Best VPNs for Italy in 2024
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Living in Italy means your online activity isn’t as private as you might hope. ISPs and the government have the legal right to monitor and collect your data, and because Italy is part of the Fourteen Eyes Alliance, this information can be shared with other member countries. This is a real concern if you value your privacy.
A reliable VPN provider encrypts your data, keeping it hidden from your ISP (internet service provider), the government, and third parties. Additionally, the best VPN for Italy will operate under a no-logs policy, ensuring your information is not collected or stored to be potentially shared with authorities.
I’ve tested plenty of VPN providers and collected the list of the 5 best VPNs for Italy that will ensure your data security, privacy, great connections, and options to access global content libraries, including Italian channels like RaiPlay, Rete 4, and others.
Top 5 best Italy VPNs
- NordVPN – the best VPN for Italy overall
- Surfshark – budget-friendly VPN with a lot of Italian servers
- Proton VPN – strong free VPN for Italy
- ExpressVPN – great Italy VPN for security
- CyberGhost – best VPN for streaming in Italy
How we selected and tested these VPNs for Italy
To find the best VPNs for Italy, with the Cybernews research team, I conducted extensive tests and research, focusing on features that ensure online privacy, secure data, and access to Italian and international content. My goal was to help users bypass restrictions, protect their privacy, and enjoy seamless connectivity for browsing, streaming, and gaming. Each factor was weighted for importance based on its relevance to VPN performance in Italy.
- Privacy and security (30%). Privacy is paramount, especially in Italy, where government regulations allow ISPs to store and monitor user data. The VPNs I selected all offer industry-standard AES-256 encryption to protect your data from hackers and snoopers. I also looked for automatic kill switches to prevent accidental IP leaks if your VPN connection drops. A strict no-logs policy and RAM-only servers were non-negotiable to ensure anonymity and that no data was stored. Furthermore, the provider’s jurisdiction is vital – those based in privacy-friendly countries outside the Fourteen Eyes alliance scored higher. Features like split tunneling also enhance security by letting users control which apps go through the VPN, adding convenience while maintaining privacy.
- Server network (25%). A server network is essential for accessing both local and global content. The VPNs I tested offer multiple servers in Italy, covering key locations like Rome, Milan, and Naples. These servers are perfect for unblocking Italian streaming platforms like RaiPlay and Mediaset Infinity while abroad. Additionally, nearby servers in neighboring countries improve performance and provide flexibility when you need faster connections or alternative options. A vast international server network is equally important, allowing users in Italy to access platforms like Netflix US or BBC iPlayer. The more servers available, the better the reliability, speed, and access to geo-restricted content.
- Connection speed (20%). Speed plays a critical role in providing a smooth online experience. During testing, I evaluated each VPN’s download and upload speeds, speed retention, and overall performance. This ensures that users can stream Serie A matches, play online games, or download files without buffering or delays. VPNs with consistently high speeds, even on distant servers, ranked higher.
- Streaming capabilities (15%). Italy has a vibrant streaming culture, and bypassing geo-restrictions is a top priority for many users. The VPNs I selected excel at unblocking popular Italian streaming platforms like RaiPlay, Mediaset Infinity, and Sky Italia. They also work seamlessly with international streaming services, including Netflix Italy, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+. Sports fans can enjoy unrestricted access to Serie A matches, Champions League games, or Formula 1 races.
- Device compatibility (10%). A great VPN should work on all your devices. The VPNs I reviewed are compatible with major operating systems like Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. They also support Smart TVs, routers, and gaming consoles, making them versatile for any setup. Additionally, I prioritized VPNs that offer multiple simultaneous connections, so you can protect your entire household with one subscription.
The best VPNs for Italy – our detailed list
Picking the best VPN for Italy is simpler with my top recommendations. NordVPN, Surfshark, and ProtonVPN stand out for their security features and ability to unblock Italian and international content. ExpressVPN and CyberGhost VPN also deliver solid performance, making them excellent choices depending on your needs. Each of these VPNs was tested to ensure reliable speeds, privacy, and streaming capabilities.
1. NordVPN – the best VPN option for Italy
| Based in: | Panama |
| Servers/countries: | 6900+ servers in 111 countries |
| Servers in Italy: | Rome, Milan, and Palermo |
| Current deal: | Get 74% OFF NordVPN + 3 months free |
The top VPN for Italy in our list is NordVPN. This is the market leader with a large server fleet and great speed and protection. No surprise why it’s a favorite for Italy as well.
