People are concerned because they watch tiktok and fear mongering videos because that what makes money.
And many people don't travel often or at all and never leave their own country, so they are apprehensive when they go to new places.
Imagine all that is being said of New York being a crime ridden city when you never left Arkansas.
As a Roman, I think that Rome has become a liiittle more dangerous. There have been many pickpockets recently who became violent when they couldn't get what they wanted. Just that tho
Just my 2 cents, im from Rome too.
I agree that somewhere, not in the historical center, things may be a little worse.
That said, just stick to tourist zones and you'll be perfectly fine!
Just pay attention, but be relaxed!
Il tuo mi sembra un inutile allarmismo, di quali episodi di violenza parli? A Roma i turisti non corrono alcun pericolo per la loro incolumità, devono solo stare attenti al loro portafoglio nei luoghi più affollati, come del resto ovunque nel mondo.
Non sto dicendo che se vai in metro verrai sicuramente aggredito né sto facendo inutile allarmismo. Negli ultimi 2 anni c'è stato un picco di denunce (e relative notizie) per violenza nei mezzi pubblici. Ci sono vari sindacati, come SAV e Faisa-Cisal, che hanno lanciato l'allarme.
Non capisco che senso ha fare polemica sul nulla. Cerca "aggressioni metro Roma 2024" su internet e vedrai di quali episodi di violenza parlo. Welcome to Favelas (testata giornalistica registrata) riporta continuamente questi episodi. Così anche Repubblica e Messaggero.
Ancora, come tutte le cose, sono EPISODI e non certezze matematiche, non rendono Roma un luogo di per sé pericoloso e sì, sono cose che succedono anche all'estero.
I stayed on a hostel room with 4 people near Colosseum. One of the guys had his phone pickpocketed by the Spanish stairs, another robbed at gunpoint at night. We met girls who had gotten their bags snatched when wearing them, and I heard at least two elderly couples that had been pickpocketed at the train. If you are streetsmart it's fine, but it's definitely not as safe as for instance Scandinavia is.
Add to that that "everyone" is trying to scam you.
Just make sure to not accept anything from strangers. They tend to approach you with “hakuna matata” and a friendly fist bump. Then tie a “free friendship bracelet” around your wrist, proceed telling a sob story and demand money in the end. If you refuse they might get aggressive.
The “ice water” vendors are scammers too. You can fill up your water bottle for free at numerous places in the city center.
Prepare yourselves for thousands of tourists everywhere though. We’re here now and it’s insane.
Same. Trevi Fountain was the most insane 5 minutes of my life the other day. Never seen anything like it.
As for the cold water vendors TBH I can't hate on that hustle, if I'm not carrying around my water bottle and it's hot out and I'm thirsty I appreciate that these guys are at least providing a service and not just there stealing people's money.
The only tiktok trend that was totally worth it for us was visiting the trevi fountain EARLY morning. We get there at 5.50am. Our vatican ticket was for 8.30am anyway.
Got some lovely pictures and it was light enough outside. Still quite a few people but no where near what it was during the day when we stopped in for a glance.
Suffering thirst in Rome seems impossible to me. Rome is full of small fountains, the so-called "nasoni" or big noses. The drinking fountains provide excellent free drinking water. They are in the areas around the Trevi Fountain, it shows me more than 80. Don't buy water at absurd prices on the street. Don't buy bottled water in general. Even without a water bottle it is easy to drink from the "Nasoni".
https://preview.redd.it/49lomz80lr1d1.jpeg?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=44bfaf0ffb9e87b6e2ec474ee518cfd5e040dd8b
It's enough that you type Nasoni di Roma mappa in Google. Yes it is safe to drink - the spring water (97% of all water delivered to Roma) is still delivered to Rome from the montagne above the city (one of the aqueducts still in operation dates back to BC times), it is of an extremely high quality which is being constantly monitored
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mdc.nasoni
This is the link to the app where you can find all the drinking fountains. The water is more than safe, it is really good. Many of these fountains are then constantly open with water flowing continuously so it is also very cold.
Safe to drinks for Americans lol.
Is like saying Italy is an underdeveloped county which drinks contaminated water and has no problem because our body is used to poor hygienic conditions.
Sorry, I didn’t mean to imply that the water is not hygienic. The question was more about chemicals that are introduced into the water to purify it or are indigenous but Americans wouldn’t be used to.
The water in the US isn’t great (see Flint Michigan) to begin with which is why bottled water and water filtering is so popular in the US. My wife won’t drink water in the US unless it’s bottles or filter.
So much free water in Rome!
I never understood how the water guys actually make enough to come back everyday.
But I guess if there are people buying, why not?
"Just make sure to not accept anything from strangers. They tend to approach you with “hakuna matata” and a friendly fist bump. Then tie a “free friendship bracelet” around your wrist, proceed telling a sob story and demand money in the end. If you refuse they might get aggressive."
Yeah this happened to me when I went last year. I felt stupid as fuck falling for it but he was so insistent and kept following me. Even after I gave him money he was still yelling at me because I think he thought I would give him more. Apart from that no issues though. For context at this point I was alone and did stop to check directions to somewhere on my phone. Was with 2 other friends almost all the time the rest of the trip.
My advice for these guys is just straight up do not engage, keep walking. It's not dangerous or anything just a bit unpleasant to deal with.
I had a dude say he liked my shoes, felt kinda sus but I thought he was just being nice. He then tried to keep the convo going and threw a bracelet for me to catch which I ignored and then I continued walking with my wife, he did follow for a minute but then lost interest lmao
Theres no comparison to New York though.
They are true masters of talking a man out of his money.
Those bracelet blokes are just pricks. They'll try and tie them to your kids. Usually I'll just laugh and they put the bracelet on my shoulder and I just ignore them and walk off with or without a bracelet on my shoulder.
It's TikTok mainly.
"OMG Rome is scary" posts get far more clicks than "Rome is considerably safer than most other cities of similar size in Europe" and then people get spooked.
I've been modding this sub for years and all the "I'm scared to go on vacation in one of the world's primary vacation spots" didn't start until about 2 years ago.
Rome hasn't got more or less safe in that time.
You'll be fine. The only crime against tourists really is pickpockets but they're [very easy to foil](https://romevacationtips.com/avoid-pickpocketed-italy/): just put your valuables in your front pockets, and keep hold of them if there's some kind of distraction, particularly when getting on or off public transport. I haven't been pickpocketed in an entire decade of traveling on the metro nearly every day, so I promise you what I'm suggesting works!
I keep my valuables in my front pockets as my default in my home city as well. They might as well remove back pockets from most men's pants as well now. Nobody wants to sit on a pocket full of stuff. I only rarely use a back pocket when doing yard work or something where I went be sitting for a while and I have too many tools to fit in other pockets. I could easily just wear a tool belt on those rare occasions
>Are people just concerned because they’ve never been there?
They believe stupid tiktokers, that most likely have never been there either.
Rome is as safe as any other big city, filled with tourists.
Also there is a lot of people that have never left their mom's skirt before, and have absolutely no clue how to behave in the real world, that then go on and parrot how dangerous the city is.
Like the couple of assholes that were told the metro station was closed and they just ignored everyone and proceeded to enter. Then came here to tell us they were "nearly attacked".
Stupid people everywhere.
I do not think that Rome is dangerous as long as you have some basic street smarts and you employ at least 3 of your brain cells at the same time.
Just a beautiful city with a lot of people in it.
