Scams to avoid in Rome
Pickpockets and common tricks.
Pickpockets on buses, the metro and in crowds
Pickpockets work Termini station, metro Line A, buses 40 and 64, and queues at the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain and Vatican. Wear a cross-body bag worn in front, keep your phone out of back pockets and do not put a wallet in your jacket. Be careful when strangers jostle you or "help" with your bag.
Gladiators, roses and "free" bracelets
Men in costume near the Colosseum charge heavily for photos (often €20 or more per picture). Sellers who hand you a rose, a bracelet or a "free gift" will then demand money. Say "no, grazie" and keep walking, and do not let anyone tie anything to your wrist.
Fake skip-the-line tickets and tours
Touts near the Colosseum, Vatican and metro stations sell overpriced or fake "skip-the-line" tickets and tours. The only way to skip the queue is to hold a booked timed ticket from the official site. Compare prices with the official site before buying a tour.
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