Overall, NordVPN has over 6900 servers in 111 locations, but when it comes to just Italy – there are more servers in Milan, Rome, and Palermo. So you shouldn’t have to deal with slow connections or overcrowded servers.
Security and privacy. For security coverage, NordVPN offers secure AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryptions. The tried and tested reliable kill switch will prevent accidental data leaks of your real IP and other personal information. Also, there’s a strict and audited no-logs policy, and NordVPN works on RAM-only servers, so you can be certain that your information isn’t collected for any purpose.
Performance. Performance wise, this VPN is unbeatable as well, thanks to the market’s fastest and most secure NordLynx protocol. Additionally, the obfuscation feature will hide your connection through a VPN and the dedicated P2P servers will offer great torrenting speeds.
Features. The split tunneling feature will allow you to pick and choose which apps need to go through a VPN connection. Additionally, there are double VPN, Onion over VPN, and private DNS features for better security.
Streaming. When it comes to streaming, NordVPN managed to unblock all of the popular streaming sites, including Netflix, HBO Max, Disney+, and many Italian channels, like RaiPlay, Canale 5, and others. We’ve not experienced lags of buffers during our test, and the video was in HD quality. So NordVPN surely is the top choice for streaming.
You can get NordVPN starting from $2.99/month and cover up to 10 devices simultaneously. Additionally, you can try it risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee and a 7-day free trial for Android users.
2. Surfshark – the most cost-effective VPN for Italy
| Based in: | The Netherlands |
| Servers/countries: | 3200+ servers in 100 countries |
| Servers in Italy: | Milan, Rome |
| Current deal: | Now up to 87% OFF Surfshark + 4 months FREE |
Another superb VPN option for Italy in our list is Surfshark. This VPN provider offers great security for a little price, and two locations for their Italian servers – Milan and Rome. Overall, there are more than 3200 servers in 100 locations, and with Surfshark you can simultaneously connect an unlimited number of devices.
Security and privacy. Surfshark offers reliable security with the AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryptions, additionally, there’s an IP rotation feature that constantly changes your IP address. As with any other premium provider, there’s a reliable kill switch and split tunneling features. And since Surfshark works with RAM-only servers and doesn’t log any of your information, your data will stay anonymous and secure.
Performance. For connection speeds, there will be no issues thanks to the market standard WireGuard protocol. Additionally, there are obfuscated and P2P servers. So torrenting will be quick and easy with this VPN.
Features. Surfshark also has a MultiHop (double VPN) feature, private DNS, and leak protection for additional security. Also, there’s an ad blocker, antivirus software, and malware and tracker blocker.
Streaming. There are no issues when it comes to streaming either – Surfshark can unblock Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and many other popular streaming sites and Italian channels. During my tests, the streaming quality was of the highest standard and really impressive, with no noticeable lags.
Surfshark is an extremely-budget friendly VPN provider. The starting price is only $1.99/month, and there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee.
3. Proton VPN – a great free VPN for Italy
| Based in: | Switzerland |
| Servers/countries: | 9200+ servers in 112 countries |
| Servers in Italy: | Milan |
| Current deal: | Get up to 70% OFF ProtonVPN |
Another excellent VPN for Italy is ProtonVPN, known for its focus on privacy and robust security. With servers in over 112 countries, including multiple options in Italy, ProtonVPN offers a secure and reliable connection for accessing local and international content.
Security and privacy. ProtonVPN uses AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryption to keep your data safe from prying eyes. Its strict no-logs policy has been independently audited, ensuring your online activities remain private. Moreover, ProtonVPN operates under Swiss jurisdiction, offering strong privacy protection outside the Fourteen Eyes surveillance alliance.
Performance. Powered by the WireGuard protocol, ProtonVPN delivers excellent speeds and secure connections. It also features Secure Core servers, which route your traffic through multiple layers of encryption for added security. Additionally, ProtonVPN has specialized servers for P2P traffic, making it an excellent choice for torrenting.
Features. ProtonVPN includes a kill switch to protect your data if the VPN connection drops, DNS leak protection, and split tunneling, allowing you to choose which apps or websites bypass the VPN. These features enhance security and flexibility for everyday use.
