Is Rome Safe? Is the Colosseum Still Worth Visiting?

You're strolling through cobblestone streets, the aroma of fresh espresso wafting from nearby cafes, when suddenly you clutch your bag a little tighter. Is that pickpocket your parents warned you about lurking in the shadows? Or is it just another tourist snapping photos of the Colosseum?

If you're planning a trip to Rome, you've probably asked yourself, "Is Rome safe?" It's a loaded question, for sure. Your parents might insist it's a hotbed of petty crime, while your adventurous friend swears it's no more dangerous than your local mall on Black Friday. So, which is it?

My wife Sarah and I spent a week in Rome, and I'm here to spill the marinara sauce on the city's safety situation. As a 45-year-old travel writer and safety expert (fancy title, I know), I've seen my fair share of sketchy situations and picture-perfect piazzas. Sarah and I are newlyweds from Florida, working remotely while we galavant around the globe. Our mission? To help you travel smarter, safer, and with a full belly.

In this article, I'll break down how we assessed Rome's safety and share our honest experiences from our recent trip. We'll explore everything from navigating the tourist-packed Centro Storico to finding the best carbonara in Trastevere without losing our wallets. So grab a slice of pizza (no pineapple, please – we're not savages), and let's dive into the safety scene of the Eternal City.

3 Safety Factors to Consider

Before we jetted off to Rome, we did our homework. Here's how we sized up the city's safety situation:

a. State Department Travel Advisory

First stop on our safety research tour: the U.S. Department of State website. As of August 2024, Italy is listed at Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution, primarily due to the threat of terrorism. Now, before you cancel your trip and resign yourself to another staycation, let's put this in perspective.

Many popular European destinations, including France and the UK, share this Level 2 rating. It's basically the State Department's way of saying, "Hey, keep your wits about you, but don't lose sleep over it." The advisory specifically mentions being vigilant in tourist areas, which is solid advice whether you're in Rome or Reno.

Sarah and I have traveled to several Level 2 countries before, and we've always felt safe by following basic precautions. Plus, Rome's safety index of 64 puts it in pretty good company among major European cities.

Check: PASS (with a side of vigilance)

b. Latest News

Next, we scoured the news for any recent safety-related events in Rome. The good news? We found no significant incidents targeting tourists. The bad news? We did stumble upon a few articles about pickpocketing in crowded areas – but let's be honest, that's par for the course in any major tourist destination.

One interesting tidbit we uncovered was that Rome is taking steps to improve its tourism infrastructure. The city is investing in better public transportation and working on managing overtourism. While not directly related to safety, these improvements could lead to a more pleasant and potentially safer experience for visitors.

We also learned that Rome is set to host some major events in the coming years, including preparations for the Jubilee year in 2025. This means the city is likely to be on its best behavior, with increased attention to security and visitor experience.

Check: PASS (with a sprinkle of "keep your eyes peeled")

c. Community Forums

Finally, we dove into the wild world of travel forums. TripAdvisor and Reddit became our virtual tour guides as we sifted through countless posts about Rome's safety.

The consensus? Most travelers felt safe in Rome, with many saying it's no more dangerous than any other major city. We saw plenty of posts like this one on TripAdvisor: "I felt very safe walking around Rome, even at night. Just use common sense and be aware of your surroundings."

Of course, there were a few cautionary tales about pickpocketing, especially near major attractions. One Reddit user shared, "The city center is generally safe, but watch out for pickpockets near tourist attractions. I almost lost my wallet at the Trevi Fountain!"

We took these stories to heart, making mental notes to be extra vigilant in crowded areas. But overall, the positive experiences far outweighed the negative ones.

Check: PASS (with a reminder to keep your belongings close)

First Hand Experience in Rome

After our research, Sarah and I felt pretty good about our decision to visit Rome. But as any traveler knows, there's nothing like boots-on-the-ground experience. So, let's take a stroll through Rome's neighborhoods and see how safe we felt exploring the Eternal City.

Centro Storico (Historic Center)

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The heart of Rome, where history whispers from every ancient stone – and where tourists flock like pigeons to a dropped gelato. We spent our first day exploring this area, home to iconic sights like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon.

