Italy EDIA Resources

Italy, including the city of Siena, has been making gradual improvements to increase accessibility, although it may not be as well-equipped for individuals with disabilities as some other European countries. Accessibility in Italy can vary significantly depending on the city and region, with larger cities like Rome and Milan generally being more accessible than smaller, historic towns like Siena. 

One of the main train networks that connects Siena to other cities in Italy is Trenitalia, one of Italy’s largest train operators. Siena’s train station is situated in Piazza Carlo Rosselli, 2.1 kilometres walk from Piazza del Campo in the historic center. The train station has five platforms, with one level meant for passenger use. There is a ticket office, restrooms, café, small store, and a pharmacy at the train station – however, there is no luggage storage. The Italian Railway Network provides assistance services for people with disabilities, including those who use wheelchairs, have walking difficulties, are visually or hearing impaired, or have cognitive disabilities. Travellers with wheelchairs are provided accommodation in equipped seats on medium and long-distance trains. For more information, please visit the Trenitalia “Assistance to people with disabilities or reduced mobility” website, which outlines how to request the assistance services. 

The Municipality of Siena has launched a dedicated taxi service for those with mobility issues, known as “Taxi Amico,” which uses specially equipped vehicles to ensure comfort and accessibility. However, students will be responsible for booking these taxis themselves if needed, and as the availability of these services may vary, they may not always be in operation. It is advisable to inquire in advance and have alternative transport options planned. 

Siena is built on three hills, and its terrain is extremely hilly and has steep slopes. As a medieval city with many narrow, cobblestone streets, it can pose challenges for individuals with mobility impairments. Students should be prepared to walk extensively throughout the city, and comfortable, sturdy shoes are essential. Mobility equipment suited for uneven terrain is recommended. 

The climate in Siena, as a part of the Tuscany region, is a Mediterranean climate with very hot and dry summers. The average high temperature in August is 30°C. With humidity, it can feel like 40°C or higher, so it is important to plan for the heat and humidity by packing breathable and light layers, cotton clothing, sun protection including sunscreen and hats. Please keep in mind that the residence accommodations at the University of Siena do not have air conditioning, and some classrooms may also lack it. A willingness to adapt to the heat is essential, and students should be prepared for a warmer living environment. 

If you have specific accessibility and mobility needs that may not be supported by the residence accommodation, you do have the option to stay off-campus to access suitable accommodations, such as a hotel or apartment. These accommodations are paid for separately and may be more expensive than what the original accommodation would cost.  If you require a private accommodation for health reasons, you are required to research your own accommodations (i.e., hotels) in the area that are in close proximity to the residence. Please note that Summer Abroad does not provide information about, or book private accommodations for students, and that students are also responsible for additional incurred fees (paid directly to the hotel or booking website).  

We encourage you to reach out to the Summer Abroad Diversity & Inclusion Program Coordinator (summerabroad.edi@utoronto.ca) about any mobility-related requirements or accommodations as soon as you receive your program admission. We strongly encourage you connect with the Summer Abroad office to discuss your needs before applying to your Summer Abroad program. We will work closely with you to plan your experience abroad, taking into consideration your accessibility needs.

If you require support for any mental health concerns, we encourage you to reach out to Summer Abroad so we can work directly with you to provide necessary accommodations and support during your program. All Summer Abroad students have access to International SOS, which has a partnership with U of T, who will connect you with a network of health professionals in your area. If you require a doctor or counsellor in Italy, iSOS will be able to help you find a mental health professional in your area.  

Mental health awareness in Italy has grown significantly in recent years, but stigma still exists, particularly in smaller or more traditional areas like Siena. The Italian government has made strides in providing mental health services and shifted to community-based mental healthcare, which provides mental health services through general hospital and local mental health centers. Despite progress, Italy’s public mental health system may experience long waiting times, especially in smaller towns. If you require medical attention, please notify the Italy On-Site Staff who will be able to provide you with support and guidance, including helping you find a nearby medical clinic or hospital to visit. 

If you are bringing medication with you into Italy, remember to check if your medication contains a controlled drug. You can check with the Italian Embassy to make sure your medication is legal. You should always carry your prescription medication in its original packaging, with your doctor’s prescription. 

Reminder: Students with pre-existing concerns must meet with their Accessibility Advisor to discuss needs and prepare relevant documentations before applying for Summer Abroad.

Italy is a welcoming and accepting country for LGBTQ+ visitors from around the world. In 2016, same-sex civil unions were legally recognized, reflecting changes in attitudes towards homosexuality. However, same-sex marriage and full adoption rights for same-sex couples remain unrecognized. Discrimination based on sexual orientation in employment is prohibited, but Italy still lacks comprehensive anti-discrimination laws covering all areas of life, such as goods and services.  

ILGA-Europe and Arcigay are prominent organizations that provide resources and advocacy for the 2SLGBTQ+ community in Italy. For information on Italy’s 2SLGBTQ+ legal and social climate, the websites of IGLTA (International LGBTQ+ Travel Association) and Equaldex provide current data and guides. 

