Safety
Florence is a very safe city — safer than most major European cities. Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare. The main risks:
Pickpocketing
As in any tourist city, pickpocketing is an issue, especially in these places:
- Piazza del Duomo: In the crowd in front of the cathedral.
- Ponte Vecchio: Narrow, crowded, perfect for pickpockets.
- Buses: Especially line 7 (Fiesole) and city buses.
- Santa Maria Novella Station: Area is a bit rougher at night.
Fraud
- Restaurant traps: Restaurants directly at the cathedral and on Piazza della Signoria are often overpriced and poor quality. Go at least 2 streets away from the cathedral.
- Leather goods: On the San Lorenzo market, cheap imported leather goods are often sold as "real Italian leather." Genuine craftsmanship can be found in the workshops of the Oltrarno.
- Street vendors: Men who "gift" bracelets and then demand money — ignore and walk away.
| Risk | Rating | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Pickpocketing | Medium | Cathedral, Ponte Vecchio, buses — be cautious |
| Violent crime | Very low | Extremely rare |
| Fraud | Medium | Restaurant traps, fake leather |
| Traffic | Medium | Mopeds and cyclists in pedestrian zones! |
Achtung
Emergency number: 112 (Europe-wide). Police (Carabinieri): 112 / Police: 113. In case of theft: file a report (Denuncia) with the Carabinieri (necessary for travel insurance). The nearest police station for tourists is located at Via Pietrapiana 50r.