During the day, the Centro Storico felt about as dangerous as a Nonna's kitchen – which is to say, not at all. The biggest threat was getting caught in a crowd of selfie-stick-wielding tourists. We wandered from the Colosseum to the Trevi Fountain without a hitch, stopping for a pizza break (or three) along the way.

At night, the vibe changed a bit. The streets were quieter, but still well-lit and populated. We enjoyed a late dinner at a charming trattoria near Campo de' Fiori, then strolled back to our hotel. While we stayed alert, we never felt unsafe.

Some highlights:

• Enjoyed a guided tour of the Colosseum (pro tip: book in advance to avoid the lines)
• Tossed coins in the Trevi Fountain (because when in Rome, right?)
• Devoured the best carbonara of our lives at Roscioli (worth every calorie)

Is Centro Storico Safe? YES (but keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas)

Vatican City and Prati

Next up: Vatican City and the surrounding Prati neighborhood. Now, I'm not saying the Pope's backyard is the safest place on Earth, but it's pretty darn close.

Security at the Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basilica was tighter than my jeans after a week of pasta. We went through metal detectors and bag checks, which made us feel secure but also reminded us that even holy sites aren't immune to potential threats.

The Prati neighborhood, just east of Vatican City, felt like a breath of fresh air after the tourist hustle. It's a more residential area with wide boulevards and locals going about their day. We felt completely at ease walking around, even in the evening.

Our Prati adventures included:

• Climbing to the top of St. Peter's Dome (the view is worth the 551 steps, trust me)
• Enjoying a sunset stroll along the Tiber River
• Discovering a hidden gem of a wine bar where the owner treated us like long-lost relatives

Is Vatican City and Prati Safe? ABSOLUTELY

Trastevere

Ah, Trastevere – the land of narrow alleys, ivy-covered buildings, and more trattorias than you can shake a breadstick at. This charming neighborhood across the Tiber quickly became our favorite spot in Rome.

During the day, Trastevere was a photographer's dream (and an Instagrammer's paradise). We wandered the winding streets, popping into quaint shops and stopping for espresso at what felt like every other corner. The atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming, with a mix of locals and tourists.

At night, Trastevere transforms into Rome's nightlife hub. The streets filled with young locals and students, creating a lively but not overwhelming atmosphere. We bar-hopped one evening, sampling local wines and making friends with a group of Canadian tourists.

While the nighttime crowd was generally well-behaved, we did notice a few overly intoxicated individuals. We stayed aware of our surroundings and kept our belongings close, just as we would in any busy nightlife area.

Trastevere highlights:

• Savored mouthwatering pasta at Da Enzo al 29 (get there early or be prepared to wait)
• Joined a food tour to discover hidden culinary gems
• Enjoyed live music at Big Star, a quirky pub with a great beer selection

Is Trastevere Safe? YES (but stay alert in busy nightlife areas)

Monti

Monti, oh Monti – the hipster haven of Rome. This trendy neighborhood, wedged between the Colosseum and Termini Station, stole our hearts with its bohemian vibe and eclectic mix of vintage shops, artisan boutiques, and cozy wine bars.

During the day, Monti felt like a village within the city. We browsed quirky shops, chatted with friendly shopkeepers, and watched locals go about their daily routines. The atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming, with a nice mix of tourists and Romans.

As night fell, Monti's piazzas came alive with locals enjoying aperitivo (pre-dinner drinks and snacks). We joined in, sipping Aperol Spritzes at a bustling outdoor cafe. The vibe was lively but not rowdy, and we felt completely at ease.

One evening, we got a bit lost in Monti's maze-like streets (blame it on the wine). A kind elderly woman noticed our confused faces and not only gave us directions but walked us halfway to our destination, chatting about her neighborhood the whole way. It was moments like these that made us fall in love with Rome's people as much as its places.

