BBC iPlayer is a UK-based streaming platform that presents incredible TV shows alongside British classic movies. But while it is free for UK citizens, watching BBC iPlayer in Italy might be difficult. Fret not; you can still watch BBC iPlayer in Italy via ExpressVPN.
By using a quality VPN, you can change your IP address and make it appear as if you are accessing the service from the UK, bypassing the geo-restrictions. In this guide, I’ll tell you how to watch BBC iPlayer in Italy in 2024 with the help of some of the best VPNs. So, without any further delay, dive in!
How to watch BBC iPlayer in Italy? [2-minute Steps]
Follow these easy steps to know how to watch BBC iPlayer in Italy:
- Subscribe to a premium VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN.
- Install the VPN app on your device.
- Connect to a server in the UK. I recommend the Docklands server.
- Visit BBC iPlayer to create a BBC iPlayer UK free account.
- Now, begin streaming your preferred content.
Special Offer Alert: Streamingrant fans can get their hands on ExpressVPN exclusive offer - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free.
To create a BBC iPlayer Italy account, follow the steps to Sign Up for BBC iPlayer mentioned below.
Why Do You Need a VPN to access BBC iPlayer in Italy?
BBC iPlayer is a gem for UK residents, offering top-notch BBC content. However, if you’re in Italy, you’ll encounter a roadblock i.e., strict copyrights and distribution laws that restrict its viewership to the UK only. This is where a VPN becomes essential.
Can you watch BBC iPlayer in Italy without a VPN? No, you cannot. Even though you are a UK resident visiting Italy, BBC iPlayer limits your access. Because of this, you can’t watch any of those alluring episodes and movies on the platform. Hence, you need a VPN to bypass the geo-restrictions on BBC iPlayer in Italy.
If you try to watch BBC iPlayer without a VPN, you will get the following geo-restriction error message:
“BBC iPlayer only works in the UK. Sorry, it’s due to rights issues. “
Geo-error message on BBC iPlayer in Italy
To resolve this issue, choose a VPN that frequently updates its server IPs and ensures your software is up to date. A premium VPN like ExpressVPN ensures you stream securely by protecting your IP and DNS.
How To Sign Up for BBC iPlayer in Italy
Don’t worry if you don’t have a BBC iPlayer account yet; creating one in Italy is simple. Just connect to a UK server of ExpressVPN (Docklands server) and follow this guide to know how to watch BBC iPlayer in Italy.
- Visit the BBC iPlayer website.
- Choose the “Register Now” option.
- Fill in your details.
- Input a UK postal code, for example, “GU16 7HF”
- Click “Register” and look for a verification link in your email.
- Sign into your BBC iPlayer account.
- When asked, confirm that you possess a UK TV license by selecting “Yes, I have a UK TV license.”
- Now, you’re all set to binge-watch your favorite BBC iPlayer programs!
A Quick Look: Top VPNs for BBC iPlayer in 2024
Here is a quick comparison of the VPNs for watching BBC iPlayer in Italy:
| VPNs |  |
 |
 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ranking | 1 | 2 | 3 |
| Server Count | Thousands of servers in 105 countries | 3200+ servers in 65+ countries | 6000+ in 61 countries |
| Unblocks BBC iPlayer | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Device supported | Smart TV, Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, Linux, PS4&5 and more | Smart TV, iOS, Nintendo, Android, Windows, Xbox, Roku, routers, etc | Smart TV, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Firestick, Roku, PS4&5, etc |
| Simultaneous connections | 8 | Unlimited | 6 |
| Pricing | EUR 6.25 /mo (US$ 6.67 /mo ) - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free | EUR 2.33 /mo (US$ 2.49 /mo ) - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee | EUR 3.74 /mo (US$ 3.99 /mo ) - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free for a friend |
Why Doesn’t BBC iPlayer Work in Italy?
BBC iPlayer is not available in Italy because of specific content licensing and copyright laws. These agreements, designed to protect the financial interests of content creators and distributors, limit broadcasting to the UK.
Additionally, the BBC is funded by the UK television license fee, contributing to production costs, which justifies restricting its content to UK audiences.
What are the Best VPNs to Watch BBC iPlayer in Italy?
Finding the VPNs that work with BBC iPlayer is a difficult task. But don’t worry. I have tested 20+ best BBC iPlayer VPN services regarding security, speed, unblocking abilities, server count, and privacy.