Summer Abroad is committed to providing a supportive and inclusive environment for all students, and support students of all sexual orientations and gender identities. If you have any concerns or require support regarding your 2SLGBTQ+ accommodations, please do not hesitate to reach out to us, so we can assist you in finding additional resources as well as explore your accommodation options.

Visiting Italy as a woman traveller is generally safe, and it is recommended to take standard precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings in crowded areas. Italy’s emergency services number is 112, and the 1522 helpline is dedicated to addressing gender-based violence and stalking, offering immediate help. 

Feminine hygiene products, such as pads and tampons, are widely available in supermarkets and pharmacies (“farmacia”). However, menstrual cups and other alternative hygiene produces might be harder to find in smaller towns like Siena, so it would be good to bring your preferred product with you. Contraceptives, including birth control pills, are available in Italy but generally require a prescription. Emergency contraception, such as the “morning-after pill”, is available without a prescription for women over 18 years old but must be obtained from a pharmacy. Minors still need a prescription to access emergency contraceptives. Pharmacies throughout Italy, including in Siena, are equipped to provide these medications, but it’s advisable to ensure you have sufficient supply if you are travelling. 

If you experience sexual harassment or feel uncomfortable while you are abroad, you can reach out to Summer Abroad and Safety Abroad for help, and they will help connect you with U of T resources including the Sexual Violence Prevention & Support Centre. For more information on how Safety Abroad can support you in a crisis, please click here to view Safety Abroad’s resources (under “sexual harassment & violence” and “in a crisis.”)

Majority of Italy’s population is ethnically Italian, making up 92% of the population. There are also other minority groups of other races and ethnicities. 

Italy is generally safe for racialized travellers, however, there is always a chance of experiencing discrimination, xenophobia, and racism. For instance, there are reported instances of racial profiling by law enforcement. There is also an EU report that discusses the ethnic discrimination in Italy, mentioning harassment and police stops that some communities of ethnic minorities have faced. Unfriendly or stereotypical comment may occur, and it is helpful to remain calm, avoid confrontation, and seek assistance form trusted individuals. It is important to be aware of local customs and cultural norms and take steps to ensure your safety, including always carrying identification, using transportation services, and avoiding travelling alone.  

If you feel unsafe or experience racism during your time in the Summer Abroad program, we encourage you to report the incident immediately to the Summer Abroad office or reach out to the On-Site Coordinators, who will contact U of T Safety Abroad to provide immediate support, including connecting you with U of T Resources such as the Anti-Racism and Cultural Diversity Office (ARCDO). 

Italy has a rich religious history and is predominantly Catholic, with the Catholic Church holding significant influence over its cultural and social life. Approximately 75% of the population identifies as Catholic, while Italy’s religious landscape is diversifying, with growing communities of Muslims, Protestants, Bundists, Jews, and Hindus. In Siena a historic city known for its deep Catholic roots, religious diversity may be less visible compared to larger cities like Rome or Milan. While Catholicism is the dominant religion, Italy’s constitution guarantees religious freedom, and religious minorities, including Islamic, Jewish, and protestant communities, are legally protected. However, non-Catholic religious groups may find it more challenging to establish places of worship, particularly in smaller towns like Siena. Access to mosques, synagogues, and other religious spaces may require travel to larger nearby cities, like Florence or Rome. 

If you are looking for religious accommodation support during your Summer Abroad program, such as religious observations that may conflict with academic activities and field trips, please contact the Summer Abroad Diversity & Inclusion Program Coordinator in advance. Summer Abroad will work closely with you to ensure that your religious observance needs are accommodated to the best of our ability, creating an inclusive environment that respects and values your faith while planning and participating your Summer Abroad experience.

Halal food in Italy is becoming more accessible, particularly in urban areas with diverse populations. In Siena, options may be more limited compared to larger cities. However, some Middle Eastern or North African restaurants and halal-certified butchers can be found in and around the city, students have reported that explaining halal requirements to locals can sometimes be challenging. Larger cities like Rome, Milan, and Florence have more restaurants offering halal options. To locate halal restaurants, the Halal Italia certification or apps like Zabihah can be useful resources for finding suitable places to eat and explaining dietary needs. 

For kosher food, Italy has several Jewish communities, particularly in Rome, Florence, and Milan, which host kosher restaurants and shops. However, in Siena, options are more limited, and you may need to arrange to bring kosher foods with you. The Union of Italian Jewish Communities can be a resource for finding kosher establishments and other Jewish resources. 

Vegetarian options in Italy are plentiful due to the Mediterranean diet, which features an abundance of vegetables, grains, and legumes. However, students reflected that some specific vegetarian food choices may not be available in Italy, so you may need to prepare for finding suitable alternatives. The Happy Cow website is a great tool to filter restaurants in the area which have vegetarian options. In Siena, you will find many traditional Italian dishes that are vegetarian, such as pasta pomodoro, risotto, and vegetarian pizzas. Most restaurants are familiar with vegetarian requests, and local produce markets provide plenty of fresh ingredients. Many Italian dishes are naturally vegetarian, and restaurants are generally accommodating when it comes to dietary preferences.