Is Naples Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Naples is the capital of the Campania region in Italy.

It was founded between the 7th and 6th centuries BC by the Greeks and the historic center of Naples belongs to the UNESCO World Heritage Site since it has the 448 historical and monumental churches, the highest number in the World.

Naples used to have a bad reputation concerning the Mafia, but nowadays it turned into a vibrant city with plenty of things to see and do.

Due to magnificent churches, Greco-roman ruins, famous authentic streets like Spaccanapoli, this city is very frequently visited by tourists from all over the world.

Agnano is a very visited area due to a lot of thermal baths, while Posillipo and Chiaia are the most charming destination in Naples.

Warnings & Dangers in Naples

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

Naples had a problem with organized crime, but it does not have an impact on tourism. Petty crime risk is high and bag-snatching is very common, especially at the main train station Piazza Garibaldi. To minimize the risks of becoming the victim of thieves, tourists should be very watchful both at Garibaldi and in all means of transport, such as tram, bus, and metro.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

Taxi drivers may overcharge you, so make sure that the meter is on or determine the fare of the trip in advance. Use only the licensed taxis which have a city crest on the door and a taxi number. If you drive a car, you should know that people with old vehicles might intentionally bang into your vehicle, to claim damage. Traffic in Naples may be extremely heavy and pedestrians should be very watchful. There are many reckless drivers, mostly of motorcycles and scooters.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH

Pickpockets will try to take advantage of a distracted tourist and their aim is either the money or the valuables, so when walking around Naples, avoid taking too much money with you and do not show expensive mobile phones or cameras in the city center. The Amalfi Coast is known for car thefts and valuables from the car are frequently taken.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

The possible natural hazards in Naples are earthquakes. There is no other serious risk.

MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM

Be very watchful of motorcycle robbers since the chances of being robbed exist. Ponticelli o Casoria is the place to be avoided, as well as Via marina and Scampia, which are the neighborhood with the highest crime rate. Particularly at night, stay in groups and avoid suspicious-looking people around you.

TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM

A terrorist act cannot be predicted and the threat exists everywhere. In Naples, there is domestic terrorism aimed at official Italian targets. You should be vigilant, and in case it happens, follow the advice of the authorities.

SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM

Scam risk exists in Naples. You may be approached by gypsy groups that will try to distract you and steal something from you. The bracelet scam is frequent and it means that scammers will ask to put you a bracelet which you will not be able to take off and then they will request money from you. There are plenty of other scams in Naples, such as a rose scam and gold ring scam. Another frequent scam is giving you the Lira 500 which looks practically identical as 2 euros.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM

Naples is generally very safe for women travelers, as long as they use common sense and avoid suspiciously looking places. It is advisable not to walk alone and do not leave any drinks in the bars or clubs unattended, as drink spiking is common.

So... How Safe Is Naples Really?

Even though Naples had a reputation as being a particularly dangerous city due to the existence of Mafia, yet it does not affect tourists to continue to visit this amazing city.

Many parts of town that are very safe and other areas can be dangerous, just as in any other major city.

The most common crime is a petty crime in crowded areas and on public transport.

Some serious assaults were not reported and tourists can feel trouble-free while in Naples.

The only concern might be the terrorist threat, but the risk of these kinds of attacks is possible worldwide, not only in Italy.

Tourists can enjoy the untouched identity of the city and should not let anything spoil such a wonderful journey to Naples.

How Does Naples Compare?

Useful Information

Visas

Whether you will need a visa or not depends on the country you are coming from, and you can get all the information on the Internet. Italy belongs to Schengen, so most European tourists do not need a visa if they stay less than 90 days in the country

Currency

The Euro is the official currency in Italy and when exchanging money make sure that Euro notes received are valid, since there is a scam risk related to money. The best advice is to exchange money in banks or Bureaux de Change. Be watchful of pickpockets and wear a money belt or otherwise conceal your cash and credit cards.

Weather

The climate of Naples is Mediterranean meaning that the warm season lasts from June through September and the cold season runs from November to March. The best period to visit Naples is in May, June, September, and October, which are months with pleasantly mild temperatures.

Airports

Naples is served by Naples Airport, also known as Capodichino Airport, but you may use some other major international airports in Rome, Milan, Bologna, and Venice when coming to Italy.

Travel Insurance

We advise you not to start your trip without a comprehensive travel insurance policy.

Naples Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Average High/Low Temperature

Italy - Safety by City