I have listed the best VPN to let you watch all the amazing BBC iPlayer content hitting the platform all the time.
ExpressVPN: Best VPN to Watch BBC iPlayer in Italy
Key features:
- Servers: Thousands of servers in 105 countries
- Supporting devices: iOS, FireStick, Smart TVs, Android
- Military-grade 256-bit encryption
- 30-day free trial on iOS and Android
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- 24/7 customer support
- 8 simultaneous connections
- No activity logs
- Best Deal: EUR 6.25 /mo (US$ 6.67 /mo ) - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free
ExpressVPN is the best BBC iPlayer VPN in Italy. This VPN is the top service provider known for its blazing-fast speed. On my 100 Mbps base connection, this VPN provided an incredible 89.42 Mbps downloading speed, which was great for 4K streaming.
ExpressVPN has a large network of thousands of servers in 105 countries, including 4 server locations in Wembley, London, and Docklands.
I used the Docklands server for watching BBC iPlayer in Italy and experienced no buffering while streaming.
BBC iPlayer smoothly unblocked by ExpressVPN
In the speed tests I conducted, ExpressVPN offered a download speed of 89.42 Mbps and an upload speed of 84.64 Mbps on a 100 Mbps connection.
On a 100 Mbps base connection, ExpressVPN provided incredibly fast results.
It offers 8 simultaneous logins so you can share them with your friends and family. In addition, all its servers have AES 256-bit military-grade encryption and follow a strict no-logs policy, allowing you to watch BBC iPlayer on Firestick in Italy with ExpressVPN.
It also offers other features like Split Tunnelling and Kill Switch. With ExpressVPN Media Streamer, you can easily watch geo-restricted content on devices that do not support VPN. There is a MediaStreamer Smart DNS feature available for devices that don’t have native VPN support, like Apple TV and gaming consoles.
ExpressVPN also has apps for Windows, Android, iOS, Roku, Apple TV, Mac, and more. You can also watch BBC iPlayer on Chromecast with such powerful features of this VPN.
Exclusive Offer:
ExpressVPN costs are EUR 6.25 /mo (US$ 6.67 /mo ) - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free, and you can try this service with a 30-day back money guarantee. It also offers 24/7 live chat support.
- ExpressVPN features RAM servers that erase all data on reboot for enhanced privacy.
- Its Lightway protocol ensures ultra-fast connections, outpacing WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2.
- Designed for simplicity and ease of use, ExpressVPN is user-friendly for beginners.
- A strict no-log policy ensures your online activities and personal data remain private.
- Leads in security with numerous independent audits verifying its trustworthiness.
- Compatible with major streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+, and more.
- Supports high-speed torrenting across all servers, backed by a no-logs policy and kill switch.
- Offers 8 simultaneous connections or router installation for whole-home protection.
- Continually updates servers and security features, including Threat Protection.
- Includes ExpressVPN Keys, a free password manager for Android, iOS, and Chrome.
- While ExpressVPN tends to be pricier than its rivals, the cost reflects the quality of service received.
Surfshark: Affordable VPN to Watch BBC iPlayer in Italy
Key features:
- Servers: 3200+ servers in 100+ countries
- Supporting devices: iOS, FireStick, Smart TVs, Android
- Military-grade 256-bit encryption
- 30-day free trial on iOS and Android
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Ad blocker
- Cookie pop-up block
- 24/7 antivirus protection
- Best Deal: EUR 2.33 /mo (US$ 2.49 /mo ) - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee
Surfshark is a budget-friendly service and ideal for those new to the world of VPNs. You can get Surfshark’s for EUR 2.33 /mo (US$ 2.49 /mo ) - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee as it is the lowest price available in the industry.
With this good VPN for BBC iPlayer in Italy, you can share your account with as many people as possible because of its unlimited multi-login feature. It enables all security features by default and has a powerful unblocking ability. Overall, it has 4 server locations in the UK and 3200+ servers in 100+ countries.
I have connected to a server in London. Its London and Glasgow servers are optimal for unblocking BBC iPlayer.
Surfshark unblocked BBC iPlayer in a second
It offers a download speed of 88.48 Mbps and an upload speed of 79.42 Mbps on a 100 Mbps connection.
Surfshark offers optimal speed for streaming.
