I will be heading into Rome at the end of this month for the first time, a life long dream that is finally being fulfilled, and will be traveling there alone and spending most of my time in the city alone. Is it safe to be a young solo female traveler there? I was a solo traveler in Paris and had no troubles although I know much more french then Italian. Any tips?
Posted by
Columbia, SC
389 posts
Absolutely. Many thousands of women travel solo all over Italy every year without any problems. Since you're familiar with French, I'd suggest getting a basic Italian grammar book and dictionary. The similarities in grammar and vocabulary will allow you to learn basic Italian at lightning speed. Italy is great for solo travelers in this regard: if you feel uncomfortable eating in crowded restaurants at night, you can have a big, multi-course Italian lunch (around 1 or 2 pm- normal Italian lunchtime) that will keep you going for the whole day.
Posted by
Winston-Salem, NC, USA
26 posts
Hi, I'm a solo female traveler in my late 50's and I spent a wonderful week in Rome last summer. I had one little incident - a thwarted attempt by a pickpocket but I feel partially responsible because I knew I should be vigilant and I let down my guard for a moment - I whirled around and the pickpocket ran away. I didn't usually stay out after 10 PM, so I can't give any testimonies about Rome late at night, but I certainly felt comfortable and enjoyed my time there and in fact, I plan to return in summer 2012.
Posted by
Toledo
653 posts
Melissa, well, I did meet my ex-husband in Rome when I was a young solo female traveler. Seriously, if you are as careful in Rome as you would be in any big city, you'll be fine.