Douglas Olsen
Italy is a popular destination for international students, with over 100,000 choosing to study there. It offers diverse programs, high-quality education, and a unique blend of culture and history. Italy is generally a safe country, ranking 33rd on the Global Peace Index, but international students should be aware of petty theft and pickpocketing, which is common in major cities and tourist areas. To stay safe, students should take sensible precautions such as keeping valuables hidden and travelling in groups, especially at night.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Safety ranking | 33rd most peaceful nation in the world according to the Global Peace Index |
| Petty crime | Common in crowded public transport or tourist areas |
| Violent crime | Low |
| Political instability | Low |
| Perceived criminality in society | Low |
| Number of international students | Over 100,000 |
| Tuition fees | Low |
| Living costs | Low |
| Quality of education | High |
| Cultural and historical attractions | Rich |
| Number of universities | 99 |
| Number of publicly funded state universities | 61 |
| Number of non-state universities | 20 |
| Oldest universities | University of Bologna (established in 1088), University of Parma (established in 1177) |
| Prestigious universities | University of Bologna, University of Padua, University of Naples, Università Vita Salute San Raffaele, Bocconi University, Università degli Studi Suor Orsola Benincasa |
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What You'll Learn
Italy is generally a safe country
However, as with any country, there are some safety concerns to be aware of. Petty theft and pickpocketing are common in all major Italian cities and tourist areas, so it is important to keep valuables hidden and to travel in groups whenever possible. Students should also be careful about jogging or walking alone, especially at night, and avoid places where large groups of drunken people congregate.
It is always a good idea to carry a charged phone with you and to keep the emergency contact card provided upon arrival with you at all times. Additionally, students should make sure they have enough money to pay for a taxi if needed and carry a copy of their passport and student visa separately from the originals.
Overall, Italy is a safe and popular destination for international students, offering a unique blend of culture, history, and high-quality education. With 28 Italian universities featured in the QS World University Rankings 2016-2017, Italy is a great choice for those seeking a valuable academic experience abroad.
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Keep valuables safe
Italy is generally a safe country for international students, but it is still important to take precautions to keep your valuables safe. Here are some tips to help you keep your belongings secure:
Keep Your Valuables Secure
- Keep your wallet and other important documents, such as your passport, in closed compartments inside your bag, preferably in an inner, zippered pocket. Avoid keeping them in easily accessible places such as jacket pockets or outside pockets of backpacks.
- Invest in a money pouch or passport bag that can be worn inside your clothing to keep your cash and passport safe.
- When travelling, always keep an eye on your luggage. Theft can occur anywhere, and with recent economic changes, pickpocketing is becoming more prevalent.
- Keep your valuables packed and out of sight in your room, and avoid taking expensive items such as jewellery, cameras, or computers with you when going out.
- Take a lock for each suitcase, especially if you're staying in shared accommodation or plan to use storage lockers.
- Always carry your student ID with you for identification purposes.
- Make photocopies of your passport and visa, and keep them in a safe place separate from the originals.
- Ensure you have enough money to pay for a taxi in case you need to get home safely.
- Keep your phone charged and ensure you have enough credit to make a call if you or someone else needs help.
- Avoid places with large groups of drunken people, and try to go out in groups, especially at night.
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Avoid drunken crowds
Italy is generally a safe country for international students, ranking 33rd on the Global Peace Index. However, to ensure a peaceful stay, it is important to take precautions to avoid drunken crowds and related issues.
Firstly, it is advisable to be cautious when consuming alcohol in public places. While it is lawful to drink in parks, it is important to be mindful of local bylaws and not to cause disturbance to others. Some cities like Rome and Venice have periodic bans on the consumption of food and alcohol near public monuments, so it is essential to be aware of local regulations.
Secondly, when socializing, it is recommended to avoid places where large groups of drunken people congregate. This includes areas that have become notorious for binge drinking, as some Italian cities are taking measures to cut down on excessive drinking. Instead, opt for quieter alternatives, especially when visiting popular cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice. Consider visiting during the low season, typically from November to March, to enjoy fewer crowds and lower rates.
Additionally, for a more tranquil experience, explore beyond the big cities and famous sites. Consider visiting charming towns like Orvieto, Perugia, and Assisi in Umbria, or venture into the Apennine Mountains and the Adriatic Coast in Abruzzo. These regions offer breathtaking natural landscapes, a rich cultural heritage, and fewer tourists.
