I’ve had done in Italy has been one swab in each nostril. I would prepare your son.

      Reply
  6. Matt Turner

    July 29, 2021

    Thank you for this very timely post for our group as we will be finishing our trip in Lake Como. I see that the Analise test is significantly more expensive than the other one, but seems to be easier to navigate given the test run that I have done in registering. Did you find the higher price but greater convenience worth it? Thanks in advance

    Reply
    • Sean Finelli

      July 29, 2021

      Thanks! Angel also wrote this article on where to stay in lake como if you are looking for advice!

      Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      July 29, 2021

      Make sure you are booking the Antigen test if you are returning to the USA. It should be cheaper than PCR. Analise is a super professional private clinic and I was in/out very quickly within minutes. Also, parking is just a few meters away Via Varese across the street from the bank. Be sure to pay the meter!

      Reply
  7. Matt Turner

    July 29, 2021

    Thank you. I will make sure that I make that distinction. We will be in Carate Urio and that looks to be approximately 12-15 km from Como. We have not rented a car and therefore will be going by taxi. Do you see that as an issue?

    Reply
  8. Matt T

    July 29, 2021

    We will be staying in Carate Urio approximately 10-12 km away from Como. Will not be renting a car. Will taxis be readily available?

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      August 1, 2021

      Taxis should be available. Uber also works. Both will be somewhat expensive.

      Reply
  9. Sehbal

    July 30, 2021

    Traveling to Rome in August with my 17 year old. Do you have any info about what happens if tested positive before returning to us? Laws? Rules? I purchased travel insurance but don’t want to be separated from a minor daughter. And is it really easy to get tested with Red Cross ? Don’t want additional stress trying to get a test the day of the flight. My return flight is Monday so not sure if things will be as smooth on weekends and August being quite in Rome. Thanks ?

    Reply
  10. Mary Ann King

    July 31, 2021

    Thank you so much for the info re antigen testing at the train stations in Italy. We hopefully will be staying for four days in Venice prior to our flight home in October, so being able to have the test at the train station the a day or two prior to our flight home instead of at the airport just prior to departure will make life seem much easier and less stressful. Hope travel won’t be halted if the pandemic continues to spread.

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      August 1, 2021

      Yes that’s the way to go! Let’s stay positive for a happy October trip. See you soon!

      Reply
  11. Richard

    August 1, 2021

    Returning to Canada from Italy requires a PCR Test (Canada specifically says that an antigent test does not qualify). Where in Bologna can one get a PCR Test, and how long do the results take to get back? (Canada requires the test to be taken within 72 hours of the scheduled departure time of your last direct flight to Canada).

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      August 1, 2021

      Try googling for private clinics in Bologna. You can also ask your hotel. When I had a PCR test in Milan I received the results in less than 24 hours but results vary. Ask when you are booking you appointment.

      Reply
  12. Marcelo P

    August 1, 2021

    How do I confirm that they will take the antigen test vs PCR? Airlines websites (e.g., delta) talks about PCR. I am going back to RDU from Genoa, stopping at AMS. Please advice. Thank you

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      August 1, 2021

      You can confirm before the test is administered. Also, Antigen test is less expensive. Lastly, it should say on your test results the type test that has been given. Happy Travels!

      Reply
  13. CARI H.

    August 3, 2021

    Is the Red Cross test at Termini valid for entry into the US?

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      August 23, 2021

      Of course. I would not recommend it otherwise.

      Reply
  14. Brian Halpin

    August 10, 2021

    Hello, I am trying to schedule our Covid test at the Milan airport but the web site is only in Italian(Google will not translate). Do you have any suggestions on how to schedule or know another site from GSD that offers a translated version? Thank you

    Reply
  15. John Howard

    August 13, 2021

    Any suggestions for the pcr test in or around the town of Amalfi…will need test done on a Saturday or Sunday as we depart for U.S. from Rome on a Tuesday very early. Prefer not to wait until Monday, that’s cutting it too close!
    Thanks!