Monti must-dos:

• Sipped craft cocktails at The Blackmarket Hall (their Negroni is to die for)
• Hunted for vintage treasures at Pifebo (I may have bought a leather jacket I definitely didn't need)
• Enjoyed a picnic in the charming Piazza della Madonna dei Monti

Is Monti Safe? ABSOLUTELY (and utterly charming to boot)

Testaccio

Testaccio – the place where real Romans go to eat. This working-class neighborhood south of the tourist center quickly became our go-to spot for authentic Roman cuisine and a slice of local life.

During the day, Testaccio was all about food. We explored the bustling Testaccio Market, sampling local cheeses, cured meats, and fresh produce. The vendors were friendly and patient with our broken Italian, and we never felt like obvious tourists (despite my embarrassing attempts to pronounce "guanciale").

In the evening, Testaccio takes on a different character. It's known for its nightclubs, which attract a younger crowd. While we didn't partake in the clubbing scene (we're more "early bird special" than "dancing till dawn" these days), we did enjoy some fantastic dinners in the area.

One night, we had a minor scare when we thought someone was following us back to our Airbnb. Turns out, it was just a fellow tourist who was as lost as we were. We ended up sharing a laugh and some directions before parting ways. It was a good reminder to stay aware but not paranoid.

Testaccio treasures:

• Devoured trapizzini (pizza pocket sandwiches) at 00100 Pizza
• Explored the fascinating Non-Catholic Cemetery, final resting place of poets Keats and Shelley
• Enjoyed a late-night gelato at Giolitti (because gelato has no bedtime)

Is Testaccio Safe? YES (but be cautious around nightclubs late at night)

EUR

EUR (Esposizione Universale Roma) – Rome's answer to the question, "What if we built a neighborhood that looks nothing like Rome?" This modern business district, built in the 1930s, offers a stark contrast to the ancient ruins and baroque palaces of the city center.

We visited EUR on a weekday, and the area was bustling with suited professionals and government workers. The wide, tree-lined boulevards and imposing Fascist-era architecture made us feel like we'd stepped into a different city altogether.

Safety-wise, EUR felt incredibly secure during the day. The presence of many office buildings and government institutions meant there was a constant flow of people and a visible police presence. We felt completely at ease exploring landmarks like the "Square Colosseum" (Palazzo della Civiltà Italiana) and strolling around the artificial lake.

However, EUR becomes much quieter in the evenings and on weekends. While we didn't feel unsafe, the emptier streets did make us more alert. We opted to head back to the livelier city center for dinner rather than searching for restaurants in EUR.

EUR experiences:

• Marveled at the modernist architecture of the "Square Colosseum"
• Enjoyed a peaceful walk around the EUR artificial lake
• Visited the fascinating Museum of Roman Civilization (temporarily closed for renovation, but the exterior is still impressive)

Is EUR Safe? YES (but it can feel deserted outside of business hours)

Rome by Foot and Public Transport

Now, let's talk about getting around Rome. Spoiler alert: wear comfortable shoes, because you'll be walking. A lot.

Walking in Rome

Rome is a walker's paradise – if you don't mind dodging the occasional Vespa and navigating cobblestone streets in less-than-sensible shoes (learn from my mistakes, folks).

During our week in Rome, we averaged about 20,000 steps a day. We found walking to be the best way to explore the city, stumbling upon hidden piazzas, quirky street art, and gelato shops that weren't in any guidebook.

For the most part, we felt very safe walking around Rome, even at night. The city's historic center is well-lit, and there were always people around, even in the later hours. However, we did take some precautions:

• We stuck to well-lit, populated streets at night
• We kept our valuables in a secure, cross-body bag
• We stayed aware of our surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas
• We avoided walking through parks or poorly lit areas late at night

One evening, we did have a slightly unnerving experience near Termini Station. A man started following us, asking for money. We firmly said no and quickly walked to a more crowded area. He eventually left us alone, but it was a reminder to stay vigilant, especially in areas known for petty crime.

Public Transportation

When our feet needed a break (or when we'd eaten too much pasta to move), we turned to Rome's public transportation system. Here's the lowdown:

Metro: Rome's metro is efficient and generally safe, but it can get very crowded, especially during rush hour. We used it several times and had no issues, but we were extra careful with our belongings in packed trains.

