You’re picturing the Colosseum at sunset, a scoop of creamy gelato, the echo of history on every corner. But a small voice might be creeping in, asking, “Is Rome safe for tourists?” Yes — Rome is generally safe for tourists, especially in central areas, with the main risk being petty theft rather than violent crime.
The city welcomes millions of visitors each year who explore its wonders without issue, and your trip can absolutely be one of them. If you’re planning your first trip and wondering whether Rome is safe for tourists right now, the short answer is yes.
Rome Tourist Safety: Areas to Avoid & Tips
The key to a secure trip is understanding that the concern isn’t violent crime, which is exceptionally rare for visitors. The reality of Rome’s safety—much like in any major European city—is knowing about nonviolent, opportunistic petty crime.
Pickpocketing and bag snatching in crowded tourist areas are the primary risks, but they rely on distraction rather than danger.
In practical terms, most visitors who encounter problems in Rome report minor theft incidents such as pickpocketing rather than confrontational crime. With basic awareness in crowded areas, the vast majority of trips remain smooth and trouble-free.
This knowledge is empowering. You don’t need to be scared; you just need to be smart. With a few simple habits, you can focus less on your pockets and more on the incredible history, art, and food that await you.
Rome welcomes over 10 million international visitors each year, and serious incidents involving tourists remain rare compared to many major global cities.
Read more on this Rome Travel Guide (updated).
Understanding Rome’s Real Risks:
Petty Theft vs. Violent Crime
The city’s primary safety challenge isn’t about confrontation; it’s about distraction. Rome’s main issue is petty theft—like pickpocketing and bag snatching—which is a classic crime of opportunity. Thieves simply look for easy, unguarded chances in the middle of a crowd.
According to official Italian crime data, violent crime rates in Rome remain low compared to other major European capitals, with incidents involving tourists largely limited to non-violent petty theft. Compared to other major European capitals such as Paris, Barcelona, and London, Rome reports similar — and in some categories lower — levels of violent crime affecting tourists. As in most large cities, the primary issue remains opportunistic pickpocketing in crowded areas rather than serious threats to personal safety.
Data from Italy’s Ministry of the Interior and national statistics agency (ISTAT) consistently show that incidents involving visitors are overwhelmingly non-violent and concentrated in high-traffic tourist zones.
Your goal isn’t to be paranoid, but simply to be a “hard target.” This just means being slightly more difficult to rob than the distracted person next to you.
Opportunists want a quick, easy score, not a struggle. By taking a few simple precautions, you signal that you’re not an easy mark, and they will almost always move on. This simple awareness is the difference between worrying and enjoying the city.
Rome’s Pickpocketing Hotspots:
Where to Be Extra Vigilant
Now that you know the main risk is opportunistic theft, let’s pinpoint the exact locations where you’ll want to be most aware. Think of any place that is crowded, confusing, or distracting—that’s a potential hotspot. The number one example is Stazione Termini, Rome’s sprawling main train station. With thousands of travelers rushing to catch trains, juggling luggage, and navigating a new place, it’s a prime environment for opportunists. Be extra vigilant on the platforms and in the surrounding area, especially at night.
This principle is especially true on public transport, and one route is notorious: Bus #64. Because it runs from Termini station directly to the Vatican, it’s often packed shoulder-to-shoulder with tourists. This creates the perfect cover for pickpockets, who use the bus’s jostling to their advantage. If you find yourself on this bus or any other crowded route, make sure your bag is zipped, held in front of you, and that your wallet and phone are secure in a front pocket.
The same logic extends to Rome’s subway system, specifically the main Metro Lines A and B. These are the lines you’ll use to get to the Colosseum, the Spanish Steps, and the Vatican Museums. The risk isn’t about the journey itself but about the moments of chaos: the crush of people getting on and off the train provides a brief window for a thief to bump into you and slip a hand into a pocket or an open bag.
Finally, the very sites you’ve come to see can be hotspots. The dense crowds taking photos at the Trevi Fountain, the long queues at the Colosseum, and the packed-in humanity of St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City all create an environment where you’re focused on the beauty rather than your belongings.
How to Spot and Avoid Rome’s 3 Most Common Tourist Scams
Opportunists in Rome don’t rely on force; they use distraction and social pressure.