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      August 23, 2021

      Hi John. Amalfi is quite small so it’s possible your only option may be Sorrento. Definitely ask your hotel. They will be able to provide boots on the ground advice for this specific need. If you take the test in Rome Monday am, it should be no problem. Cheers.

      Reply
  16. Brandon

    August 14, 2021

    Great info! One question, the test result from the airport that you showed here, does not seem to contain all the info required by the US. (The private clinic ones shows more info). Are you sure the report they gave you at the airport testing facility is good enough to fly back to the US? It costs 20 euro.

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      August 23, 2021

      This test was redacted to remove personal information. The testing center at the airport is accepted by all the major US airlines.

      Reply
  17. Miki

    August 16, 2021

    I am considering a trip back to Italy. Thanks so much for sharing this information! It was imcredibly helpful.

    Reply
  18. Elam E

    August 18, 2021

    Hey, thank you for the detailed breakdown, this is very helpful!

    Planning ahead, if my flight back to the US from Milan is in the morning and I’m arriving in Milan the day before in the afternoon, can I guarantee a time slot at the red-cross tent or should I book an appointment at a local clinic just to be safe?

    I will be travelling from Cinque Terre that day, if that helps with making a different decision

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      August 23, 2021

      The Italian Red Cross is first come first serve. You have to que up. If you are in a time crunch, it may be worth to pay a bit extra to have a secured time slot.

      Reply
  19. Luanne

    August 18, 2021

    Do you know what happens if your test comes back positive? Can you self-quarantine or do they make you stay at a certain hotel? And are the test results uploaded anywhere or just a paper result? Thanks for doing this awesome research!

    Reply
  20. Bhupesh

    August 20, 2021

    do you know if any testing happens on a weekend? I just got to Como (on a friday evening) with a monday morning return flight out of milan to the US.

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      August 23, 2021

      It definitely happens on Friday. Please check the website of the testing center for details. I provided links in the article of the various testing centers I visited including the Italian Red Cross. Cheers.

      Reply
  21. Isabel

    August 21, 2021

    Thank you for this information, it is really helpful. I have read in some places that a Codice Fiscale is required to view your lab results? Is this accurate?

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      August 23, 2021

      That is true, but for non-Italian citizens, it is taken care of by the test center. No worries there. I’m not an Italian citizen and it all worked out for me.

      Reply
  22. Emily Estrada

    August 22, 2021

    Hi Angel,
    We are hoping to get our antigen test at the S. Lucia Venezia train station on Monday, September 13 and we leave for the U.S. on the morning of September 14. Do you know their days and hours of operation? Thank you so much.

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      August 23, 2021

      The days of operation and hours of each test center operated by the Italian Red Cross is listed on their website. I provided a link in the article. Happy travels.

      Reply
  23. EMILY

    August 22, 2021

    We would like to get a rapid antigen test the day before we leave which is on a Monday. Do you know the days and hours of operation for the train station S. Lucia Venezia? Thank you!

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      August 23, 2021

      Hi Emily. The hours for each Red Cross test centre is located on their website. I provided a link in the article. Thank you.

      Reply
  24. Helen Lynch

    August 23, 2021

    Hi,
    Thanks for the helpful information. We are staying in Orvieto in early October, flying out of Rome. I contacted a pharmacy in Orvieto that confirmed they have rapid antigen test available. Do you know if a pharmacy test is sufficient for travel back to the U.S. ? I am finding vague/conflicting information on this question.

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      September 3, 2021

      I just flew back with a test from a pharmacy in Rome. It was an antigen test and the negative test results had all of the required info.

      Reply
  25. thomas ryan

    August 25, 2021

    can you use the tests given in ITALIAN pharmacies for covid re entry to USA? Bologna? Venice?

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      September 3, 2021

      Yes of course. As long as it’s an antigen test or PCR.

      Reply
  26. Alan Rouse

    August 25, 2021

    I have a flight booked from Florence to London City Airport Thursday 21 Oct 21. I am a US citizen who has been full Pfizer vaccinated with booster. What test to I need to get in Florence that is acceptable to British authorities at passport control? Will I also be required to take another COVID-19 test at London City Airport? (That would be two tests, two countries, within 72 hours).

