Is Rome safe? A quick guide to safety in Italy’s capital

Are you thinking of visiting Rome and wondering if Rome is safe? We know you are busy so this quick article, based on our multiple trips to Rome, offers practical tips to help you have a safe and unforgettable stay in Italy’s capital. 

Rome is a magical city that everyone should visit at least once in their life. It is packed with iconic landmarks, great architecture and has historical and cultural sights that will take your breath away.

Throw in mouthwatering food, vibrant nightlife and great weather and you’ll understand why travelers return to Rome year after year. 

Like any major city, Rome has its downsides, but with the right precautions, you will have a safe, memorable trip to the captivating Eternal City. So let’s take a closer look at the scams to look out for (and how to avoid them), the best areas to stay in Rome, as well as helpful tips on how to stay safe in Rome. 

This guest post was written by Robin from Where to Stay in Italy 101. He has extensive knowledge about travel in Rome and kindly agreed to put together this Rome safety guide for you. I have also added a few of my own quick tips.

Is Rome safe for travelers?

Yes, Rome is generally safe for travelers. However, like any big city anywhere in the world, Rome experiences crime and scams aimed at tourists. 

The huge number of tourists visiting Rome each year (an estimated 9 million) means that you will inevitably hear more about crime in Rome than other lesser-visited destinations. But that doesn’t necessarily mean crime is common.

In fact, on the Numbeo Index, Rome scores better than Miami, Seattle, Chicago and Phoenix. On average, violent crime in Rome is lower than violent crime in the United States. It is also lower than other Italian cities such as Naples and Milan.

Like any other destination, there are things you can do in advance – and on the ground – to protect yourself against crime and scams. Whether you are on a budget staying in hostel dorms and family-run boutique accommodation in Rome or high-end 5-star hotels, it’s important to take precautions. 

🎫 Pro tip >> Don’t feel confident visiting the Vatican, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s by yourself? Then I highly recommend this small group tour. Our guide Mario was both funny and knowledgeable. He made our visit to the very busy attraction less stressful!

Most common scams in Rome

The scams you may encounter in Rome are the same tried and tested trickery you see all over Europe. But that’s a good thing, it means you can prepare.

Pickpockets

Whilst violent crime against tourists in Rome is low, the risk of falling prey to pickpockets is high, especially in crowded places such as the metro. 

Minimize your risk. Don’t flash your cash, and avoid carrying valuables in your pocket. Keep your bag where you can see it (on your front or across your body) and ideally use mini padlocks to secure your bag. Even better, invest in an anti-theft travel bag. And make sure your travel insurance is up to date.

Remember that pickpockets aren’t just solo thieves dipping into your pockets. Pickpockets often work in groups with one person distracting you (asking for directions or dropping something in front of you) which enables a second thief to get to work on your bag or your pockets. 

Ticket scams

You may also encounter scams selling fraudulent tickets for attractions or events. I was once sold an entry ticket to the Colosseum for a cheaper than advertised rate but quickly discovered that the Colosseum was actually free that day. 

I always book my tickets in advance, either from Get Your Guide or Viator, or directly from the ticket office. Always double-check the details and entry price of the attraction or event before parting with your money. 

Fake petitions

A scam that has been on the rise in Europe in recent years is fake petitions and donations. Individuals will request your signature for petitions and/or ask for donations, typically related to a seemingly worthy cause.

In worst cases, they work together with their pickpocketing partners in crowded places around popular attractions. Sometimes they also use people with disabilities to pull on the heartstrings of gullible tourists.

Of course, not all of these people are out to scam you, some charities are real. But look at their identification card and trust your gut if you want to help in situations like this.

Taxis in Rome

Be aware of fake taxi drivers waiting at transportation hubs or outside attractions, as they charge more than licensed taxis. Try to use authorized taxi companies at all times and always travel in a taxi with a license number on the side of the car. 

If you cannot hail a licensed taxi, use trustworthy apps such as Uber or Lyft.

Before you set off on any taxi journey, make sure you agree to a fixed price with the driver or check that the driver is using a meter. If a meter is used, make sure it has been reset for your journey. 

Is Rome safe for solo female travelers?

Rome is considered safe for female travelers as long as you follow the usual personal safety precautions that you normally take at home. 

You may get some unwanted attention or compliments during your time in Rome, which are best to ignore. Apparently catcalling is very common here.

