Is there BBC iPlayer Italy? Unfortunately, there’s no BBC iPlayer in Italy because the streaming service is geo-restricted to the United Kingdom. However, you can use a VPN to virtually jump from Italy to the UK and stream BBC iPlayer like you were in the country.
With great content like Doctor Who, Luther, and His Dark Materials, it’s no surprise streamers ask, “Can I use BBC iPlayer in Italy?” Others want to know, “What countries is BBC iPlayer available in?” The answer to these questions is that you cannot use BBC iPlayer in Italy or anywhere outside the United Kingdom.
The BBC iPlayer only allows those with a UK IP address access to its library, so your Italian IP won’t work. A VPN assigns you a new IP address, allowing you to watch BBC iPlayer news or any program of your liking. But with so many VPNs, how do you find one that works with BBC iPlayer? We’ve tested all premium VPNs and have found the best ones for watching BBC iPlayer in Italy. ExpressVPN is our best BBC iPlayer VPN, as we’ll demonstrate in this guide.
BBC iPlayer Italy: How to Watch it Easily in 2023? [Quick Steps]
If you are wondering “How can I watch BBC iPlayer in Europe?” Specifically, in Italy. Then you can do so by acquiring a UK IP address from a VPN. Here are the steps to follow if you don’t know how a VPN works:
- Subscribe to a VPN with fast and reliable UK servers. ExpressVPN is our best BBC iPlayer VPN.
- Download the ExpressVPN app for your device and install it.
- Connect to a server in the United Kingdom.
- Go to the BBC iPlayer website and sign in with your credentials.
- Watch BBC news Italy or sports, movies, series, etc.
Pro Tip: Only count on the best VPNs for BBC iPlayer Italy to securely subscribe to BBC iPlayer in Italy!
How to Watch BBC iPlayer in Italy? [Video Tutorial]
How to watch BBC iPlayer in Italy? It can be hard following the steps above if you aren’t tech-savvy or have never used a VPN before. But here’s a video tutorial guide in case you run into a brick wall.
What is BBC iPlayer in Italy?
BBC iPlayer, a free UK streaming platform, unfortunately, is not available in Italy. BBC iPlayer is only available for UK residents.
Every UK citizen pays a TV license fee, and BBC uses that money to subsidize its national TV and streaming services with the iPlayer. The total amount is about EUR169.7 per year, paid by every citizen, and that’s why the service is unavailable in Italy.
What are The Best VPNs for Watching BBC iPlayer in Italy [Quick Overview]
BBC iPlayer is a geo-restricted streaming platform that doesn’t allow any non-UK IP address in its library. Also, it actively blocks VPN IP addresses and proxy servers, so your ideal VPN must have the best unblocking capability. Here’s a quick overview of our three best BBC iPlayer Italy VPNs:
- ExpressVPN – Best VPN to watch BBC iPlayer in Italy, with fast and reliable server connections. The VPN delivers 92.26Mbps download speed and 89.45 upload speed on our 100Mbps network.
- Surfshark – Most affordable VPN with top VPN features, including unlimited simultaneous connections. It offers 88.48Mbps download speed and 79.42Mbps upload speed.
- NordVPN – Largest Server Network VPN for BBC iPlayer in Italy. NordVPN has a 93.42Mbps download speed and 87.68Mbps upload speed.
Learn more about these three VPNs in our in-depth analysis or jump to the how-to subscribe to BBC iPlayer in Italy section.
Why do I need a VPN to Watch BBC iPlayer in Italy?
No, you cannot watch BBC iPlayer in Italy due to geo-restrictions, which is why you require a premium VPN subscription like ExpressVPN.
Most people want to know how to watch BBC iPlayer in Italy because of the original content they can’t find anywhere else. But any attempt to stream BBC iPlayer content like Match of the Day or Match of the Day 2 ends with this heartbreaking error message:

You’ll get this geo-restriction error while streaming BBC iPlayer in Italy.
This error message leads many to ask questions like “Can I watch BBC iPlayer in Italy?” or “Is BBC iPlayer available in Italy?” This error occurs because BBC iPlayer identifies and automatically blocks your Italian IP address. Fortunately, you can use a VPN like ExpressVPN to stream BBC iPlayer Italy.
The VPN changes your IP address when you connect to one of its UK servers, fooling BBC iPlayer that you’re in the UK while in Italy.
What are the Top 3 VPNs for BBC iPlayer Italy in 2023? [In-Depth Analysis]
Almost every premium VPN claims to offer the best BBC iPlayer unblocking capability, but we only recommend these three after a rigorous testing exercise:
1. ExpressVPN – Best VPN for BBC iPlayer Italy
- Global server network
- Best for uninterrupted streaming
- Slightly pricier monthly subscriptions
- MediaStreamer feature
ExpressVPN’s buffer-free streaming and no server disconnections make it an excellent choice for streaming BBC iPlayer without interruption. In total, ExpressVPN has 3000+ servers in 94 countries.
I connected to the ExpressVPN East London server, which quickly unblocked BBC iPlayer on my iPhone. As a big fan of Doctor Who and Eastenders, I didn’t experience any slowdown when streaming, and it was like I wasn’t using a VPN.