Streaming. ProtonVPN performs well for streaming, successfully unblocking popular platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and Hulu during our tests. While it may not match some competitors in server count, its streaming capabilities remain strong for accessing global content.
You can start using ProtonVPN for free with a limited plan or upgrade to its premium tiers for as low as $2.99/month. Premium plans support up to 10 simultaneous connections and come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to try it risk-free.
4. ExpressVPN – intuitive and secure VPN for Italy
| Based in: | British Virgin Islands |
| Servers/countries: | 3000+ servers in 105 countries |
| Servers in Italy: | Milan, Naples, and Cosenza |
| Current deal: | Now up to 61% OFF ExpressVPN + 4 months FREE |
ExpressVPN is a high-performance VPN provider known for its speed, security, and reliability. While its premium pricing may not appeal to everyone, ExpressVPN delivers exceptional value with its advanced features and consistent ability to bypass geo-restrictions. Here's why it stands out as a top choice for Italy:
Server network. ExpressVPN boasts a global network of 3000+ servers across 105 countries, including multiple options in Italy. This ensures you can easily access local Italian content like RaiPlay or Mediaset Infinity and international platforms such as Netflix US or BBC iPlayer. The servers are strategically located for minimal latency and maximum performance.
Security and privacy. ExpressVPN uses AES-256 encryption and runs all its servers on TrustedServer technology (RAM-only), ensuring no data is stored on physical hard drives. Its independently audited no-logs policy guarantees privacy for users in Italy and worldwide. The provider is also based in the privacy-friendly British Virgin Islands, offering further protection from invasive data regulations.
Performance. ExpressVPN supports the Lightway protocol, known for its ultra-fast speeds and low power consumption. During our tests in Italy, the VPN maintained excellent speed retention, allowing for smooth streaming, gaming, and browsing, even on distant servers.
Features. ExpressVPN comes equipped with a reliable kill switch, DNS leak protection, and split tunneling. The MediaStreamer feature allows users to unblock content on devices that don't support VPN apps, such as smart TVs and gaming consoles.
Streaming. ExpressVPN excels at bypassing geo-restrictions, granting access to Netflix Italy, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and more. It’s also a fantastic option for streaming Serie A matches or other sports events like the Champions League.
Pricing. Plans start at $6.67/month (with a 12-month subscription) and come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing users to test the service risk-free. Though it’s on the pricier side, the consistent performance and robust feature set make ExpressVPN worth the investment.
5. CyberGhost VPN – a streaming-friendly VPN in Italy
| Based in: | Romania |
| Servers/countries: | Servers in 100 countries |
| Servers in Italy: | Milan and Rome |
| Current deal: | Get 84% OFF CyberGhost + 4 months FREE |
If you’re looking for a VPN that’s easy to use while offering powerful features, CyberGhostVPN stands out as a reliable choice for users in Italy. With its extensive server network and streaming capabilities, it’s a strong contender for those who want seamless online access and privacy.
Server network. CyberGhost has servers spread across 100 countries, including locations in Rome and Milan. This makes it an excellent choice for accessing both local Italian content and international platforms. It even offers specialized servers for streaming, gaming, and torrenting, which are designed to deliver optimal performance based on your activity.
Security and privacy. CyberGhost prioritizes your security with AES-256 encryption and a no-logs policy that has been independently verified. Its base in Romania – a privacy-friendly country outside the Fourteen Eyes alliance – adds another layer of reassurance for users concerned about data collection.
Performance. With support for fast and secure tunneling protocols like WireGuard, CyberGhostVPN provides consistently strong performance. Whether connecting to local servers or those further afield, the service handles high-bandwidth activities like HD streaming and large file downloads with ease.
Features. CyberGhost is packed with helpful tools, such as an automatic kill switch to prevent accidental data exposure and DNS leak protection. Its Smart Rules feature lets you automate tasks, such as connecting to a specific server when using public Wi-Fi. Split tunneling also allows you to decide which apps go through the VPN and which don’t.
Streaming. This VPN is a favorite for streaming enthusiasts, offering dedicated servers that easily bypass restrictions on Netflix Italy, RaiPlay, Disney+, and more. Whether you’re catching up on local TV shows or diving into international content, CyberGhostVPN ensures a smooth, lag-free experience.
Pricing. CyberGhostVPN is affordable, with plans starting as low as $2.03/month when you opt for a longer subscription. It supports up to 7 simultaneous connections, making it ideal for families or users with multiple devices. Plus, the generous 45-day money-back guarantee provides plenty of time to test the service risk-free.
