Italy Tops Europe’s New Pickpocketing List: Rome, Paris, and Barcelona Among the Worst for Theft – What Travelers Should Know About Safety?

When it comes to the risk of pickpocketing, many tourists heading to Europe are likely familiar with the common warnings about Spain, particularly its bustling tourist destinations like Barcelona. However, a recent study by UK-based travel insurance company Quotezone.co.uk has revealed a surprising twist in the pickpocketing problem across Europe. Despite the high-profile issues in Spain, Italy actually tops the list as the worst country for pickpocketing in Europe.

The research analyzed the frequency of mentions of “pickpocketing” or “stolen” on travel review websites such as Tripadvisor, specifically targeting popular tourist destinations. Italy emerged as the most frequent location for such mentions, highlighting the challenges faced by travelers in cities like Rome, Florence, and Milan. In fact, the iconic Trevi Fountain in Rome was identified as a prime hotspot for pickpockets, attracting more than 470 references from disappointed tourists who had fallen victim to theft during their visit.

Rome’s Trevi Fountain: The Epicenter of Pickpocketing in Italy
The Trevi Fountain, one of the most iconic landmarks in Rome, has become notorious for its pickpocketing problems. Tourists visiting this popular site often find themselves distracted by the beauty and grandeur of the fountain, making them easy targets for thieves. Many Tripadvisor reviews from visitors to the Trevi Fountain caution others to stay vigilant, with one traveler even recommending an early morning visit to avoid the crowds and reduce the risk of theft. Others shared similar experiences, noting how crowded conditions at the fountain make it a hotspot for opportunistic criminals.

One reviewer commented: “Much less busy at night. Be careful when it’s busy; my wife’s backpack nearly was pickpocketed.” This sentiment was echoed by multiple tourists, all of whom urged future visitors to keep a close eye on their personal belongings, particularly when surrounded by large crowds. The Trevi Fountain, while undeniably beautiful, has become a place where travelers are increasingly finding themselves vulnerable to theft.

The Broader Italian Context: Pickpocketing Across the Country
While the Trevi Fountain stands out as a major target, pickpocketing in Italy is not limited to Rome. The research conducted by Quotezone revealed that Italy as a whole experiences a significant amount of theft in tourist-heavy areas. Florence and Milan, with their popular shopping districts and historic sites, also attract their fair share of pickpockets. The challenge for travelers lies in the fact that these crimes often go unnoticed until it’s too late, with tourists left to discover that their wallets or phones have disappeared without their knowledge.

For the travel industry, this represents a pressing concern, particularly in regions of Italy that rely heavily on tourism. The reputational damage caused by high-profile incidents of theft can dissuade future visitors, especially those who have never experienced pickpocketing firsthand. Tourists increasingly expect destinations to prioritize safety and security, and a lack of visible action to address these issues can negatively impact the tourism sector.

France and Spain: Close Behind in the Pickpocketing Rankings
Italy may top the list, but France and Spain are not far behind when it comes to pickpocketing incidents in tourist areas. According to the same study, both countries rank second and third in the list of European pickpocketing hotspots, with cities like Paris and Barcelona drawing attention for their high levels of theft.

In Paris, the Eiffel Tower is particularly notorious for pickpocketing, with many tourists reporting incidents during their visits. One traveler who visited the Eiffel Tower in September 2024 warned others to be cautious of pickpockets while queuing for the elevator, stating: “Over-hyped, over-sold and quite crowded. Lots of pickpockets operating on the property.” This sentiment was echoed by others who urged fellow visitors to avoid keeping valuables in their pockets or hanging them loosely from bags or backpacks. Strangers who approach tourists with offers of games or friendly conversation are often tactics used by pickpockets to divert attention while they steal from unsuspecting visitors.

Similar issues arise in Spain, especially in tourist-heavy areas of Barcelona. With millions of visitors flocking to the city each year, pickpockets often find it easy to target distracted tourists, particularly in busy places like Las Ramblas and at the city’s popular beach areas. While the authorities in these countries have taken steps to address the issue, the sheer volume of tourists combined with the clever tactics of pickpockets continues to make theft a significant problem.

The Global Impact on Tourism: Traveler Awareness and Safety
The rise in pickpocketing incidents across Europe is not just an issue for Italy, France, and Spain. It’s a global concern that is starting to affect travelers’ perceptions of major European tourist destinations. As more incidents are reported, tourists are becoming increasingly aware of the risks and are adjusting their travel behaviors accordingly. This growing awareness can have both positive and negative effects on the travel industry.

On one hand, travelers may become more cautious and prepared, taking extra measures to safeguard their belongings while visiting popular landmarks. This could lead to greater demand for travel security solutions, such as anti-theft bags and money belts, as well as increased interest in guided tours where professional guides help manage personal security. Travel companies may also see a rise in demand for destinations that are perceived to be safer or less prone to pickpocketing, which could shift the tourism flow away from high-risk areas.

On the other hand, the perception that a destination is plagued by pickpocketing may lead to fewer visitors, particularly those who have had previous negative experiences or who are new to international travel. For destinations that rely heavily on tourism, such as Paris, Rome, and Barcelona, the impact could be long-lasting if travelers begin to perceive these cities as unsafe or unpleasant due to the constant threat of theft.

How the Travel Industry Can Respond
For the travel industry, addressing the issue of pickpocketing will require a combination of preventive measures, public awareness campaigns, and strategic partnerships with local authorities. Tourism boards, hotels, and local attractions could collaborate to offer visitors more comprehensive safety information and provide resources on how to avoid theft. Some cities are already implementing security measures such as increased police presence at popular landmarks, surveillance systems, and education campaigns to warn tourists about the risks.

Additionally, travel companies could play a key role in helping visitors feel secure by offering services that prioritize safety. Guided tours that focus on security, as well as recommendations for areas that are known to be safer, could become increasingly popular. For travelers, staying informed about high-risk areas and taking simple precautions—such as keeping valuables in secure locations and avoiding distractions—will remain essential to reducing the risk of theft during their travels.

A Growing Concern for Travelers
Pickpocketing remains a significant concern for tourists in some of Europe’s most popular cities. Italy, with its high-profile tourist spots like the Trevi Fountain, leads the way, followed closely by France and Spain. As travelers continue to seek memorable experiences in these iconic locations, the need for increased security measures and public awareness becomes increasingly important. For the travel industry, addressing the issue of pickpocketing is not just a matter of safety, but also of maintaining the reputation of these global destinations as attractive and secure places for visitors. By implementing preventive measures and fostering a culture of awareness, both tourists and the industry can work together to reduce the prevalence of pickpocketing and ensure a safer and more enjoyable travel experience.