Rome Pickpockets: How To Avoid Them

ByBeppe Castro

If you have spent any time looking into how safe travel is in Europe, as compared to in Europe, you probably already know this: it has extensively reported that travel in Europe, including Italy, is considerably safer than travel in the US. Violent crime against tourists is rare, but “softer” crimes like scams and pickpockets are more common. The typical tourist should focus their safety concerns on not being a pickpocket victim.

Rome Pickpockets - On The Bus

For decades, the guidance people received from tour guides like Rick Steves (who I love) was focused on people using money belts and women using cross-body purses with a zipper. This is good, practical advice, but is it enough in today’s world?

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Where Are The Rome Pickpockets?

One of the well-known spots for pickpockets are the city buses in general, and the #64 specifically, which travel from Termini Station to Vatican City. This is popular for theft because it is very popular with tourists and it is typically pretty crowded. Its nickname is: “The Pickpocket Express”, and for good reason.

Another popular place is on the Metro, especially during the busiest times of the day.  Some gangs of borseggiatrice (female pickpockets) will crowd into the train cars when they see foreign tourists getting on.

Rome Pickpockets - Alone On The Tracks

They open backpacks and purses while the victim is looking the other way or distracted by an accomplice. Some also stand by the doors, and when they are about to close, will grab something and jump off the train, leaving the victim stuck on the train and probably bewildered.

These types of crimes can happen anywhere, especially if there are crowds.

Is Pickpocketing Worse Now?

I haven’t seen any national crime statistics that would suggest that the problem is growing, but there have been some concerns around the Colosseum. Rome has declared a “red zone” around the Colosseum after crimes like drug dealing and confrontations with gangs of youths, which has resulted in an increase in police presence. 

As a resident who lives very close to the Colosseum, I haven’t noticed much of a change during the times when tourists would be visiting, but I suspect there is more of a night presence.

Rome Pickpockets - On The Trains

I have seen videos on social media catching these borseggiatrice in the act. It shows who they are (commonly groups of young women), how they dress (hats blocking their eyes) and how they steal (unzipping backpacks and purses while crowded into subway cars).

There is a woman who lives in Venice who went viral on social media because she walks around the city pointing out the thieves and screaming “BORSEGGIATRICE!!” while they hide their faces and run off. She is not paid for this helpful service, but she has been raising money to support this effort.

Instead of the problem getting worse, I believe it is simply more documented (on socials), which is effectively increasing awareness. This can only be a good thing, but a visitor needs to be aware of it before coming to Rome.

Rome Pickpockets - Municipal Buses Can Be Risky

How To Avoid Being A Pickpocket Victim In Rome

If you want to keep possession of your wallet and passport, here are some recommendations:

  • Start with Rick Steves’ advice, use a cross-body zipper purse, a money belt and your front pockets.
  • Avoid a crowded bus, and the #64 in particular if possible. If not, keep one hand on your wallet at all times. 
  • If you are on the metro, don’t stand by the door where someone could grab a phone or purse. Move to the center of the car, and if that isn’t possible, wait for a less crowded train.
  • If someone is approaching you in a crowded area, be attentive and keep a hand on your phone, wallet or purse.
  • If it can be avoided, don’t pull your wallet out in public.
  • Leave “extra” valuables, like a second credit card, in your hotel room. Some people say not to bring your passport, but that can cause you some problems with the Carabinieri, should they decide to check you. My recommendation is to keep your passport in a different place than your wallet (i.e. another pocket, or pocket vs purse).
  • If you are dining outside, be aware that a thief might grab through the bushes and take your purse or camera bag while you eat. Wrap the bag around your leg or that of the table.
  • Don’t leave anything on a table at a restaurant that someone can grab and flee with, like a phone.
  • If you are using a backpack, the small outer pockets are a popular target. Keep the backpack empty of anything important or expensive. If that isn’t possible, wear the backpack on your chest.
Rome Pickpockets - Train Platform Risks

Don’t Be A Pickpocket Statistic

This article isn’t meant to scare anyone, rather it is intended to simply prepare them to have a relaxing and victim-free vacation. Definitely check out the videos on social media so that you are aware of the techniques and what you can do to avoid these thieves. Once you are prepared, you can have a relaxing and confident vacation in Rome that you will never forget!

If you are still wondering “Is Rome Safe?“, and you are planning to come to Rome, these posts will be helpful:

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