Lastly, always prioritize your safety by following sensible precautions. Keep your valuables secure and out of sight, and avoid walking or jogging alone, especially at night. Stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, and remember to carry essential documents and emergency contacts with you at all times. By taking these measures, you can effectively minimize the chances of encountering drunken crowds and potential related issues during your student life in Italy.
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Keep important documents safe
Italy is generally a safe country for international students, ranking 33rd on the Global Peace Index. However, it is always important to take sensible precautions to keep yourself and your belongings secure. One crucial aspect of staying safe while abroad is ensuring the safety of your important documents. Here are some tips to keep your documents secure:
- Keep your passport secure at all times. It is recommended to store it in a money belt, and always return it there after showing it to anyone.
- Be mindful of your passport's expiration date. Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your intended return date. Regularly check your destination country's requirements and renew your passport if necessary.
- Make copies of your passport and other essential documents. Keep the copies separate from the originals, such as in a hidden pouch in your luggage.
- Bring extra passport-type photos. These can expedite the process of replacing a lost or stolen passport.
- If travelling with a companion, consider carrying copies of each other's passports and important documents for added security.
- Keep the numbers of your debit and credit cards in a retrievable place instead of carrying the physical cards.
- Utilise itinerary-storage websites or apps to securely store your travel plans, hotel reservations, and car rental confirmations.
- If renting a car, be aware that an International Driving Permit is required in Italy. Keep this, along with your driver's license, separate from your passport.
- Take advantage of the International Student Identity Card (ISIC), which provides discounts on transportation and sightseeing worldwide.
By following these precautions, you can help ensure the safety of your important documents while studying abroad in Italy. Remember to stay vigilant and take the necessary steps to secure your belongings, and you can focus on enjoying your time in this beautiful and culturally rich country.
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Stay vigilant when travelling
Italy is generally a safe country for international students, but it's always important to stay vigilant when travelling. Here are some tips to help you stay safe while studying and travelling in Italy:
Keep Your Belongings Safe
Pickpocketing and theft are common issues in many tourist areas and crowded places in Italy, so it's important to take precautions. Keep your valuables hidden and out of sight, and consider using a money pouch or passport bag that can be worn inside your clothing. Always keep your eyes on your luggage, especially in transit, and use locks for your suitcases. Avoid taking expensive items such as jewellery, cameras, or computer equipment with you unless necessary.
Travel in Groups
It is advisable to travel in groups, especially at night or in unfamiliar areas. Walking or jogging alone, especially at night, can make you more vulnerable to potential crimes. It's also recommended to socialise with Italian students, as they can provide valuable insights into local customs and safety precautions.
Stay Alert in Crowded Places
In crowded public transport or tourist hotspots, be extra cautious and aware of your surroundings. Keep your wallet and important documents secure in closed compartments inside your bags, preferably in inner zippered pockets. Avoid keeping them in easily accessible areas such as jacket pockets or outside pockets of backpacks.
Carry Essential Items
Always carry your student ID for identification purposes. Keep a copy of your passport and valid Italian student visa with you at all times, and store the originals separately in a safe place. Make sure you have enough money for emergencies, such as needing to take a taxi, and keep your phone charged and ready to make calls if needed.
Stay Informed and Use Common Sense
Stay informed about the local safety issues and precautions specific to your study site. The advisory levels can change, so regularly check the Travel Advisory for Italy. Remember that common sense and awareness can go a long way in ensuring your safety. Avoid places with large groups of intoxicated individuals and any confrontations with drunk people.
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Frequently asked questions
Italy is generally a safe country for international students, ranking 33rd most peaceful in the world according to the Global Peace Index. However, students should be aware of petty theft and pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas.
Students should take sensible precautions such as keeping their valuables secure and hidden, travelling in groups, and avoiding areas with drunk people. It is also recommended to keep a copy of important documents like passports and visas in a safe place.
Italy has a rich culture and history, and international students may experience some level of culture shock. For example, shops may be closed in the middle of the day, and Italians tend to dress more formally.
Italy offers high-quality education with diverse programs, a wide range of excellent academic institutions, and low tuition fees and living costs. It also provides a unique blend of culture and history, with numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Studying in Italy can increase your cultural awareness, adaptability, and problem-solving skills.
