The 7 Most Common Scams in Italy (and How to Avoid Them Like a Local)
Italy is one of the easiest places in the world to fall in love with—and, at the same time, one of the easiest places to get caught in a small tourist scam if you don’t know what to look for.
Don’t worry. Italians aren’t out to trick you, and most of these scams are more annoying than dangerous. Still, a little awareness goes a long way. Here’s what real travelers have reported, what I’ve seen myself, and how to sidestep the usual traps so you can focus on the pasta, not the pickpockets.
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1. The “Free Gift” Scam: Bracelets, Roses, and Birdseed
You’ll see this around places like the Duomo in Milan, Trevi Fountain, or Piazza San Marco. Someone smiles, hands you a “free” bracelet, rose, or handful of corn to feed the pigeons, then insists you pay. Sometimes they’ll tell you a story about needing money for their grandfather’s heart surgery back in Africa. Maybe it’s true, but probably not.
What to do:
Smile, say “No, grazie,” and keep walking. Don’t take anything in your hands, and don’t let anyone tie a bracelet on your wrist “for good luck.” You can honestly just pretend not to hear or see them.
2. The Distraction Pickpocket
A traveler in Milan described a young woman who dropped something near them and claimed her SIM card had fallen under their luggage. Classic setup. While you’re distracted, a partner moves in.
Where it happens: train stations, vaporetto stops, Trevi Fountain, or anywhere crowded.
How to avoid it:
Keep your bag zipped and in front of you, and don’t engage with random “helpers.” If something feels off, walk away quickly and confidently.
My dad was pickpocketed in Rome—it was a full distraction move, and I was pretty upset. You can read the story here: Awareness of Pickpocketing in Rome.
3. Taxi or Transfer Overcharging
Rome and Naples are especially known for this. Unscrupulous drivers linger around airports, ferry ports, or train stations and quote inflated rates “because of traffic.”
How to avoid it:
- Use FreeNow or It Taxi (official apps that call licensed taxis).
- Check official airport flat rates (Fiumicino → central Rome should be €50).
- Never get in a car without a working meter or a pre-agreed fare.
If you’re scheduling a hotel pickup from the airport, you can book it ahead of time with Welcome Pickups.
4. SIM Card Price Switch
Some travelers found TIM stores charging €40 for SIMs that cost €25 online. Staff often claim the cheaper price is “only online,” which is mostly sales talk.
Fix it:
- Buy directly from carrier stores like TIM, Vodafone, or WindTre.
- Or skip it entirely and use an eSIM such as Airalo before you fly.
- If your trip is under two weeks, an international day pass from your home carrier might be easier—pricier (around $12 per day), but completely hassle-free.
5. The “Shell Game” (Dice Game)
You might see this near Milan’s Sforzesco Castle, Rialto Bridge in Venice, or other tourist hotspots. A small crowd gathers around a man moving cups or dice—it looks like a fun gamble. It isn’t. The “winners” are planted.
Avoid it:
Don’t even stop to watch. Just keep walking.
6. The Fake Tour Guide
Outside the Vatican Museums or Colosseum, you’ll find “official guides” offering skip-the-line access or cheaper tickets. They’re rarely legitimate and sometimes sell invalid passes. Honestly, the area outside the Colosseum is so chaotic with ticket sellers that it’s hard to know who’s who. Just get your tickets online beforehand.
How to book safely:
- Use only legit websites like GetYourGuide.
- Buy skip-the-line tickets in advance, not from people on the street.
7. The “Helpful” Vendor or Porter
Someone offers to “help” with your bags or directions, then demands a tip. This is common around train stations or airport shuttles.
Your move:
Politely decline. If someone touches your bags without asking, firmly say “No, grazie!” and take them back.
🧭 Quick Takeaways
- Keep small bills handy for legitimate tips or bathrooms, not street scammers.
- Don’t flash cash or valuables in crowded areas.
- Walk with purpose—scammers tend to avoid alert, confident people.
- Don’t stress. Almost everyone you’ll meet in Italy is genuinely kind and helpful.
✈️ Want to Travel Prepared?
I can’t believe I have to say this—but I’ve seen it happen. American tourists trying to pay in US Before you go, grab my Italy Trip Checklist to make sure you’ve covered all the essentials—from packing and safety to apps I actually use. 👉 Get it here.