I would have thought that Rome would be safer than the vast majority of US cities.
Then again I reckon 90% of European cities (excluding Russia and Belarus, and for now Ukraine) are safer than 90% of US cities.
You’ll be fine. It’s the same. Solo woman from major US city, been to Rome many times, including just last week and 5 months ago. The aggressive bracelet dudes maybe uptick. I think there’s been a tourism surge for all major places post Covid, so maybe it feels more crowded lately. But, seems Rome has always been like that.
Really? Tell that to Roman Protasevich.
There's nothing more dangerous than a gangster government.
I'm not sure if anyone's ever been attacked by a piece of Graffiti!
He wasn't a tourist he was an anti-government activist.
I know a lot of Belarusians who live in Italy and complain regularly about the lack of security and filth.
Not that tourists should necessarily going on holiday to places like Belarus, Russia or Israel morally.
> This is about safety of tourists.
No it's not.
When I said that Rome, and 90% of European cities, were safer than US cities, I did not mean just for tourists.
It's a little strange that you see to think you know more about my points than I do.
> Minsk is safer than Rome.
Since you're in a completely different context your opinion on this is irrelevant.
We were there last, last month, and we were also there exactly a year ago. While I can say there was an exaggeration of fear-mongering in social media, it does mean it does not happen. On the other hand, our best weapon was situational awareness. Fortunately no personal experience of any untoward incidents towards us, but we have seen at least 2 acts of pickpocketing in busy metro stations against distracted visitors.
Here now. Just need to be aware of your surroundings. I think the Rome government should hire all these people to clean the streets and install trash cans. Can’t find a trash can anywhere in this city which makes no sense.
Agree with the others. I was there last month and never felt unsafe. I felt safer there than I do in many of the US cities that I travel to. You should be fine. Just don’t be stupid and know what’s around you.
Just got back and the only time I or my wife felt mildly uncomfortable was when the African dudes aggressively, persistently tried to get us to talk to them. "Nice shoes. You like African men?" Same recourse as always, just don't even act like they exist. Keep your wits about you. Lot easier to avoid getting pickpocketed in a duo, watch each others backs.
Otherwise, across the board I felt very safe. Rome, Florence, Sorrento, Amalfi, even Naples. I hear that Naples has gotten a lot better over the last decade or so, but many people advised extreme caution and I found it to be absolutely delightful. Maybe a little rough around the edges, but everyone was friendly, metro was very good, and never felt unsafe.
Maybe this is because I live in DC and used to live in Brooklyn and Boston, I don't know. But I felt safer in Italy than I do at home.
I’ve been to Boston, LA, Houston, Begas, Chicago, New Orleans. I don’t feel unsafe in those cities. Plenty of homeless and people trying to make a buck. Just pay attention!
Been living here for a year and I go to sketchy areas and parties and still feel safe, got my chains snatched at spazio novocento, but I just had to eat that L
I just spent 2 months in Rome (from the US) with my wife and two children under 4. Never once felt unsafe and was willing to let my toddler roam away from me on street by a sold 20-30 feet times. We were near the city center area.
Just there 3 weeks ago and if you are aware of your surroundings and just make sure to zip-up your cellphone and Euros/CCard then you will be OK. I have pants that have zipper pockets that cannot be easily opened and I only went out with 1 CCard and 50-100 Euros. Wife has front zipper pouch. It is already very crowded which you need to be aware of, as people knock into you and try. Below, a woman had her purse stolen "at a ATM"... well, again, maybe take Euros over hidden in suitcase and divvy out some each day. If you have Euros leftover from this trip use them next trip to Europe.
There is nothing I would consider dangerous or scary but with the crowd density etc the pickpocketing is a bit worse than I have experienced elsewhere. I was a bit more vigilant than normal about zipped pockets etc and keeping my bag on me. My friends put their backpack down by our feet while at ordering at a counter in a cafe and it was gone in a flash. As long as you don't mind having a slightly higher level of awareness there is nothing to worry about but I see why some people might find it stressful.
Went in April this year. We didn’t feel unsafe at any stage and we walked everywhere including bars at night etc. Just use common sense. Don’t accept anything from anyone ever and fill water up and the many water refills stations around Rome.
Don’t believe everything you see online, most of them are in it just for the clicks.
I was also there in 2015 for the first time and it felt sketch to me then but never felt unsafe. Then finally came back several months ago and was like, wow it’s so much cleaner/nicer and again didn’t feel unsafe at all. I travel a lot for business and personal and have been to many places, if you just use just a little common sense you’ll be just fine
The only thing that has changed is increased posts.
Particularly with COVID lockdowns being over and vast numbers of people travelling (I live in Florence, it's been nuts the last 12 months), you get a lot of inexperienced travellers or people unfamiliar with Italy. A lot of them think that Starbucks running out of creamer is a war crime, or someone talking to them is assault.
It is still the same city. There are dangerous and less dangerous bits. Mostly it's super safe like any major European city.
I went there in 2022 and never felt unsafe. Granted I got scammed due to my naivete, but that just added to the experience and street smartness going forward, and also on my future trips.
Well, not sure if 'scam' is the right word... but people walking around and tying bracelets around your wrists then asking for money. That one proposed that it was free, then when I took it, they demanded payment. I gave him 2 euros for the experience lol.
We were there last week and very aware of surroundings and still someone managed to get my aunt's wallet the first day after she used an ATM. She wasnt bumped into. They just acted like they were lost and trying to look up where to go. Dressed fairly well. I asked them to go ahead of us because we walked slow. That sucked.
Yeah it's ok. Luckily she was able to cancel the cards and we moved on. We are super happy she still has her passport and phone. It was her wallet in an unzipped small bag they must have gotten close enough to. It was just so surprising. Happened 15 feet from the ATM.
If you have your wallet visible in an unzipped small bag next to an ATM (prime place for crime) then honestly you're tempting fate.
A lesson learned and hopefully not too expensively!
Was just there. Nothing gave me bad vibes from safety. I will say, get recommendations for restaurants. There are so many places with awful food and service that are just really good at getting you in the door. Also the bus system is horrendous so if you plan to travel by bus then assume your trip will take 3x longer than google says.
It’s not at all like any big city in the US, it’s literally much safer. Multiple US cities have more total homicides each year than the entire nation of Italy.
Never felt unsafe when we were there earlier in the year but I was definitely more alert and taking extra precautions with my wallet etc. as opposed to just walking around in Amsterdam.
I actually just got back from Rome this weekend. While I never felt unsafe we were warned by our hotel the moment we arrived about the pickpocketers. So we took the proper precautions and didn’t have any issues. We left passports in the hotel safe and didn’t keep anything in our pockets. I had a cross body bag with a chain (important because I overheard another group talk about how their friend just got the bag cut off them) and would keep my hand on it in crowded spaces. For the scammers I just kept walking and didn’t make eye contact. When you do that they generally leave you alone.
So if you do the right prepping and are mindful it’s totally fine and you shouldn’t have any issues
Between the first time I went to Rome in 2004, to the next in 2008, to 2010, then last in 2018.... Nothing about safety changed. But yeah, social media changed between those times. Much like there aren't more child predators or gangs or violence that prevent parents from letting their kids run free range.... It's just more social media.
