The Best VPNs for Italy

Italy is known for its rich culture, delicious cuisine, and beautiful landscapes, but when it comes to internet freedom and privacy, there are reasons users might want to consider using a VPN. Whether you’re an Italian resident, an expat, or a traveler, a Virtual Private Network (VPN) can help you maintain privacy, bypass content restrictions, and access geo-blocked services from abroad. This article explores the best VPNs for Italy based on performance, security, and accessibility.

Why Use a VPN in Italy?

While Italy does not impose highly restrictive internet censorship like some other countries, there are instances where a VPN proves valuable:

• Accessing geo-blocked content such as Netflix US, BBC iPlayer, or other international streaming services.
• Enhancing privacy and security when browsing on public Wi-Fi networks.
• Bypassing sports blackouts or content restrictions imposed by local broadcasters.

Moreover, internet surveillance is still a concern. A quality VPN masks your IP address and encrypts your internet traffic, making it nearly impossible for third parties to monitor your online activity.

Top VPNs for Italy in 2024

1. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN ranks top among VPNs suitable for Italy. With lightning-fast connection speeds and 3,000+ servers in over 90 countries, including multiple servers in Milan and Cosenza, it ensures smooth streaming and secure browsing. It utilizes military-grade AES-256 encryption and offers a strict no-logs policy.

• Pros: Excellent for streaming and torrenting, great customer support, easy-to-use apps.
• Cons: Slightly more expensive than competitors.

2. NordVPN

NordVPN is a well-known name in the VPN market, and it works exceptionally well in Italy. It has over 5,000 servers in 60+ countries, with several located in Italy. Features include Double VPN for extra encryption, CyberSec to block ads and malware, and a kill switch to protect your identity.

• Pros: Great balance between price and performance, excellent security features.
• Cons: Desktop app interface can be overwhelming for beginners.

3. Surfshark

Surfshark is the best budget VPN for Italy. Despite its low price, it offers unlimited device connections, fast speeds, and 3,200+ servers worldwide. It’s an excellent choice for families or users with multiple devices. Surfshark has Italian servers and excels at bypassing geo-blocks, especially for streaming services.

• Pros: Affordable, good streaming capabilities, unlimited devices.
• Cons: Some advanced settings missing compared to top-tier VPNs.

4. CyberGhost

CyberGhost has a user-friendly interface and access to over 9,000 servers worldwide, including over 180 servers in Italy. It’s ideal for beginners and those focused on streaming since it labels which servers are optimized for specific platforms like Netflix or Hulu.

• Pros: Dedicated streaming servers, generous 45-day money-back guarantee.
• Cons: Speeds may vary on distant servers.

5. Private Internet Access (PIA)

PIA is another solid choice for VPN users in Italy. It has a massive network and plenty of customizable settings for tech-savvy users. PIA also supports SOCKS5 proxy and split tunneling, features that provide flexibility for a better online experience.

• Pros: Highly configurable, affordable long-term plans.
• Cons: Based in the US, which may concern privacy purists.

Choosing the Right VPN for Italy

When selecting the best VPN for Italy, users should consider:

• Speed and server availability within or near Italy.
• Strong security protocols and zero-logs policy.
• Compatibility with streaming platforms and torrenting.
• Ease of use across devices like smartphones, laptops, and routers.

Whether it’s for streaming foreign content, safeguarding personal information, or browsing securely on public networks, choosing the right VPN ensures a safe and unrestricted online experience while in Italy.

FAQ – Best VPNs for Italy

• Is it legal to use a VPN in Italy?
  Yes, using a VPN is legal in Italy, provided it’s not used for illegal activities.
• Which VPN works best for Netflix in Italy?
  ExpressVPN and NordVPN are both excellent for accessing multiple Netflix libraries including the US, UK, and Japan.
• Can I use a free VPN in Italy?
  While there are free VPNs available, they often come with limitations such as slower speeds, fewer servers, and data caps. For better performance and security, a premium VPN is recommended.
• Does my VPN need to have servers in Italy?
  Yes, if you want to access content as if you’re located in Italy or enjoy faster local connections, having servers within the country can be beneficial.
• What’s the most affordable VPN for Italy?
  Surfshark offers great value for money with features on par with premium services and affordable monthly plans.