Europe

Tourist Scams in Italy — Safety Guide 2026

Italy has 117+ documented tourist scams across 10 cities in our database. Scam activity is rated moderate. The most common risks are street scams, tour & activities, restaurant scams.

Overall risk

Moderate

Scams documented

117+

Cities covered

10

High severity

31

Risk breakdown

Most common scam types in Italy

Street Scams

38 reports

Tour & Activities

17 reports

Restaurant Scams

16 reports

Money & ATM Scams

15 reports

Safety FAQ

Italy travel safety questions

Is Italy safe for tourists?

Italy is visited by millions of tourists every year and is generally safe with preparation. Our database documents 117+ tourist scams across 10 cities in Italy. Scam activity is rated moderate overall. The most common risks are street scams, tour & activities, restaurant scams scams. Reviewing the specific warnings for your destination before you travel significantly reduces your risk.

What are the most common tourist scams in Italy?

The most frequently documented tourist scams in Italy are Street Scams, Tour & Activities, Restaurant Scams, Money & ATM Scams. Rome has the highest documented scam count with 16 reported incidents. Scam operators typically target tourists near transit hubs, major attractions, and busy markets.

Which city in Italy has the most tourist scams?

Rome has the highest number of documented tourist scams in Italy with 16 recorded incidents in our database. Other cities with significant scam activity include Bologna and Verona.

How can I stay safe from scams in Italy?

The most effective protection in Italy is knowing the specific scams used before you arrive. Key precautions: use app-based transport instead of street taxis, verify prices before agreeing to any service, keep valuables secured in crowded areas, and be cautious of unsolicited help or attention from strangers near tourist sites. Review the detailed warnings for each city you plan to visit.

Editorial note: Scam warnings for Italy are compiled from government travel advisories (US State Dept, UK FCDO, Australian DFAT), verified news sources, and traveler reports. Read our methodology →