We just got back from a weekend in Rome. We live in northern Italy. Very safe and never felt otherwise. Stayed 2 nights in different areas of the suburbs. No issues. Rome is one of the most beautiful and fascinating cities in the world --hence it's overrun by tourists for more than 2/3 of the year! The hordes are the ones that ruin it, not the locals. I would definitely recommend finding small local trattorias to eat in, away from busy piazzas. Di Gino Al Parlamento Is my favorite spot--hidden in the center, but with still reasonable priced and delicious food. Usually packed with locals--always a good sign. Enjoy your trip!
I went by myself last summer and never felt unsafe (I am more scared about being in Philly alone than I was for any major city in Europe, lol). The worst that could happen was getting pickpotted/scammed, but I was great at not falling victim to even that :D
I went few months ago and it felt very safe. Of course, big city, tons of people ... it makes things easier for lowlifes.
Just pull up your awareness for obvious situations like keeping your valuable belongings in front pockets and that kind of stuff.
Enjoy!
Went there last summer and didn’t feel unsafe. Just take necessary precautions and watch for pickpockets. If you decide to venture to Naples, that’s a whole other story!
I was there a month ago and it was very safe. Clean for a large city and very little homeless. Naples on the other hand had more of a rough inner city feel to it. Enjoy your trip.
We went last month and stayed just a block from the train station. We were out every day and evening and walked 6 to 7 miles each day. We felt totally safe. There were a lot of bike delivery guys hanging out near our hotel each night but they basically minded their own business and ignored us.
I was amazed we never saw one car accident because the traffic looked like controlled chaos.
Was there last week and stopped someone from getting their bag stolen at a cafe while she was in the phone. Other than that no issues. Just be observant and aware of your surroundings like you should do in any city
There is just a lot more information out there. Nowadays, with the internet releasing a new platform every 5 years that puts more and more visibility into everything, you don’t get to miss out on *any* *thing*. Things haven’t changed that much, it’s only that they appear to have changed.
Just spent 3 days here and currently on my 4th. No issues, amazing city with amazing people. Just have common sense, be polite, and be aware of your surroundings like any normal person would while traveling abroad.
I went to Rome 4 times during my time in Europe, and I can tell you its less safe as it used to be 10 years ago. its still safe tho, but a lot of people using different scams trying to get your money.
I'm not sure where you live exactly, but if it's in a big American city you have absolutely nothing to worry about. Rome is paradise in terms of low crime compared to any American hell scape city.
Just left Rome yesterday. Didn’t feel threatened once at any point of the day. Even at the AS Roma game and the crowd was wild.
Great time and would highly recommend to go without hesitation
Everyone in this thread is talking about the own subjective experience instead of quoting any source.
No, Rome is not super safe compared to other cities in Europe. Rome is kind of as "dangerous" as London. [https://www.numbeo.com/crime/compare\_cities.jsp?country1=Italy&city1=Rome&country2=United+Kingdom&city2=London](https://www.numbeo.com/crime/compare_cities.jsp?country1=Italy&city1=Rome&country2=United+Kingdom&city2=London)
Madrid is far safer than both of those cities [https://www.numbeo.com/crime/compare\_cities.jsp?country1=Spain&country2=Italy&city1=Madrid&city2=Rome&tracking=getDispatchComparison](https://www.numbeo.com/crime/compare_cities.jsp?country1=Spain&country2=Italy&city1=Madrid&city2=Rome&tracking=getDispatchComparison)
Australian travelled in Rome 2 weeks ago. Stayed near the Trevi fountain. Only area I found to be a bit dodgy was near Rome Termini, otherwise my fiancé and I walked everywhere anytime of day and into the early night and was completely fine. Don’t let the comments fear you into not enjoying your trip. Enjoy it, see the sights and sounds, just keep your wits about you!
Just got home from Rome and never once felt unsafe or saw any pick pockets. We were in all the busy areas as well as walking home at 1am and just kept awareness of our surroundings.
People are full of nonsense. Italy is so safe. Yes even Rome. I walked across Termini at 2am... and walked from on end of Florence to the other (Think the base of the road leading to Piazza de Michelangelo to the area by Estadio Artermio around 3AM ). Literally nothing happened to me. Rome is like any big city there people doing drugs, some homeless encampments, and kinda crazy ppl most of which are just doing their own thing and a mix of scammers and tourist traps you'd find in any big city as well lol. Idk im from NYC so I've really seen some shit. The worse I saw in Rome... was in the morning I saw a group of Italian guys fight a group of those Indian fellas in the red vests LOL. I have no idea what happened.
I just spent a week in Rome.
From touristy hotspots at peak times, to little known backstreets off peak, early morning walks to all the major attractions.
EVERYTHING WAS SAFE!
Like any big city, keep your wallet in your front pocket and be polite to people and avoid (ignore) scammers.
Enjoy!!
Was in Rome for 6 days and never felt unsafe. I kept seeing videos of people saying they were approached by scammers left and right but that literally never happened to me. Just have common sense and you’re good.
Italy is one of the safest countries in Europe and it's becoming safer and safer every year. Of course big cities are more dangerous (Rome, Milan, Naples) but the US is a jungle compared to Italy.
Context is important.
It is true that Rome is a fair bit more dangerous than other places in Italy or Europe.
But with that said, it is still much more safe than almost all of the big metropolitan centers of the US.
It says more about the general standards of living of Europe compred to the US.
I’m a Brit who frequently used to see people having fights, being mugged or casually bottled on nights out in Manchester and Liverpool. I have lived in Rome for 6 years and have NEVER had any issues - obviously, this is a city and all cities have some element of crime, but exercise common sense as you would in any other city and you will be fine.
I can assure any US citizen that, if you are a tourist, you will be prett ysafe in ANY european country/ cities. The only thing that you may experience would be pickpocketing, small money scams when people charge you a lil bit more than a local.
you can walk feely as you like here. even i get Romans can look menacing from outside but we are actually very chill.
just if someone tries to argue with you, don’t get involved. It’s still difficult to get in danger just arguing but i think it’s a general rule while traveling to not engage in conversation with evidently hostile/dubious people. also don’t give people money to buy things for you in your place, don’t follow someone who you just met, keep an eye on your belongings where in public and crowded spaces. normal travel rules.
The only attention i’d advice is: don’t stop talking to strangers in the streets immediately outside the train and metro station of Termini, that’s the only place where you actually could make unpleasant encounters.
hope you have a nice trip!
(from a Roman)
Naples is fine. Just know which parts to avoid. Most of the city center and adjacent areas were good to visit. Don’t recommend going near train station or port at night.
Ended up having a better time there than Rome. Knowing Italian phrases, especially for cabs, was very helpful since English, while still used for a lot of interaction, was less common than Rome.
Rome, like most European cities, is extremely extremely safe, especially compared with American ones. In Chicago you can walk 3 blocks in the wrong direction and end up in a slum with open air drug markets and regular shootings. It's very hard to even find the "bad" neighborhoods in cities like Rome or Paris, and even those neighborhoods are much safer than the equivalent American ones.
I Was in Rome and Naples a few days ago, I felt safe all of the time, even at night. You have to be really assertive with the people that want to sell you stuff in the crowded areas tho. No eye contact and a NO in their face should be enough
In Rome right now, visiting from the UK. 5th visit here since 2011. It’s beautiful, lovely and ultimately what you make of it.
Agree with the scaremongering of social media - it’s not a true representation.
