If you are planning a vacation or considering Italy for a long-term stay and wondering “is Italy safe?”, you’ll be glad to know that yes, Italy is very safe for everyone, including solo female travelers and groups. Italy ranks in the top 30 of the Global Passport Index, reflecting strong stability and reliable safety measures. Still, like any popular destination, it’s important to stay alert, as petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur in big cities and major tourist attractions.
This guide offers a full breakdown of Italy’s safety, including emergency contacts, useful services, safety tips, healthcare considerations, public transport security, traveling to Italy, and more.
This is what we will cover:
Is Italy Safe?
Italy is a safe country for all travelers. Numbeo reports a Crime Index of 37.6/100 and a Safety Index of 62.4/100, showing low levels of crime. Tourists and residents should mostly be aware of petty theft in crowded tourist areas, but violent crime is rare. On the global scale, Italy ranks 30th on the 2025 Global Peace Index, which is another great reflection of its political stability, low violent conflict, and effective public safety measures.
Women and families benefit from strong and efficient legal protections, including laws against harassment and domestic violence, making the country safe for solo and group travel. Italy also ranks 25th globally on the Quality of Life Index by Global Citizen Solutions, highlighting high standards of healthcare, infrastructure, and overall urban safety.
Is Italy safe for Female Travelers
Yes, Italy is safe for female travelers. The 2025 Women, Peace, and Security Index gave Italy a score of 0.811, indicating strong protections for women and low levels of gender-based violence. Laws cover harassment, domestic violence, and sexual assault, and authorities enforce them.
Female travelers usually feel safe walking alone during the day, while at night it’s best to stay in well-lit areas and avoid isolated streets. Public transport, restaurants, and city centers are also considered safe. This means women can safely add Italy to the list of destinations to visit.
Emergency Contacts and Services in Italy
| Service | Phone Number | What It’s For |
|---|---|---|
| General Emergency (Police, Ambulance, Fire) | 112 | Primary emergency number for any urgent situation across Italy. |
| Carabinieri (Military Police) | 112 | Handles law enforcement, public safety, and urgent incidents. |
| Polizia di Stato (State Police) | 113 | Handles crime, public order, traffic accidents, and assistance for tourists. |
| Fire Department | 115 | Fire emergencies, rescue operations, and disaster response. |
| Medical Emergencies / Ambulance | 118 | Medical emergencies, ambulance dispatch, and urgent health care. |
| Coast Guard | 1530 | Maritime emergencies, including rescues at sea or along the coast. |
| Roadside Assistance (ACI – Automobile Club d’Italia) | 803 116 | Assistance for car breakdowns and vehicle-related emergencies. |
| Anti-Poison Information | 06 305 4343 | Poison control and guidance for toxic exposures. |
| Domestic Violence / Women’s Help Line | 1522 | Support and emergency advice for victims of abuse or harassment. |
Safety Considerations and Tips for Staying Safe in Italy
Crime and theft
Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, occur frequently, especially in tourist areas, on trains, buses, at airports, in restaurants, hotel lobbies, on beaches, and at historical sites. Thieves may use distraction tactics such as spilling drinks, engaging you in long conversations, or offering unsolicited help. Burglaries and break-ins also occur in holiday homes and rentals.
Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind:
- Keep passports, travel documents, and valuables in a secure place.
- Avoid showing expensive items or wearing flashy jewelry.
- Carry only what you need and keep an eye on your belongings.
- Lock doors and windows when leaving your accommodation.
Spiked food and drinks
Do not leave food or drinks unattended. Be careful with accepting random snacks, beverages, gum, or cigarettes from strangers, as they may contain drugs that could put you at risk of robbery.
H3 Fraud and card safety
Credit and debit card fraud is a common occurrence, particularly in tourist-heavy areas. Skimming devices may be used on ATMs or card readers.
Safety tips:
- Cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
- Be cautious when others handle your card.
- Avoid ATMs or card readers that look unusual or tampered with.
- Use ATMs inside banks or busy public areas.
- Regularly check your account for unauthorized transactions.
Cybercrime
Hackers may compromise public Wi-Fi networks to steal personal information. Try to use secure and trusted networks only, and avoid sharing travel plans or personal information publicly or on social media. If you are meeting new acquaintances, make sure it is a in safe and familiar places.
H3 Demonstrations and strikes
Demonstrations and strikes occur regularly in major cities and may happen with little notice. Even peaceful gatherings can turn violent and cause traffic or transport disruptions.
To stay safe try to avoid large crowds or demonstrations, follow instructions from local authorities and keep an eye on local media for updates.
Adventure travel and outdoor activities
Activities such as hiking, skiing, mountain biking, and extreme sports carry specific risks. It’s important to take all the safety precautions which include:
- Wearing helmets for skiing, snowboarding, or similar activities.
- Sharing your itinerary with a friend or family member if traveling alone.
- Staying on marked trails and consider hiring experienced guides.
- Making sure you are physically fit for the activity.