As for security, Surfshark has pretty impressive features in its bucket, including a Kill Switch and 256-bit AES encryption. It also offers a Camouflage Mode that hides users’ VPN traffic, making it look like regular internet traffic. Moreover, its DNS leak protection ensures that your IP address isn’t exposed to anyone.
Moreover, it is the best multi-device VPN with apps for all major operating systems like Windows, Android, and iOS and popular devices like Firestick and Smart TVs. For devices that don’t have native VPN support, like Apple TV and gaming consoles, there’s a Smart DNS feature as well.
The biggest perk of having Surfshark is that it offers unlimited simultaneous connections. With a single account, you can have as many device connections as you want and share the account with your friends and family in Italy.
Exclusive Offer:
Surfshark comes at EUR 2.33 /mo (US$ 2.49 /mo ) - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee with a 30-day money-back guarantee and also offers 24/7 live chat support for assistance.
- Shurshark enhances privacy by masking your IP address to prevent tracking.
- It enables access to geo-restricted content by connecting to servers worldwide.
- Encrypts internet traffic for security against eavesdropping, especially on public Wi-Fi.
- Supports torrenting and P2P file sharing on designated servers.
- Offers a wide server network for reliable and fast connections globally.
- VPN encryption and server distance may decrease internet speed.
NordVPN: Largest Server Network VPN to Watch BBC iPlayer in Italy
Key Features:
- Servers: 6000+ in 61 countries
- Supporting devices: iOS, FireStick, Smart TVs, Android
- Military-grade 256-bit encryption
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- 6 simultaneous connections
- Threat protection
- No user tracking
- Best Deal: EUR 3.74 /mo (US$ 3.99 /mo ) - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free for a friend
NordVPN has the largest server network to unblock and stream BBC iPlayer. With this Safe VPN for BBC iPlayer in Italy, the user can bypass the geo-blocking measures and stream the best comedy series on BBC iPlayer from anywhere in the world.
It has more than 6000+ ultra-fast servers in 105 countries, and also it has 440+ servers in the UK.
I used the UK server #2398 and enjoyed streaming without buffering or lagging issues.
NordVPN successfully unblocked BBC iPlayer.
It offers a great download speed of 86.49 Mbps and an upload speed of 79.42 Mbps when tested on a 100 Mbps connection.
NordVPN servers are capable of delivering fast speed for streaming.
This VPN supports 6 simultaneous device connections on a single account, and there are intuitive apps for various operating systems like Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, etc. It is also compatible with various devices like Amazon Firestick, Roku, gaming consoles, and Smart TVs.
For security, NordVPN offers a DoubleVPN feature that routes user traffic through more than a single standard server, preventing anyone from decrypting your connection in Italy.
It also provides a Threat Protection feature, AES-256-bit encryption, a Dark web Monitor, and a kill switch that protects your data during temporary VPN outages.
Exclusive Deals:
The cost of this VPN service is EUR 3.74 /mo (US$ 3.99 /mo ) - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free for a friend and also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. You can also use the 24/7 live chat support of this VPN service.
- NordVPN, based in Panama, ensures top privacy with 256-bit AES encryption, PGP communication, and a kill switch.
- Its kill switch feature halts internet traffic if the VPN connection drops, safeguarding data.
- Double VPN routes traffic through two servers, doubling security.
- Allows connecting up to six devices simultaneously, suitable for families or multiple-device users.
- Delivers fast and stable connections across a global server network.
- Boasts over 6000 servers in 61 countries for widespread access.
- Provides competitive pricing and accepts cryptocurrencies and cash for payments.
- NordVPN supports torrenting exclusively on P2P-optimized servers.
- Reports indicate slow app performance and server connectivity.
- Manual OpenVPN setup challenges those with less technical know-how.
Can I Use Free VPNs to Watch BBC iPlayer in Italy?
A premium VPN works for BBC iPlayer. However, you can use free VPNs to watch BBC iPlayer in Italy, but I do not recommend it, as it poses a risk to your security, due to which you will always remain scared of your DNS and IP address getting leaked.
Free VPN can sometimes bypass geo-restrictions but has fewer servers and poor security features. Moreover, it can leak your personal information to third parties.
Free VPN providers maintain user records and track user behavior. In that case, a premium VPN like ExpressVPN is recommended to use for watching BBC iPlayer content in Italy. Furthermore, ExpressVPN provides a free trial, so if you don’t like the service, you can get your refund within 30 days.