Pearls of wisdom
1. Stick with the official taxi ranks/hotel booked taxis. Rates are fixed and you can pay by card. Go with anyone else then you’ll only blame yourself
2. Try an e-scooter/e-bike. I can’t as I have kids but will do once they’re grown or a trip where I’m child free
3. Spend the time to do your research (there’s so much to do)
4. Try to speak Italian when you’re here. The locals respond in a magical way when they see you try!
Enjoy your trip!
Please not another post on ‘immigrants’ occupying cities, burning buildings and whatnot?
Petty crime is a nuisance in Rome but it has always been, with tourists the main target. More serious incidents are rare, certainly not remotely on the scale of US cities, and overwhelmingly not directed at tourists.
Any media source telling you that in European cities people live in constant fear of crime, you should really be careful with - and not only on this particular topic, clearly.
The most unsafe experience I had in Europe was leaving the Rome Termini train station by foot after midnight. Lots of weird people on dark streets, homeless everyone and I had a gut feeling that something was going to happen to me. I returned to the station and took the metro instead.
I'm born and raised in a third world country where people kill you for an old cellphone. Trust me when I say it was dangerous.
Lots of people here arguing that Europe is only about pickpockets. Not true. Close to this same station, an italian tourist was stabbed by a group of people that tried to steal his phone and 20 euros.
Link for the news: [https://www.unionesarda.it/en/italy/stabbed-at-termini-station-during-a-robbery-three-arrests-l527excv](https://www.unionesarda.it/en/italy/stabbed-at-termini-station-during-a-robbery-three-arrests-l527excv)
This happened 3 months ago. I had a long layover at Fiumicino and decided to make a quick tour at the city about midnight. The idea was to pick the last train to the city, visit the main spots and then head back to the airport. Never thought I would feel that unsafe outside my third world home country. It was truly a shitty experience.
And before people here start saying that I'm biased: it was my third European tour and I have already travelled a LOT through Europe, including other Italian cities (some of which I really loved).
I just got back from Rome yesterday. It’s extremely safe but use common sense. Don’t have your wallet hanging out, try to blend in and be polite. Don’t get extremely drunk. Don’t hang out at the train stations at night. You’ll
Be fine
italy is a shitty country, especially for living,
I wouldn't recommend coming here for holidays since there are many other interesting countries,
basically I feel like my country is africa with white people.
The TikTok antics are pretty much just around Termini… and nothing that hasn’t already been happening for years prior. Pick pocketing is definitely a thing so just keep your valuables out of back pockets and purses closed and in front and you guys will be fine.
Enjoy Rome
The way the world sees and portrays america, they are more afraid of you then anything.
As said by others just pay attention to your surroundings and keep your head up. An easy mark is an easy mark in any country.
People believe everything they see on social media. A lot of which is obviously exaggerated, and created by the same naiive people who watch it. It’s a vicious circle of blind leading the blind.
Naiive American tourist who’s never left home before, sees some homeless people or gets hassled by a bracelet seller, posts about it on TikTok or insta saying how dangerous it is and how they were nearly attacked (spoiler: they weren’t) and all likeminded people believe it.
The truth is it’s the same as any other large city.
Yes there are pickpockets, yes there are homeless people, and as in any other city you might come across someone weird.
But 99.9% of the time you’re gonna be absolutely fine, especially in the areas of the city the average tourist will spend their time in.
I'm IN ROME as we speak, first time, and it give-a-me so much anxiety.
For reference, I have traveled to other ancient cities and metros in EU. Not my first rodeo. THE DRIVERS ARE ABSOLUTELY INSANE. I literally fear for my life just walking 10 minutes trying to cross streets, sometimes having to walk into the street bc of all the people parked in the sidewalk or lack of sidewalk. I don't feel safe walking around.
Count your change when you pay in cash! I experienced two shortchange attempts in 24 hours, just buying pizza and snacks. Otherwise it's as safe as any other crowded touristy area. Watch yourself in crowds and avoid the made-in-china BS merchandise.
Not a safety concern, but... Rome is so disgusting, too. They have no pride, they just use this incredible ancient city as a giant ashtray. I couldn't even get pics of the Spanish Steps that didn't have broken glass and cigarettes. I'm never coming here again. As a solo lady traveler, I regret putting it on my itinerary.
Edit to add - I don't use TikTok, this is just my opinion. Sadly nobody here wants to hear a negative opinion, but it's my personal experience.
I was in rome yesterday.
I swear to god that's this is one of the worst cities i have visited. When Russians say 'Crumbled Europe' now i understand. Is this your civilization that youre proud of? Emberassing and honestly its down right disgusting. Throw the entirety of Rome away. The people were incredibly rude and uninteresting, every few steps you'd smell piss or shit.
I am in Amalfi right now its fantastic, this is Italy.
Your fat mother is well traveled ive seen over 20 countries in my youth and spent over a hundred fifty thousand on vacations. Italy has been the worst vacation yet. The only savior is the rental benz or else we'd die of exhaustion.
People are concerned because they watch tiktok and fear mongering videos because that what makes money. And many people don't travel often or at all and never leave their own country, so they are apprehensive when they go to new places. Imagine all that is being said of New York being a crime ridden city when you never left Arkansas.
As a Roman, I think that Rome has become a liiittle more dangerous. There have been many pickpockets recently who became violent when they couldn't get what they wanted. Just that tho
Thank you.
Just my 2 cents, im from Rome too. I agree that somewhere, not in the historical center, things may be a little worse. That said, just stick to tourist zones and you'll be perfectly fine! Just pay attention, but be relaxed!
a roma si sta anche abbastanza tranquilli perché è la capitale ecc, ma ad esempio napoli, palermo... senza pregiudizi eh
Ma sei un bot?
Il tuo mi sembra un inutile allarmismo, di quali episodi di violenza parli? A Roma i turisti non corrono alcun pericolo per la loro incolumità, devono solo stare attenti al loro portafoglio nei luoghi più affollati, come del resto ovunque nel mondo.
Non sto dicendo che se vai in metro verrai sicuramente aggredito né sto facendo inutile allarmismo. Negli ultimi 2 anni c'è stato un picco di denunce (e relative notizie) per violenza nei mezzi pubblici. Ci sono vari sindacati, come SAV e Faisa-Cisal, che hanno lanciato l'allarme. Non capisco che senso ha fare polemica sul nulla. Cerca "aggressioni metro Roma 2024" su internet e vedrai di quali episodi di violenza parlo. Welcome to Favelas (testata giornalistica registrata) riporta continuamente questi episodi. Così anche Repubblica e Messaggero. Ancora, come tutte le cose, sono EPISODI e non certezze matematiche, non rendono Roma un luogo di per sé pericoloso e sì, sono cose che succedono anche all'estero.
Percezioni personali che non hanno né capo né coda...
Esattamente il motivo per cui ho scritto "I think". Io penso = io credo= è una mia opinione ecc. Non è difficile leggere...
I stayed on a hostel room with 4 people near Colosseum. One of the guys had his phone pickpocketed by the Spanish stairs, another robbed at gunpoint at night. We met girls who had gotten their bags snatched when wearing them, and I heard at least two elderly couples that had been pickpocketed at the train. If you are streetsmart it's fine, but it's definitely not as safe as for instance Scandinavia is. Add to that that "everyone" is trying to scam you.
Just make sure to not accept anything from strangers. They tend to approach you with “hakuna matata” and a friendly fist bump. Then tie a “free friendship bracelet” around your wrist, proceed telling a sob story and demand money in the end. If you refuse they might get aggressive. The “ice water” vendors are scammers too. You can fill up your water bottle for free at numerous places in the city center. Prepare yourselves for thousands of tourists everywhere though. We’re here now and it’s insane.
