Exploring the Most Dangerous Areas in Rome: A Real-World Safety Guide

Irion Dekov
May 7
4 min read

Let’s be real—Rome is stunning. Between the Colosseum, the pizza, the sunset over the Tiber... it’s easy to get swept up in the magic. But like any big city, it has its rough spots. And whether you're here for a weekend or living la dolce vita long-term, it helps to know where to keep your guard up.

This post isn’t meant to scare you—Rome’s not some crime-ridden nightmare. But a little heads-up on what areas to watch out for and what kind of trouble to avoid? Totally worth it.

So, is Rome actually dangerous?

Not really. Rome’s generally safe, especially compared to cities like Paris or Barcelona. You’re not likely to get mugged or attacked. The real issue here is petty crime—think pickpockets, sneaky scams, and the occasional sketchy vibe in certain neighborhoods, especially after dark.

If you’re street-smart and keep your eyes open, you’ll probably be just fine. But let’s talk about a few places where you’ll want to stay alert.

Areas in Rome Where You Should Be Extra Careful

Termini Station (and nearby streets)

Termini is the main train station. You’ll probably pass through it at some point. It’s super convenient, but it’s also kinda chaotic. There are pickpockets galore, people trying to “help” you with bags (then asking for money), and a few areas around it that feel a bit dodgy, especially late at night.

How to stay safe here:

Keep your bag in front of you, zipped up.
Don’t stop for anyone trying to hand you something.
At night, take a taxi or Uber instead of wandering around on foot.

Esquilino

Right next to Termini, Esquilino is a diverse neighborhood with lots of ethnic markets and restaurants. It’s got charm, but it’s also known for some sketchy activity, especially at night—mostly small thefts and a few reports of drug dealing in side streets.

Tips:

Be extra careful with your phone and wallet in crowded areas.
Avoid empty alleys or parks after dark.
Don’t flash cash—this applies anywhere, but especially here.

Pigneto

This place is trendy, artsy, and packed with bars and street art. It’s like Rome’s answer to Berlin. During the day? Super chill. At night? Depends where you are. Some streets feel totally fine, others... not so much. Theft and drug stuff aren’t unheard of.

What helps:

Stay in well-lit, busy areas when bar-hopping.
Don’t walk around alone super late unless you know the area.
Take a taxi if it’s late and you're tipsy (been there, no shame).

San Lorenzo

This is the student district—cheap food, loud bars, and that classic slightly-grungy vibe. It’s fun, but things can get rowdy, especially on weekends. Petty crime and drunk chaos are more common here than actual danger, but still worth noting.

To keep in mind:

Don’t leave stuff unattended at tables or bars.
Watch out for your stuff on the bus home.
Stick with friends if you're out late.

Trastevere

Touristy? Yes. Beautiful? Absolutely. But also, prime pickpocket territory, especially at night when everyone’s had a few drinks and isn’t paying attention. It’s not unsafe, just... sneaky.

Pro tips:

Keep your bag across your body, zipped.
Ignore anyone trying to give you a “gift” (they’ll want money).
Use common sense—don’t stumble around drunk with your phone in your hand.

Common Crimes in Rome (Nothing Crazy, But Worth Knowing)

Here’s what’s actually going on in the more “dangerous” areas:

Pickpocketing, especially on buses (watch out for the 64 line!) and in tourist areas.
Scams: fake petitions, guys giving you “free” bracelets then demanding money.
Bag-snatching by scooter thieves (keep your bag away from the curb).
Some drug-related stuff in nightlife areas, but rarely aimed at tourists.
Occasional public disturbances, but mostly harmless.

How to Stay Safe Without Being Paranoid

You don’t need to walk around like a secret agent—but a little caution goes a long way.

Keep your valuables close. Use a crossbody bag and never put stuff in your back pocket.
Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar neighborhoods.
Use taxis or rideshare apps if it’s late—especially if you’re solo.
Be aware, especially in crowds. If something feels off, trust your gut.
Don’t look like a tourist (even if you are). Confidence is key.

So... is Rome safe or not?

Absolutely. It’s safe if you use your head. Most visits are trouble-free, and even in the “dangerous” areas, the worst you’re likely to deal with is a missing wallet or a weird encounter.

There are also tons of neighborhoods that are totally chill—Prati, Monti, Testaccio, Parioli—with great food, less chaos, and a more relaxed vibe.

Final Thoughts

Rome is full of magic, beauty, and unforgettable moments. Yes, there are a few areas to be more careful in, but that’s true for any big city. The key is to stay aware, be smart, and not let the fear of “dangerous areas” stop you from enjoying everything this amazing city has to offer.

So get out there, eat that carbonara, and enjoy the Eternal City—just keep one hand on your bag while you do it.