Italy has a way of sweeping you off your feet… the art, the architecture, the gelato. But between the Colosseum and the coastlines, a different kind of culture thrives too: the culture of tourist-targeted scams.

I haven’t visited Italy myself yet but luckily, my colleague Julia has. And not just once. She’s been to Rome, Venice, Florence, and Naples multiple times over the years. In this article, I’m bringing you her firsthand stories and warnings about the most common scams in Italy you need to watch out for in 2025.

So whether you’re planning to walk the ancient streets of Rome or get lost in Venice’s canals, here’s how to travel smart and avoid getting played.

1. The Friendship Bracelet Scam (Still Active in Rome)

Julia’s story: “I was walking near the Spanish Steps when a man reached out with a big smile and said, ‘For you, bella, a gift!’ Before I could say no, he tied a bracelet around my wrist and started chanting something like a blessing. Then he held out his hand for money… ten euros!”

What’s the scam? Scammers make it seem like they’re giving you a free bracelet or charm. Once it’s on you, they demand payment… and won’t take no for an answer. Some may even guilt trip you or get aggressive.

How to avoid it: Don’t let strangers touch your wrist. A quick step back and a firm “No, grazie” usually does the trick.

2. The Gladiator Photo Trap at the Colosseum

The Colosseum is one of the most iconic sights in the world. And standing around it? Men dressed as Roman gladiators, ready to take photos with you. It feels harmless… until it’s time to pay.

Julia’s warning: “They offered to take a photo with me. We laughed, posed, and then they demanded 50 euros. I gave them 10 thinking it was fair. They blocked my path and told me that wasn’t enough. I was stunned.”

What to know: These actors aren’t employed by the city. They operate independently and charge outrageous fees.

How to avoid it: Unless you agree on a price beforehand, don’t engage. If you want a photo, ask how much first and be prepared to say no.

3. The “Baby Needs Milk” Scam

Often seen in cities like Rome or Milan, a woman carrying a baby (or sometimes just a bundle meant to look like one) approaches tourists asking for money to buy milk.

The twist? Some are working in groups. While one begs, another may try to pickpocket you, or the story is just made up to get sympathy cash.

Julia’s take: “I almost gave in. She had this tired, desperate look. But then I saw her walk into a side street laughing with a group of others… no baby in sight.”

How to stay smart: Help responsibly… donate to local shelters or verified charities, not random strangers on the street.

4. Restaurant Menu Switch (Especially in Tourist Zones)

You see a charming outdoor menu with prices that look decent. You sit down, order, and enjoy. Then the bill comes… and it’s significantly higher.

What’s going on? They’ve brought a different (more expensive) menu to your table… or added hidden fees you weren’t told about.

Julia’s experience: “In Venice, we saw pasta for 12 euros. When the bill came, it was 18 euros each, plus a ‘service charge’ of 6 euros per person and a mysterious ‘cover charge.’”

Kojo’s Tip: Take a photo of the menu before sitting. Ask directly about service charges. And avoid restaurants that aggressively try to pull you in from the street.

5. Fake Petition Scams

This one’s common outside famous sites like the Vatican or the Trevi Fountain. Young people, often women, approach with clipboards asking for signatures to support a good cause (deaf rights, disabled kids, etc.).

The catch: Once you sign, they demand a donation. It’s often staged as a group effort, sometimes with others trying to swipe from your bag.

How Julia handles it: “I don’t stop. I shake my head and walk away. If someone follows me, I raise my voice and make it obvious I’m not interested.”

6. Pickpockets on Public Transport

Italy’s metro and bus systems are great for getting around… and perfect for pickpockets.

They love crowds. Some dress well and blend in. Others use distraction tactics like bumping into you, pointing to a map, or creating a fake scene.

Julia’s tip: “I use a money belt now. I also keep my bag in front and avoid checking my phone when entering or exiting a train. That’s when they strike.”

Kojo’s suggestion: Use anti-theft bags, and never carry all your cash or cards in one place.

7. Overpriced Taxi Rides

Taxis in Italy can be hit-or-miss. The scam? Drivers overcharge tourists by:

  • Not turning on the meter.
  • Taking the longest route.
  • Charging a fake ‘night rate’ during the day.

Julia’s Rome ride: “I was charged 40 euros for a 10-minute trip. When I argued, the driver pretended not to speak English.”

Avoid it by: Using apps like Free Now or ItTaxi, and only taking marked taxis with meters.

8. The ATM Helper Scam

You approach an ATM, and a friendly local offers to help you navigate the buttons… “Italian machines are tricky,” they say. While you’re distracted, they watch you input your PIN or switch your card.

Julia’s advice: “I only use ATMs inside banks. If anyone stands too close, I cancel the transaction and walk away.”

Remember: No stranger should help you with your bank card.

9. The Fake Police Scam

You’re approached by someone claiming to be plainclothes police. They ask to see your passport, wallet, or cash, saying there’s counterfeit money in circulation.

What they’re really doing? Scoping your wallet, card details, or outright taking your money.

Kojo’s note: Ask for ID. Better yet, say you’ll walk with them to the nearest police station. If they back off, it was a scam.

10. The “Found Ring” Scam

This scam is also popular in France. Someone pretends to find a ring on the ground, claims it must be yours, and then offers to sell it to you “cheap.” It’s fake gold, of course.

Julia’s encounter: “He picked up a ring right near my foot, handed it to me, and said it was ‘lucky.’ Then he tried to sell it for 20 euros.”

Just walk away. Don’t even respond.

Italy

FAQ: Common Scams in Italy

Is Italy safe for tourists in 2025?

Kojo: Absolutely. Italy is a wonderful and mostly safe country. But like any popular destination, scams are part of the tourist landscape. Stay alert, and you’ll be fine.

What are the worst tourist scams in Rome?

Julia: The gladiator photo scam and the friendship bracelet trick near the Spanish Steps are the most aggressive. They catch people off guard and pressure them fast.

Are Italian taxis safe to use?

Kojo: They’re mostly legit, but we suggest using apps like Free Now or only hailing official cabs at designated taxi stands to avoid being overcharged.

How can I avoid pickpockets in Italy?

Julia: Keep your bag in front of you, don’t flash your phone or wallet in public, and avoid crowds near train doors. Use a money belt if needed… it saved me more than once.

Is the ‘baby needs milk’ scam still happening?

Julia: Sadly, yes. I’ve seen it in Rome and Milan. The emotional appeal is strong, but the backstory is often fake or exaggerated. Always give through trusted charities instead.

Should I avoid restaurants near tourist attractions?

Kojo: Not always… but be smart. Ask for a menu with prices first, watch for surprise service charges, and avoid places where staff aggressively pull you in from the sidewalk.

What should I do if I think I’m being scammed?

Kojo & Julia: Stay calm. Walk away if you can. If it’s serious, report it to the police or tell your hotel staff. Don’t argue on the street… it draws more attention and gives scammers an advantage.