Rome for Solo Female Travelers: Safe or Risky? Here’s the Truth

ByMelissa Byron

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If you’re dreaming of a solo trip to Rome, you’re definitely not alone. The Eternal City has long been one of the most desirable destinations for solo female travelers! How could it not, offering a mix of history, culture, and, of course, incredible food?

Even before Eat, Pray, Love made wandering through Trastevere with a gelato look like the ultimate self-discovery journey, Rome was high on my list of must-visit places.

That said, like any major city, you might have encountered safety warnings on Reddit or Facebook—especially for solo travelers. So, is Rome actually safe for women traveling alone?

Based on my experience, Rome is safe enough for women to travel alone. While staying aware of your surroundings is always important, I wouldn’t call it outright dangerous.

Just take smart precautions, and it can be one of the most rewarding and empowering places to explore solo.

Is Rome a Good Destination for First-Time Solo Travelers?

If you’ve never traveled alone internationally before, Rome might feel like an ambitious first choice. Not only is it an expensive city to visit, but it can also be a bit chaotic.

It was actually the first international city I ever visited solo—I was 29 at the time. While I don’t regret it, I’ll admit that there were moments when it felt overwhelming.

The fast-paced energy, busy streets, and occasional language barrier can be a lot to navigate, especially if you’re still getting comfortable with solo travel.

I give the same advice about Paris—it’s an incredible destination, but not necessarily the easiest for beginners.

If you’re easily intimidated or nervous about being alone, Rome might not be the best place to start.

Instead, consider somewhere like Copenhagen, where English is widely spoken, the public transportation is incredibly easy to use, and the overall vibe is more relaxed for first-time solo travelers.

That said, if Rome is calling your name, don’t let that stop you! With a bit of preparation and the right mindset, it can be a fantastic solo travel experience.

In the next section, I’ll share some tips on how to make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

A charming street scene in Rome featuring warm-toned historic buildings painted in shades of ochre and terracotta. The architecture showcases traditional shuttered windows and arched doorways. A playful mural of a blue flying horse with wings adorns the façade of one building, adding a whimsical touch. Greenery, including potted plants and palm trees, lines the cobblestone street, enhancing the Mediterranean atmosphere under a bright blue sky.
A religious painting of the Virgin Mary and Child with angels, housed in an old wooden shrine mounted on a weathered brown wall in Rome, Italy. The words 'Ave Maria' are inscribed on the wooden frame. Below the shrine, red flowers are placed as an offering. The surrounding wall is covered in graffiti, contrasting the sacred image with modern urban decay.

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Tips for Staying Safe as a Solo Female Traveler in Rome

As a seasoned solo traveler of 15+ years, I’ve learned a few things about staying safe when exploring new cities alone.

Rome is no exception—it’s a fantastic place to wander, but like any major destination, it comes with certain risks.

Here are my top safety tips to help you navigate the city with confidence.

How to Avoid Pickpocketing

Sad to say, but pickpocketing is common in Rome—and on the rise. I hate to admit it, but I fell victim to it myself once, though not in Rome.

It happened on a busy shopping street in Athens, and while I was shocked at the time, I shouldn’t have been. I made a classic mistake: I carried a bag that didn’t zip shut, making it easy for a thief to reach in and grab my (very expensive) wallet and the cash inside.

Now, I don’t take any chances. I always use an anti-theft bag (like this one) with lockable zippers and RFID protection. Here are a few more key tips to avoid being an easy target:

  • Be extra cautious in crowded areas like Termini Station, buses, and tourist hotspots such as the Trevi Fountain and the Colosseum.
  • Carry your bag crossbody and keep it in front of you, especially in packed metro cars.
  • Avoid keeping valuables in your back pockets—this is prime real estate for pickpockets.
  • Watch out for distractions—thieves often work in pairs, using techniques like “accidental” spills, asking for directions, or shoving a map in your face to create an opportunity.
The Pyramid of Cestius, an ancient Roman pyramid in Rome, Italy, at dusk. The white marble structure stands tall against the blue evening sky, surrounded by a black iron fence. A graffiti-covered red wall runs along the sidewalk, contrasting the historical monument with urban street art. Lime electric scooters are parked on the sidewalk, and a few pedestrians walk along the curved street.
Crowded Trevi Fountain in Rome with tourists, a sticker-covered lamppost, and colorful buildings in the background.

Getting Around Safely

Rome is a very walkable city, but it’s important to know what to expect when it comes to transportation.