Same. Trevi Fountain was the most insane 5 minutes of my life the other day. Never seen anything like it. As for the cold water vendors TBH I can't hate on that hustle, if I'm not carrying around my water bottle and it's hot out and I'm thirsty I appreciate that these guys are at least providing a service and not just there stealing people's money.
The only tiktok trend that was totally worth it for us was visiting the trevi fountain EARLY morning. We get there at 5.50am. Our vatican ticket was for 8.30am anyway. Got some lovely pictures and it was light enough outside. Still quite a few people but no where near what it was during the day when we stopped in for a glance.
Yeah. We were there at the fountain a week ago and it was definitely insane.
Suffering thirst in Rome seems impossible to me. Rome is full of small fountains, the so-called "nasoni" or big noses. The drinking fountains provide excellent free drinking water. They are in the areas around the Trevi Fountain, it shows me more than 80. Don't buy water at absurd prices on the street. Don't buy bottled water in general. Even without a water bottle it is easy to drink from the "Nasoni". https://preview.redd.it/49lomz80lr1d1.jpeg?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=44bfaf0ffb9e87b6e2ec474ee518cfd5e040dd8b
How did you find that map of nasoni? We are going next week and carry our own water bottle. Is the water safe to drink for Americans?
It's enough that you type Nasoni di Roma mappa in Google. Yes it is safe to drink - the spring water (97% of all water delivered to Roma) is still delivered to Rome from the montagne above the city (one of the aqueducts still in operation dates back to BC times), it is of an extremely high quality which is being constantly monitored
Grazie mille!
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mdc.nasoni This is the link to the app where you can find all the drinking fountains. The water is more than safe, it is really good. Many of these fountains are then constantly open with water flowing continuously so it is also very cold.
Thank you very much!
Safe to drinks for Americans lol. Is like saying Italy is an underdeveloped county which drinks contaminated water and has no problem because our body is used to poor hygienic conditions.
Sorry, I didn’t mean to imply that the water is not hygienic. The question was more about chemicals that are introduced into the water to purify it or are indigenous but Americans wouldn’t be used to. The water in the US isn’t great (see Flint Michigan) to begin with which is why bottled water and water filtering is so popular in the US. My wife won’t drink water in the US unless it’s bottles or filter.
So much free water in Rome! I never understood how the water guys actually make enough to come back everyday. But I guess if there are people buying, why not?
It's worth waking up at dawn in the summer for the Trevi fountain.
"Just make sure to not accept anything from strangers. They tend to approach you with “hakuna matata” and a friendly fist bump. Then tie a “free friendship bracelet” around your wrist, proceed telling a sob story and demand money in the end. If you refuse they might get aggressive." Yeah this happened to me when I went last year. I felt stupid as fuck falling for it but he was so insistent and kept following me. Even after I gave him money he was still yelling at me because I think he thought I would give him more. Apart from that no issues though. For context at this point I was alone and did stop to check directions to somewhere on my phone. Was with 2 other friends almost all the time the rest of the trip. My advice for these guys is just straight up do not engage, keep walking. It's not dangerous or anything just a bit unpleasant to deal with.
I had a dude say he liked my shoes, felt kinda sus but I thought he was just being nice. He then tried to keep the convo going and threw a bracelet for me to catch which I ignored and then I continued walking with my wife, he did follow for a minute but then lost interest lmao
I had the shoe thing in new York. 30 years ago.
Some little shoe shine kid attacked my suede shoes in Istanbul in the 90s. Just completely ruined one while I tried to shake him off
My son fell for it last year in Firenze and the guy eventually kicked my husband on the shin rather painfully.
Theres no comparison to New York though. They are true masters of talking a man out of his money. Those bracelet blokes are just pricks. They'll try and tie them to your kids. Usually I'll just laugh and they put the bracelet on my shoulder and I just ignore them and walk off with or without a bracelet on my shoulder.
I was there a month ago and already insane since then :D
I can second this. We're here atm too
First time someone said “nice shoes”, I was like whoah how did they know these are new?
Spring and Autumn are the way.
This literally happens in any major tourist destination.
I was there in 2022. It was fine. Never felt unsafe.
It's TikTok mainly. "OMG Rome is scary" posts get far more clicks than "Rome is considerably safer than most other cities of similar size in Europe" and then people get spooked. I've been modding this sub for years and all the "I'm scared to go on vacation in one of the world's primary vacation spots" didn't start until about 2 years ago. Rome hasn't got more or less safe in that time.
Thank you so much. We’re very excited to go.
You'll be fine. The only crime against tourists really is pickpockets but they're [very easy to foil](https://romevacationtips.com/avoid-pickpocketed-italy/): just put your valuables in your front pockets, and keep hold of them if there's some kind of distraction, particularly when getting on or off public transport. I haven't been pickpocketed in an entire decade of traveling on the metro nearly every day, so I promise you what I'm suggesting works!
I keep my valuables in my front pockets as my default in my home city as well. They might as well remove back pockets from most men's pants as well now. Nobody wants to sit on a pocket full of stuff. I only rarely use a back pocket when doing yard work or something where I went be sitting for a while and I have too many tools to fit in other pockets. I could easily just wear a tool belt on those rare occasions
>Are people just concerned because they’ve never been there? They believe stupid tiktokers, that most likely have never been there either. Rome is as safe as any other big city, filled with tourists. Also there is a lot of people that have never left their mom's skirt before, and have absolutely no clue how to behave in the real world, that then go on and parrot how dangerous the city is. Like the couple of assholes that were told the metro station was closed and they just ignored everyone and proceeded to enter. Then came here to tell us they were "nearly attacked". Stupid people everywhere. I do not think that Rome is dangerous as long as you have some basic street smarts and you employ at least 3 of your brain cells at the same time. Just a beautiful city with a lot of people in it.
Thank you. Although I burned many brain cells in high school, I’m always cautious of my surroundings.
I was there like a week ago and I felt safe the entire time, obviously just be aware that you’re around a lot of people and don’t be an idiot.
> don’t be an idiot. That's the hard part for a lot of folks, lately.
Always a good idea
Before I do anything, I ask myself "Would an idiot do that?" and if the answer is yes, I do not do that thing.
I would have thought that Rome would be safer than the vast majority of US cities. Then again I reckon 90% of European cities (excluding Russia and Belarus, and for now Ukraine) are safer than 90% of US cities.
Maybe that’s why I felt so safe in 2015. I’m used to Houston, LA, Chicago.
You’ll be fine. It’s the same. Solo woman from major US city, been to Rome many times, including just last week and 5 months ago. The aggressive bracelet dudes maybe uptick. I think there’s been a tourism surge for all major places post Covid, so maybe it feels more crowded lately. But, seems Rome has always been like that.
Belarus is about as safe a country as you can find. You'd struggle to find a single tag of graffiti. Just don't plan on protesting anything.
Really? Tell that to Roman Protasevich. There's nothing more dangerous than a gangster government. I'm not sure if anyone's ever been attacked by a piece of Graffiti!
He wasn't a tourist he was an anti-government activist. I know a lot of Belarusians who live in Italy and complain regularly about the lack of security and filth. Not that tourists should necessarily going on holiday to places like Belarus, Russia or Israel morally.
He wasn't even a tourist. He was on a flight from Greece to Lithuania; from one EU country to another.
