italy is one of those dreamy, bucket-list destinations that sits right at the top of everyone's pinterest!!! the absolute obsession with fresh pasta, infinite glasses of aperol spritz, gorgeous historical streets, and sun-drenched coastlines it is genuinely is peak euro summer vibes!! we get lots of q's whether italy is actually safe for solo female travellers, and the short answer is an absolute, resounding YES! it is one of the most romantic, cultural, and exciting places to navigate on your own, and it is a brilliant place to build your solo travel confidence!! you can also join our incredible girls only group trip to Italy and take away all your stresses!!
is italy safe for solo female travellers? our honest guide
italy is one of those dreamy, bucket-list destinations that sits right at the top of everyone's pinterest!!! the absolute obsession with fresh pasta, infinite glasses of aperol spritz, gorgeous historical streets, and sun-drenched coastlines it is genuinely is peak euro summer vibes!! we get lots of q's whether italy is actually safe for solo female travellers, and the short answer is an absolute, resounding YES! it is one of the most romantic, cultural, and exciting places to navigate on your own, and it is a brilliant place to build your solo travel confidence.
here is our honest guide to exploring italy safely, from the best spots to visit to the specific safety tips you need to know as a solo gal. recommendations written by gals who have actually been so you can just focus on living your best euro summer life!
is italy safe to travel to?
yes, 100%! italy is incredibly welcoming, and millions of solo women travel there every single year!!! the culture is warm, family-oriented, and deeply passionate, and crimes are minimal!! Like any major hotspot in europe, the biggest thing you'll need to look out for is petty theft (like pickpocketing) in crowded spots, but as long as you keep your wits about you, italy is a total dream destination!!
how to stay safe in italy (our top insider tips)
keep your bag secured in crowded spots: pickpocketing is the most common minor issue in big tourist areas like the colosseum in rome or the main train stations!! Wear a crossbody bag with a zip, (uniqlo do amazing ones that fit everythingggg you'll need for the day) keep it in front of you, and never leave your phone sitting casually on an outdoor restaurant table.
download reliable travel apps: avoid unmetered, sketchy street taxis. stick to official taxi ranks (where the cars are white and clearly marked) or use apps like free now or uber where available to ensure transparent, upfront pricing! if you ever get lost and don't know the best route to get from A to B. download Rome 2 Rio and it'll recommend you the quickest, cheapest way alongside on your travel options including what bus number/train number to take!!
watch your step on the trains: the italian train network (trenitalia and italo) is super fast and easy to use, but train platforms can get incredibly busy. Keep an eye on your luggage while boarding, and be mindful of anyone offering to "help" you carry your bags up the train steps for money.
respect the chapel dress codes: when visiting historical churches and landmarks (like the vatican or beautiful cathedrals), you'll need your shoulders and knees covered. Keep a lightweight linen scarf or sarong tucked into your bag so you don't get turned away at the door!!
watch out for the "free" gifts: if someone on the street tries to hand you a "free" friendship bracelet, a rose, or some rosemary, do not take it! It's a classic street scam where they will demand money once it's in your hand. Just say a firm "no, grazie" and keep walking.
the best places to visit in italy as a solo gal
rome
the eternal city and the best tarting point for our italian adventure. It is massive, historic, and completely mesmerising! wander the trastevere area for the absolute cutest outdoor restaurants and live plaza music, throw a coin in the trevi fountain (lizzie mcguire style!), and explore the mighty colosseum. It feels incredibly safe to explore by foot, which is honestly the best way to get your bearings.
naples
if you are looking for foodie heaven, naples is the spot. Itβs the birthplace of pizza, meaning you'll spend your days learning to cook like an italian nonna and eating your weight in carbs. it can feel a little chaotic at first, but staying in a group or sticking to main areas makes it an incredible stop!! try a food tour and experience the best pizza, pasta, canolis and even 1 euro aperols!!
pompeii
an absolute must-visit historical site sitting just on the outskirts of naples. walking through this ancient city frozen in time by mount vesuvius gives you the most surreal insight into history. it's a great, easy day trip destination where you can wander around safely and soak in the culture!!
sorrento
perched beautifully on the cliffs overlooking the water, sorrento is a calmer, ultra-chic coastal paradise. it has a beautiful, slower pace with gorgeous sunset views and acts as the perfect gateway for exploring the rest of the stunning amalfi coast and catching those beautiful mediterranean rays.
nervous about planning the euro summer logistics?
we get it completely! Italy is absolutely bursting with places to see, and trying to coordinate cross-country train tickets, decode regional bus schedules, and research "is this hotel actually safe and central?" can turn into any type b gals worst dream!
that is exactly why our gals who travel italy trip was created!! We take all the planning stress entirely off your plate! over 8 stunning days, we take a group of like-minded women from the ancient streets of rome all the way down to coastal sorrento!!
our local guides arrange all the high-speed trains, handle your accommodation, book your colosseum entry, and even set up a traditional cooking class in naples!! It is built specifically as a safe space for young women, meaning you get all the adventure and magic of a euro summer with a ready-made community of new besties. no awkward solo dinners, no safety anxiety, and zero logistics stress.
italy solo travel FAQs
is italy safe for women's group trips?
yes, in our opinion!! Italy is an incredibly well-traveled destination with fantastic infrastructure. exploring alongside a group like gals who travel gives you that extra layer of comfort, security, and instant connection from day one.
what is the biggest safety risk in italy?
pickpocketing and minor tourist scams in major city centres, not violent crime. just be mindful of your belongings on crowded subways and buses, and don't leave your bags unattended while taking photos at the trevi fountain!
is it easy to make friends as a solo traveller?
italian culture is super social, especially around aperitivo hour when everyone gathers for pre-dinner drinks and snacks. however, making deep connections can sometimes be tricky if you're navigating hotels alone. joining a women's group trip means you have an instant group chat and a built-in friendship circle before you've even landed.
what should i wear while exploring?
italian street style is super chic but casual! for daily exploring, comfortable walking shoes are non-negotiable (those cobblestones are no joke). if you're visiting churches, remember to cover your shoulders and knees.
should i go solo or book a group trip for italy?
both are amazing, but a gals who travel trip strips out the transfer stress, hotel guesswork, and solo logistics. type A girls who spend the whole year organizing everyone else's livesβweβve got you. consider this your permission to just sit back, sip your aperol, and let us handle the rest!
consider this your sign!
if italy has been calling your name, stop waiting around for your friends to clear their calendars or save up.. euro summer is calling you and we're waiting!!
you are going to come home with a heart full of memories, a newfound sense of confidence, and a whole new group of besties. and if you'd rather not do the planning alone? we will save a seat for you at the welcome dinner!!!
