Whether you've already booked your dream vacation in Europe, or you're still considering where to go, it's worth brushing up on the tourist destinations under travel advisory by the Canadian government.
Some have a high risk of terrorist threats, while others are recovering from severe natural disasters. You may need to adjust your plans to stay safe, avoid certain regions, or increase your level of vigilance. In France, for instance, the aftermath of a mass stabbing has escalated security measures to unprecedented levels. Across the Channel, the United Kingdom faces its own set of challenges.
There are emerging issues in other parts of Europe too. Sweden's major cities have seen an uptick in the threat of violence, and Türkiye is recovering from a devastating earthquake, impacting travel safety and accessibility. These developments suggest a need for heightened awareness and caution.
These are the European countries where Canada advises caution:
France
French police cars under the Eiffel Tower.
Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution
Why: Following a mass stabbing at a school in Arras on October 13, France has raised its national security threat rank to the highest level. The Canadian government advises tourists to monitor local media and prepare to change travel plans. There's an elevated threat of terrorism in Europe, including France, where "opportunistic and premeditated attacks have occurred." Canada warns that "further attacks are likely," so visitors should expect an increased police or military presence in public places and tourist locations, especially in Paris.
United Kingdom
Christmas lights hang over Regent's Street in London.
Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution
Why: The Canadian government advises extra caution for travellers in the United Kingdom due to an increased terrorism threat. Past incidents in London, including random acts of violence like knife and vehicle attacks, as well as explosions, have led to casualties.
Further attacks will likely target government buildings, places of worship, transportation hubs, public areas, and places frequently visited by foreigners, like tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, and hotels. You should stay aware of your surroundings and exercise vigilance when in public during religious holidays and major political events.
Sweden
Stockholm skyline.
Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution
Why: Tourists are also advised to be extra careful in Sweden's three largest cities — Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö — due to rising gun violence and homicides. Since the beginning of the year, Sweden has seen a rise in incidents of Qur'an desecration, resulting in backlash. In August, security forces increased the national terrorist threat level to four (high) on a five-tier scale.
It's important to remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially during public events and gatherings. If you happen to be in Sweden, anticipate enhanced security measures and an increased police presence at border crossings and within public areas.
Türkiye
A market in Istanbul.
Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution
Why: Since October, widespread protests have erupted across Türkiye in response to the ongoing situation in Israel, the West Bank, and the Gaza Strip. Demonstrators have occasionally targeted and damaged Western-affiliated businesses and foreign diplomatic missions in Ankara, Istanbul, and Adana. Clashes between demonstrators and security forces have led to road closures and traffic disruptions. The government advises avoiding demonstrations, considering alternative routes if you encounter one, and following the guidance of local authorities.
Following the earthquake in Türkiye, tourists should also avoid travel to impacted provinces like Kahramanmaraş, Gaziantep and Malatya. Visits to the southeastern parts of the country, including Batman, Bitlis and Bingöl, are also ill-advised due to an "unpredictable situation." All travel within 10 kilometres of the border with Syria is similarly discouraged due to "deteriorating security."
Germany
Ice skating and curling on the Nymphenburg Palace Canal in Munich, Germany.
Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution
Why: Like much of Europe, Germany is under an elevated terrorism watch and the government warns of crimes committed by far-right extremists against "individuals belonging to ethnic, religious or political minorities." Cybercrime is also a concern, so tourists are advised to avoid using unsecured public Wi-Fi networks and remain cautious when posting information on social media.
Belgium
Restaurants in Brussels, Belgium, at night.
Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution
Why: In mid-October, a shooting shook downtown Brussels, resulting in two fatalities and one person injured. The suspected shooter was caught by police, but the National Crisis Center elevated the national threat level to three out of four. If you are in Brussels, the government advises vigilance. You can expect increased security measures and a more visible police presence in high traffic areas.
Russia
Tanks in Moscow, Russia, ahead of a military parade.
Risk Level: Avoid all travel
Why: Since the invasion of Ukraine, Russia has been marked off-limits for Canadian travellers. Restrictions on financial transactions and increasingly limited flight options are among the top reasons. Still, the government warns anyone who does go may have to stay in Russia longer than expected, be affected by shortages of essential products/services, and remain unable to withdraw funds. Meanwhile, Canadians holding Russian citizenship "may be subject to a call-up for mandatory military service."
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