Italy Crime Rate & Safety
Homicide statistics, crime trends, and travel safety for Italy
US State Department Travel Advisory
Exercise Increased Caution
Updated May 23, 2025
Italy recorded 0.6 intentional homicides per 100,000 people in 2023, a rate that is among the lowest in the world. That places Italy #178 of 195 countries by homicide rate, compared with the Europe average of 1.6 per 100,000 and a world average of 5.2. Homicide has stayed rare over the past decade (0.8 per 100,000 in 2013, 0.6 today). For travelers, the US State Department currently rates Italy at Level 2 of 4: Exercise Increased Caution.
Homicide Rate
0.6 /100k
Safety Rank
#18 of 195
Travel Advisory
Level 2 of 4
Data Year
2023
Homicide Rate Trend (1990-2023)
Intentional homicides per 100,000 people. Homicide has stayed rare over the past decade (0.8 per 100,000 in 2013, 0.6 today). Source: UNODC via World Bank.
How Italy Compares
Intentional homicides per 100,000 people, latest available year per country.
Who Is Affected
In Italy, the homicide rate for men is 1.9× higher than the rate for women — 0.8 vs 0.4 per 100,000 (2023).
Homicide victims per 100,000 of each sex. Source: UNODC via World Bank.
Safety for Travelers
Summary of the current US State Department advisory for Italy:
Exercise increased caution in Italy due to terrorism . Advisory summary: There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Italy. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning. Common targets include: Tourist spots Transportation centers Shopping malls and markets Local government buildings Hotels, clubs and restaurants Religious sites Parks Sporting and cultural events Schools Airports Public areas If you decide to travel to Italy: Stay alert in tourist spots.
Level 1
Exercise Normal Precautions
Level 2
Exercise Increased Caution
Level 3
Reconsider Travel
Level 4
Do Not Travel
Safety Guidance for Italy
Practical safety information for visitors, from US State Department country information (last updated August 11, 2025).
Emergency phone numbers
Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.
Terrorism
Terrorist groups and individuals inspired by them want to attack U.S. citizens outside of the United States. They are using simpler methods of attack like knives, guns, and vehicles to target crowds. They often go after unprotected or vulnerable targets. High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.) Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists Places of worship Schools Parks Shopping malls and markets Airports Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains)
Politically motivated violence
This is most often connected to Italian internal political developments or social issues. Italian authorities and foreign diplomatic facilities have: Found bombs outside public buildings Received bomb threats Been targets of letter bombs and Molotov cocktails These attacks often happen at night. Although they have not targeted or injured U.S. citizens, you should remain aware of your surroundings. Report any suspicious activity to local authorities.
Crime
Italy has a moderate rate of crime. Although there are incidents of theft, violent crimes are rare. Pickpocketing, particularly in congested areas and on public transport, and break-ins of rented vehicles are common throughout the country.
Local Laws and Customs
U.S. citizens should be aware of the following local circumstances that could result in criminal penalties: Tourists can be fined or detained for buying counterfeit goods (usually fashion accessories), defacing historic monuments, and using aerial drones. Travelers must buy train, bus, or metro tickets at tobacco stores, kiosks, or through apps or SMS (short messaging service). Before boarding, you must validate your ticket at a machine (usually near the entrance). If you don't, an inspector may fine you. If you don’t pay right away, the fine will double and be sent to your home address. Some buses and trams accept onboard contactless payment (“tap to pay”) using a bank card or mobile digital wallet. Many cities in Italy have rules for fountains and monuments that ban activities like eating, drinking, sitting, or bathing.
Theft
Most reported thefts in Italy occur at: Crowded tourist sites Public transportation (on buses, metros, and trains, and at major metro and railway stations) Airports Cars parked in city centers and tourist sites General guidance to minimize the risk of theft: Be alert to criminal schemes. Organized groups of thieves and pickpockets operate at major tourist destinations, in train stations, bars, and cafes. Criminals may use drugs to assault or rob. Thieves on motor scooters regularly snatch purses or bags off pedestrians. Resisting can be dangerous. Park cars in well-lit areas; ensure doors and windows are locked. Do not leave personal possessions, including luggage and passports, in unattended vehicles. Never leave baggage unattended in a car, including in a closed trunk. Do not leave bags unattended in public places. Italian railway advice for travelers.
ATMs
To protect yourself from the risk of skimming devices at ATMs: Use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or secured inside a bank or business. Cover the keypad with one hand as you enter your PIN. Check for gaps, tampering, or other flaws between the ATM's metal faceplate and the card reader. Avoid card readers that are not flush with the face of the ATM. Closely check your account statements for unauthorized transactions.
Demonstrations
Demonstrations occur frequently. They can be anti-American in nature, especially near U.S. military bases. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on politically significant holidays and during international events. Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. Past demonstrations have turned violent. Check local media for updates and traffic advisories. Security Alerts for U.S. citizens pertaining to demonstrations can be found on the Embassy’s website.
International financial scams
Internet romance and financial scams are common throughout the world. Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams and learn how the FBI can help. Scams often start through Internet postings, profiles, or by unsolicited emails and letters. Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to. Instead of helping, refer them to the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. We will work with local authorities to assist them. Common scams include: Romance or online dating Money transfers Lucrative sales Contracts with promises of large commissions Grandparent or relative targeting Free Trip or luggage Lotteries Inheritance notices Work permits or job offers
Victim compensation in Italy
Italy pays victims of terrorism, organized crime, hit-and-run accidents, and violent crimes. To apply, file with the local Prefect's office (Prefettura) where the crime occurred. Provide details about the incident, including: Where the crime happened Date Location Injuries and losses resulting from the crime U.S. citizen victims of crime in Italy should consult an Italian attorney for guidance on the legal process and victim compensation programs.
About This Data
Homicide figures are intentional homicides per 100,000 people, compiled by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and published by the World Bank (indicator VC.IHR.PSRC.P5). Homicide is the most reliably comparable crime statistic across countries because definitions of other offences (assault, theft, robbery) vary widely between national legal systems and reporting practices.
Travel advisory levels are issued by the US Department of State and updated continuously. They reflect risks to travelers including crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health, and natural disasters — not only crime rates. Countries report crime data with different lags; the most recent available year is shown for each metric.
Italy Population & Demographics
Population of 58,952,704, growth trends, economy, and more.
Crime & Safety in Neighboring Countries
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Italy safe to visit?
The US State Department rates Italy at Level 2 of 4 (Exercise Increased Caution). Cited risks include terrorism. The homicide rate of 0.6 per 100,000 is among the lowest in the world.
What is the crime rate in Italy?
Italy has an intentional homicide rate of 0.6 per 100,000 people (2023, World Bank/UNODC), ranking #178 of 195 countries.
What is the US travel advisory level for Italy?
Italy is currently at Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution. Advisory levels range from Level 1 (Exercise Normal Precautions) to Level 4 (Do Not Travel).
How does crime in Italy compare to other countries?
Italy's homicide rate of 0.6 per 100,000 is below the world average of 5.2 and below the Europe average of 1.6.