    Reply
  27. Connie

    August 26, 2021

    Great info! We will be finishing a tour of Rome in late September and will be renting an apartment near the Spanish steps… do you think there is a testing site near there? Or should we plan on the Red Cross @ train station?

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      September 3, 2021

      Their might be a private clinic but its hard to be the testing center at Roma Termini Station.

      Reply
  28. Danny

    August 28, 2021

    A friend of mine is flying from Palermo tomorrow and wanted to see what is the best possible option to get the test done prior to departure. Can they go the day before and get tested ?? also are Red cross providing those test after working hours (i.e. after 6 pm) ?

    Any recommendations?

    Thank you

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      September 3, 2021

      The Red Cross free testing sites have strict hours. As a matter of fact, they stop taking people 30 mins before closing.

      Reply
  29. Kathleen Novello Ellis

    September 8, 2021

    I will also want to get my testing in Como City. Is it possible to wait for the result and get it in writing? I will not have access to a printer. Is showing the email on the phone sufficient?

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      September 13, 2021

      I always had my test results emailed to in Como. But earlier this month the pharmacy in Rome gave me my results in hand with a physical paper. If you don’t have a printer ask whoever is administering the test if they can give you a paper copy. You might have to circle back and pick it up. But you don’t need a paper copy if you are uploading your results to an airline app or an app like Verifly.

      Reply
  30. Diane

    September 13, 2021

    Thank you, Angel. It was difficult to find out where to be tested in Rome without a Tax ID #, so this is very much appreciated. I will need at test to return to U.S. Sept. 21, 2021. It looks like I can do it at Termini, a pharmacy, or even at the airport (with an appt.). Please correct me if you have a couple of minutes, and I’m wrong on my info! Best, -Diane

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      September 15, 2021

      Hi Diane! Yeah the whole Tax ID thing is confusing to us Americans but it shouldn’t prevent you from taking a test. I’ve taken several in Italy and have never needed it. Private clinics and pharmacies know how to circumvent that issue for us. There are many options for tests in Rome. I just wrote another article pinpointing the options. Here you go: https://thetourguy.com/travel-blog/italy/rome/where-to-get-a-covid-test-in-rome-this-year/

      Reply
  31. Kevin

    September 16, 2021

    Angel –

    Were your test results from the Pharmacy in English and Italian or just English? We received results for test and each line is in English and Italian but the test result itself is “Negativo”. Did you fly with similar for your trip back to the US?

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      September 16, 2021

      Yes it said “Negativo”. Still accepted by the airline

      Reply
  32. Grace Migliaccio

    September 17, 2021

    If you’re reading this blog, then you’re looking for the best testing options to fly back to the U.S. from Milan. Let me save you a day and a lot of aggravation by telling you that the information in this blog was extremely inaccurate and needlessly cost us a lot of time and stress. Here’s the deal:
    1. You MUST have an appointment to get into any of the Lago di Como labs and you must make them in advance. You absolutely cannot walk in and you won’t find any open appointments in the next two days. Don’t worry – see my advice below.
    2. Most of the transaction is in Italian only. I was able to get translations through Google chrome browser, but otherwise had to use the Google translate on my phone to understand what was required to book the appointment
    3. The appointment will need to go back and forth via email with the lab to schedule an appointment. This took about 6 hours and Constantine checking. We had 3 people in our party, so three email exchanges going back and forth with no guarantee that we would get said appointment until the last minute.
    4. We were able to get an appointment that was more than an hour away from our hotel and it wasn’t busy but the drive to and from took up a chunk of our last day in Italy. No one there spoke English. It cost 112 euros each to get PCR test results in 24 hours and in english, so 336 euros total
    5. The test was one of the most invasive we’ve experienced compared to U.S. based tests. We were relieved when it was over. HOWEVER
    6. Our results were not in in time for our flight the next day. So we went to the airport testing center and got our results instantly for 20 euros. There was no line. All we needed was the “rapid” test, not the PCR test. Super easy and super cheap
    7. This blog led us to believe that getting a test in Milan or Como would be fast and easy and it was neither, and super expensive to boot, not to mention not getting the results in time.
    8. Save yourself the hassle and go to the airport with 3-4 hours before your flight back to the U.S.

