Best VPNs for Italy
Secure Browsing. Stream Freedom.
The definitive choice for Italy in 2026. Unlimited connections for families and high-speed local servers for streaming.
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System Alert: While Italy enjoys relatively open internet access, the digital landscape is shifting. With stricter data retention laws and aggressive anti-piracy monitoring (Piracy Shield), your online footprint is more visible than ever. Whether you are connecting to public Wi-Fi in Rome or accessing home content from abroad, encryption is now a necessity, not a luxury. Here is my tactical analysis for 2026.
BEST VPNS for ITALY 2026
Surfshark: Best Overall for Italy
Surfshark takes the top spot for Italian users this year. Its value proposition is unmatched: unlimited simultaneous connections mean you can secure your entire household's devices—smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs—on one account. With fast servers in Rome and Milan, it handles 4K streaming of local content like RAI Play effortlessly while you are travelling.
Why it works now:
- Local Speed: Optimised servers in Milan ensure low latency for gaming and buffer-free streaming.
- CleanWeb 2.0: Aggressively blocks trackers and malicious ads, which is vital when browsing on public networks in tourist hotspots.
- Unlimited Devices: Perfect for families or shared households needing comprehensive protection without buying multiple subscriptions.
NordVPN: Best for Security
If privacy is your primary concern, NordVPN is the robust choice. Its Threat Protection feature works even when the VPN is off, scanning downloads for malware. For users in Italy concerned about EU data retention directives, NordVPN's audited no-logs policy and RAM-only servers provide peace of mind.
Why it works now:
- Meshnet: Safely access files on your home computer in Italy while you are travelling abroad, without routing through a public server.
- Double VPN: Routes your traffic through two servers (e.g., Italy to Switzerland) for double encryption.
- Fast Speeds: The NordLynx protocol ensures you don't sacrifice speed for security.
ExpressVPN: Best for Reliability
ExpressVPN remains a premium option for those who want a "plug and play" experience. Its proprietary Lightway protocol is incredibly lightweight, making it ideal for mobile devices switching between 4G/5G and public Wi-Fi in Italian cafés. It consistently unblocks international streaming libraries.
Why it works now:
- TrustedServer Technology: Servers run on RAM only, ensuring all data is wiped upon reboot.
- MediaStreamer: Allows you to stream content on devices that don't support VPN apps, like older smart TVs.
- Global Reach: Excellent for accessing US Netflix or BBC iPlayer from your Italian residence.
CyberGhost: Best for Streaming
CyberGhost stands out with its dedicated streaming servers. They have servers specifically labelled for platforms like RAI Play, Mediaset Infinity, and Netflix IT. This removes the guesswork—simply click the service you want to watch, and the app connects you to the optimised server.
Why it works now:
- Specialised Servers: Pre-configured profiles for Italian streaming services ensure immediate access.
- Smart Rules: Automate your privacy; set the VPN to auto-connect whenever you join an unknown Wi-Fi network.
- Large Network: A vast number of servers in Europe reduces congestion during peak viewing hours.
PrivadoVPN: Best Free Option
If you are visiting Italy for a short trip and need basic protection, PrivadoVPN's free plan is a safe bet. Unlike many dangerous free apps, it operates under strict Swiss privacy laws. You get 10GB of data monthly, which is sufficient for checking emails, banking, and light browsing securely.
Why it works now:
- Swiss Jurisdiction: Outside of the EU/14 Eyes alliance, offering better privacy protection.
- Free Locations: Includes access to key server locations, though speeds may be capped after the data limit.
- Security First: Uses the same strong encryption as the paid version, keeping you safe on public transport Wi-Fi.
Performance Comparison
| VPN Service | Key Feature | Best For | Verdict | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Surfshark | Unlimited Devices | Families | #1 Overall | |
| NordVPN | Threat Protection | Privacy | Most Secure | |
| ExpressVPN | Lightway Protocol | Reliability | Fastest | |
| CyberGhost | Streaming Servers | RAI Play | Streaming | |
| PrivadoVPN | Free 10GB Data | Tourists | Freemium | |
| PureVPN | Virtual Servers | Budget | Cheap | |
| IPVanish | Scramble Mode | Kodi Users | Standard | |
| Hide.me | Stealth Guard | Tech Users | Technical | |
| ZoogVPN | Free Plan | Budget | Basic | |
| iTop VPN | Dedicated IP | Gaming | Good UI |
Current Climate: Jan 2026
The Situation: Italy generally supports an open internet, but regulatory oversight is increasing. The recent implementation of the "Piracy Shield" platform aims to block illegal IPTV streams within 30 minutes of detection. While this targets piracy, it also highlights the capability of Italian ISPs to monitor and filter traffic in real-time.
The Security Risk: Beyond copyright monitoring, the primary risk for everyday users is data insecurity on public networks. With the high volume of tourism in cities like Florence, Venice, and Rome, public Wi-Fi hotspots are prime targets for "man-in-the-middle" attacks where cybercriminals intercept unencrypted data.
Why You Need a VPN in Italy
Enhancing your digital experience in Italy goes beyond just security:
- Access Local Content Abroad: Connect to an Italian server to watch RAI Play, Mediaset, or Sky Go IT when you are travelling outside the country.
- Unlock Global Streaming: Access your home libraries from Netflix US, Hulu, or BBC iPlayer while residing in Italy.
- Secure Public Wi-Fi: Encrypt your data when connecting to open networks in airports, hotels, and cafés to prevent identity theft.
- Avoid Bandwidth Throttling: Prevent your ISP from slowing down your connection during peak streaming hours or gaming sessions.
Connection Guide: Optimising Performance
To ensure the fastest and most secure connection in Italy:
- Choose the Right Protocol: Use WireGuard (or Lightway for ExpressVPN) for the best balance of speed and security. It is significantly faster than OpenVPN.
- Connect Locally: For general browsing and privacy, select a server in Milan or Rome. This minimises distance and latency.
- Streaming Optimisation: If accessing foreign content, choose a server in that specific country (e.g., London for BBC iPlayer) and ensure your browser's cache is cleared.
- Kill Switch: Always keep the "Kill Switch" active. This ensures that if the VPN connection drops, your internet is cut, preventing accidental exposure of your real IP address.
Safety Warning: Risks & Compliance
Please be aware of the following legal and safety considerations:
- Copyright Laws: Italy has strict anti-piracy laws. Accessing illegal streams (such as unauthorised sports broadcasts) can result in significant fines. We do not endorse using VPNs for illegal activities.
- Free VPN Risks: Avoid random "Free VPN" apps from app stores. They often sell user data to third parties to fund their operations, defeating the purpose of privacy.
- Account Sharing: While VPNs like Surfshark allow unlimited devices, sharing your login credentials with people outside your household may violate the provider's terms of service.
FAQs for Italy Users
Is it legal to use a VPN in Italy?
Yes, using a VPN in Italy is completely legal for legitimate purposes such as protecting your privacy, securing your data, and accessing your own content. Illegal activities remain illegal regardless of VPN usage.
Can I watch RAI Play from outside Italy?
Yes. By connecting to a VPN server located in Italy, you can obtain an Italian IP address. This allows you to access local streaming services like RAI Play, Mediaset Infinity, and Sky Go IT while you are travelling abroad.
Which VPN is the fastest for Italy?
In our testing, Surfshark and ExpressVPN consistently delivered the highest speeds on Italian servers, making them ideal for 4K streaming and large downloads.
