If you’re traveling to Italy or are an Italian resident, you may want to consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to access your favorite streaming services, TV channels, and geo-blocked websites safely. A VPN encrypts all of your device’s internet traffic and routes it through an intermediary server in a location of your choosing, securing your connection from any hackers who may be snooping on the network.
This article will reveal the best VPN services for Italy and how to use them. We’ll take a closer look at each of the VPNs chosen for this list, including NordVPN, Surfshark, ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, IPVanish, PrivateVPN, and Private Internet Access. Whether you’re concerned about mass surveillance of the internet or want to watch a video that’s only available in another country, a VPN can change your perceived location and unblock the stream.
How to Use a VPN for Italy
Using a VPN in Italy is a simple process that can provide you with online privacy and access to regionally restricted content. Follow these easy steps to get started:
- Choose a VPN provider from a reliable guide. NordVPN is a recommended option.
- Subscribe to the VPN service and download the VPN app. NordVPN allows you to install the VPN on multiple devices simultaneously.
- Install the VPN app and log in using your credentials.
- Select a VPN server in Italy to get an Italian IP address or choose a server elsewhere to unblock regional content.
Once connected, your data will be encrypted, preventing network administrators, ISPs, government agencies, and cybercriminals from monitoring your traffic. With a VPN, you can bypass any restrictions imposed on the Internet by the government and access services from around the world.
Using a VPN is an easy and effective way to protect your online privacy and access the content you want in Italy.
How We Selected the Top Italy VPNs
Choosing the top Italy VPNs required a thorough evaluation process based on specific criteria. We only considered VPNs that operate servers in Italy, have the ability to unblock geo-restricted content outside of Italy, offer fast and reliable connections, have strong security measures and a strict no-logs policy. Additionally, we gave preference to VPNs with an Italian-language website. Our selection process was aimed at providing you with the best VPNs for Italy overall, rather than just for specific streaming services such as Netflix Italy and Rai TV (RaiPlay).
The Best VPNs for Italy: At a Glance
If you’re looking for a VPN to use in Italy, there are many options available. However, not all VPNs are created equal, and some may be better suited to your needs than others. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compared the most important features of the top VPNs for Italy.
Here’s a quick overview of the best VPNs for Italy:
| VPN | Ranking for Italy | Italian servers | Avg Speed (Europe) | Activity logs | Devices Supported | Best deal (per month) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | 1 | 60+ servers | 100+ Mbps | None | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux | $2.99 |
| Surfshark | 2 | 60+ servers | 100+ Mbps | None | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Amazon Fire TV | $1.99 |
| ExpressVPN | 3 | 2 cities | 100+ Mbps | No identifying data | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Smart TVs, Routers | $6.67 |
| CyberGhost | 4 | 170+ servers | 100+ Mbps | No identifying data | Windows, MacOS, Linux (command line), iOS, Android, Smart TVs, Routers | $2.11 |
| IPVanish | 5 | 50+ servers | 100+ Mbps | No logs stored | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Routers | $2.99 |
| PrivateVPN | 6 | 5+ servers | 41 Mbps | None | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android | $2.00 |
As you can see, NordVPN is our top choice for Italy, with over 60 servers in the country and fast speeds across Europe. Surfshark is another great option, with a lower price point and support for a wide range of devices. ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, IPVanish, and PrivateVPN are also solid choices, each with their own strengths and weaknesses.
The Top VPNs for Italy
If you’re looking for a VPN to use in Italy, consider these top options:
- ExpressVPN: Fast speeds and reliable connections make this a great choice for streaming and browsing.
- NordVPN: With servers in Italy and around the world, NordVPN offers strong security and privacy features.
- CyberGhost: This VPN has a user-friendly interface and offers optimized servers for streaming and torrenting.
- Surfshark: Affordable and easy to use, Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous connections and strong encryption.
- PrivateVPN: This VPN has servers in Italy and offers fast speeds and strong privacy features.
No matter which VPN you choose, make sure it has servers in Italy and offers strong security and privacy features to keep your online activity safe and secure.
1. NordVPN
Pros:
- NordVPN operates more than 60 servers in Italy, making it easy to unblock RaiPlay and Netflix Italy from abroad.
- A widely trusted provider that does not compromise on security.
- Works with all major streaming platforms like Hulu, HBO, Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer.
- Customer service is available via 24/7 live chat.
- A fantastic option for streaming and torrenting.
- NordVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Cons:
- Collects advertising IDs on mobile.