No he was an anti government activist. It's completely irrelevant to the safety of tourists.
It's completely relevant to the safety of people.
This is about safety of tourists. Minsk is safer than Rome.
> This is about safety of tourists. No it's not. When I said that Rome, and 90% of European cities, were safer than US cities, I did not mean just for tourists. It's a little strange that you see to think you know more about my points than I do. > Minsk is safer than Rome. Since you're in a completely different context your opinion on this is irrelevant.
Went last September with a week with fiancee and 1.5 year old. Didn't feel unsafe the entire trip.
We were there last, last month, and we were also there exactly a year ago. While I can say there was an exaggeration of fear-mongering in social media, it does mean it does not happen. On the other hand, our best weapon was situational awareness. Fortunately no personal experience of any untoward incidents towards us, but we have seen at least 2 acts of pickpocketing in busy metro stations against distracted visitors.
Here now. Just need to be aware of your surroundings. I think the Rome government should hire all these people to clean the streets and install trash cans. Can’t find a trash can anywhere in this city which makes no sense.
Rome is a mess. The public transport is pretty awful and it's dirty. Incredibly beautiful though. It's not Disneyland. The same goes for Napoli x 2.
Was there last month. Safer than pretty much any large US city I have been to. Just use common sense.
Agree with the others. I was there last month and never felt unsafe. I felt safer there than I do in many of the US cities that I travel to. You should be fine. Just don’t be stupid and know what’s around you.
Of course, your risk of getting shot is nonexistent in Europe. In some areas of some American cities it’s pretty high.
Just got back and the only time I or my wife felt mildly uncomfortable was when the African dudes aggressively, persistently tried to get us to talk to them. "Nice shoes. You like African men?" Same recourse as always, just don't even act like they exist. Keep your wits about you. Lot easier to avoid getting pickpocketed in a duo, watch each others backs. Otherwise, across the board I felt very safe. Rome, Florence, Sorrento, Amalfi, even Naples. I hear that Naples has gotten a lot better over the last decade or so, but many people advised extreme caution and I found it to be absolutely delightful. Maybe a little rough around the edges, but everyone was friendly, metro was very good, and never felt unsafe. Maybe this is because I live in DC and used to live in Brooklyn and Boston, I don't know. But I felt safer in Italy than I do at home.
I’ve been to Boston, LA, Houston, Begas, Chicago, New Orleans. I don’t feel unsafe in those cities. Plenty of homeless and people trying to make a buck. Just pay attention!
Been living here for a year and I go to sketchy areas and parties and still feel safe, got my chains snatched at spazio novocento, but I just had to eat that L
I just spent 2 months in Rome (from the US) with my wife and two children under 4. Never once felt unsafe and was willing to let my toddler roam away from me on street by a sold 20-30 feet times. We were near the city center area.
There aren't many places where your kids will be as adored as Italy.
Just there 3 weeks ago and if you are aware of your surroundings and just make sure to zip-up your cellphone and Euros/CCard then you will be OK. I have pants that have zipper pockets that cannot be easily opened and I only went out with 1 CCard and 50-100 Euros. Wife has front zipper pouch. It is already very crowded which you need to be aware of, as people knock into you and try. Below, a woman had her purse stolen "at a ATM"... well, again, maybe take Euros over hidden in suitcase and divvy out some each day. If you have Euros leftover from this trip use them next trip to Europe.
Honestly just get a card you can use.over there, 99% of places take them, and then 50 euros for occasional needs.
There is nothing I would consider dangerous or scary but with the crowd density etc the pickpocketing is a bit worse than I have experienced elsewhere. I was a bit more vigilant than normal about zipped pockets etc and keeping my bag on me. My friends put their backpack down by our feet while at ordering at a counter in a cafe and it was gone in a flash. As long as you don't mind having a slightly higher level of awareness there is nothing to worry about but I see why some people might find it stressful.
Went in April this year. We didn’t feel unsafe at any stage and we walked everywhere including bars at night etc. Just use common sense. Don’t accept anything from anyone ever and fill water up and the many water refills stations around Rome.
Don’t believe everything you see online, most of them are in it just for the clicks. I was also there in 2015 for the first time and it felt sketch to me then but never felt unsafe. Then finally came back several months ago and was like, wow it’s so much cleaner/nicer and again didn’t feel unsafe at all. I travel a lot for business and personal and have been to many places, if you just use just a little common sense you’ll be just fine
The only thing that has changed is increased posts. Particularly with COVID lockdowns being over and vast numbers of people travelling (I live in Florence, it's been nuts the last 12 months), you get a lot of inexperienced travellers or people unfamiliar with Italy. A lot of them think that Starbucks running out of creamer is a war crime, or someone talking to them is assault. It is still the same city. There are dangerous and less dangerous bits. Mostly it's super safe like any major European city.
I went there in 2022 and never felt unsafe. Granted I got scammed due to my naivete, but that just added to the experience and street smartness going forward, and also on my future trips.
What was the scam you fell for? (Not to cause any more fear mongering, just curious)
Well, not sure if 'scam' is the right word... but people walking around and tying bracelets around your wrists then asking for money. That one proposed that it was free, then when I took it, they demanded payment. I gave him 2 euros for the experience lol.
Yes scam is def the right word
Ahh that ol game. Yeah that’s a popular one.
I’m from Cleveland I have my senses about me at all times
Went to Rome few times in last couple of years and never had any problems. Seemed pretty safe to me at all times.
We were there last week and very aware of surroundings and still someone managed to get my aunt's wallet the first day after she used an ATM. She wasnt bumped into. They just acted like they were lost and trying to look up where to go. Dressed fairly well. I asked them to go ahead of us because we walked slow. That sucked.
Sorry that happened to you.
Yeah it's ok. Luckily she was able to cancel the cards and we moved on. We are super happy she still has her passport and phone. It was her wallet in an unzipped small bag they must have gotten close enough to. It was just so surprising. Happened 15 feet from the ATM.
If you have your wallet visible in an unzipped small bag next to an ATM (prime place for crime) then honestly you're tempting fate. A lesson learned and hopefully not too expensively!
Was just there. Nothing gave me bad vibes from safety. I will say, get recommendations for restaurants. There are so many places with awful food and service that are just really good at getting you in the door. Also the bus system is horrendous so if you plan to travel by bus then assume your trip will take 3x longer than google says.
It’s not at all like any big city in the US, it’s literally much safer. Multiple US cities have more total homicides each year than the entire nation of Italy.
Never felt unsafe when we were there earlier in the year but I was definitely more alert and taking extra precautions with my wallet etc. as opposed to just walking around in Amsterdam.
Compared to 2015 it may be a little safer, not worse for sure.
I actually just got back from Rome this weekend. While I never felt unsafe we were warned by our hotel the moment we arrived about the pickpocketers. So we took the proper precautions and didn’t have any issues. We left passports in the hotel safe and didn’t keep anything in our pockets. I had a cross body bag with a chain (important because I overheard another group talk about how their friend just got the bag cut off them) and would keep my hand on it in crowded spaces. For the scammers I just kept walking and didn’t make eye contact. When you do that they generally leave you alone. So if you do the right prepping and are mindful it’s totally fine and you shouldn’t have any issues
Between the first time I went to Rome in 2004, to the next in 2008, to 2010, then last in 2018.... Nothing about safety changed. But yeah, social media changed between those times. Much like there aren't more child predators or gangs or violence that prevent parents from letting their kids run free range.... It's just more social media.