Don’t accept drinks or rides from strangers, avoid walking alone at night and never let anyone into your hotel room. Never leave your drink unattended in a restaurant, cafe or bar. You know the drill.

Quick tips for solo female travelers in Rome

• Be confident: Constantly looking around or down on Google Maps makes it very apparent that you don’t really know where you are. Instead, I usually have the map directions play through one earphone and walk with confidence.
• Share your location: Sharing your location with a family member or friend is always a good idea when you are traveling alone.
• Don’t tell others you are traveling alone: Be mindful of who you share that you’re a solo traveler with. When someone approaches me and asks if I’m alone, I always tell them that my boyfriend or parents are on their way.
• Trust your instincts: Remove yourself if a situation or person makes you feel uncomfortable. A woman’s gut feeling/intuition is rarely wrong.
• Avoid dark areas: And as always, avoid walking alone late at night in less populated or poorly lit areas; opt for a licensed taxi or rideshare service instead.

Is it safe to walk at night?

Yes, generally speaking, we think it’s safe to walk around Rome at night but stick to well-lit, popular tourist areas. If you’re a solo traveler, try to join other people from your hotel or join a nighttime walking tour. 

Rome is a city made for wandering at night. The cobblestone streets take on a golden hue under the streetlights, and the monuments that you’ve seen during the day are now illuminated, casting dramatic shadows and highlighting their ancient features.

Temperature is also cooler, and the crowds have thinned, making it the perfect time to wander and soak in the ambiance.

Places in Rome that are especially beautiful at night:

• Colosseum: This iconic amphitheater takes on a solemn grandeur after dark. While it is closed to visitors at night, you can admire it from the outside, where its arches are lit up, and the structure seems even more imposing against the night sky.
• Trevi Fountain: The fountain is beautifully lit, emphasizing the intricate details of the sculptures.
• Piazza Navona: Another spot that comes alive after dark. The fountains are illuminated, and the sounds of street musicians fill the air. The surrounding restaurants and gelaterias are open late, so you can grab a gelato and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
• Trastevere: If you want a taste of Rome’s nightlife, Trastevere is the place to be. This neighborhood retains its authentic charm and is filled with bars, cafes, and restaurants where locals and tourists alike gather to enjoy the night.

Is public transport safe in Rome?

Public transport is safe to use and we think it’s the quickest and easiest way to get around the city. However, it’s also the place where you are most likely to encounter pickpockets, especially at peak periods such as rush hour. Avoid rush hour travel if possible. 

An example is bus line 46, regularly shuttling tourists between St. Peter’s Square and Termini Station, which has been renamed the Pickpocket Express.

To keep your valuables safe take a few simple measures, such as carrying your bag on your front and securing your pockets, and you will deter even the most daring pickpocket. 

Remember to be aware of your surroundings and fellow travelers at all times – don’t use the metro or bus ride to the Vatican to catch up on sleep! 

Is it safe to drive in Rome?

Traffic in Rome has a bad reputation for a good reason. The narrow streets are always congested, other drivers can drive aggressively, and parking is notoriously difficult. 

Unless you have a mobility issue, we don’t recommend driving in Rome. It is quicker, easier, and cheaper to use public transport or join a guided tour.

Save hiring a car until you are ready to embark on a longer Italian road trip or take day trips from Rome. 

Is it safe to drink tap water in Rome?

Yes, the water in Rome is safe – and nice – to drink. You can drink the tap water everywhere plus the refreshing water from the numerous public fountains dotted around the city. 

Make sure you bring a reusable water bottle to Rome, as it will save you time and money and avoid plastic waste. 

Tips for staying safe in Rome

Here’s a quick overview of measures you can easily take to ensure a safe stay in Rome. It is mostly common sense but it is always good to just brush up on things before you go.

1. Secure your bag for pickpockets

Avoid carrying your bag on your back or on your shoulder to deter bag snatchers riding bikes. In busy places such as the metro, we advise carrying your bag on your front or across your body. 

When sitting at a table in a cafe or restaurant, don’t hang your bag off the back of your chair; wrap it around your legs or your body.

You can secure your bag zips and pockets using small padlocks or mini carabiners or tie them together with a piece of string. This might not be enough to foil a light-fingered pickpocket but it will be enough to deter them from choosing you as their target.  