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      September 17, 2021

      Hi Grace. Sorry you had such a terrible time with getting your test sorted out. It’s never fun to end a trip on a down note. Sorry you missed the part about having an appointment. I went ahead and bolded those call outs so its not missed by anyone else. Lake Como is a big place and distances take a long time. So, yes, if you are staying in Bellagio or Tremezzo, it is going to take about an hour to get there. That is how long it took me and I knew that because I google mapped it before driving. Also, keep in mind that travelers returning to the USA don’t need a PCR test. That’s in one of the first paragraphs but I will bold that so people don’t miss that important detail. If you are returning to the USA an antigen test will be accepted by the airlines. Various destinations require different tests. If you do struggle with Italian, in Italy, you can always ask your hotel concierge, hotel front desk, tour guide, driver or friendly barista to help you out. Thanks for your contribution and happy travels.

      Reply
  33. Dale

    September 17, 2021

    Regarding Milan’s Train Station; they do open at 7:30 but they close at 1500, not 2000. We found that out yesterday. Also, those of a “certain age” are brought to the front of the line. My wife and I are over 70 and someone took us to the front; I don’t know at what age they start doing that.

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      September 17, 2021

      Yes they have now updated their hours and eliminated the afternoon session. Thanks for letting me know. I’ve updated the post accordingly. Thanks so much.

      Reply
  34. Ingrid

    September 23, 2021

    Hi, do you know how I can get home antigen kits. I will need to test myself every 48 hours to get into restaurants etc. Any advice, are they easy to find? Expensive? Etc.

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      September 23, 2021

      You can get them from the supplier on the internet. I know many US based passengers who use them. I don’t know if they ship to Canada.

      Reply
  35. Susan Small

    September 25, 2021

    Thank you so much for posting this information and keeping it up to date! I found your entire website to be very helpful with planning my trip, tours, etc. I’m traveling in October. So excited!

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      September 30, 2021

      Hi Susan! Thanks so much. We look forward to seeing you in October. Which tours will you be on?

      Reply
  36. Daisy Em

    September 30, 2021

    THANK YOU!!! We’ve wasted a lot of time trying to find particulars about getting a test at FCO. This post had everythibg we wanted to know. I’ll be remembering you for the next time I travel and I’ll be telling my friends ….and I’m a flight attendant. ?
    Thank you for all the details!

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      October 1, 2021

      Thank you so much for the comment, kind words and referral.

      Reply
  37. Diana

    October 1, 2021

    Thank you for the great info. We just arrived back in the US today, Oct 1. We went to the train station in Palermo, Sicilia, just like you suggested. We arrived at 9am they already had 35 ahead of us. They must have opened earlier. We got tested and got our paper results in 30 min. It was free and easy. The rapid test was accepted to get back into the USA. ?

    Reply
  38. Shelley Eatherly

    October 4, 2021

    did you have listed the names of two different services that would come to your hotel in Milan to administer the covid test? I thought I saw but can’t find now.
    Also to return to the USA can you get either PCR or antigen – does it matter which?
    Thank you!

    Reply
  39. Alfred

    October 8, 2021

    The transatlantic cruise I’m taking on 11/12 on MSC is requiring a negative test result within 2 days of departure so many thanks for this information! I’m a loyal fan now

    Reply
  40. JA

    October 22, 2021

    Hi there,

    Thanks for your very informative blog.
    I am visiting Milan in Nov.
    14 Nov Sun I will be doing a daytrip to Venice.
    15 Nov Mon I am departing to Singapore at noon.
    I need to do a PCR before departure either in Venice on 14 Nov or in the morning before 10am on 15 Nov.
    All the websites are not being translated successfully to English and I have written to the embassy with no response. Could you advise on how long the PCR results take and also on where I can take PCR in either Venice or Milan early morning?
    Thank you in advance!

