Does travel insurance cover earthquakes? Can you cancel your trip due to increased seismic activity? Find out what tourists should do in the event of a natural disaster in Europe, what insurance says and when you can expect compensation

Southern Europe is trembling more often these days — and not just from excitement over summer tourism. In recent months, several popular holiday destinations including Greece (Crete, Santorini), Italy (Sicily) and parts of Turkey have experienced increased seismic activity, including earthquakes and even volcanic alerts.

While the odds of being caught in a natural disaster are still low, many tourists are starting to ask a valid question:

“Should I cancel my trip just in case?”

The short answer: it depends on your insurance, the destination’s status, and how you manage risk.

Let’s break it down.

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Does Travel Insurance Cover Earthquakes and Other Natural Disasters?

In most cases, basic travel insurance doesn’t automatically cover disruptions caused by earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, wildfires, or floods. These are typically treated as “force majeure” events — unpredictable and outside anyone’s control.

However, some insurers offer optional add-ons that do include protection against such events. These extended policies may compensate you for:

- Accommodation and transport costs

- Cutting a trip short

- Being forced to stay abroad longer due to flight cancellations

- Daily allowances for extended stays

Important: Always read the fine print. If your destination is affected after you’ve already booked, check whether your policy allows for any reimbursements or changes.

What If an Earthquake Happens While You’re Abroad?

If a natural disaster strikes while you're already travelling, the most important thing is personal safety. Follow official guidance from local authorities and seek shelter or evacuation support if needed.

Once safe, you should:

- Contact your airline or tour operator to ask about alternative transport or return options

- Keep all receipts and documentation in case you can claim reimbursement later

- Reach out to your insurer if you have extended protection

Some policies may compensate for unused travel days, cancelled excursions, or new accommodation if you’re forced to relocate.

Can I Cancel My Trip If I’m Just Worried?

Here’s where things get tricky.

If there is no official travel warning or restriction in place, and your holiday destination is still open to tourists, cancelling out of caution alone is unlikely to be covered by travel insurance.

That means:

- If the government hasn’t advised against travel, you’ll most likely have to bear the cost of cancellation yourself.

- Fear alone – even if well justified – isn’t usually enough to activate coverage.

However, some travel providers may allow for flexible rescheduling, especially in light of recent events. Check your booking conditions and stay updated via official government advisories or embassy alerts.

Should You Still Travel to Southern Europe This Summer?

The reality is: seismic activity is not new in Southern Europe. Countries like Greece, Italy, and Turkey have always existed in earthquake-prone zones, and local infrastructures are generally prepared to handle minor to moderate tremors. But, due to recent events tourism boards in places like Santorini estimate a possible 25% drop in visitors. Many travellers are looking for alternative locations or considering more comprehensive insurance just in case

What should travelers do? Advice from Visit World

Stay informed, don't be afraid:

- Check government travel advisories regularly.

- Monitor local news for alerts.

- Invest in flexible bookings or policies with natural disaster coverage.

- Have a plan B, especially during peak summer season.

You don’t have to cancel your trip to Crete or Sicily just because of a recent tremor. But you do need to travel with a realistic understanding of the risks — and how to protect yourself financially and physically.

Earthquakes can’t be predicted, but your preparation can.

 From knowing your insurance policy, to planning emergency contacts, a little foresight can go a long way toward keeping your summer plans safe — even if the ground shakes beneath your feet.

Planning a trip or moving abroad? A travel insurance policy is an important component of a successful trip, as it guarantees high-quality medical care anywhere in the world and can protect you from unnecessary expenses during your trip.

Buy insurance from trusted agents on the Visit World portal!

Reminder! Europe is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and peaceful continents in the world, but it also faces problems with crime and violence. We have already told you which countries are the most dangerous in 2025.

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