Buses: The bus system in Rome is extensive but can be confusing for tourists. We found the buses to be safe, but they're prime territory for pickpockets, especially on routes popular with tourists.

Trams: We took the tram a few times and found it to be a pleasant and safe way to travel, particularly the scenic Line 8 that runs through Trastevere.

Official Taxis: We used official taxis (white cars with a "TAXI" sign on top) a couple of times, mainly for late-night trips back to our hotel. All our experiences were positive, with drivers using meters and taking direct routes.

Safety tips for public transport:

• Validate your ticket before boarding (we saw tourists fined for forgetting this step)
• Keep your belongings close and visible, especially in crowded vehicles
• Be aware of your stop – some buses don't announce stops, so keep an eye on your location

Ride-sharing: Uber is available in Rome, but it's limited to Uber Black (luxury sedans). We used it a couple of times and found it to be safe and convenient, albeit pricier than regular taxis.

Here's a breakdown of when we opted for public transport or taxis instead of walking:

• Late at night, especially if we were far from our hotel
• When traveling to/from the airport (we used the Leonardo Express train)
• During a particularly nasty rainstorm (nothing ruins a Roman holiday like soggy shoes)
• After a long day of sightseeing when our feet were crying for mercy

Safety Tips for Different Traveler Types

Rome welcomes millions of visitors each year, from solo adventurers to family groups. Here are some safety tips tailored to different types of travelers:

Solo Travelers

As a solo traveler in Rome, you can have an incredible experience, but it's important to stay extra vigilant. Here are some tips:

• Stay in well-reviewed accommodations in safe areas. We heard great things about hostels in Trastevere and Monti.
• Join group tours or activities to meet other travelers and explore safely.
• Keep someone informed of your daily plans.
• Be cautious about sharing too much information with strangers about your travel plans or accommodation.
• Trust your instincts – if a situation feels off, remove yourself from it.

Women Travelers

Rome is generally safe for women travelers, but it's always good to take some precautions:

• Be aware of cultural differences. While Rome is a modern city, you may encounter some traditional attitudes.
• Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
• Be firm in saying "no" to unwanted attention.
• Consider joining women-only tours or accommodations if you're more comfortable with that.

Families with Children

Rome can be a magical experience for kids, but it comes with its own set of challenges:

• Keep children close in crowded areas, especially near major attractions.
• Be cautious of uneven cobblestone streets when using strollers.
• Consider using a child locator device in crowded areas.
• Teach kids basic Italian phrases and your hotel's address.
• Be aware that some areas (like steps of monuments) that kids might want to climb on are off-limits.

LGBTQ+ Visitors

Rome is generally LGBTQ+ friendly, especially in the city center:

• Public displays of affection may attract attention in more conservative areas.
• The areas around Via San Giovanni in Laterano (known as "Gay Street") and Testaccio are known for LGBTQ+ nightlife.
• Same-sex marriage isn't legally recognized in Italy, so married LGBTQ+ couples may want to carry documentation of their relationship.

Travelers with Disabilities

Rome can be challenging for travelers with disabilities due to its ancient infrastructure, but it's becoming more accessible:

• Many historical sites have limited accessibility. Research in advance and consider specialized tour operators.
• Use official taxis or ride-sharing services for easier transportation.
• Look for the "Roma Accessibile" logo, which indicates businesses that are accessible to people with disabilities.

Recommended Safe Itinerary

Based on our experiences, here's a 3-day itinerary that balances must-see sights with safety considerations:

Day 1: Ancient Rome and Centro Storico

• Morning: Start early at the Colosseum and Roman Forum. Book skip-the-line tickets to avoid long waits in crowded areas.
• Lunch: Head to Monti for lunch at La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali.
• Afternoon: Explore the Pantheon and throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner in the heart of Centro Storico at Armando al Pantheon.

Safety note: Be extra vigilant with your belongings around major tourist attractions.

