Staying Safe in Italy
Local Laws
When visiting Italy, it's helpful to know a few local rules and traditions. For instance, purchasing counterfeit goods or items from unlicensed street vendors is against the law and can lead to fines. You might also face penalties for littering, or for sitting, eating, or drinking near churches, public buildings, or in other public areas.
Some cities, like Rome, have prohibited organized pub crawls. It's also illegal to photograph official buildings or military zones without first getting permission from the local authorities. In certain cities, such as Rome and Venice, there are restrictions on drinking alcohol in public streets after specific times.
It's a good idea to always have your identification with you, like your passport or a copy of it. If you plan to drive in Italy, non-Italian nationals will need an International Driving Permit. Many cities have designated Limited Traffic Zones (ZTLs) where access is restricted for those who don't live there.
You should also be aware that several Italian cities charge a tourist tax, which is typically paid directly to your accommodation. On some coasts and islands, like Sardinia, there are regulations regarding beach access and penalties for taking sand, stones, or seashells. Lastly, swimming in fountains is prohibited, and when visiting religious sites, remember to dress respectfully by covering your shoulders and knees.
LGBTQ+ Travellers
Italy generally welcomes LGBTQ+ travelers, particularly in larger cities like Rome, Milan, and Florence, which have established LGBTQ+ communities and are largely accepting. While same-sex sexual activity is legal and civil unions are recognized, offering many marriage rights, comprehensive nationwide anti-discrimination laws beyond employment are still developing, and same-sex marriage is not yet legal.
Social attitudes are varied; public opinion surveys show support for LGBTQ+ openness and public displays of affection, though some regions and smaller towns may hold more conservative views. Challenges persist, with reports of increased bias-motivated violence and anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric from some politicians, and Italy's legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals are considered to be below the standards of other Western European countries.
Scams
When visiting Italy, it's good to be aware that some people might try to take advantage of tourists. You might run into folks trying to sell you fake tickets, or people who offer "help" at ATMs or ticket booths, only to ask for money or try to steal your card information.
Another common trick is the "friendship bracelet" or "rose" scam, where someone approaches you with a supposed gift and then expects payment or tries to pickpocket you. There have also been instances of fake police officers asking to see your ID and money, which can unfortunately lead to theft.
In busy tourist spots, be mindful of restaurant scams where you might be overcharged or find unexpected fees on your bill. You might also come across fake accommodation listings or be overcharged for tourist taxes.
Near famous sites like the Colosseum, watch out for people dressed as gladiators who demand money for photos. Taxi scams are also a concern, with issues like unofficial taxis, tampered meters, or drivers taking unnecessarily long routes. Even street performers might try to extort money after their act.
Crime
When you're traveling in Italy, especially during the busy tourist times, it's good to be aware that petty theft does happen. This can range from someone grabbing your bag to pickpocketing or even breaking into cars. You'll often find that crowded spots in big cities, popular tourist sites, and busy transport hubs like airports and train stations are where these incidents are more likely to occur.
On buses or trains, thieves might work together. Sometimes, they'll even use razor blades to discreetly cut open bags.
It's also quite common for parked cars, including rental ones, to be targeted, with items left inside being taken.
You might also encounter criminals who try to distract you, perhaps by spilling something on you or striking up a conversation, all while they're trying to pick your pocket.
In very uncommon situations, some tourists have unfortunately been robbed or even assaulted after their food or drinks were tampered with.
To help keep yourself safe, it's a good idea to stay alert in busy places, keep your belongings secure and out of sight, and try not to show off anything that might suggest you have a lot of money. It's also wise to avoid carrying large sums of cash. If you're driving, always remember to keep your windows rolled up, your doors locked, and never leave anything valuable visible inside your car.