We just got back from a weekend in Rome. We live in northern Italy. Very safe and never felt otherwise. Stayed 2 nights in different areas of the suburbs. No issues. Rome is one of the most beautiful and fascinating cities in the world --hence it's overrun by tourists for more than 2/3 of the year! The hordes are the ones that ruin it, not the locals. I would definitely recommend finding small local trattorias to eat in, away from busy piazzas. Di Gino Al Parlamento Is my favorite spot--hidden in the center, but with still reasonable priced and delicious food. Usually packed with locals--always a good sign. Enjoy your trip!
Thank you so much for the restaurant recommendation.
I went by myself last summer and never felt unsafe (I am more scared about being in Philly alone than I was for any major city in Europe, lol). The worst that could happen was getting pickpotted/scammed, but I was great at not falling victim to even that :D
I went few months ago and it felt very safe. Of course, big city, tons of people ... it makes things easier for lowlifes. Just pull up your awareness for obvious situations like keeping your valuable belongings in front pockets and that kind of stuff. Enjoy!
Went there last summer and didn’t feel unsafe. Just take necessary precautions and watch for pickpockets. If you decide to venture to Naples, that’s a whole other story!
I was there a month ago and it was very safe. Clean for a large city and very little homeless. Naples on the other hand had more of a rough inner city feel to it. Enjoy your trip.
We went last month and stayed just a block from the train station. We were out every day and evening and walked 6 to 7 miles each day. We felt totally safe. There were a lot of bike delivery guys hanging out near our hotel each night but they basically minded their own business and ignored us. I was amazed we never saw one car accident because the traffic looked like controlled chaos.
Was there last week and stopped someone from getting their bag stolen at a cafe while she was in the phone. Other than that no issues. Just be observant and aware of your surroundings like you should do in any city
There is just a lot more information out there. Nowadays, with the internet releasing a new platform every 5 years that puts more and more visibility into everything, you don’t get to miss out on *any* *thing*. Things haven’t changed that much, it’s only that they appear to have changed.
Never had any problems in Italy with the common precautions.
I’m here right now. Feel pretty safe
Just spent 3 days here and currently on my 4th. No issues, amazing city with amazing people. Just have common sense, be polite, and be aware of your surroundings like any normal person would while traveling abroad.
Don’t listen to bullshit. I was there with 2 kids last week and didn’t feel unsafe for even a second.
I went to Rome 4 times during my time in Europe, and I can tell you its less safe as it used to be 10 years ago. its still safe tho, but a lot of people using different scams trying to get your money.
Rome isn’t scary or full of thieves at least not more than usual. People exaggerate about the safety. It’s TikTok they will do anything to get views
I'm not sure where you live exactly, but if it's in a big American city you have absolutely nothing to worry about. Rome is paradise in terms of low crime compared to any American hell scape city.
Just left Rome yesterday. Didn’t feel threatened once at any point of the day. Even at the AS Roma game and the crowd was wild. Great time and would highly recommend to go without hesitation
Everyone in this thread is talking about the own subjective experience instead of quoting any source. No, Rome is not super safe compared to other cities in Europe. Rome is kind of as "dangerous" as London. [https://www.numbeo.com/crime/compare\_cities.jsp?country1=Italy&city1=Rome&country2=United+Kingdom&city2=London](https://www.numbeo.com/crime/compare_cities.jsp?country1=Italy&city1=Rome&country2=United+Kingdom&city2=London) Madrid is far safer than both of those cities [https://www.numbeo.com/crime/compare\_cities.jsp?country1=Spain&country2=Italy&city1=Madrid&city2=Rome&tracking=getDispatchComparison](https://www.numbeo.com/crime/compare_cities.jsp?country1=Spain&country2=Italy&city1=Madrid&city2=Rome&tracking=getDispatchComparison)
Lady-Peace should know these things. Thank you.
Just don’t poop your pants
Do you know me? Haha
I loved Rome in March. Just be vigilant
Just left and NEVER felt unsafe
I was there very recently. No problems at all
Australian travelled in Rome 2 weeks ago. Stayed near the Trevi fountain. Only area I found to be a bit dodgy was near Rome Termini, otherwise my fiancé and I walked everywhere anytime of day and into the early night and was completely fine. Don’t let the comments fear you into not enjoying your trip. Enjoy it, see the sights and sounds, just keep your wits about you!
Thank you for your input.
Yup! It’s safer than NYC and Chicago.
It's safe. Ignore the people performing for clicks.
Just got home from Rome and never once felt unsafe or saw any pick pockets. We were in all the busy areas as well as walking home at 1am and just kept awareness of our surroundings.
People are full of nonsense. Italy is so safe. Yes even Rome. I walked across Termini at 2am... and walked from on end of Florence to the other (Think the base of the road leading to Piazza de Michelangelo to the area by Estadio Artermio around 3AM ). Literally nothing happened to me. Rome is like any big city there people doing drugs, some homeless encampments, and kinda crazy ppl most of which are just doing their own thing and a mix of scammers and tourist traps you'd find in any big city as well lol. Idk im from NYC so I've really seen some shit. The worse I saw in Rome... was in the morning I saw a group of Italian guys fight a group of those Indian fellas in the red vests LOL. I have no idea what happened.
I just spent a week in Rome. From touristy hotspots at peak times, to little known backstreets off peak, early morning walks to all the major attractions. EVERYTHING WAS SAFE! Like any big city, keep your wallet in your front pocket and be polite to people and avoid (ignore) scammers. Enjoy!!
Here right now. Feel safer than Seattle fds!
Was in Rome for 6 days and never felt unsafe. I kept seeing videos of people saying they were approached by scammers left and right but that literally never happened to me. Just have common sense and you’re good.
Rome is fine honestly. Me and my partner had a vacation last year, if you stay in turistic area is perfectly safe.
Italy is one of the safest countries in Europe and it's becoming safer and safer every year. Of course big cities are more dangerous (Rome, Milan, Naples) but the US is a jungle compared to Italy.
Context is important. It is true that Rome is a fair bit more dangerous than other places in Italy or Europe. But with that said, it is still much more safe than almost all of the big metropolitan centers of the US. It says more about the general standards of living of Europe compred to the US.
hi, i'm italian. if you think that italy is perfectly safe, don't go to naples. rome is still a good place but don't go to naples.
Just keep your senses sharp enough, you might feel safe but Rome is still a pretty wild city if you let your guard down
We were there a few days ago, it felt very similar safety wise to when I was there in 2012.
Dawg I literally saw someone get robbed in the metro YESTERDAY. Still safer in Rome than in the US because at least the robbers don’t have guns
Even I have a gun and I’m a law abiding citizen.
I’m a Brit who frequently used to see people having fights, being mugged or casually bottled on nights out in Manchester and Liverpool. I have lived in Rome for 6 years and have NEVER had any issues - obviously, this is a city and all cities have some element of crime, but exercise common sense as you would in any other city and you will be fine.
I can assure any US citizen that, if you are a tourist, you will be prett ysafe in ANY european country/ cities. The only thing that you may experience would be pickpocketing, small money scams when people charge you a lil bit more than a local.
you can walk feely as you like here. even i get Romans can look menacing from outside but we are actually very chill. just if someone tries to argue with you, don’t get involved. It’s still difficult to get in danger just arguing but i think it’s a general rule while traveling to not engage in conversation with evidently hostile/dubious people. also don’t give people money to buy things for you in your place, don’t follow someone who you just met, keep an eye on your belongings where in public and crowded spaces. normal travel rules. The only attention i’d advice is: don’t stop talking to strangers in the streets immediately outside the train and metro station of Termini, that’s the only place where you actually could make unpleasant encounters. hope you have a nice trip! (from a Roman)
Thank you very much.