Best Italy VPNs compared
| Brand | Rating | Price (lowest price per month) | Italian servers | Fastest protocol | Simultaneous connections | Safety and privacy-related features | Based in |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | $2.99/month | 3 locations | NordLynx | 10 | ✅ | Panama | |
| Surfshark | $1.99/month | 2 locations | WireGuard | Unlimited | ✅ | The Netherlands | |
| Proton VPN | $2.99/month | 1 location | WireGuard | 10 | ✅ | Switzerland | |
| ExpressVPN | $4.99/month | 3 locations | Lightway | 8 | ✅ | British Virgin Islands | |
| CyberGhost | From $2.03/month | 2 locations | WireGuard | 7 | ✅ | Romania |
Why do you need a VPN in Italy?
There are several reasons why you might need a VPN in Italy. Here are some of them:
- Privacy online. No matter where you are, it’s important to ensure your privacy and security online. Considering that Italy is a part of the 14-Eyes Alliance, they clearly have issues when it comes to data security. Government authority can be surveilling your data. A VPN helps bypass this surveillance by hiding your real IP address and masking your browsing activity.
- Hide your activity from ISP. Your ISP can see your geographical location, track which websites you visit, how long you spend on certain websites, what videos you’re watching, and which device you use. This information can be used for targeting advertisements or to sell it to third parties. A VPN can mask your activity online, so while the ISP sees that you’re online, they can’t know where you’re browsing or what.
- Accessing geo-blocked streaming content. A VPN is a great tool to not only unblock streaming sites but to also access unlimited global content libraries. Additionally, a VPN will not only unblock Netflix for you but will help you watch Italian shows while you’re abroad.
- Torrenting. While file sharing through torrenting is legal in Italy, P2P connections require a lot of bandwidth. Your ISP may try to throttle such connections, so a VPN for torrenting can help out to avoid these restrictions.
- Accessing blocked websites. Certain internet restrictions exist in Italy. One of them is that gambling websites are blocked. However, with a VPN you can securely and anonymously access those blocked pages.
- Securing your connection. There’s no secret that whenever you use a public wifi connection, you’re risking your data security. A VPN encrypts your data and secures your connection even with a public internet connection. So you don’t need to worry that your data will be hacked and stolen while you connect to the public wifi.
Internet censorship in Italy
There are a few instances of Italian internet censorship. Illegal gambling sites are banned in the country, just as sharing of copyrighted content. However, the biggest issue is the lack of privacy, since there are a lot of leeways that the Italian government and law enforcement give themselves when it comes to surveillance of internet traffic.
Additionally, Italy is a part of the Fourteen-Eyes Alliance group and therefore can share the collected information with other member countries. So not only can your country’s government get access to your online data, but so can others. That is a violation of privacy, but luckily a VPN can easily solve these issues.
Torrenting in Italy
Overall, sharing files via torrenting is allowed in Italy. However, like in the majority of the world, sharing of copyrighted content is illegal no matter if you’re seeking to make financial gains or not. Additionally, I strongly discourage you from breaking this law and encourage you to support fair use only.
Further, it’s known that Italian ISPs have previously blocked certain torrenting sites even if they are used for torrenting legal content. So, for that purpose, I recommend using NordVPN for legal torrenting. This VPN will mask your IP address, provide reliable speeds, and has P2P servers to offer you the safest and fastest experience while torrenting.
Government surveillance in Italy
Government surveillance is a big issue in Italy. Surveillance laws are constantly being updated and adapted, like introducing new requirements for wiretapping phones and computers.
It’s permitted and legal for law enforcement in Italy to use hacking techniques for criminal investigations. It is declared that in some circumstances it is constitutional and does not contradict human rights, but there are no clear definitions and boundaries that would safeguard civilian data from being breached.
Additionally, Italian ISPs are required to collect users’ online activity data and provide it to the government authorities for criminal investigations or to prevent crimes. Also, ISPs can store user data for up to 6 years.
Watching pirated content in Italy
Italy has taken a firm stance against digital piracy, introducing significant measures to curb illegal streaming and protect intellectual property. Recent efforts focus on targeting not only the providers of pirated content but also individual viewers who access such streams.