The good news is that their scripts are predictable and easy to sidestep once you know the pattern. Whether you’re near the Colosseum or navigating a crowded metro station, be on the lookout for these common setups.
- The Friendship Bracelet: Someone, often very friendly, will approach and try to place a “free” string bracelet on your wrist or in your hand.
Once it’s on, they’ll aggressively demand payment. The fix: Keep your hands to yourself. Politely but firmly say “No, thank you” (No, grazie) and walk away without stopping. Do not let them start the interaction. - The Clipboard Petition: A person with a clipboard will rush up, asking for a signature for a seemingly good cause. While one person distracts you with the board and pen, an accomplice may try to pick your pocket or snatch your bag.
The fix: Ignore them completely and keep moving. Legitimate charities do not solicit donations this way in major tourist areas. - The Distraction: Someone might “accidentally” drop something near you, or a child might try to give you a drawing. As you instinctively look down or engage, an accomplice can grab your bag or wallet from a chair or pocket.
The fix: Be aware of any sudden, staged commotion. Secure your belongings first before reacting to what’s happening around you.
All these common scams in Rome rely on getting you to stop and engage. They prey on your politeness or your instinct to help. By simply refusing the initial interaction and continuing to walk, you neutralize the situation before it can even begin.
Your Anti-Theft Toolkit:
5 Simple Habits to Protect Your Valuables
Beyond dodging scams, a few smart daily habits can make you a much harder target for opportunistic thieves. Pickpockets thrive on distraction and easy access, so by making access difficult, you effectively take yourself out of the running. You don’t need complicated gear; you just need to build these simple routines into your day, especially when using Rome’s public transport or navigating crowded squares.
- Master the Cross-Body Bag. A backpack is an easy target on a crowded bus. Instead, opt for a bag with a strap that goes over your head and rests on your opposite hip. Crucially, keep it zipped and positioned in front of your body, where you can always see and feel it.
- Use ATMs Inside Banks. When you need cash, skip the street ATMs. Find a bank during opening hours and use the Bancomat (the Italian word for ATM) inside the lobby. This protects you from prying eyes and card-skimming devices.
- Keep Tables Clear. Never place your phone or wallet on an outdoor café table. It’s an open invitation for a snatch-and-run thief. Keep valuables in your secure bag or a zipped front pocket.
- Go Low-Profile. Leave the fancy watch and expensive jewelry in your hotel safe. The goal is to blend in, not stand out as a wealthy target.
- Lighten Your Pockets. Before heading out, take only what you need for the day: one credit card, your ID, and a modest amount of cash. Leave the rest secured back at your accommodation.
Safety Advice for Solo Female Travelers and Families in Rome
General safety tips are a great start, but different travelers naturally have different concerns. For solo female travelers in Rome, the most common issue isn’t crime, but unwanted verbal attention—the occasional “Ciao, bella!” from a stranger. While annoying, this is almost always harmless. The most effective strategy is to completely ignore it and continue walking with confidence. Popular areas like Trastevere are perfectly safe to walk through at night, but as anywhere, stick to well-lit streets and trust your intuition.
Families with young children face a different worry: getting separated in the immense crowds at places like the Vatican or Colosseum. The best safety tip for families in Rome is to have a simple ‘what-if’ plan. Before entering a crowded area, pick a clear, unmissable meeting point (like “the big fountain on the left”). Make sure your children know to find someone in a uniform—a police officer or even a shopkeeper—if they can’t find you. A wristband with your phone number also provides excellent peace of mind.
Ultimately, Rome is an incredibly welcoming city for both solo women and families. This advice gives you a sense of control, allowing you to relax and focus on the city’s magic.
What to Do If You Get Robbed: A Simple 3-Step Emergency Plan
Realizing your wallet or phone is gone can be a sinking feeling, but a clear plan helps you take back control instantly. While theft is upsetting, it rarely involves confrontation, and knowing what to do turns a potential crisis into a manageable inconvenience. If you are a victim of theft, don’t panic; just follow these three steps.