  • Uber is unreliable in Rome—I tried multiple times and had no luck getting one.
  • Taxis are expensive and often charge tourists extra. If you must take one, use official white taxis with a meter or book through an app like FreeNow to avoid getting scammed.
  • Public transportation is the best option, but be mindful on crowded buses and metro lines where pickpocketing is common. Stick to well-lit and busy areas when using transit at night. Get this City Card that includes free public transport and entrance to main attractions.
  • If walking at night, stay in well-populated areas and avoid certain neighborhoods like Esquilino (near Termini), San Basilio, and Tor Bella Monaca, which have higher crime rates.
A stunning daytime view of the Trevi Fountain in Rome, Italy, with its turquoise waters glistening under the bright sunlight. The grand Baroque facade showcases detailed sculptures, including the central figure of Oceanus, who stands commanding a shell-shaped chariot pulled by mythical sea horses. Water cascades over the rocky formations into the crystal-clear pool below. In the background, a crowd of tourists gathers along the edges of the fountain, while colorful Roman buildings, including one with a Prada advertisement, line the surrounding streets.
A charming cobblestone street in Rome, Italy, lined with historic buildings. On the right, a grand stone structure with intricate carvings and a dark green wooden door stands tall. On the left, a row of ochre and yellow buildings with wooden shutters and arched doorways exudes old-world charm. Small balconies with greenery add a touch of life to the scene. The bright blue sky and warm sunlight highlight the textures of the stone and brick, creating a picturesque Roman street atmosphere.

Safest Areas to Stay in Rome for Solo Travelers

A common piece of advice I hear from travelers is, “Don’t waste money on an expensive hotel—you’re hardly in it.”

While that might be true in some cases, it’s also important not to trade a cheap price for an unsafe or inconvenient location. Sometimes, budget accommodations are cheap for a reason—because they’re in undesirable areas.

When you’re traveling solo, your accommodations should be comfortable, safe, and in a well-connected neighborhood. Especially if you’re new to solo travel, you don’t want a bad lodging experience to ruin your trip or turn you off from traveling alone. A good hotel or Airbnb in a safe area can make all the difference in how secure and relaxed you feel.

Now, let’s talk about where to stay. First, be prepared—Rome is not a cheap city, especially in peak season (June through August).

I highly recommend avoiding August in particular—prices are high, and the heat is unbearable. If you book in advance, you can still find well-located options that balance safety, convenience, and affordability.

A marble statue in a lush park in Rome, Italy, surrounded by vibrant red roses. The statue depicts a man wearing a top hat and a long coat, leaning forward with a cane, with a solemn expression. Behind him, there are sculpted figures on the monument, adding depth to the composition. A tall tree grows beside the monument, and in the background, a yellow building with green shutters is partially visible through the foliage. The scene is bathed in natural daylight, enhancing the contrast between the stone sculpture and the colorful flowers.
A close-up of a small religious shrine embedded in the corner of an aged stone building in Rome, Italy. The shrine features an arched metal grate with intricate scrollwork, adorned with a bouquet of artificial red, pink, and white flowers. Above the grate, a sculpted cherub's face with wings is carved into the stone. Below the shrine, a plaque with the inscription 'AVE MARIA' is embedded in the weathered stone, reflecting the religious devotion of the site. In the background, a narrow cobblestone street lined with historic buildings and a few pedestrians is visible under a bright blue sky.

Here are the best areas to stay in Rome for solo female travelers:

Prati

Located near the Vatican, Prati is one of the safest and cleanest neighborhoods in Rome. It has an upscale, residential feel with wide streets, elegant buildings, and plenty of great restaurants and cafes.

It’s also well-lit at night and less chaotic than the historic center, making it a great choice for solo travelers.

A view of Castel Sant'Angelo in Rome, Italy, as seen from Ponte Sant’Angelo. The cylindrical fortress, originally built as Emperor Hadrian’s mausoleum, stands against a bright blue sky. The bridge, adorned with statues of angels, stretches across the Tiber River, whose green waters reflect the surrounding historic architecture.
A charming old European building with a weathered facade and rustic wooden shutters. Climbing ivy with delicate white flowers partially covers the lower part of the structure. The building features tall windows, some with wrought iron railings, and an ornate arched entrance with intricate detailing above the dark wooden door. The warm tones of the peeling plaster contrast beautifully with the blue sky above.

Trastevere

If you’re looking for a lively atmosphere with a mix of tourists and locals, Trastevere is a fantastic choice.

This charming area is known for its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and incredible food scene. It’s busy enough to feel safe at night, but still retains a cozy, village-like charm.

Residenza Torre Colonna is a really good choice, but I’ll warn you ladies, it is expensive!

A picturesque narrow street in Rome, Italy, paved with cobblestones and lined with colorful historic buildings in warm shades of yellow and ochre. Green wooden shutters and potted plants decorate the facades, while vibrant pink bougainvillea cascades from a balcony. Motorbikes are parked along the street, and a few pedestrians stroll in the distance, adding to the charming, lively atmosphere of this quaint Roman alleyway bathed in sunlight.
The Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere, one of the oldest churches in Rome, Italy. The facade features a beautiful golden mosaic depicting religious figures, with a row of statues on the balcony below. The Romanesque-style bell tower stands tall, adorned with a clock. The entrance is framed by arched porticos with iron gates. The cobblestone piazza in front is partially shaded, with a clear blue sky above

Monti

A stylish and central neighborhood, Monti is perfect if you want to be close to major attractions without being overwhelmed by crowds.

