How to Watch Italian TV in The UK [Easy Solution]

If you miss your favorite channels from home, then you know that watching Italian TV in the UK can be a challenge.

As someone who’s been dealing with geo-restrictions for quite a few years now, I can relate. And I can also help you out.

Let me show you a simple and effective solution to get you back on track in no time:

Quick guide: How to watch Italian TV in the UK

Just follow these simple steps:

1. Pick a reliable VPN. For geo-unblocking, my go-to service is ExpressVPN.
2. Download and install the VPN app on your device.
3. Connect to a server in Italy.
4. Visit your chosen Italian TV streaming service and start watching!

Why do I need a VPN to watch Italian TV in the UK?

A VPN masks your IP address, making it appear as if you’re browsing from Italy. This is essential because Italian broadcasters restrict access to their content to viewers within Italy due to licensing agreements.

Trying to access Italian channels will result in an error message like this one:

However, with a reliable Italian VPN, the message is gone and the platform lets you in:

So, here’s how to get the same result:

How to watch Italian TV in the UK

As you’ve probably noticed already, a VPN is your way in. However, not every service can do the trick.

You need a VPN with servers in Italy, robust security features to keep your activities hidden, and fast speeds, so you can stream in high quality.

To get it all, I recommend that you:

Use ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN consistently ranks among the fastest VPNs on the market and it also offers great unblocking capabilities.

The setup process is pretty straightforward:

1. Visit ExpressVPN’s website and pick a subscription.
2. Download and install the app on your streaming device.
3. Open the app, select a server located in Italy, and connect.
4. Once connected, navigate to the Italian TV website or app of your choice.
5. Enjoy your favorite Italian TV shows and channels!

Now, let me show you why I recommend ExpressVPN. And if for some reason you think it’s not the best choice for you, I’ve prepared some great alternatives:

Best VPNs to watch Italian TV in the UK

To get the best results, you need a high-quality VPN. I tested over 15 providers and boiled it down to the best 5. I based my picks on server availability in Italy, unblocking capabilities, and speed – all of which are crucial for high-quality, hassle-free streaming.

Here are my top picks:

ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is a top-tier VPN service that offers a combination of speed, security, and ease of use, making it an excellent choice for streaming Italian TV in the UK. 

With over 3,000 servers in 94 countries, including Italy, you’re guaranteed a reliable and fast connection, which is crucial for streaming live events without interruption.

ExpressVPN uses advanced 256-bit AES encryption to ensure that your online activities remain private. Additionally, its TrustedServer technology ensures that your data is never written to a hard drive, a boon for privacy-conscious users.

ExpressVPN’s speed is a standout feature, especially when it comes to high-quality streaming. The service also offers a Smart DNS feature. It’s called MediaStreamer and it lets you unblock content on devices that don’t support VPNs natively, like smart TVs and gaming consoles.

✅ Pros:

• Exceptionally fast speeds for streaming without buffering.
• Strong encryption and privacy features to keep your viewing habits secure.
• MediaStreamer feature for devices that do not support VPN applications.

❌ Cons:

• Higher cost than many other VPN services.

ExpressVPN

Easily unblock your favorite Italian channels in the UK with this leading VPN provider.

Try now Visit website

NordVPN

NordVPN is another great choice for accessing Italian TV channels from the UK, with over 5,400 servers in 59 countries, including Italy. 

NordVPN is known for its strong security features, such as Double VPN, which routes your connection through two servers for double encryption, and CyberSec, which blocks ads and potential online threats. 

This VPN service also offers obfuscated servers that can bypass internet restrictions and VPN blocks, which is particularly useful for streaming content from abroad.

The service also includes a feature called SmartPlay, which combines VPN and Smart DNS technologies to unblock over 400 geo-restricted streaming services. 

NordVPN provides consistent speeds and has a strict no-logs policy, ensuring that your online activities aren’t recorded.

✅ Pros:

• Large selection of servers, with options optimized for streaming.
• Advanced security features, including Double VPN and CyberSec.
• No-logs policy for enhanced privacy.

❌ Cons:

• Some servers may be slower, affecting streaming quality.

NordVPN

Enjoy great unblocking capabilities and high-level security with NordVPN.

Try now Visit website

Private Internet Access (PIA)

Private Internet Access (PIA) has one of the largest server fleets in the VPN industry, with over 35,000 servers in 77 countries, including Italy. 

This extensive network allows for a high degree of reliability and speed when streaming Italian TV. PIA offers robust encryption with the option to choose between AES-128 and AES-256, catering to those who prioritize speed or security.

