When a child decides to study medicine abroad, one of the first concerns for many families is: “Is it safe to live in Italy?”
Today we’ll go over this question in detail, especially for parents and students preparing to move for their university journey.
We’ll break down what safety really looks like in Italy, which areas are best for students, and what to realistically expect when living there.
Overall Safety in Italy
Italy is considered a safe country, especially when compared to other popular destinations for international students. Violent crime is rare, and public spaces in most cities are well-patrolled and monitored. In fact, many Italian cities rank high in terms of public safety, healthcare access, and general quality of life.
The most frequent incidents students may encounter are petty crimes like pickpocketing, particularly in crowded areas, train stations, and major tourist zones. These are not unusual in big cities anywhere in the world and are largely avoidable with common-sense precautions.
Best Areas to Live: Safer Cities and Zones
For those concerned about security, northern Italian cities and Rome are often regarded as the most reliable in terms of safety.
Cities that are generally safe for students:
- Milan
- Bologna
- Padova
- Rome
- Pavia
- Verona
- Trieste
In these places, university neighborhoods are typically well-developed, monitored, and full of other students. Living in these central zones adds an extra level of security, with good lighting, access to public transportation, and nearby services like pharmacies, hospitals, and 24-hour markets.
What About Naples?
Napoli (Naples) is a city that often comes up in discussions around safety. While the city has had a historical reputation for petty theft and some organized crime issues in specific districts, it’s important to be precise.
Naples has safe, modern areas, especially around the university and historic center, which are heavily visited by tourists and monitored by local authorities. Many students live in Naples without issues. However, for those who prioritize safety above all, northern cities may offer more peace of mind, especially during the adjustment period in the first year.
Safety Tips for Students Living in Italy
- Live in central, well-lit neighborhoods: These are not only safer but also closer to your university and classmates.
- Avoid isolated or poorly connected districts, especially late at night.
- Use official transport options: Buses, metros, and taxis in large cities are safe and well-regulated.
- Keep personal belongings secure in public spaces like train stations or busy squares.
- Stay connected: Having a local SIM card, GPS access, and emergency numbers saved in your phone adds an extra layer of security.
Support for International Students
Universities in Italy usually have dedicated international student offices and safety guidelines, including:
- Emergency hotlines
- Support staff who speak English
- Connections with local authorities and hospitals
- Mental health and medical services
Students also often choose to live with other international students or in shared housing, where peer support helps with safety and adaptation.
Italy is a safe and welcoming place for students, especially those who choose to live in well-connected and active areas. Like in any country, it’s important to be informed and cautious—but families can feel confident that with the right preparation, students can enjoy a secure and enriching experience while studying medicine in Italy.
How to ace the test
If your child is planning to study medicine in Italy, staying safe starts with feeling prepared and confident. That’s why we built TestBuddy—to offer a clear, stress-free way to get ready for the IMAT with all the tools needed in one place, from realistic simulations to theory lessons and our 24/7 AI assistant.
It’s not just effective—it’s also incredibly affordable compared to traditional prep courses.
With plans starting at just €6.99, TestBuddy helps students focus on what matters: studying smart, passing the IMAT, and starting this new chapter with the peace of mind they deserve.