One of the most common questions travelers ask is: Is Rome safe? While this is often a non-European doubt, it’s understandable that such a huge city like Rome raises this type of apprehension.
Traveling is by definition getting out of our comfort zone, so it’s only normal that we feel exposed and need reassurance. Generally speaking, Rome is a safe city. This is not to say that nothing ever happens in Rome, but aggressions are rare, and when they happen, hardly in the city center where the palaces of power are located and it teems with police.
Like in every big city, micro-criminality happens but definitely less than in many other cities I have visited.
This being said, there are some tricks to keep in mind to ensure peace of mind during the whole trip. Read on and enjoy your stay in the eternal city!
Is walking in Rome safe? My top tips
Walking in Rome is safe, but like in every situation especially in big cities, there are some precautions to take.
- Crossing the road in Rome. Drivers in Rome like to run. Even when there is a lot of traffic, they might not go too fast because there is no space, but they try to pass and push on the accelerator whenever they find a bit of space to go. Make sure, first of all, to cross on the pedestrian stripes, and to watch left and right a few times even if you are on the stripes. Don’t just throw yourself on the street because drivers have to look everywhere and when they are fast, they don’t manage to break on time!
- Crossing at the traffic light. The same goes for the traffic light. Just because you see that it’s green for you, it doesn’t mean that you can just cross the road without watching. Very few Italian drivers will stop when it’s orange, and sometimes they go faster just to avoid the red, making it possible to actually go through a red light.
- Crossing at a stop sign. The same applies when there is a stop sign. Seriously, they go through a red light, do you think they all religiously break, put in neutral gear, and then start from the first gear all over again? Hardly so. Watch twice and three times before crossing close to a stop sign. Show that you want to cross and wait for the cars to stop. On both lanes!
- Watch out for your belongings. Especially in crowded spaces, be always mindful of your belongings when walking.
Check out my full guide to walking in Rome
Safety in Rome’s public transport
Public modes of transportation are always under the spotlight because teeming with pickpockets, so here you will need to pay extra attention. Whenever you are in the metro, even on the escalator going down to take the train, or on a bus, especially if crowded, and even on a train, try to be extra careful.
- Wear a crossbody bag. This is safer than shoulder bags.
- Wear your bag in front. Especially on crowded buses and metro, wear in front to see exactly where the zip is.
- Make sure your bag is zipped. Self-explanatory, never trust your bag open.
- Be mindful and aware. Don’t just dream around. When you are inside the metro or a bus, always be aware of your surroundings and belongings.
- Don’t put your wallet in your pocket. Any pocket. Experienced pickpockets will just lift it without you even realizing that has ever happened.
- Try to find a seat. If it’s not too full and you find an empty seat, use it. If you are sitting, it’s more difficult for pickpockets to access your bag.
Is Rome safe at night?
Rome is usually safe both day and night, but when it becomes dark, we are naturally more worried. Don’t be, or look, scared, especially in the city center, there are plenty of street lights and police everywhere.
Here are some tips to keep in mind when walking around Rome at night.
- Be aware of your surroundings. Better you make yourself familiar with your whereabouts, the street where your hotel is, and the road you need to travel to get to the bus/metro and landmarks.
- Prefer well-lit-up areas. Unless you are in a small alley in a far-out suburb, streets in Rome are usually lit up. But when you pick a hotel, make sure you inquire about the situation of the neighborhood and the street.
Are hotels in Rome safe?
Sometimes, travelers also worry about their hotels and whether it’s safe to leave their belongings there or not. Obviously, it’s always recommended to choose your hotel wisely, but here are some tips to keep in mind when booking or when you are already in Rome.
- Pick good hotels. Avoid isolated Airbnb and hotels that don’t have a great reputation.
- Carry your valuables with you. If you are in doubt and don’t fully trust the safety of your accommodation, carry at least your passport, money, and bank cards with you.
- Prefer the hotel’s safe. If you are in a good hotel and your room features a safe, go for it. Usually, you can choose the combination code or you have the key so it’s safe.
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What to do if you are not feeling safe
There might be some occasions that make you feel uncomfortable and not at ease. This shouldn’t happen so if you feel threatened in any way, don’t take action on your hands but approach a police officer instead.
These can be Carabinieri, Polizia, or Polizia Municipale. They know the city, the area where they are working, and very likely the people who habitually cross paths with them so they will always be able to help.
Before approaching the police, try slowing down, crossing the road, or taking your purse in your hands to see if it’s still closed. If you think they are following you, share your concerns with the first police officer you see.
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