Street Scams in Rome, Italy
Pickpockets, distraction thieves, fake petitions, and street hustles in tourist areas. Below are the street scams scams reported in Rome — how they work and how to avoid them.
For broader context, compare this scam type with nearby destinations like Mykonos, Barcelona, and Krakow.
Last updated: April 2, 2026
3
Street Scams Scams
10
Total in Rome
How it works
Groups of children or young people approach tourists near the Colosseum and Roman Forum with clipboards, asking for signatures for deaf rights or similar causes. While tourists' attention is on the board, wallets and phones are stolen.
How it works
The classic shell game is operated by gangs near the Colosseum and Forum area. Shills win visibly to attract bets. Any tourist who bets loses; the ball is palmed between movements.
How it works
Men near the Trevi Fountain offer single roses to couples, then demand $20–30 once the photo is taken. If refused, they make a scene and may follow couples aggressively to embarrass them into paying.
See all scams in Rome
10 total warnings across all categories