2. Use reliable ATMs

Only use ATMs in reliable locations such as outside a bank, or even better, in the lobby of a bank. Avoid standalone ATMs. 

Always cover the pin pad as you tap in your precious pin, and be aware of anyone hanging around nearby.

Put your money away and secure your bag before you leave the ATM. 

3. Choose accommodation & area wisely

It is worth spending time before you book your Rome accommodation to find the best area for you. We also think Rome is one of those places where it is worth spending more money to stay in an area with a good reputation, even if you’re traveling on a budget. 

If you do, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy your trip rather than feel you have to constantly look over your shoulder. Such areas include Piazza Spagna and the Historic Center, but more on that further down.

As a result of our in-depth knowledge of Rome, we’ve written lots of articles about the best places to stay in Rome. We would not recommend somewhere to our readers that we are not prepared to stay in ourselves.

🌟 Looking for more Italy recommendations? Check out the insane view from this Matera Cave Hotel.

4. Have your emergency contacts at hand

You should always travel with a list of your emergency contacts. In addition to your next of kin, the list should include the phone number of your nearest embassy (in case you lose your passport), your travel insurance to report a crime or in case of emergency, and your health insurance (if applicable). 

However, we are constantly surprised by how many people keep these essential details on their phones – which are one of the most likely items to be stolen, lost or damaged. 

Keep an additional paper copy of your emergency contacts that you can leave in the hotel safe along with the rest of your valuables. Plus, give a trusted friend or family member a copy so they can quickly email it to you if needed.  

5. Stay hydrated and sun-protected

Rome in summer is hot.

In July and August, temperatures in Rome average around 31 C / 88 F. In 2023, temperatures in Rome peaked at 41.8 C / 107.2 F. Therefore, it is essential to stay hydrated and protected from the sun. 

Wear lots of sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat. Wear loose-fitting clothing but remember you’ll need to cover your knees and upper arms if you want to go inside the Vatican or Catholic churches. 

Try to time your sightseeing for early morning or late afternoon when it is cooler. Make sure you carry plenty of water or a reusable water bottle at all times. 

6. Exercise limited trust

It is sad to say, but we advise exercising limited trust. If a deal, tour, or ticket offer looks too good to be true, it usually is.

If someone kindly gives you a flower or slips a bracelet on your wrist or offers for you to have your photo taken with them, they will ask you to pay for it afterwards. Also, never accept a welcome drink from a stranger especially if you are a solo traveler. 

🍕 Looking for the best food tour in Rome? In my eyes, the best way to get to know a new city is through its food. This twilight Trastevere food tour is one of the best I’ve experienced in a long time!

Best areas to stay in Rome

As a result of our frequent travels to Rome, we have found that the best areas to stay are Piazza Spagna, Historic Center, Prati, and Monti. 

We usually choose to stay in hotels near the Spanish Steps in Piazza Spagna. We feel safe there, plus it’s a convenient and attractive location with good transport links.  

🌟 Borghese Contemporary Hotel – A beautifully designed hotel housed in an old building with a majestic entrance. It feels luxurious and inviting without breaking the bank.

🌟 Relais De La Poste – A more affordable option close to the Spanish Steps, yet it still feels fresh and new. The staff here is incredibly helpful and will stop at nothing to make your stay unforgettable.

Trastevere, just outside the Historic Center, is a popular and charming place to stay, but it has an issue with pickpockets.

Areas to avoid in Rome

We think the areas you should avoid staying in are Esquilino, Tiburtina Station Area, Colle Oppio near the Colosseum, and Termini Station Area.

Termini Station is a convenient location but it has gangs of pickpockets specifically targeting tourists. This is the only place in Rome we have ever felt uncomfortable.

OSAC, the Overseas Security Advisory Council from the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service, also recommends avoiding Corviale, Romanina, San Basilio, and Tor Bella Monaca. 

Final thoughts: Is Rome safe?

Rome is as safe as any other major city – and much safer than some global destinations. But it is important to take precautions when sightseeing and traveling around the city, day or night. 

We have never felt unsafe in Rome. We think pickpockets are the biggest threat tourists face but as this article has shown, there are simple strategies you can use to deter them. 

If you choose one of our recommended places to stay in Rome and use a little caution when out and about, your trip to Rome will be a memorable adventure, rather than a trip you’ll want to forget.

As always, keep your wits about you and trust your intuition, and you will be fine. 

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