NordVPN is a Panama-based provider with over 5,500 servers in 60+ countries, including more than 60 servers in Milan. It is our top choice VPN for Italy due to its ability to securely access almost anything you can throw at it, including both the US and Italian versions of Netflix in the app and in a browser. You’ll have no problem accessing RaiPlay from abroad, and NordVPN also works with Hulu, HBO, Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer, among others.
Your online activity is protected by AES 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection. NordVPN also has specialized servers set up for specific use cases, such as dedicated IP, double VPN, and Tor over VPN. A single subscription allows you to connect up to six devices simultaneously, and NordVPN adheres to a strict no-logs policy.
Apps are available for Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, and FireTV, making it a versatile option for a range of devices. With great privacy and security credentials, NordVPN is a good all-rounder option that works with Italian Netflix, RaiTV, and most other streaming services.
2. Surfshark
Pros:
- Surfshark is a budget-friendly VPN that offers impressive streaming capabilities and fast speeds, making it an excellent choice for streaming platforms like Netflix and DAZN.
- With a network of over 3,200 servers in 100+ countries, including Italy and Rome, you can easily access Rai TV abroad without any issues.
- Surfshark’s security features are top-notch, including 256-bit encryption, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and a kill switch.
- The VPN also offers a NoBorders mode that can bypass even the strictest network restrictions, making it a great option for users in countries with heavy censorship.
- Surfshark is a zero-logs provider, which means that they do not keep any records of your online activities.
- With Surfshark, you can protect as many devices as you like with a single account, making it a great option for families or users with multiple devices.
Cons:
- While Surfshark offers a great range of security features, there is not much room for customization.
Overall, Surfshark is a great option for users who want a budget-friendly VPN that offers impressive streaming capabilities and top-notch security features. With a 30-day money-back guarantee and 24/7 support via live chat, Surfshark is definitely worth considering.
3. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is a reliable provider of virtual private network (VPN) services that offers apps for PC, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, Fire TV, and certain wifi routers. With over 3,000 servers in 94 countries, ExpressVPN is optimized for maximum speed and works well with all major streaming sites, such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, HBO, and Disney Plus.
Pros:
- ExpressVPN operates superfast servers in Cosenza and Milan, which are great for streaming Italian shows abroad.
- The service offers excellent speeds, fast enough to play HD video without buffering.
- ExpressVPN is hard to beat on online privacy and security. It uses the best security standards in the business, including 256-bit AES encryption, perfect forward secrecy, DNS leak protection, and a kill switch. ExpressVPN only logs metadata that can’t identify the user; no real IP addresses or traffic contents are recorded.
- ExpressVPN offers 24/7 live customer support.
Cons:
- ExpressVPN is not as cheap as some other services.
- The service lacks advanced features for power users.
Overall, ExpressVPN is a reputable provider optimized for high-speed connections. It excels at unblocking Italian streaming sites, and there is a 30-day no-quibbles money-back guarantee with every plan.
4. CyberGhost
Pros:
- CyberGhost operates almost 200 servers throughout Italy, making it a great choice for those looking to unblock RaiPlay.
- The app provides fast streaming servers, making it easy to stream content from US Netflix, Hulu, HBO, Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer.
- CyberGhost keeps no user activity logs and provides strong encryption to bypass activity detection.
- The app is great for beginners thanks to its easy-to-use design and servers for specific uses.
- CyberGhost offers a 45-day money-back guarantee.
Cons:
- CyberGhost has few customizable settings, making it better suited to beginners than advanced users.
- The app can struggle with unblocking some popular streaming sites.
CyberGhost is an excellent choice for beginners looking for a fast, reliable connection and an easy-to-use interface. The app lets you select a server based on the popular streaming service you wish to access, so there’s no need to guess which server to use or contact customer support. RaiPlay viewers should have no problem unblocking the stream when connected to a CyberGhost server in Italy, of which there are nearly 200 in Milan and Rome and over 9,000 globally.
CyberGhost Pro uses AES-256 bit encryption and keeps no logs of users’ activity nor IP address. It scored very well in our speed tests, making streaming in HD easy. The app also has some extra features like ad and malware blocking and anti-fingerprinting to help keep your browsing private.
While CyberGhost has few customizable settings, it’s still a great option for beginners. It’s not the best choice for advanced users, but it’s a solid option for those looking for a simple, easy-to-use VPN. Plus, CyberGhost offers a 45-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it out risk-free.
5. IPVanish
Pros:
- IPVanish operates over 2,000 servers in more than 60 countries, giving you a wide range of options to choose from.