It has a more local, boutique feel compared to other touristy areas, with great restaurants, independent shops, and a relaxed vibe.

Since it’s centrally located, you can easily walk to the Colosseum and other landmarks.

A view of the Colosseum in Rome, Italy, with a graffiti-marked stone and brick wall in the foreground. The graffiti includes a pink '23' and black lettering with a heart symbol. The ancient amphitheater, partially obscured by green trees, stands against a clear blue sky. The contrast between the historic architecture and modern graffiti highlights the coexistence of past and present in the city.
A scenic view of ancient ruins in Rome, Italy, with a tree-lined walkway on the left and historic buildings in the background. The Church of the Most Holy Name of Mary, with its distinctive dome, stands prominently in the distance alongside Trajan's Column. The ruins, bathed in sunlight, display remnants of stone walls and structures, offering a glimpse into Rome’s rich history. A bright blue sky with a few wispy clouds enhances the contrast between the old and new elements of the city.

Campo de’ Fiori & Piazza Navona

These historic areas put you right in the heart of Rome, making them ideal for first-time visitors. They’re well-lit, busy in the evenings, and full of restaurants and cafes.

If you want to stay in a classic, postcard-perfect part of Rome while still feeling secure, this is a great option.

A partial view of the Pantheon in Rome, Italy, showcasing its grand Corinthian columns and the inscription on the pediment, 'M·AGRIPPA·L·F·COS·TERTIVM·FECIT.' The ancient Roman temple's distinctive rotunda is visible to the left, displaying its weathered brick exterior. A single seagull soars in the clear blue sky above, adding a dynamic element to the serene atmosphere. The sun casts strong shadows on the facade, highlighting the depth and texture of the Pantheon’s historic architecture.
A woman sits on the stone railing of a bridge in Rome, Italy, basking in the warm sunlight. She wears a wide-brimmed straw hat that casts a shadow over her face, a loose white button-up shirt, and a flowing blue skirt. A black tote bag hangs from her shoulder. The background showcases the Tiber River and an old stone bridge with elegant arches, with the cityscape of Rome visible beyond. The sky is bright blue with a few scattered clouds, and the sunlight highlights the serene atmosphere of the moment.

Areas to Avoid

While Rome is generally safe, some areas are less ideal for solo female travelers:

  • Around Termini Station – While it’s a major transit hub, it has a reputation for pickpocketing and can feel sketchy at night. If you need to stay near Termini, book a well-reviewed hotel rather than the cheapest option.
  • San Basilio, Corviale, Tor Bella Monaca – These are further from the city center and have higher crime rates. They are not tourist-friendly and are best avoided.

By choosing the right neighborhood, you’ll not only feel safer but also have a much better experience exploring Rome on your own.

Solo Travel Confidence Tips for Rome

Physical safety is crucial when traveling alone, but so is your mental well-being. Solo travel can be incredibly empowering, but it also comes with moments of loneliness or self-doubt. I know from experience that I’ve sometimes built up a destination in my head, only to arrive and feel a bit of the solo travel blues—because it wasn’t exactly what I had imagined.

If that happens, know that it’s completely normal. The key is to embrace the experience for what it is, rather than what you expected it to be. 

Here are my top tips for feeling more comfortable and confident while exploring Rome solo:

1. Walk with Confidence (Even If You’re Lost)

Rome is a city where getting lost is almost inevitable—but how you handle it makes all the difference. 

Instead of stopping in the middle of the street looking confused, step into a café or a shop to check your map discreetly. 

Walking with purpose (even when you’re figuring things out) makes you feel and appear more confident.

A woman dressed in a white blouse, a flowing blue skirt, and a wide-brimmed straw hat walks along a cobblestone street in Rome, Italy. She shields her face from the sun with her hand while carrying a woven bag over her shoulder. The background showcases a historic brick and stone building with aged, textured walls and a small religious shrine embedded in the corner, adorned with flowers. The scene is illuminated by bright sunlight, casting strong shadows and emphasizing the warm tones of the architecture.
Melissa wearing a straw hat, white blouse, and flowing blue skirt sits on a green park bench in a lush garden in Rome, Italy. She gazes to the side with a relaxed expression, holding a woven black bag with brown straps. The park is filled with greenery, blooming purple flowers, and tall trees that provide shade. In the background, historic buildings with ornate facades and shuttered windows line the scene, along with a statue on a pedestal. A few people are seen strolling through the park, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere under the warm sunlight.

