If you tell anyone you are going to Rome, this is probably the first advice they give you. The city has a reputation—some of it deserved, some of it exaggerated—for being the pickpocket capital of Europe.
But does that mean the Rome Metro is dangerous? Absolutely not.
Millions of Romans, including children and grandmothers, use the subway every day without incident. Violent crime is extremely rare. However, “petty crime” (theft without violence) is a real annoyance that targets distracted tourists.
In this guide, we will cut through the fear-mongering and give you practical, street-smart advice on how to use the Rome Metro safely in 2025.
The Elephant in the Room: Pickpockets
Let’s be honest: Rome does have a pickpocket problem. And the Metro (specifically Line A) is their favorite office.
Why Line A? Because it connects the Vatican, the Spanish Steps, and Termini Station. It is always packed with tourists looking up at maps, distracted by the beauty of the city.
How They Operate (The Classic Moves): Pickpockets in Rome are not scary thugs in masks. They are often well-dressed young men, groups of teenage girls, or even people looking like tourists with maps.
The “Crush”: They wait for rush hour. As you squeeze into the carriage, someone pushes you from behind while another person blocks you from the front. In the confusion of “Sorry, sorry!”, your wallet is gone.
The “Distraction”: Someone drops coins, asks for directions, or creates a scene near the doors just as they are closing.
The “Baby”: A young woman holding a baby (sometimes a doll) approaches you. You look at the baby; her hand goes into your bag.
How to Beat Them:
Backpacks to the Front: This is the #1 rule. Never wear your backpack on your back in the metro. Wear it like a kangaroo pouch.
Zipper Control: Keep your hand over the zipper of your purse.
Don’t Stand Near the Doors: Thieves love the area right next to the sliding doors because they can grab something and jump off just as the doors close. Move to the center of the carriage.
Is Termini Station Safe?
Termini is the central hub where everything connects. During the day, it is chaotic but safe, filled with thousands of commuters, police, and military patrols.
At Night: After 10:00 PM, the area outside Termini (especially Via Marsala and Via Giolitti) can feel a bit sketchy. You will see homeless people and loiterers.
Inside the Station: Generally safe, well-lit, and patrolled.
Advice: If you arrive late at night, don’t wander the streets around the station looking for your hotel. Take a taxi directly to your door.
Riding the Metro at Night
The Rome Metro is not a 24/7 service.
Sunday – Thursday: Closes at 11:30 PM.
Friday – Saturday: Closes at 1:30 AM.
Is it safe late at night? Yes. The trains are brightly lit and usually contain people coming home from dinner or bars. It is rarely completely empty.
Solo Female Travelers: We recommend sitting in the first carriage, right behind the driver. It is usually the busiest and feels the safest. If the platform is empty, wait near the security cameras or the station attendant’s booth.
The “Ticket Helper” Scam
When you are at the ticket machines, especially at major stations like Colosseo or Termini, you might be approached by someone offering to “help” you buy a ticket.
They might say: * “The machine is broken, give me cash and I’ll use my card.” * “Let me show you how it works” (and then they demand a €5 tip).
The Solution:
Ignore them. A firm “No!” or “Via!” (Go away!) usually works.
Use Contactless: Skip the machine entirely. Use Tap & Go with your credit card at the turnstile so you don’t even have to stop.
Emergency Numbers & Help
If the worst happens and you do lose something:
Police: Dial 112 (The European Emergency Number).
Report it: You need a police report (“denuncia”) for your travel insurance. Go to the nearest “Carabinieri” or “Polizia di Stato” station. There is a police office inside Termini Station (Platform 1).
Lost & Found: If you simply left your bag on the train (it happens!), contact the ATAC Lost & Found office.
Summary: Don’t Let Fear Ruin Your Trip
Is the Rome Metro safe? Yes. Is it annoying? Sometimes.
The reality is that for every person who gets pickpocketed, there are 10,000 tourists who ride the metro, see the Colosseum, eat a carbonara, and go home with all their belongings and happy memories.
Be aware, not afraid. Keep your bag front-facing, your phone in your hand (not your back pocket), and enjoy the ride.
- Hidden Rome: 20 Quiet Corners Beyond the Crowds
- Rome at Night: Best Illuminations & Evening Walks (Map + Safety Tips)
- Perfect 48 Hours in Rome for First-Timers (Skip-the-Line Strategy)
- 4 Days in Rome: Balanced Art, Ruins & Food Itinerary
- Rome Metro & Buses Explained
- Trastevere Guide: Best Streets, Cafés & Sunset Spots
