CityBuddy
English
Tourist scams and rip-offs in Rome, Italy: how to avoid them
Photo made by Ludovic Delot on Pexels.com
Rome is a generally safe city for tourists, though petty theft and overcharging are common in crowded tourist areas. The biggest watch point is aggressive street sellers, pickpockets around major monuments and transport hubs, and unofficial taxi drivers at the airport. Use official services and keep valuables secured to enjoy the city without problems.
Updated September 2026
Common scams in Rome, Italy and how to avoid them
1. Roses and friendship bracelets
How it works: Sellers thrust roses, bracelets or trinkets into your hand or tie them on your wrist, then demand payment. Groups often surround victims so they cannot easily refuse or walk away.
How to avoid it: Do not make eye contact, do not take the item, and keep walking. A firm no usually ends it.
2. Pickpocketing in crowds
How it works: Thieves work in teams near packed attractions and on crowded buses and metro lines. One distracts while another reaches into bags or pockets. Children and begging groups are common covers.
How to avoid it: Keep bags zipped and in front of you. Do not keep wallets or phones in back pockets. Stay alert when pushed or crowded.
3. Unofficial airport drivers
How it works: Unlicensed drivers approach travelers inside or just outside Fiumicino terminal offering rides. They charge inflated rates, take long routes, or demand cash with no meter or receipt.
How to avoid it: Use only licensed white taxis with a meter from the official rank. Agree on the fixed fare or ask to see the meter before departing.
4. Menu without prices
How it works: Some restaurants near main sights hand menus without prices or charge separately for bread, cover and service. The bill comes out far higher than expected.
How to avoid it: Ask for a full menu with prices before sitting. Check the bill for coperto and confirm no unexpected line items before paying.
5. Poor-rate exchange booths
How it works: Exchange offices and some ATMs near major sights advertise zero commission but apply wide spreads or hidden fees. Travelers lose significantly on each transaction.
How to avoid it: Use bank ATMs and pay by card where possible. If exchanging cash, compare the rate against the official market rate first.
6. Gladiator photo scam
How it works: Costumed gladiators and centurions near the Colosseum pose for photos then demand 10 to 50 euros per picture after the shot is taken. Pressure can be aggressive.
How to avoid it: Agree on a price in writing or on your phone before any photo. Better, decline the photo entirely.
7. Charity petition distraction
How it works: People with clipboards ask you to sign a petition for a cause while explaining in English. While you sign, an accomplice picks your pocket or bag.
How to avoid it: Do not stop or sign. Keep moving and keep your bag closed and in front.
Official tickets for the top sights in Rome, Italy
Skip street sellers: book official tickets and tours with free cancellation.
From the airport to the city centre
Leonardo da Vinci Fiumicino Airport (FCO)
Fair taxi price (official, daytime): €50 - €55. Fixed official fare to central Rome. Use only the licensed white taxis at the official rank outside the terminal. Refuse anyone approaching you inside or outside offering rides.
Best alternative: Leonardo Express train to Roma Termini (€14, about 32 min)
Public transport: tickets, validation and fines
- Single ticket
- €2 (100-minute single ticket valid on metro, bus and tram.)
- Validation rules
- Validate paper tickets by inserting them in the yellow or blue validator at station entrance or on board buses and trams before travel. Tap contactless bank cards directly on validators where available. Unvalidated tickets count as fare evasion.
- Fine without a valid ticket
- €50. Fine for travelling without a valid ticket. May increase if not paid promptly.
- Paying by card
- Contactless bank cards and mobile payments work on metro, bus and tram validators in the city. Daily and weekly caps apply.
Tipping and service charges
Tipping: Tips appreciated but not mandatory. Round up in restaurants and taxis. Not expected in most bars or cafes unless table service is given.
Cover and service charges: Coperto, a small per-person cover charge, appears on most restaurant bills and is legal. Some tourist-area restaurants add service charges or show menus without prices. Always ask to see menu prices before ordering.
Cards, ATMs and currency exchange
Use bank-attached ATMs rather than independent machines in tourist areas, which often charge high fees. Always select to be charged in euros and decline dynamic currency conversion offered at ATMs or card readers. Exchange booths near major sights typically give poor rates.
Areas where extra care is advised
- Termini station and surrounding streets: Crowded and busy at all hours. Keep bags closed and in front, especially at night, and use the main exits.
- Trastevere at night: Lively nightlife area. Stay on well-lit main streets and keep valuables secure when bar hopping late.
Emergency number
112
Planning your budget?
Frequently Asked Questions about Rome, Italy
Is Rome, Italy safe for tourists?
How much is a taxi from the airport to the centre of Rome, Italy?
Do I need to validate public transport tickets in Rome, Italy?
Is tipping expected in Rome, Italy?
What is the emergency number in Rome, Italy?
Based on widely reported traveler experiences and official advice. Prices are approximate and change; check current fares on arrival. Updated September 2026.