Methodology: How to Choose the Best VPN for BBC iPlayer to watch in Italy?
Choosing a VPN provider might be challenging because so many claim to be the best. I have evaluated the top VPNs on the market using a data-based testing process.
This enables us to compare services directly to identify the best VPNs for particular use instances, such as accessing iPlayer while traveling.
- Works trustworthily with BBC iPlayer and comparable streaming services. I search for VPNs with reliable British servers that support popular services like BBC iPlayer, All 4, and ITV Hub.
- Offers connections that are always fast. Many VPNs utilize slow networks of low-cost servers and out-of-date protocols. WireGuard and other quick VPNs with recent protocols come highly recommended.
- Uses robust encryption and has several additional security features. I only suggest VPNs with fully functional apps with cutting-edge privacy and security features. I also check the VPN for a kill switch and test it for IP and DNS leaks.
- Doesn’t record any data that could be used to identify you. I suggest VPNs with solid privacy practices to ensure that your browsing activities are always kept secret.
- Has applications for all of the widely used operating systems. To ensure you can stream BBC iPlayer on all your devices, I verify the VPN provides macOS, Windows, iOS, and Android apps.
These elements contribute to a smooth streaming experience, allowing you to watch BBC iPlayer in Italy in 2024 and beyond. After selecting the right VPN, you can easily stream British TV series and movies on BBC iPlayer with just a few clicks.
How Much Does BBC iPlayer Cost?
BBC iPlayer is a free-of-cost streaming service which means you do not need to pay the BBC iPlayer subscription cost to access its content. However, you must pay the TV license fee (€172.45/year or £147/year) to watch BBC iPlayer in the UK.
But if you are watching BBC iPlayer in Italy, then you don’t have to worry about that too; just mark the check box, and you are good to go, as the platform doesn’t verify this.
However, your mobile or internet operator may charge for the data you use on their network. You can contact your mobile/network provider to inquire about the data cost. It usually takes around 225 MB of data for an hour-long TV program.
Also, if you ever change your mind, you can easily cancel BBC iPlayer subscription in Italy, but I won’t recommend it as BBC iPlayer has many more shows in its bucket list.
Where Can I Get a Valid Postcode for BBC iPlayer in 2024?
You can get a list of UK postal codes that can be used for registering on BBC iPlayer subscription in Italy. Below is a list of UK-based postal codes that can allow you to get BBC iPlayer subscription in Italy for free:
| States or Territories | Postal Code |
| England |
BA21 5BT BA22 9SJ BA21 5BZ BA22 9RH BA21 5BW |
| Wales |
CF10 1AA CF10 4BX CF10 1BA CF10 3EQ CF10 2WT |
| Scotland |
IV12 4AA IV12 4AD IV12 4AB IV12 4AF IV12 4AL |
Why is BBC iPlayer not working with a VPN?
Here are some possible explanations for why BBC iPlayer not working with VPN in Italy:
- The BBC has blocked the VPN’s servers.
- The locations of your device’s IP address and GPS don’t line up.
- Whenever the geo-blocking on BBC iPlayer is imposed, your VPN cannot unblock it because of its slow servers.
What to Watch on BBC iPlayer in Italy in 2024?
BBC iPlayer is set to offer an exciting array of programming. You can watch BBC iPlayer in Italy and discover must-see English television shows, including new BBC originals, exclusive documentaries, and live sports events.
What are the BBC iPlayer streaming options in Italy? I have listed my top picks; check out what to watch in Italy on BBC iPlayer this weekend.
What are the Best Shows To Watch On BBC iPlayer in Italy?
I have picked out the best shows on BBC iPlayer in Italy:
What are the Best Movies and Documentaries To Watch On BBC iPlayer in Italy?
Looking for some of the best movies on BBC iPlayer in Italy? You’re in luck! BBC iPlayer offers a fantastic selection of films to enjoy. Here are some top picks to elevate your movie night experience:
What sports can you watch on BBC iPlayer in Italy?
Sports fans won’t miss out either; here is a list of all the upcoming and ongoing live sports events in Italy that you can watch on BBC iPlayer in 2024:
What is New on BBC iPlayer in April 2024?
