Italy Safety Tips: 5 Ways to Travel Here Wisely

Italy is a beautiful country with amazing people. Monuments in major cities, spectacular natural sights in small beach towns, and sunshine and cobblestone streets are wonderful things that make people fall in love with this amazing country. With so many great things to see and do, it can be easy to be distracted and fall victim to crime.

Look, Italy is an amazing place, and very safe for travelers. However, there are still some important safety tips to know while traveling there, just in case!

1. Know the emergency numbers.

In case of emergency, call 112 or 113. For Americans, this is the Italian “911”.

112 is carabinieri (the national police force) and 113 is polizia (local police)—Either number is fine to call, as anyone from either entity is equipped to help with theft or medical emergencies.

It’s shocking to me how many people in the tourism industry don’t offer this vital information to travelers. While more likely than not, you won’t need this information, it doesn’t hurt to take note of it.

If possible, ask someone to call for you, in case the operator can’t speak English.

Rome is too beautiful, but don't forget you aren't the only one on these streets!

2. Know how to say “help!”.

It’s aiuto -- pronounced eye-you-toe. That’s really how it’s pronounced, and maybe those English words will help you remember it. This is a great word to know, even if you'd just like some help carrying your bags up the hostel stairs!

3. Be aware of crazy traffic.

Italy is famous for chaotic city streets. Be aware of vespas who ignore traffic laws and speeding cars who understand stop signs as suggestions. Always look before crossing. To be safe, wait for the light and cross at crosswalks where available.

If you plan to rent a car wherever you go, this tip is important as well.

4. Watch out for pickpockets.

A common tactic in Italy is for a thief to offer you help or directions. Best case scenario, they will ask you for money after helping you. Worst case, the money will be taken from you.

This will almost definitely happen to you in a train station, so be aware and only speak to people wearing uniforms or badges. Try not to look too lost, even if you are.

If you notice someone following you, don’t be afraid to ask a stranger for help. Most Italians are kind, benevolent people, who will want to help if this is happening. Stop in a shop or restaurant, stand with a group, or approach the carabinieri if you think you’re being followed.

5. Dress accordingly.

No one deserves to be pickpocketed based on how he or she is dressed. It can happen to anyone, no matter what you're wearing. To try to avoid it, never keep your phone in your back pocket or wave it around in dimly lit areas at night. The same goes for cash, duh.

If you’re a purse-carrier, be aware of your cross body. While traveling with a friend in Italy, a vespa drove by and pulled at my friend’s crossbody bag. Luckily, the strap was strong, and my friend only experienced a strong yank and a rough start to her day, but nothing was actually stolen. I have plenty of bags that would have simply broken and been carried away in that situation. Try to keep bags under your arm. Make sure they have strong straps and are closed.

These dangerous situations can happen across Italy, not just in certain cities. No matter where you go, be smart and aware, and everything should be fine.

Italy is a spectacular place, with wonderful people and incredible beauty. While it’s important to keep safety in mind, don’t let my tips scare you too much. Italians, like most people, are more likely to help you than hurt you. If you do have a bad experience, don’t let it ruin your trip or influence your opinion about the people there. Most people are good, but sh*t happens!

Be smart, and enjoy yourself. Italy is an amazing country!

#italy #europe #safety