- Carrying proper equipment, sufficient water, and know the symptoms of dehydration, heatstroke, or altitude sickness.
- Monitoring weather and other potential hazards.
- Obtaining travel insurance that covers adventure activities.
Water safety
Swimming and boating in coastal areas can be dangerous, particularly in the fall and winter or in rough waters like the Strait of Bonifacio (Corsica-Sardinia) and Strait of Messina (Sicily-mainland).
Swimming Tips:
- Follow warning flags at beaches.
- Avoid diving in unknown waters with hidden rocks or shallow areas.
- Check local conditions for erosion, rockfall, and currents.
H3 Natural disasters and climate in Italy
Climate change has led to more extreme weather, such as heavy storms, heatwaves, and floods, which can affect travel plans. The country is also in an active seismic zone, so earthquakes can occur without warning.
In summer, wildfires are common in places like Sicily, Calabria, and Sardinia, and smoke can affect air quality. Stay away of impacted areas and follow local emergency guidance.
Road Safety
Roads are in good condition in cities, but rural and mountainous roads can be narrow, winding, and poorly maintained. City streets may be congested, with unclear traffic signs or markings. Some drivers may not always follow traffic laws, while motorcycles and scooters often weave between vehicles and drive on sidewalks.
Tips:
- Drive defensively and plan routes in advance.
- Avoid stopping on the road to help strangers.
- Do not hitchhike or pick up hitchhikers.
- Watch for traffic jams, especially in cities, and adjust for heavy vehicles or unusual road conditions.
- Be cautious of landslides or avalanches in mountainous areas.
Public Transportation Safety in Italy
Italy has a well-developed and generally reliable public transportation system, including trains, metro, buses, trams, and ferries. Public transport is safe, though petty theft and pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded stations and on busy trains or buses. But overall, public transport will get you anywhere safely for you explore all the exciting things to do in Italy.
Italy has strict laws against fare evasion and theft, and metro and train stations are monitored with security personnel, police presence, and CCTV cameras to protect passengers. Travelers are advised to keep their belongings secure and remain aware of their surroundings for a safe journey.
| Mode of Transport | Coverage | Safety Notes |
|---|---|---|
| High-Speed Trains (Frecciarossa, Italo) | Connect major cities like Rome, Milan, Florence, Naples | Safe and reliable; keep an eye on personal belongings in busy stations. |
| Regional Trains | Connect towns and smaller cities | Crowded during peak hours; pickpocketing can occur. |
| Metro | Major cities like Rome, Milan, Naples | Safe, well-monitored; avoid empty cars late at night. |
| Urban Buses | Cities and suburban areas | Common pickpocket spots; stay alert and keep bags closed. |
| Trams | Cities like Milan, Florence, Rome | Generally safe; be cautious in crowded conditions. |
| Ferries | Coastal cities, islands (Sicily, Sardinia) | Safe when following instructions; life jackets and safety briefings available. |
| Taxis / Rideshare | Nationwide | Use official taxis or verified apps; avoid unlicensed vehicles. |
Healthcare Considerations When Traveling to Italy
Medication
Some prescription medications may not be available in Italy, and drugs containing controlled substances are strictly regulated. You must declare these at arrival and carry only enough for up to a 30-day supply. Keep medication in its original packaging, bring a copy of your prescription, and pack it in your carry-on luggage. Check with your doctor if your medications fall under restricted categories before travelling.
Medical Services and Facilities
Healthcare in Italy is one of the best globally, but hospital services may be limited in rural areas. While many doctors speak English or French, not all staff do. Emergency treatment is free only for life-threatening conditions, and non-urgent care usually requires upfront payment. Private clinics and hospitals are available for travelers looking for English-speaking staff or faster service.
Pre-Travel Vaccines and Medications
Before travelling, consult a healthcare provider about recommended vaccines or preventive medications for Italy. Some vaccines may be required for entry or exit depending on your travel itinerary, so it’s important to plan ahead to stay protected during your trip.
Traveling to Italy: What You Need to Know
Visas and Entry Requirements for Italy
Before traveling to Italy, it’s important to know if you need a visa. Citizens of many countries, including the U.S., Canada, and Australia, can enter Italy as tourists for up to 90 days without a visa. Travelers from countries that require a visa must obtain it from an Italian consulate or embassy in their home country before arrival.
Note: If your passport includes an “X” gender marker, it does not guarantee entry or transit through other countries. Before traveling, check with the nearest foreign representative of your destination to confirm any limitations.
Entry/Exit System (EES)
Starting October 12, 2025, Italy uses the Entry/Exit System (EES) for travelers from non-EU and non-Schengen countries. At the border, the system automatically records your trip information, facial image, and fingerprints. No action is needed before you travel.
Long-Term Visas
For those planning to stay longer or even consider living in Italy, several long-term visa options exist, including the Italy Golden Visa for investors, the Italy Digital Nomad Visa for remote workers, and the Elective Residence Visa for retirees. These visas allow you to live in Italy legally and enjoy its culture and lifestyle benefits.
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