- The company owns its servers, providing maximum control over the traffic that flows through its network and who can access it.
- IPVanish uses future-proof security standards, including 256-bit AES encryption and perfect forward secrecy.
- The average speed is fast enough to stream in HD without interruption on most servers.
- A normal plan allows you unlimited simultaneous connections across all your devices.
Cons:
- IPVanish struggles to unblock some streaming services, such as Hulu and Prime Video.
- The company is based in the US, which may be a concern for some users.
Overall, IPVanish is a reliable VPN service that offers fast speeds and strong security features. It is an excellent choice for users who want to access a wide range of servers across the globe and need unlimited simultaneous connections. However, if you are looking for a VPN service that can unblock streaming services like Hulu and Prime Video, you may want to consider other options.
6. PrivateVPN
Pros:
- PrivateVPN offers servers in Arezzo and Milan that are specifically designed for streaming, making it a great choice for users who want to access geo-restricted content.
- The speeds offered by PrivateVPN are impressive, making it a great option for high-quality streaming.
- The installation process for PrivateVPN apps is straightforward and easy to use.
Cons:
- PrivateVPN has a smaller server network compared to other VPN providers on this list, which may limit your options for server locations.
- The support staff for PrivateVPN are only available during European business hours, which may be inconvenient for users in other time zones.
PrivateVPN is a relatively new VPN provider, but it has quickly made a name for itself with its fast speeds and extensive streaming capabilities. While its server network may be smaller than some of its competitors, it offers servers that are specifically optimized for streaming, making it a great choice for users who want to access geo-restricted content.
In addition to its impressive streaming capabilities, PrivateVPN also offers strong privacy and security features. The company has a strict no-logs policy, military-grade encryption, and perfect forward secrecy. It also offers DNS leak protection and a kill switch to help protect your online privacy.
PrivateVPN offers apps for Windows, MacOS, iOS, and Android, and allows up to 10 devices to be connected simultaneously on a single account. While its support staff may only be available during European business hours, its easy installation process and fast speeds make it a great choice for users who want to stream content from around the world.
7. Private Internet Access
Pros:
- Private Internet Access offers servers in 80 countries, including Italy, making it an excellent choice for users who need to access geo-restricted content in different regions.
- With a single PIA account, you can connect an unlimited number of devices at the same time, making it a great option for families or individuals with multiple devices.
- PIA doesn’t keep any logs, including connection logs, which means your online activity is kept private and secure.
Cons:
- Private Internet Access doesn’t work well in China, so if you’re traveling to China, you may want to consider a different VPN.
- The app design is slightly cluttered, which may make it harder for some users to navigate.
Private Internet Access (PIA) is a reliable VPN service that offers fast speeds and servers in 80 countries, making it an excellent choice for users who need to access geo-restricted content. PIA provides unlimited bandwidth, which means you can stream, torrent, or play games online without any interruptions.
PIA offers apps for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, and Amazon Fire TV, as well as browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Opera. With 256-bit AES encryption, DNS leak protection, and a kill switch, your devices are secured and your online activity is kept private.
One of the standout features of PIA is that it doesn’t keep any logs, including connection logs, which means your online activity is completely private and secure. If you need help, PIA offers 24-hour support via live chat and email.
Overall, Private Internet Access is a great VPN option for users who need to access geo-restricted content and want to keep their online activity private and secure.
Finding the Best VPNs for Italy: Our Methodology
When it comes to finding the best VPNs for Italy, it can be overwhelming to compare the various services available. To assist you in your search, we have personally evaluated dozens of VPNs based on real-world experience, expert analysis, and a battery of tests. Our methodology ensures that only the most reliable and fastest VPNs make the cut.
To be eligible for a spot in our list, VPN services must meet the following criteria:
- Multiple Locations: We looked for VPNs with servers in Italy, as well as other countries. Our aim is to provide you with access to a wider range of content. Large networks also reduce the distance to your closest server, keeping latency to a minimum.
- High Performance: Slow speeds can cause all kinds of problems, from stuttering video to random disconnections. Our team of experts regularly runs hundreds of speed tests to make sure that only the most reliable, fastest VPNs make the cut.
- Strong Security Features: We require VPNs to have uncrackable encryption, a kill switch, leak protection, and a no-logs policy (ideally, one that’s been independently verified). We also prefer services that offer an even wider range of security and privacy tools.
- Exceptional Versatility: Your VPN has to be able to handle whatever you throw at it, whether it’s streaming Italian TV abroad, gaming, or torrenting. We simulate day-to-day usage by trying to use popular streaming services, video-conferencing apps, and more.