Day 2: Vatican City and Trastevere

• Morning: Visit the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel. Again, book tickets in advance to avoid lines.
• Lunch: Grab a quick bite at the famous Pizzarium Bonci.
• Afternoon: Explore St. Peter's Basilica and Square.
• Evening: Head to Trastevere for dinner and drinks. Try Enzo al 29 for amazing pasta.

Safety note: Be aware of your surroundings in busy Trastevere at night, especially if you're bar-hopping.

Day 3: Off the Beaten Path

• Morning: Visit the Non-Catholic Cemetery in Testaccio.
• Lunch: Explore Testaccio Market and enjoy lunch at Mordi e Vai.
• Afternoon: Take a stroll through the charming Monti neighborhood.
• Evening: End your trip with a sunset visit to the Orangerie on Aventine Hill for a stunning view of St. Peter's Basilica.

Safety note: If you're out late, consider taking a taxi back to your accommodation.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

After a week of stuffing ourselves with pasta, gelato, and history (not necessarily in that order), Sarah and I can confidently say that Rome felt safe for us. Like any major city, it has its share of petty crime and annoyances, but with some common sense and awareness, we never felt in danger.

Here's our safety report card for Rome:

• Overall Safety: 8/10 (10 being "literally nothing bad ever happens here")
• Daytime Safety: 9/10 (watch out for those crafty pickpockets)
• Nighttime Safety: 7/10 (stick to well-lit areas and you'll be fine)
• Public Transportation Safety: 8/10 (crowded but generally secure)
• Food Safety: 10/10 (unless you count the danger to your waistline)

Some final safety tips for your Roman holiday:

• Learn basic Italian phrases. A simple "grazie" (thank you) or "scusi" (excuse me) goes a long way.
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and leave the original in your hotel safe.
• Use ATMs inside banks to avoid card skimming devices.
• Stay hydrated, especially during hot summer months. Rome's public drinking fountains (nasoni) are safe and refreshing.
• Be wary of overly friendly strangers, especially near tourist attractions. The "friendship bracelet" scam is real, folks.
• Don't climb on ancient monuments or jump in fountains. It's disrespectful and can get you a hefty fine.

Remember, the biggest danger in Rome is probably falling so in love with the city that you miss your flight home. (Trust me, we were tempted to "accidentally" lose our passports.)

In conclusion, is Rome safe? Yes, with the usual precautions you'd take in any major city. So go ahead, book that ticket, pack your stretchiest pants for all the pasta you'll eat, and prepare to fall head over heels for the Eternal City. Just watch out for those pesky cobblestones – they're the real safety hazard in Rome!

Arrivederci and safe travels!

About Us

Hey there! We're West and Sarah Parker, a couple of 40-something remote workers with a serious case of wanderlust. West here is a Cornell University School of Hotel Administration graduate (go Big Red!) and has spent two decades as the secret weapon of the jet-set elite, crafting bespoke adventures that redefine luxury travel.

Now a resident writer for Town & Tourist, this "Architect of Extraordinary Journeys" (fancy title, right?) combines razor-sharp insights with unparalleled industry connections to deliver experiences that even the most discerning globetrotters can't help but rave about. My expertise spans from exclusive real estate to fine dining, making me the go-to strategist for those who demand nothing but the extraordinary in their travels.

Sarah, my better half and partner in crime, is a tech wizard who can work from anywhere with a decent Wi-Fi connection. Together, we're on a mission to explore the world, one plate of pasta at a time.

We believe that with the right information and a dash of humor, everyone can travel better and safer. Our articles aim to give you the inside scoop on destinations, sprinkled with personal anecdotes and a healthy dose of dad jokes (sorry, not sorry).

By reading our articles, you get:

1. Honest, firsthand experiences from seasoned travelers
2. Safety tips that don't suck the fun out of your trip
3. Food recommendations that'll make your taste buds dance (and possibly your waistband expand)
4. Cultural insights to help you blend in like a local (or at least not stick out like a sore thumb)
5. The occasional terrible pun (you're welcome)

So sit back, grab a glass of vino, and let us help you plan your next adventure. Remember, in the immortal words of Susan Sontag, "I haven't been everywhere, but it's on my list." Let's tick off that list together, shall we?