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      October 25, 2021

      Hi there. I’m not surprised the embassy didn’t write you back. It’s frustrating. My PCR test from a private lab there gave me my results in 24 hrs.

      Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      October 25, 2021

      When I took my PCR test it took 24 hrs to get the results. Thank you.

      Reply
  41. kristin j sharpe

    October 25, 2021

    Departing Florence to USA on Friday Oct 29. Cannot find online info about Red Cross test at the train station, is it still offered?

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      October 25, 2021

      Hi there! Did you check the link to the Red Cross in this article?

      Reply
  42. Holly Cass

    October 27, 2021

    Hello! We are in Rome now and planning testing to return to the US on 10/30.
    I’ve seen the question raised but no answer about what happens if we test positive on the rapid antigen test. I wonder if they do a confirming PCR so that any false positive result would be negated?

    Reply
  43. Jenna Middleton

    November 8, 2021

    Hi. Great info.
    Two questions:
    1. I’m traveling with my 12-year-old who is not vaccinated. Once we get a rapid test, how long is it good for, for him to travel around in Italy and see the sites? 48 hours or 72 hours?
    2. I know you didn’t travel with a child, but how strict are they at checking the younger teens for their negative covid test to enter… let’s say…. Colosseum, Pompeii, Train Stations, etc? Unfortunately, he’s a very tall 12-year old, so I don’t feel I could get away with saying that he is 11.

    Reply
    • Sean Finelli

      November 11, 2021

      1 – 72 hours is what gov websites say, but you should always double-check that with airline and gov websites. Rules change frequently, but luckily they have been changing to make things easier.
      2 – I have been back and forth to Italy this summer and can’t remember a single time that I was asked for a vaccine card or health pass. So, for good or bad it does not appear to be enforced.

      Reply
    • Sean Finelli

      November 11, 2021

      1 – if he is vaccinated you should be fine with the vaccine card between sites. That said, I have not been asked for any vaccine cards or tests while traveling around Italy.
      2- Again, haven’t been asked for any documents traveling to major sites. This mostly happens crossing borders.

      Reply
  44. Emma Aalders

    November 8, 2021

    Hi – do you have recommended private testing locations in Rome, that are not the airport or the Red Cross? That are in English. Thank you

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      November 8, 2021

      Did you see the pharmacy listed in the article? Many readers have had success there.

      Reply
  45. LS

    November 9, 2021

    Hi,
    Does anyone know if Red Cross still offer free COVID test near Milano Central Statioin?
    If not, what is the best way to get an affordable test?
    Thanks!

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      November 10, 2021

      The Red Cross station or pharmacies are usually the cheapest options. Thanks!

      Reply
  46. Maureen Burke

    November 18, 2021

    What about driving between countries? We will be flying into Italy and then traveling on to France, Spain, and Portugal via car. Do you need to get tested to enter these countries? Will there be some sort of border patrol checking for test results?

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      November 18, 2021

      Land borders sometimes have different rules and regulations. Let us know what you find in this comment thread, with some government website links, so others can learn. Thanks

      Reply
  47. Suzy lowther

    December 7, 2021

    I’m trying to find a Covid test in or around Florence. I need one on 31 December I am not getting lucky I keep emailing places if you have any ideas that would be great

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      December 21, 2021

      Good News. We’ve now made it easy for you to book your COVID test in Florence. https://thetourguy.com/tours/florence-tuscany/florence-covid-test

      Reply
  48. Eileen Whalen

    December 28, 2021

    Can you make an appointment for testing at the Red Cross at the train station in Milan in advance or is it first come first serve? We are leaving Milan to fly to the US early Monday AM. We plan to go to the Red Cross at the train station on Sunday prior to departing for our airport hotel. We were wondering if we should back this up with an appointment at the Milan airport Sunday afternoon. Appreciate your thoughts.

