Campania is a stunning region in southern Italy renowned for its dramatic coastlines, ancient ruins, and world-famous cuisine. Home to Naples, the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, and the islands of Capri and Ischia, it offers an unrivaled mix of history, natural beauty, and gastronomy. The birthplace of pizza and mozzarella di bufala, Campania captivates visitors with its vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes.
Campania is generally safe for tourists, particularly in the Amalfi Coast, islands, and archaeological sites. Naples requires the same urban awareness as any major European city - petty theft and pickpocketing exist but violent crime against tourists is rare.
Current safety advisory
Moderate
Standard European travel advisories apply. Exercise normal precautions. Naples requires more vigilance than rural Campania but is not dangerous for aware tourists. The Amalfi Coast, Capri, Ischia, and archaeological sites are among Italy's safest tourist destinations.
Last updated: 2025-01
Official advisories
Guidance from national travel-advisory services.
Level 1
Exercise normal precautions in Italy. Be alert in crowded tourist areas.
Normal
Italy is generally safe. Take normal precautions against petty crime.
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Keep bags zipped and held in front of you in Naples city center, on the Circumvesuviana train, and in crowded tourist areas
Use only official white licensed taxis from official ranks or the itTaxi app - avoid unlicensed drivers who approach you
Avoid the Scampia and Secondigliano neighborhoods of Naples - these areas have high crime unrelated to tourism
Be vigilant on the Circumvesuviana train between Naples and Pompeii/Sorrento - pickpocketing is common
Do not leave valuables visible in rental cars - break-ins target cars with bags visible on seats
Walk confidently and with purpose in Naples historic center - displaying uncertainty attracts scammers
On the Amalfi Coast road, drive extremely cautiously - the single-lane road has many blind corners
Watch out for mopeds driving on pavements and through narrow streets in Naples
Keep photocopies or phone photos of your passport and important documents separately from originals
Do not accept help with luggage or directions from strangers near Naples Centrale station without verifying credentials
Swim only at supervised beaches - Amalfi Coast has strong currents and rocky entries at some spots
In summer heat, stay hydrated when hiking Vesuvius - altitude and sun exposure are significant
Book accommodation through official channels - avoid cash deals with strangers offering rooms
The Camorra (Neapolitan mafia) operates in parts of Naples but their activities rarely affect tourists who stay in tourist areas
Use the free WIFI only on secure connections - avoid banking on public networks
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Taxi overcharging
Unlicensed taxis or dishonest drivers charge inflated rates to tourists, especially from Naples airport
How to avoid: Only use official white metered taxis from official ranks or the itTaxi app. Ask for the taximeter to be running.
Restaurant overcharging
Some tourist-area restaurants add unexplained charges or use misleading menu pricing
How to avoid: Check the menu carefully before ordering. Ask for an itemized receipt and query any unexplained charges.
Fake police officers
Con artists posing as plain-clothes police demand to check your wallet for 'counterfeit notes'
How to avoid: Real police do not ask to handle your money. Ask for ID and offer to go to a police station instead.
Circumvesuviana pickpockets
Teams of pickpockets work the Naples-Pompeii-Sorrento train targeting tourists with luggage
How to avoid: Keep bags in front, use a money belt, avoid crowded doors where thieves can snatch and exit
Street vendors pestering
Aggressive vendors selling trinkets near major sights can be persistent
How to avoid: Firm but polite refusal - 'No grazie' is sufficient. Walking away without engaging is most effective.
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
- Vaccinations
- No special vaccinations required for Campania. Standard European health precautions apply. EHIC/GHIC health card useful for EU/UK visitors.
- Water
- Tap water is generally safe throughout Campania. Many locals prefer bottled mineral water. In rural areas, check signage on water sources.
- Food
- Food safety standards are high in licensed restaurants. Be cautious of raw shellfish in unlicensed establishments. The Neapolitan street food scene is generally very safe.
- Facilities
- Excellent medical facilities in Naples including Ospedale del Pellegrino and Policlinico Federico II. Smaller towns have pharmacies and clinics. English-speaking doctors in tourist areas.
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Solo travellers
Campania is generally good for solo travelers. Naples has a lot of solo visitors and is manageable with normal precautions. The Amalfi Coast and islands are very safe for solo travel. Stick to tourist areas at night in Naples, use official transport, and keep belongings secure. The locals are generally friendly and helpful to tourists.
Female travellers
Campania is safe for female solo travelers with normal precautions. Unwanted attention can occur in Naples city center, particularly around Piazza Garibaldi. Dressing modestly (not necessarily conservatively) and projecting confidence helps. The coastal towns and islands are very safe for women traveling alone. Avoid isolated areas late at night.
Families
Campania is an excellent family destination. The major archaeological sites, islands, and coastal towns are very family-friendly. Naples can be overwhelming for young children due to traffic and crowds - hold hands on narrow streets. Amalfi Coast towns have many steps requiring careful supervision of young children. Beaches are generally safe.
LGBTQ+ travellers
Same-sex relationships are legal in Italy and gay couples are generally treated with respect in tourist areas. Naples has an active LGBTQ+ community and several gay-friendly venues in the Chiaia neighborhood. Public displays of affection are generally accepted in urban areas. Rural Campania is more conservative. Italy legally recognizes civil unions for same-sex couples.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
- Police
- 113 (state police) or 112 (European emergency)
- Medical
- 118 (ambulance) or 112
- Embassy
- US: +39 06 46741 (Rome); UK: +39 06 4220 0001 (Rome); Australian: +39 06 852721 (Rome)
- Tourist Police
- Naples Tourist Police: +39 081 794 1111