- Novice-Friendly Apps: We prioritize VPNs with easy-to-use apps for all major platforms, 24/7 support, and a lack of connection limits. Anything that makes the service more newcomer-friendly is a huge advantage.
- Fair Pricing: We only recommend reasonably-priced VPNs but will always provide details of discounts, money-back guarantees, and trials so that you pay as little as possible.
To learn more about our VPN testing methodology, check out our post on Comparitech. By following our methodology, we are confident that you will find the best VPNs for Italy that meet your specific needs.
Using a Free VPN Instead
While premium VPN services offer top-notch security and a wide range of features, they can be expensive. If you’re on a tight budget, you may be tempted to turn to a free VPN service. However, it’s important to keep in mind that most free VPNs come with significant drawbacks.
One major issue with free VPNs is that they often mine your browsing data and inject tracking cookies into your browser. This means that your online activity may not be as private as you think. Additionally, free VPNs typically have bandwidth limits and data caps, which can severely limit your browsing experience.
If you do decide to use a free VPN, it’s important to choose one that has a good reputation and is transparent about its data policies. Some recommended free VPNs include Windscribe, ProtonVPN, and TunnelBear. Keep in mind that even with a reputable free VPN, you may still experience slower speeds and limited server options.
Overall, while a free VPN may be a tempting option, it’s important to carefully weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.
VPNs to Avoid in Italy
If you’re looking for a VPN to use in Italy, it’s important to know which ones to avoid. Here are three VPNs that have garnered negative attention in Italy:
PureVPN
PureVPN, a Hong Kong-based company, has come under fire for its misleading no-logs policy. One of its users was arrested for stalking, and PureVPN handed over logs of IP addresses to US law enforcement, leading to the man’s arrest. While the man’s actions were not condoned, the incident raised questions about PureVPN’s security and integrity.
AirVPN
Although AirVPN has a stellar reputation in the VPN community for its strict zero-logs policy and security standards, it’s incorporated in Italy, which puts it within the jurisdiction of Italian authorities. As a result, it may not be the best choice for people in Italy who want to ensure their privacy and security.
HolaVPN
Israel-based Hola once had a large user base, but it was discovered that the company had deployed machines as pawns in a massive botnet army. Hola users’ bandwidth was used for things like Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks, promoting pirated content, and distributing pornography, all without their consent.
If you’re in Italy, it’s best to avoid these VPNs and instead choose a reputable provider that prioritizes your privacy and security.
Italy’s Data Retention and Mass Surveillance Laws
If you are using the internet in Italy, your internet service provider (ISP) is required by law to retain certain information about you for at least 12 months. This includes metadata such as your source and destination IP addresses, time, duration, device, and user location. However, the law does not specify what traffic must be retained, nor does it require the storage of the contents of internet communications.
The Italian government is currently considering extending the retention period from 12 months to six years, which has raised concerns among privacy groups. Additionally, authorities or your ISP may be able to monitor your web activity without judicial review, potentially allowing them to see the actual contents of your browsing data, not just metadata.
In March 2017, the Senate voted on a new bill that regulates hacking for criminal investigations. However, privacy groups have expressed concerns about the lack of adequate safeguards in the bill.
Given these concerns, it is advisable to use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) when using the internet in Italy to ensure your online privacy and security.
Is it legal to use a VPN for Italy?
Yes, it is completely legal to use a VPN in Italy. VPNs are legal in most countries, including Italy. However, it is important to note that we are not legal experts and this should not be considered legal advice. If you are unsure about the legality of VPNs in your location, it is recommended to consult a professional or research local laws for yourself.
Will a VPN for Italy impact my internet speed?
Using a VPN for Italy will have a slight negative impact on your internet speed. This is due to the encryption, routing, and decryption processes that take place when sending and receiving data through a VPN server. You should expect a decrease of approximately 10 percent in your maximum internet speed.
However, some VPNs may have a more significant impact on your internet speed due to poor optimization and congested servers. To ensure a faster connection, we recommend using a VPN that meets our minimum speed requirements. This should be sufficient for streaming high-definition videos without any buffering issues.
Do Any VPNs for Italy Offer a Free Trial?
If you’re hesitant to commit to a VPN without trying it first, you’ll be pleased to know that some VPNs offer free trials. Unfortunately, none of the VPNs recommended for Italy in this article offer free trials. However, you can check out our roundup of the best VPNs that do offer free trials. Alternatively, you can take advantage of the money-back guarantees offered by the recommended VPNs and cancel before the guarantee expires if you’re not satisfied.