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      December 28, 2021

      Pls don’t use the Red Cross station. It is closed and the Red Cross stopped the program. Pls see this article on getting a test in Milan https://thetourguy.com/travel-blog/italy/milan/where-to-get-a-covid-test-in-milan-this-year/

      Reply
  49. Jackie Hardie

    February 10, 2022

    Hi there,

    Can you tell me where we can get tested in Bologna on a day before we fly out of Malpensa? We have an early morning flight out of MXP and we thought it best to find a place in Bologna on our last day of visiting there. So far all I have been able to see is testing at the Bologna airport and we’re trying to avoid going there if possible.

    Thank you so much, greatly appreciated.

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      February 15, 2022

      Pharmacies in the city center should be able to help you out.

      Reply
  50. Karen

    April 2, 2022

    Thanks for the detailed information!! Very useful!

    Reply
  51. David

    April 4, 2022

    WOW. Thank you for this information. We too will be ending our trip in Como next month and I was thinking this (figuring out how to get our Covid tests for the trip back) was going to be difficult but my search results immediately took me to your blog and all was answered.

    Thank you
    David

    Reply
    • Brie Greenhalgh

      April 6, 2022

      Glad you found everything you needed!

      Reply
  52. David LeBlanc

    April 6, 2022

    Four of us will be travelling to Italy this May (2022) and ending our stay in Positano.
    We depart on May 31st. Can you tell me if we can be tested in Positano anywhere the day before we leave?
    If not, can we be rapid-tested at the Naples International Airport if we arrive early before our flight on May 31st?

    Thank you!

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      April 14, 2022

      Naples Airport will be your best option. Or a pharmacy in Naples or Sorrento.

      Reply
  53. Chris W

    April 11, 2022

    While in Italy, what happens if you test positive in a pharmacy test? Do they enforce quarantines? I have been advised to test a few times ahead of our return to the US to start the clock early, but curious what happens if you officially test positive?

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      April 14, 2022

      You will not be able to board your flight to the USA. You would be required to immediately self-isolate in your accommodation and call your regional hotline. Check with your hotel what the quarantine protocols are there. In order to be released from self-isolation, you must produce a negative test. You should follow the advice of the local health authorities at all times as regional variations may apply.

      Reply
  54. Donna Croy

    May 27, 2022

    Hello, my husband and I are in Multipulciano at the Villa Ciciano. We are flying out of Rome airport on Monday. We understand you can get a Covid test at the Rome airport before flying back to the USA. . We are a little confused as to I understand you have to get your boarding passes first but can we wait before turning our bags in for transport at the American Airlines desk to get ourcovid tests? We expect them to be negative but what if they would be positive and we have already checked our bags in ? Thank you for answering this if you can

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      June 10, 2022

      The Biden Administration is lifting testing requirements to enter the USA on June 12, 2022 00:01. Testing will not be required to enter the USA after that. The CDC plans to evaluate this plan after 90 days. But for now, no more testing after June 12 for air travel entry into the USA.

      Reply
  55. Bianca

    June 9, 2022

    Hi Angel thank you so much for all information provided at this page!!! Two of us are leaving to USA next Wednesday (June 15), we will be in Naples in our last days here. We saw that there are COVID tests without any costs on Naple Centrale train station, do you know if is that true?

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      June 10, 2022

      The US Government is lifting testing requirements to enter the USA on June 12, 2022 00:01. Testing will not be required to enter the USA after that. The CDC plans to evaluate this plan after 90 days. But for now, no more testing after June 12 for air travel entry into the USA.

      Reply
  56. Susan

    August 26, 2022

    Back when a negative Covid test was necessary for return to the USA, a fellow cruise ship passenger tested positive. She was in a post cruise Italian hotel when she received her positive test result. She had to quarantine and undergo multiple Covid tests from pharmacies until she tested negative. She was asymptomatic.
    Her trip was insured by AON Travel Insurance. They are requesting a doctors letter regarding her quarantine. She was not offered an opportunity to have a doctor because her testing was done through pharmacies. Do you have any information regarding a doctor’s letter necessitating quarantine in Italy?

    Reply
    • Angel Castellanos

      November 23, 2022

      No I don’t. Best of Luck!

      Reply

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