The centerpiece of Italy’s crackdown is the implementation of the Piracy Shield system, which allows for the swift blocking of illegal streams. Rights holders can report piracy, prompting the system to block offending websites and IP addresses within 30 minutes. While operational now, full functionality is expected by January 2025 as ISPs refine their integration processes.
Additionally, strict penalties have been introduced. Individuals caught watching pirated content face fines of up to €5,000, with smaller penalties of €154 for first-time offenders. Repeat violations come with harsher repercussions, and failing to report piracy could lead to up to a year of imprisonment.
To improve enforcement, the Italian Communications Regulatory Authority (AgCom) has partnered with law enforcement to identify and penalize users of illegal streams through IP tracking. This collaboration ensures penalties are effectively applied. The new measures present serious risks for individuals consuming pirated content. Watching illegal streams in Italy now carries significant legal consequences, including financial penalties and possible imprisonment for non-compliance with anti-piracy laws.
Furthermore, the focus on identifying users raises privacy concerns. Monitoring online activities to detect piracy could lead to broader surveillance, impacting general digital privacy in Italy.
These developments highlight the need for users to carefully consider their streaming habits. As Italy adopts a no-tolerance approach to piracy, accessing illegal content has become a high-risk activity with severe consequences.
Italy content you can watch with a VPN
One of the greatest VPN’s advantages is that it allows you to stream a variety of global content. Whether it is via streaming sites or accessing local channels while abroad.
Here are some of the streaming platforms that you can access via VPN:
- Netflix
- Amazon Prime Video
- Disney+
And these are some of the channels you can access:
- RaiPlay
- Rete 4
- DMAX
- LA7
- Sky
- Ansa
- Canale 5
- Eurosport
A reliable VPN provider will not only encrypt your data, but you can securely stream different shows or movies from different streaming sites as well. It will also unlock the exponential global content library, so you can always find something to consume.
Can I use a free VPN in Italy?
Overall, yes, you can use a free VPN in Italy. There are no laws, rules, or regulations that go against that. However, whether you should use a free VPN is a different issue.
I strongly recommend against using a free VPN provider, since it will be less secure, and have limited server options and locations, so you will have to deal with overcrowded servers and lags. Additionally, free providers might be more inclined to sell your information to third parties, since they don’t make any profit from you buying their subscription, and you may be targeted with malicious ads.
An alternative to that is a freemium VPN – that is a premium VPN provider with either a limited free plan, free trial, or a reliable money-back guarantee. The great option would be Proton VPN. I’ve tested its abilities and deemed them as a safe freemium option, however, you will get limited features and support with a free plan.
However, if you want the best possible experience from a VPN, then I suggest investing in a premium NordVPN. With this provider, you’ll get the best speed results, the highest level of security, a large server fleet, and great additional features. All that will surely make your experience online both safer and more enjoyable.
Final thoughts
There are many purposes to having a VPN. Whether it is to enjoy global streaming content libraries, securely and anonymously torrent files, or ensure your security and data protection while browsing in Italy. Overall a VPN is the best way to protect yourself online and enjoy the best that the internet has to offer.
With Italy’s issues with privacy online, it’s a given that a VPN is the best option for everyone concerned about their data security and anonymity. Our top pick to ensure your data security is NordVPN. This VPN provider is the most secure, has the best connection speeds, has a large global server fleet that includes Italy as well, and is the most trustworthy provider with reliable privacy and logging policies. You won’t need to worry about your data being collected or shared with the government.
All in all, a VPN in Italy is a necessity if you are concerned about your data privacy and wish to enjoy risk-free browsing online.
FAQ
What’s the best VPN for Italy?
NordVPN is the best VPN for Italy. It has the best speed and security results, a large server fleet to unblock global content, specialized servers, and unblocks the majority of streaming sites. With this VPN you’ll have the best browsing experience locally and globally.
Which VPN has servers in Italy?
All VPNs on our list offer servers in Italy, making them great for accessing local content. However, ExpressVPN and NordVPN stand out with the largest server networks in Italy.
Are VPNs legal in Italy?
Yes, VPNs are legal in Italy. However, using a VPN for illegal activities is not permitted or suggested.
How can I watch Italian Netflix?
You'll need to first get a VPN provider – our top pick is NordVPN. Then, after you create your account and download the application to your device, you’ll need to choose an Italian server, connect to it and then go to Netflix. That’s it, you should be able to access all of the Italian content on the Netflix streaming platform.
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