- Get to Safety & Call for Help. First, move to a safe, well-lit place, such as a shop or a cafe. For any emergency in Rome—or anywhere in Europe—the only number you need is 112. This is the universal emergency line that connects you to the right service, whether it’s the Polizia (state police) or Carabinieri (military police). You don’t need to know the difference; just dial 112.
- Cancel Your Cards Immediately. Before doing anything else, use a travel companion’s phone, your hotel’s phone, or a Wi-Fi connection to call your bank and freeze or cancel your debit and credit cards. This is the single most important action to prevent financial loss.
- File a Police Report (Denuncia). You will need to file an official report, known in Italian as a denuncia. This document is absolutely essential for making any travel insurance claims. Head to the nearest police station (Questura) to file the report. Many central stations have officers who can assist tourists in English.
Quick Answers: Rome’s Other Common Safety Questions
Wondering if the tap water in Rome is safe to drink? Absolutely.
Rome’s water is excellent, so carry a reusable bottle. Look for the city’s free-flowing public fountains, known locally as nasoni (big noses) because of their shape, to stay hydrated and save money while exploring. They are a beloved and perfectly safe part of Roman life.
As for specific areas, many ask if Trastevere is safe to walk at night.
Yes—its main streets bustle with restaurants and people until late, making it feel very secure. Simply stick to the well-lit, populated paths as you would anywhere, and you can confidently enjoy its famous charm without worry.
Getting around by taxi is also safe if you use official ones.
Look for the white cars with a “TAXI” sign on top and a city crest on the door. To avoid being overcharged, insist the driver use the meter and only take licensed cabs from official taxi ranks or hail them directly.
Now You’re Ready:
Enjoying the Eternal City with Confidence
Where you once might have felt a flicker of worry, you can now feel prepared.
You’re equipping yourself to navigate the city with awareness, trading potential distraction for delight. Now you can focus on the grandeur of the Colosseum and the taste of fresh pasta, not the contents of your pockets.
Your safety in Rome comes down to a few simple habits: be alert in crowds, keep your bag secure, and walk away from any offer that feels off.
The Eternal City is famous for its history and beauty, not its risks. Go and enjoy it safely, ready to create memories that will last a lifetime. This guide is constantly updated to reflect current safety conditions in Rome.
FAQs:
Is Rome safe for Tourists?
Is Rome safe for tourists right now?
Rome is generally safe for visitors, and most trips are trouble-free. The main risks are petty theft, scams, and traffic, not violent crime. Stay alert in crowded areas, secure your phone and wallet, and follow local news for demonstrations, transit strikes, or weather disruptions—especially during holidays and summer weekends. In short: Yes, Rome is safe for tourists, but you should stay alert in crowded areas.
Is Rome safe at night?
Yes, many central neighborhoods are lively and safe in the evening, but use normal city precautions. Stick to well-lit streets, avoid empty parks and poorly lit side roads, and keep valuables out of sight. Use licensed taxis or ride apps, and watch for pickpockets near nightlife hubs late on weekends.
Is the area around Termini Station dangerous?
Termini isn’t inherently dangerous, but it’s a hotspot for pickpocketing and scams because it’s busy and attracts travelers. Keep bags zipped, don’t accept “help” at ticket machines, and avoid lingering outside late at night. Choose well-reviewed hotels and use the main entrances and well-lit routes near Via Marsala.
Is public transportation in Rome safe?
Rome’s buses, metro, and trams are generally safe, but crowded vehicles are prime territory for pickpockets. Keep backpacks in front of you, hold your phone firmly, and avoid displaying cash. Validate tickets to prevent fines. Late at night, sit near other passengers, and consider taking a taxi if you feel uncomfortable traveling alone.
What areas of Rome should tourists avoid?
Rome doesn’t have many no-go zones, but tourists should be extra cautious in areas where theft is common: the Termini area, bus 64, Trevi Fountain, the Colosseum area, and some late-night streets near bars. Avoid deserted parks after dark and poorly lit underpasses if you’re alone or carrying luggage.
Is Rome safe for solo female travelers?
Many solo women travel safely in Rome. Street harassment can happen, but serious incidents are uncommon in tourist zones. Share your itinerary, keep accommodation details private, and use well-lit routes at night. If you feel uncomfortable, step into a busy café or shop and ask staff for help or call a taxi.