ExpressVPN easily unblocks BBC iPlayer in Italy.
ExpressVPN is a blazing-fast VPN to stream BBC iPlayer in HD and constantly provides 92.26Mbps download speed and 89.45Mbps upload speed on a 100Mbps connection as per the BBC iPlayer speed test.

ExpressVPN offered fast connection speeds on our 100 Mbps connection speed.
ExpressVPN comes with five simultaneous connections and has Linux, iOS, Windows, Android, and Mac apps. Subscribe to ExpressVPN for EUR 6.22 /mo (US$ 6.67 /mo ) (Get 3 Months FREE with annual subscription!).
Recommended Servers
- London
- Wembley
2. Surfshark – Affordable VPN to Watch BBC iPlayer Italy
- Unblocks popular streaming platforms
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- 3200+ servers in 100 countries
Surfshark is the most pocket-friendly VPN for streaming BBC iPlayer in Italy. The VPN has the most affordable plans at only EUR 2.06 /mo (US$ 2.21 /mo ) (Save 83% on a 24-month subscription). But the low prices don’t translate to inferior services because you get 3200+ servers in 100 countries.

Surfshark quickly unblocks BBC iPlayer content in Italy
Surfshark’s Manchester or London servers unblock Surfshark in a flash. I caught up with the latest football news on Match of the Day and binged on the Italy documentary BBC and Stanley Tucci Searching for Italy.
Speed is essential when choosing a VPN, and Surfshark delivers 88.48Mbps download speed and 79.42Mbps upload speed on a 100Mbps network as per the BBC iPlayer speed test.

Surfshark’s speed test results on our 100 Mbps connection speed.
Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous connections so that you can share one account with your family or friends. You can also use Surfshark on BBC iPlayer on Android and other devices.
The VPN secures your connection with 256-bit encryption and the multi-hop feature that passes your connection through different servers for enhanced anonymity.
Recommended Servers
- Edinburgh
- Glasgow
3. NordVPN – Fastest VPN to Watch BBC iPlayer Italy
- Fastest BBC iPlayer connections with over 90Mbps speed
- NordLynx technology for faster connections
- Six simultaneous connections
NordVPN is the fastest VPN, thanks to NordLynx. The VPN provides a high speed with 93.42Mbps download speed on its UK servers. You also get access to the largest server network with 5500+ servers in 60 countries.

NordVPN is the fastest VPN to unblock BBC iPlayer in Italy
I connected to the London NordVPN server and streamed the Italy documentary BBC, Stanley Tucci Searching for Italy and London Kills, without interruption.
NordVPN delivers the fastest connections of 93.42Mbps download speed and 87.68Mbps upload speed on a 100Mbps network as per the BBC iPlayer speed test.

NordVPN’s connection speeds are the fastest!
NordVPN doesn’t track, collect or share your private data and masks your IP address so no one can track your online activities. You also get a Kill Switch that prevents any exposure of your data and a dedicated IP used by a single person.
Choose the best choice NordVPN plan for EUR 5.12 /mo (US$ 5.49 /mo ) (Avail 65% off & get 3 months free on a 2 year subscription), and 1 TB of encrypted cloud storage.
Recommended Servers
- United Kingdom #807
- United Kingdom #1484
How to Choose The Best VPN for BBC iPlayer Italy?
Choosing the best BBC iPlayer VPN in Italy isn’t easy because of the many available options. Even if you find a VPN that works with BBC iPlayer, you cannot tell how effective it will be in the long run.
Here is what you should look for when searching for a VPN to watch BBC news Italy or any content on iPlayer:
- Consistently bypasses BBC iPlayer’s geo-restrictions and other popular streaming services.
- Allows five or more simultaneous connections on one account.
- Has minimal impact on your connection speeds for buffer-less streaming.
- Support the common streaming devices, including iOS, Windows, Linux, Mac, Android, etc. Also, the VPN should have smart DNS for devices that don’t allow VPN apps, like routers, certain smart TV brands, gaming consoles, etc.
- Offer robust encryption protocols and protect your privacy at all times.
- The VPN should have a user-friendly interface with live chat assistance if you encounter problems.
Can I use a Free VPN for BBC iPlayer in Italy?
Yes, you can use a free VPN for BBC iPlayer in Italy, but it’s not recommended.
Using a free VPN seems like a no-brainer because you have nothing to lose, but that’s far from the truth. Free VPNs don’t make money from their users, so they sell user data to ad companies who’ll bombard you with online ads.
Therefore, you compromise your security and privacy to save money.
Also, free VPNs have data limits and speed caps, two limitations that will negatively impact your BBC iPlayer streaming experience.
How BBC Radio Has Evolved to Become BBC iPlayer Sound?
BBC iPlayer Radio evolved to become BBC Sounds, allowing users to personalize their listening experience. Users can listen without limits on BBC Sounds, stream the latest music, listen to radio shows and discover binge-worthy podcasts.
BBC Sounds have a new look on the website and app with additional functionality. Users can save programs and access playback and on-demand audio. However, some programs are only available in the United Kingdom because of licensing issues, so you must use a VPN.
How to Subscribe to BBC iPlayer in Italy? [Easy Steps]
Here’s how to create a BBC iPlayer account in Italy with a VPN:
- Download ExpressVPN and subscribe to the service.
- Log in to ExpressVPN with your account details and connect to the East London server.
- Go to the BBC iPlayer website and tap/click the “Sign In” button.