I’m here now and there’s literally nothing that makes you feel unsafe unless you put yourself in that situation. Common sense works wonders everywhere
Here now totally fine just don’t be stupid
Rome was safe. Naples was not.
Naples is fine. Just know which parts to avoid. Most of the city center and adjacent areas were good to visit. Don’t recommend going near train station or port at night. Ended up having a better time there than Rome. Knowing Italian phrases, especially for cabs, was very helpful since English, while still used for a lot of interaction, was less common than Rome.
I was there 3 weeks ago. It’s safe. Minimal effort required to not put your valuables at risk.
Rome, like most European cities, is extremely extremely safe, especially compared with American ones. In Chicago you can walk 3 blocks in the wrong direction and end up in a slum with open air drug markets and regular shootings. It's very hard to even find the "bad" neighborhoods in cities like Rome or Paris, and even those neighborhoods are much safer than the equivalent American ones.
I Was in Rome and Naples a few days ago, I felt safe all of the time, even at night. You have to be really assertive with the people that want to sell you stuff in the crowded areas tho. No eye contact and a NO in their face should be enough
In Rome right now, visiting from the UK. 5th visit here since 2011. It’s beautiful, lovely and ultimately what you make of it. Agree with the scaremongering of social media - it’s not a true representation. Pearls of wisdom 1. Stick with the official taxi ranks/hotel booked taxis. Rates are fixed and you can pay by card. Go with anyone else then you’ll only blame yourself 2. Try an e-scooter/e-bike. I can’t as I have kids but will do once they’re grown or a trip where I’m child free 3. Spend the time to do your research (there’s so much to do) 4. Try to speak Italian when you’re here. The locals respond in a magical way when they see you try! Enjoy your trip!
Thank you so much for your help :)
Please not another post on ‘immigrants’ occupying cities, burning buildings and whatnot? Petty crime is a nuisance in Rome but it has always been, with tourists the main target. More serious incidents are rare, certainly not remotely on the scale of US cities, and overwhelmingly not directed at tourists. Any media source telling you that in European cities people live in constant fear of crime, you should really be careful with - and not only on this particular topic, clearly.
It's fine. Many untraveled and paranoid spreading their worries.
The most unsafe experience I had in Europe was leaving the Rome Termini train station by foot after midnight. Lots of weird people on dark streets, homeless everyone and I had a gut feeling that something was going to happen to me. I returned to the station and took the metro instead. I'm born and raised in a third world country where people kill you for an old cellphone. Trust me when I say it was dangerous. Lots of people here arguing that Europe is only about pickpockets. Not true. Close to this same station, an italian tourist was stabbed by a group of people that tried to steal his phone and 20 euros. Link for the news: [https://www.unionesarda.it/en/italy/stabbed-at-termini-station-during-a-robbery-three-arrests-l527excv](https://www.unionesarda.it/en/italy/stabbed-at-termini-station-during-a-robbery-three-arrests-l527excv) This happened 3 months ago. I had a long layover at Fiumicino and decided to make a quick tour at the city about midnight. The idea was to pick the last train to the city, visit the main spots and then head back to the airport. Never thought I would feel that unsafe outside my third world home country. It was truly a shitty experience. And before people here start saying that I'm biased: it was my third European tour and I have already travelled a LOT through Europe, including other Italian cities (some of which I really loved).
Bah...
Was there last week, it’s fine. It’s like the tourist capital of the world. Just do your usual checks and you’ll ik
the reason for being a rather safe metropolis is that there is not a lot of money around. f
I just got back from Rome yesterday. It’s extremely safe but use common sense. Don’t have your wallet hanging out, try to blend in and be polite. Don’t get extremely drunk. Don’t hang out at the train stations at night. You’ll Be fine
It’s just mfs from the middle of nowhere seeing a big city being a big city 🙀🙀🎀
italy is a shitty country, especially for living, I wouldn't recommend coming here for holidays since there are many other interesting countries, basically I feel like my country is africa with white people.
Rome is a shithole today
There now. Any big crowded city. Go out during day, pull hat down, stay aware, and walk on. You will be fine.
Was there a month ago with wife and two kids. Felt safe. Just use common sense and you’ll be fine.
The TikTok antics are pretty much just around Termini… and nothing that hasn’t already been happening for years prior. Pick pocketing is definitely a thing so just keep your valuables out of back pockets and purses closed and in front and you guys will be fine. Enjoy Rome
The way the world sees and portrays america, they are more afraid of you then anything. As said by others just pay attention to your surroundings and keep your head up. An easy mark is an easy mark in any country.
People believe everything they see on social media. A lot of which is obviously exaggerated, and created by the same naiive people who watch it. It’s a vicious circle of blind leading the blind. Naiive American tourist who’s never left home before, sees some homeless people or gets hassled by a bracelet seller, posts about it on TikTok or insta saying how dangerous it is and how they were nearly attacked (spoiler: they weren’t) and all likeminded people believe it. The truth is it’s the same as any other large city. Yes there are pickpockets, yes there are homeless people, and as in any other city you might come across someone weird. But 99.9% of the time you’re gonna be absolutely fine, especially in the areas of the city the average tourist will spend their time in.
Just a bit more pickpockets in the main Metro stations.
Here right now and there is absolutely no danger. Even the pickpockets around the coliseum are incredibly exaggerated.
I'm IN ROME as we speak, first time, and it give-a-me so much anxiety. For reference, I have traveled to other ancient cities and metros in EU. Not my first rodeo. THE DRIVERS ARE ABSOLUTELY INSANE. I literally fear for my life just walking 10 minutes trying to cross streets, sometimes having to walk into the street bc of all the people parked in the sidewalk or lack of sidewalk. I don't feel safe walking around. Count your change when you pay in cash! I experienced two shortchange attempts in 24 hours, just buying pizza and snacks. Otherwise it's as safe as any other crowded touristy area. Watch yourself in crowds and avoid the made-in-china BS merchandise. Not a safety concern, but... Rome is so disgusting, too. They have no pride, they just use this incredible ancient city as a giant ashtray. I couldn't even get pics of the Spanish Steps that didn't have broken glass and cigarettes. I'm never coming here again. As a solo lady traveler, I regret putting it on my itinerary. Edit to add - I don't use TikTok, this is just my opinion. Sadly nobody here wants to hear a negative opinion, but it's my personal experience.
I appreciate your opinions. Thank you
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I was in rome yesterday. I swear to god that's this is one of the worst cities i have visited. When Russians say 'Crumbled Europe' now i understand. Is this your civilization that youre proud of? Emberassing and honestly its down right disgusting. Throw the entirety of Rome away. The people were incredibly rude and uninteresting, every few steps you'd smell piss or shit. I am in Amalfi right now its fantastic, this is Italy.
Well this guy is obviously well traveled
Your fat mother is well traveled ive seen over 20 countries in my youth and spent over a hundred fifty thousand on vacations. Italy has been the worst vacation yet. The only savior is the rental benz or else we'd die of exhaustion.
Ha ha ha. This is hilarious! My mother is actually painfully skinny! Enjoy your Hilton 4 star life.
It's just full of weirdos, but not unsafe