2. Eating Alone in Rome Without Feeling Awkward

Dining solo in Italy is completely normal, but if you feel self-conscious:

  • Choose lively trattorias or wine bars where solo diners are common.
  • Sit at the bar or an outdoor table—it feels more relaxed than sitting at a large empty table alone.
  • Bring a book or journal if you feel awkward at first. But honestly, once you take the first bite of pasta, you won’t care!
A plate of eggplant parmesan at Felice a Testaccio, a well-known restaurant in Rome, Italy. The dish is covered in tomato sauce and sprinkled with grated cheese. A basil garnish is on the side. A green glass and a bottle of San Pellegrino sparkling water are also visible on the table, set on a beige tablecloth
A display shelf in a stationery shop featuring an assortment of beautifully designed notebooks, journals, and writing sets with intricate Renaissance and floral-inspired patterns. The collection includes ornate gold-embossed designs, vintage-style illustrations, and decorative envelopes. The wooden shelving adds to the classic and elegant atmosphere, evoking a sense of old-world charm. Wax seals and postcards are also available, enhancing the store’s antique aesthetic.

3. Join Group Activities for Social Connection

Solo doesn’t have to mean lonely. If you want to meet people in a safe way:

These are great ways to add social interaction to your trip without compromising safety.

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A historic street corner in Rome, Italy, featuring an old fresco painting set within an ornate stone frame on a warm, ochre-colored wall. The fresco is protected by a small, metal canopy with decorative trim. A mix of architectural elements, including shuttered windows, a weathered stone base, and aged plaster, adds character to the scene. Fallen leaves are scattered on the cobblestone street below, enhancing the timeless charm of the location.
A historic site in Rome, Italy, featuring Trajan's Column, an intricately carved monument topped with a statue, and the grand dome of the Church of the Most Holy Name of Mary. In the foreground, ancient ruins with tall, weathered stone columns stand, showcasing remnants of Rome's past. The bright blue sky contrasts beautifully with the earthy tones of the ruins and the Baroque-style church. A few visitors explore the site, adding a sense of scale and liveliness to the scene.

4. Trust Your Instincts & Set Boundaries

Rome is full of friendly people, but if someone makes you uncomfortable—whether it’s a persistent street vendor or an overly chatty stranger—don’t be afraid to set boundaries. 

A simple firm “no, grazie” and walking away is enough. You don’t owe anyone your time or energy.

5. Remind Yourself: You’re Doing Something Amazing

If you ever feel out of place, remember how incredible it is that you’re exploring Rome on your own. 

Not everyone has the courage to travel solo, and you’re proving to yourself that you can. Savor the experience, be open to surprises, and let Rome unfold for you in its own unique way.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Rome Alone as a Woman

Rome is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I feel so lucky to have visited twice. While it can feel overwhelming at times, with the right precautions and a confident mindset, it’s absolutely possible to enjoy Rome solo and feel safe doing so.

The key is to stay aware, choose the right area to stay in, and trust your instincts.

If you still have questions or want real-time advice from other solo female travelers, join my Facebook group! It’s a great space to connect, share experiences, and get insider tips from women who’ve been there.

Where to Next?

If you’ve fallen in love with Italy (which is almost guaranteed), there are plenty of other beautiful destinations to explore.

If you’re looking for coastal charm and stunning beaches, head south to Bari, Polignano a Mare, or Monopoli—all incredible spots in Puglia that are solo-travel friendly, walkable, and breathtakingly beautiful.

This image depicts a beautiful coastal scene, with a small cove featuring clear turquoise water and a beach nestled between rocky cliffs. The beach is populated with sunbathers, and the surrounding area has traditional white and beige buildings, likely part of a historic town. The overall atmosphere suggests a Mediterranean coastal location, perfect for swimming and relaxation.
Polignano a Mare
Italy flag in Bari
Bari

If you’re considering solo travel to Naples, you’ve probably heard mixed opinions. While Naples has a reputation for being rough around the edges, it’s not as scary as I imagined.

Yes, you’ll need to stay alert, especially in certain areas, but it’s full of life, amazing food, and easy access to places like the Amalfi Coast and Pompeii. 

That said, if you’re a first-time solo traveler, you might find Bari or the smaller coastal towns to be a more relaxed choice.

If you are thinking of going to Northern Italy, you will have a lot of great cities to choose from; in particular, I loved exploring Venice solo.

Italy is a great country for women traveling alone! If you have questions, I am always here to help! Reach out directly or join the Facebook group below!

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    Melissa Byron

    Melissa Byron, a seasoned solo traveler since 2009, is the founder & visionary behind A Solo Woman Traveling. Drawing from her extensive personal experience globetrotting solo to over 40 countries, she has dedicated herself to a mission: crafting invaluable guides and itineraries for women who embark on solo adventures.

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