How to Avoid Common Scams in Rome

Rome is one of the world’s most beautiful cities, but like any major global destination, it has its fair share of petty crime and opportunistic tourist traps. From clever pickpocketing maneuvers on public transit to fake apartment listings targeting newcomers, knowing what to watch out for will save you time, money, and stress. Here is our practical safety guide created by local expats to help you navigate Rome with confidence.

1. Classic Street Scams & Tourist Traps

The “Friendship Bracelet” & Rose Trick

Near major sights like the Spanish Steps, Colosseum, and Piazza Navona, vendors may try to put a woven bracelet on your wrist or hand you a rose, claiming it’s a free gift or “for good luck.” Once attached or accepted, they will demand money aggressively. Keep walking, maintain visual awareness, and firmly say “No, grazie” without stopping or taking anything handed to you.

Gladiators Outside the Colosseum

Costumed performers frequently pose for photos near ancient monuments. If you take a picture with or of them, they will demand €20 to €50 or more per person for the photo. Avoid taking photos with costumed street performers unless you explicitly negotiate a small price beforehand.

Fake Charity Petitions & Distractions

Someone approaching with a clipboard asking you to sign a petition for a charity is often a distraction technique. While you are distracted reading or signing, an accomplice may pickpocket your bag or pockets. Shake your head, say “No,” and keep moving. Never pull out your wallet or sign papers on the street.

2. Expat & Rental Housing Fraud

Fake Landlords & Upfront Wire Transfers

Expats and students looking for long-term apartments in Rome are frequent targets of online housing scams. Fraudsters post stolen photos of beautiful apartments at suspiciously low prices on social media or classified sites, claiming they are currently out of the country and requiring a deposit via wire transfer before showing the property. Never wire money, pay via non-refundable transfer methods, or send a deposit without inspecting the property in person (or having a trusted local representative view it) and signing a verified Italian rental contract.

Unrealistic Prices & Pressure Tactics

Scammers often advertise luxury apartments in central Rome (like Navona or Monti) for prices far below market value. They create false urgency by claiming multiple people are waiting to pay immediately. Research average rental prices in Rome first. If an offer seems too good to be true, it almost certainly is.

3. Dining & Restaurant Surprises

Unlisted “Price per 100g” Menu Charges

Some tourist-heavy restaurants list prices for fresh fish, Florentine steaks, or special dishes per 100 grams rather than per serving. A dish listed at “€8” can turn into an €80 bill if the portion weighs 1 kilogram. Check whether prices are fixed per dish or calculated by weight. Ask your server to confirm the weight and estimated price before ordering.

Service Charges vs. Coperto

In Italy, a small cover charge (coperto) for bread and table setting (€1 to €3 per person) is standard and legal if printed on the menu. However, adding an unexpected 15% to 20% “service fee” to the bill is a red flag often seen in tourist traps near major landmarks. Review menus posted outside before sitting down. If service fees or bread charges are not listed clearly, choose another venue.

4. Public Transit & Airport Traps

Pickpocketing Hotspots

Pickpocketing in Rome is rarely aggressive; it relies on stealth and crowd density. High-risk spots include Metro Line A (especially Termini, Barberini, and Spagna stations), Bus 64 (connecting Termini to St. Peter’s), and crowded boarding platforms. Keep bags zipped and worn in front of you on crowded trains or buses. Never keep phones or wallets in back pockets or unzipped outer bag compartments.

Unlicensed Taxis & Airport Overcharging

Official Rome taxis are white, have a “TAXI” sign on the roof, and feature the city seal with a license number on the doors. Unlicensed drivers (“cab touts”) inside airport terminals or Termini Station often target arriving travelers with inflated flat rates. Ignore anyone offering a taxi inside airport terminals or station halls. Walk directly to the official taxi queue outside. Official fixed flat rates apply for trips between Rome city center (inside the Aurelian Walls) and the airports (Fiumicino / Ciampino)—always confirm the fixed fare before getting in.