PIA also includes an ad and tracker blocker called MACE, which enhances your streaming experience by preventing unwanted interruptions. For users who enjoy a customized experience, PIA provides advanced settings that allow you to tweak everything from encryption levels to the use of custom DNS servers.

✅ Pros:

• A vast network of servers for reliable connections.
• Customizable encryption settings to balance speed and security.
• Ad and tracker blocking with the MACE feature.

❌ Cons:

• Advanced features may be daunting for less tech-savvy users.

Private Internet Access

Benefit from numerous servers in Italy and make quick work of geo-restrictions with PIA.

Try now Visit website

Surfshark

With 3,200+ servers in 65+ countries, including Italy, Surfshark offers a seamless streaming experience. One of the most appealing aspects of Surfshark is its offer of unlimited simultaneous connections, allowing you to stream Italian TV on as many devices as you want without additional cost.

Surfshark employs AES-256-GCM encryption and offers a suite of additional security features, such as MultiHop, which routes your traffic through multiple servers for added security, and CleanWeb, which blocks ads, trackers, and malware. 

The NoBorders mode is particularly useful for ensuring access in restrictive regions, making it a solid choice for watching Italian TV in the UK.

✅ Pros:

• Unlimited simultaneous device connections.
• MultiHop and CleanWeb features for enhanced security and a cleaner browsing experience.
• Competitive pricing without compromising on features.

❌ Cons:

• Speeds can be inconsistent when connecting to servers farther away.

Surfshark

Unblock your favorite Italian TV channels with this affordable yet effective VPN.

Try now Visit website

CyberGhost

CyberGhost boasts a vast network of over 9,000 servers in 91 countries, with numerous servers in Italy that are fine-tuned for streaming. 

It offers specialized profiles within its app to optimize your connection for streaming, gaming, or torrenting, depending on your needs.

The VPN service includes an automatic kill switch and DNS leak protection, ensuring that your data doesn’t get exposed accidentally. 

CyberGhost also stands out for its user-friendly interface, which is great for those new to VPNs. Additionally, the service offers a generous 45-day money-back guarantee, giving you ample time to test its capabilities.

✅ Pros:

• Streaming-optimized servers for a smooth viewing experience.
• User-friendly interface suitable for beginners.
• Generous 45-day money-back guarantee.

❌ Cons:

• Some streaming services have been known to block CyberGhost.
• The monthly plan can be pricey compared to longer-term subscriptions.

CyberGhost

Benefit from streaming-optimized servers and a beginner-friendly interface with CyberGhost.

Try now Visit website

What Italian channels can I watch in the UK with a VPN

With a VPN, you can watch a variety of Italian channels, including:

1. Rai 1 (Free) – Italy’s primary channel with a mix of news, popular talk shows like “Che Tempo Che Fa,” and entertainment.
2. Rai 2 (Free) – Offers entertainment, sports, and reality shows, including “The Voice of Italy.”
3. Rai 3 (Free) – Focuses on culture, regional content, and educational programs, featuring shows like “Chi l’ha visto?”
4. Rete 4 (Free) – Known for news and political commentary, with programs such as “Quarto Grado.”
5. Canale 5 (Free) – A major network for entertainment, soap operas, and the satirical news show “Striscia la Notizia.”
6. Italia 1 (Free) – Targets a younger audience with American series, cartoons, and “Le Iene,” a mix of journalism and entertainment.
7. La7 (Free) – A blend of news, current affairs, and cultural shows, including the political talk show “Otto e Mezzo.”
8. TV8 (Free) – Features a variety of entertainment, including “Italia’s Got Talent.”
9. Nove (Free) – Offers reality shows, documentaries, and “Fratelli di Crozza,” a comedy program.
10. Sky Italia (Paid) – A subscription service with a wide range of channels, known for series like “Gomorrah.”

Is it legal to watch Italian TV in the UK with a VPN

Watching Italian TV in the UK with a VPN  is legal, as none of the two countries has laws against VPN usage. 

However, it may violate the terms of service of certain streaming platforms. It’s important to read and understand the terms and conditions of the streaming service you’re using.

Final thoughts

Watching Italian TV in the UK is easy with the right VPN. Whether you’re looking to catch up on Italian news, enjoy local dramas, or watch live sports, this tool will give you access to a world of Italian content.

Choose from one of the top VPNs I listed above, and you’ll be saying “Ciao” to your favorite Italian shows in no time.