Learn how locals scam tourists in Naples and how to avoid becoming a victim. Below you'll find Naples crime statistics — the probability of being robbed or attacked, information about corruption in Naples, safety tips and precautions.
Daytime Safety:
Nighttime Safety:
Comfort Rating
In terms of safety, Naples requires standard precautions during daytime exploration. After dark, the situation becomes more challenging – stay within well-lit, populated areas and avoid solo trips.
Robberies and Theft:moderate
Armed Robberies:heightened
Assaults:moderate
Corruption:heightened
Drug Issues:moderate
Beggars:moderate
Vandalism:heightened
Theft from Cars:heightened
Car Theft:heightened
Local Scam Alert: What to Watch For
Watch Seller Scam (High Risk) - Street vendors in popular areas like Piazza del Plebiscito often sell fake luxury watches at a fraction of the cost. Avoid engaging with sellers and be wary of deals that seem too good to be true, as these are likely counterfeit.
Taxi Overcharging (Medium Risk) - Unofficial taxis commonly operate near tourist spots such as Naples Centrale train station, claiming flat rates that far exceed the metered fare. Always use designated taxi ranks and confirm that the meter is working before starting your ride.
Menu Pricing Tricks (Medium Risk) - Some restaurants around Via Toledo may have different menus or hidden charges that inflate your bill, especially during busy tourist seasons. Always ask for the prices up front and read the menu carefully before ordering.
Pickpocketing (Medium Risk) - Busy tourist areas like the Spaccanapoli street are hotspots for pickpockets, who work in groups to distract you while they steal from your bag or pockets. Keep valuables secured, use anti-theft bags, and remain vigilant in crowded spaces.
Fake Charity Collectors (Medium Risk) - You may encounter individuals soliciting donations for dubious charities near tourist attractions like the Naples Cathedral or the waterfront. Politely decline to engage and instead donate directly to verified organizations if you wish to contribute.
Currency Conversion Scams (Low Risk) - Some money exchange offices in popular tourist areas like Via del Duomo offer poor exchange rates or charge excessive fees. Always check the current conversion rate online and compare prices at multiple establishments before exchanging currency.
Street Performers/Distraction Scam (Low Risk) - In areas like Piazza Bellini, street performers may distract you while accomplices attempt to steal your belongings. Stay aware of your surroundings and avoid giving attention to performers if you feel you're in a congested area.
« A car drives past me. In the driver's seat is a man, with a lovely blond toddler about four years old sitting on his lap, struggling to hold a gigantic iPad in her tiny hands. The man is turning his head, trying to see the road around his child, all with an utterly calm demeanor, maintaining speed and without a seatbelt. Naples... »
« The parking mastery here is something else. The cars are packed so tightly together, it's as if they’re molded into the columns. It’s quite typical around here. The way people drive is just as tight—traffic rules seem to be optional. Take, for example, the accident we were involved in. Our driver missed the exit on the highway and thought it would be a good idea to reverse a bit. When I realized we were going backward, I was in shock. We were just past a curve, right in a blind spot. Moments later, we got hit. Fortunately, the impact was only glancing, damaging a wheel and crumpling the fender.
In defense of our driver, he actually drives really well—great reflexes, and best of all, I’ve never felt carsick with his driving style. I was relieved that the person who hit us took off right away, leaving us with just a fine for stopping illegally instead of losing a license. I know that’s a serious mistake, and I hope it was something he’ll never do again. I tend to be wary of drivers, especially where people seem to love showing off on the road.
By the way, the police arrived within five minutes, and the ambulance showed up in about seven to ten. The police were in a BMW and looked sharp in their boots. They were quite the fit bunch! :) »
« Leaving Naples... A mixed feeling about the city... It's like two sides of the same coin... Unreal Beauty, ancient History intertwines very closely with heaps of trash on the streets and safety concerns! »
« I had my own image of Naples, but I didn't expect the stories about it to be so true. In some neighborhoods, it's even scary to drive, with many abandoned places, a lot of trash, and street graffiti everywhere. Although I had been warned, my phone was surprisingly stolen here. 😊 »
« The Spanish Quarter of Naples. Tourists are a rare sight here, and even the police tend to steer clear, as every local seems to have some connection to the camorra. Robberies and murders happen all day long. »
« In Naples, they found an interesting way to fight dog waste on the streets. A special forensic service has been created to identify offending dogs through DNA analysis. The database is formed based on blood tests taken from pets at veterinary clinics. As a result, offending dog owners risk a fine of around 550 dollars. »
« Of course, before the trip, I read plenty of panicked reviews about the dangers of Naples, claiming that there are robberies and killings at every turn and that it's best to just stay indoors. Naturally, I boldly ignored all this, and it was totally worth it. In the photo, you can see the famous Spanish Quarter: colorful, loud, energetic, and safe. It’s definitely a must-see. By the way, we are staying in a less pleasant area and return home at night, and we're alive, healthy, and happy. It's scary to think in stereotypes and have a limited mindset; everything else is quite manageable ✌️ »
« The local version of favelas - the Spanish Quarter. The epicenter of crime and prostitution, or so the guidebooks say. The odors are indeed strong, but it's quite safe during the day, apart from the mopeds that seem eager to run you over. »
In defense of our driver, he actually drives really well—great reflexes, and best of all, I’ve never felt carsick with his driving style. I was relieved that the person who hit us took off right away, leaving us with just a fine for stopping illegally instead of losing a license. I know that’s a serious mistake, and I hope it was something he’ll never do again. I tend to be wary of drivers, especially where people seem to love showing off on the road.
By the way, the police arrived within five minutes, and the ambulance showed up in about seven to ten. The police were in a BMW and looked sharp in their boots. They were quite the fit bunch! :) »