Here’s a quick summary of the VPNs recommended for Italy and their money-back guarantee periods:
| VPN | Money-Back Guarantee Period |
|---|---|
| ExpressVPN | 30 days |
| NordVPN | 30 days |
| CyberGhost | 45 days |
| Surfshark | 30 days |
| Private Internet Access | 30 days |
Remember, if you do decide to take advantage of a money-back guarantee, be sure to cancel before the guarantee expires to avoid being charged.
Is Torrenting Legal in Italy?
Torrenting copyrighted material without permission is illegal in Italy, similar to the laws in the rest of the European Union. However, torrenting itself is not illegal. If caught, fines can be issued on a per-item-downloaded basis, but these laws are rarely enforced.
Italian courts have ordered ISPs to block access to several torrent tracking websites, including ThePirateBay, on two occasions. Although these sites remain blocked in Italy, they can still be accessed with a VPN.
It is important to note that Comparitech does not condone or encourage any violation of copyright restrictions. Before downloading any copyrighted material without permission, consider the law, victims, and risks of piracy.
How to Confirm Your IP Address Has Been Changed to Italy
To confirm that your IP address has been changed to Italy, there are a few methods you can use. Firstly, you can check within your VPN app, where it should display the server location and IP address. If the server location is in Italy and the IP address is also Italian, then your IP address has been successfully changed.
Alternatively, you can use an IP Address Check tool or visit whatismyip.com. These options will display your current IP address and approximate location. If the IP address displayed is Italian, then your IP address has been changed to Italy.
Using any of these methods will give you the confidence and knowledge that your IP address has been successfully changed to Italy, allowing you to access region-locked content.
Can You Use These VPNs to Access ChatGPT in Italy?
If you are in Italy and experiencing difficulty accessing ChatGPT due to the government’s data protection authority, you can use any of the VPNs recommended in this guide to bypass the blocks.
By connecting to a VPN server in a country where ChatGPT is still available, such as the UK, France, or the USA, you can obtain a valid IP address in that country. This allows you to log in to the OpenAI website and use your ChatGPT account without any issues.
It is important to note that if you paid for a ChatGPT Plus account in March and receive a refund, you may lose access to your Plus account. To continue using ChatGPT Plus in Italy without interruptions, we suggest connecting to a VPN server and placing another order to obtain a Plus account registered in a different country.
The duration of the temporary ban on ChatGPT in Italy is currently unknown. However, with the use of any of the recommended VPNs, you can continue to use ChatGPT without any restrictions.
For more information on using ChatGPT in Italy and to find out which VPNs are best for accessing ChatGPT, follow the links provided.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top VPN services for streaming in Italy?
If you are looking to stream content in Italy, you want a VPN that offers fast speeds and reliable connections. Some of the top VPN services for streaming in Italy include ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and CyberGhost VPN. These VPNs have servers located in Italy, which means you can access content that is typically only available in the country.
Which VPNs offer the best free options in Italy?
While there are some free VPNs available in Italy, they often come with limitations such as data caps and slower speeds. If you are looking for a VPN with a free option, some of the best options include Windscribe and ProtonVPN. However, keep in mind that these free options may not offer the same level of security and privacy as paid VPNs.
Can I use a VPN on my iPhone while in Italy?
Yes, you can use a VPN on your iPhone while in Italy. Most VPNs offer apps for iOS devices, making it easy to connect to a server and browse the internet securely and privately. Make sure to choose a VPN that offers a user-friendly app and has servers located in Italy for the best experience.
How can I find a VPN with servers located in Italy?
When choosing a VPN for Italy, you want to make sure it has servers located in the country. You can find this information on the VPN’s website or by contacting their customer support. Some of the top VPNs with servers located in Italy include ExpressVPN, NordVPN, CyberGhost VPN, and Private Internet Access.
Are there any legal issues with using a VPN in Italy?
There are no specific laws in Italy that prohibit the use of VPNs. However, it is important to note that using a VPN to engage in illegal activities is still against the law. Make sure to use a VPN for legal purposes only and follow the laws of the country.
What should I look for when choosing a VPN for Italy?
When choosing a VPN for Italy, you want to look for a few key features. These include servers located in Italy, fast speeds, strong encryption, user-friendly apps, and reliable customer support. Additionally, you may want to consider the VPN’s logging policy and whether they offer a free trial or money-back guarantee.
