Is Italy safe to visit?

Italy is safe for tourists. Violent crime is rare, but petty theft and scams are the main concerns, especially in tourist-heavy areas like Rome, Florence, and Venice. Government advisories rate Italy as low-risk, with no widespread civil unrest. Take standard precautions: keep valuables secure, avoid deserted streets at night, and use licensed taxis. Check the latest official advice before you go.

The table below summarizes the main safety considerations for different types of travellers. It is based on common patterns and official advisories, not on specific incidents.

Pickpocketing and bag snatching are the most common crimes, especially in crowded places like train stations, markets, and popular sights. Thieves often work in teams, using distraction techniques like asking for directions, dropping something, or bumping into you. Keep your valuables in a money belt or a cross-body bag with zippers, and never leave your phone or wallet on a café table.

Scams include the 'friendship bracelet' trick, where someone ties a string on your wrist and demands payment; the 'broken glass' or 'rose' trick, where a stranger offers a rose or claims you broke something; and the 'lost ring' trick, where someone picks up a ring and offers it to you, then asks for a reward. In restaurants, check the bill for extra charges, and always confirm the price before taking a taxi or ordering at a café.

Official advisories from the US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Ireland all rate Italy as low-risk, with no widespread civil unrest. They advise exercising normal precautions, which means being aware of your surroundings, especially in tourist areas. The main concerns are petty crime and occasional strikes that can disrupt transport. Check the latest advice on the official government websites before you travel.

Italy has a high standard of healthcare, and emergency services are reliable. Tap water is generally safe to drink, but in some rural areas it may be better to use bottled water. The main health risks are heat exhaustion in summer, especially in cities like Rome and Florence, and food safety. Eat at busy places, avoid raw shellfish, and wash your hands regularly. If you need medical help, call 112 or go to a public hospital; EU citizens can use the EHIC card, while others should have travel insurance.

Common questions about safety in Italy.

This page was last checked on 2026-09. Official government advisories and health sources were used. For the latest updates, always check the official websites.