Head to BBC iPlayer website and click Sign In.
- Click/tap “Register Now” on the new page.

Register for a BBC iPlayer account.
- Enter the requested, including a UK address like E1 OAA for East London.
information

Enter the required information to register for a BBC iPlayer account.
- Complete the process by clicking or tapping “Register” and verify the account using the link sent to your inbox.
BBC iPlayer will ask whether you have a TV license, a requirement for anyone streaming its content in the UK. However, select “Yes” because the BBC doesn’t verify this information.
What to Watch on BBC iPlayer Italy in 2023?
BBC iPlayer is a one-stop shop for all the best UK channels, shows, movies, and live sports events. Here’s what to watch on BBC iPlayer in Italy with a VPN:
Sports Events and Shows | Shows | Movies | |
FA Women Super League | The Apprentice S17 | Alan Partridge: Alpha Papa | |
Northern Irish Premier League | His Dark Materials | Madonna: Truth or Dare | |
Women of Steel | Happy Valley Season 03 | Pete’s Dragon | |
Rugby League World Cup | Detectorists | Kung Fu Panda 3 | |
Six Nations | The Deep | Horrible Histories: The Movie – Rotten Romans | |
Match of the Day | The Hairy Bikers Go Local | West Side Story | |
Fight at the Fort | The English | Yesterday | |
Scottish Championship | Dennis & Gnasher Unleashed! | Booksmart | |
Sportscene | Doctor Who | Host | |
The Women’s Football Show | The Capture | Drag Me to Hell | |
Bellator MMA | The Traitors | The Remains of the Day |
What Devices are Compatible with BBC iPlayer Italy?
Here’s a list of devices supported by the BBC iPlayer app:
- PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5
- Apple TV
- Windows devices (laptop and PC)
- Chromecast
- iOS (Mac devices, iPhone, iPad)
- Smart TVs
- Linux
- Xbox One, Xbox 360
- Android (phone or tablet)
- Roku
- Firestick
What VPN to Avoid for BBC iPlayer in Italy?
Nothing is more frustrating than subscribing to a VPN provider only to find out it doesn’t work with BBC iPlayer.
Here are four VPNs that you should avoid if you want to stream BBC iPlayer in Italy:
- Private Internet Access (PIA)
- PureVPN
- IPVanish
- HideMyAss
How to Fix if BBC iPlayer is not Working in Italy with a VPN?
You might encounter a BBC iPlayer not working problem when streaming in Italy with a VPN, and here’s what you should do:
- BBC identifies your location even when connected to a VPN – your browser or device has cookies giving away your location. Delete your browser or app cookies, including any other data with location information.
- BBC iPlayer has blacklisted the servers – your VPN isn’t working if BBC iPlayer informs you that it only works in the UK. Switch to a different VPN like ExpressVPN to unblock BBC iPlayer with ease.
- BBC iPlayer updated the geo-blocking system – your VPN won’t work anymore if this happens, so you should contact the help desk for a quick solution.
- Your IP address is leaking – use a VPN with IP and DNS leak protection.
- The GPS location and IP address don’t match – turn off location settings on your streaming device.
If the problem persists, you can check the in-depth blog on how to fix BBC iPlayer not working.
How to Access BBC iPlayer in Different Countries?
Not just Italy, you can access BBC iPlayer in various other countries too. here is a list:
FAQs
Is BBC iPlayer available in Italy?
Is BBC iPlayer free in Italy?
Can I use BBC iPlayer in Italy?
How, in Italy, can I see foreign TV channels (for example BBC iPlayer) without using Sky or Mediaset Premium?
What should I do if BBC iPlayer asks me if I have a TV license in Italy?
Is it illegal to use a VPN for BBC iPlayer in Italy?
Wrapping it Up!
You need a reliable VPN to watch BBC iPlayer Italy. BBC iPlayer, like most streaming services, detects users accessing with VPNs or proxy servers, so free and low-quality options won’t work.
Luckily, there are reliable solutions like ExpressVPN (our recommended VPN). ExpressVPN always provides the best streaming experience as it’s always ahead of BBC iPlayer’s geo-restriction upgrading efforts. Now that you have the answers to “Can I watch BBC iPlayer in Italy?” and “How to watch BBC iPlayer in Italy with a VPN?” – Start streaming!