Here’s a list of the latest releases for you to explore on BBC iPlayer in April 2024:
What Devices are Compatible with BBC iPlayer in Italy?
You can watch the content of BBC iPlayer on multiple devices in Italy. If you’re keen to watch BBC iPlayer in Italy free without VPN restrictions, then a reliable VPN is your ticket to stream BBC iPlayer on various devices in Italy. The compatible devices are mentioned below:
| Compatible devices | |||||
| TVs | Mobile Devices | Gaming Consoles | Streaming Devices | Computers | Operating Systems |
| Apple TV | Android | PS4/PS5 | Chromecast | Mac | Windows |
| Smart TV | iOS devices | Xbox | Firestick | PC | Linux |
| LG Tv | Sky | ||||
| iPad | |||||
Each of these devices allows you the flexibility to access BBC iPlayer from Italy in a way that suits your lifestyle, whether you prefer the convenience of mobile streaming or the comfort of your living room setup.
How to watch BBC iPlayer in Italy on iOS Devices (iPhone, iPad, or iPod)?
If you want to watch BBC iPlayer on your iOS devices (iPhone, iPad, or iPod), just follow the below-mentioned steps:
- Subscribe to a VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN.
- Install the VPN app on your device.
- Connect to a server in the UK. The recommended server is the Docklands server.
- Tap the App Store icon on the home screen.
- To find BBC iPlayer, select Search from the bottom menu.
- Select the app, then select BBC iPlayer Download. (At this point, the App Store could ask you to verify your Apple ID)
- Once downloaded, you can easily stream BBC iPlayer on your iOS devices.
How to watch BBC iPlayer in Italy on Android Devices (Samsung, Xiaomi, or Huawei)?
You can watch BBC iPlayer on Android devices (Samsung, Xiaomi, or Huawei) by following these easy steps:
- Subscribe to a VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN.
- Install the VPN app on your Android device.
- Connect to a server in the UK. The recommended server is the Docklands server.
- Launch the BBC iPlayer App and sign into your account.
- Start streaming on your Android device right away.
You can read my guide on BBC iPlayer on Android in Italy for more information.
How to watch BBC iPlayer in Italy on Smart TVs (Samsung TV, LG TV, or Apple TV)
You can get and watch BBC iPlayer on Smart TVs, including Samsung TV, LG TV, or Apple TV; I have mentioned below easy steps that you can follow to get the BBC iPlayer app:
- Change the region of your smart TV to the UK. If you don’t know how to do that, visit the official website of your TV brand.
- Download and set up ExpressVPN (Docklands server) on your router.
- Connect your smart TV to the router on which you installed the VPN.
- Look for the BBC iPlayer app and add it to your list of channels.
- Open the BBC TV app, sign in, and enjoy your TV shows on BBC iPlayer.
What Channels are on the BBC iPlayer?
BBC iPlayer offers its users a wide variety of wonderful channels. To watch these BBC iPlayer channels in Italy, you can connect your device to ExpressVPN’s UK server.
The following are the BBC iPlayer channels:
- BBC One – Flagship channel for various shows, including news, drama, and comedy.
- BBC Two – Offers cultural, educational, and niche programming.
- BBC Three – Youth-oriented channel with innovative comedy, drama, and docs.
- BBC Four – Cultural and arts programming with documentaries and international films.
- CBBC – Children’s entertainment and education for younger viewers.
- CBeebies – Shows for toddlers and preschoolers, focusing on education and fun.
- BBC News – Comprehensive global news coverage and analysis.
- BBC Parliament – Coverage of the UK’s parliaments and assemblies.
- BBC Scotland – Scottish-focused news, documentaries, and entertainment.
- BBC Alba – Scottish Gaelic channel with various content, including children’s shows and music.
- S4C – Welsh-language programming with news, children’s shows, and more.
In addition to these TV channels, BBC iPlayer offers access to a range of BBC radio stations and their programs. The availability of specific shows and content on BBC iPlayer can vary, with many programs being available for a limited time after their initial broadcast.
What BBC services are available in Italy?
Various platforms offer a gateway to rich BBC content for international viewers trying to access the BBC iPlayer service in Italy. These services enable worldwide viewers to access BBC iPlayer services.
- BBC World Service: Global news and insights in over 40 languages.
- BBC World News: 24-hour English news channel with global coverage.
- BBC.com: Worldwide news and stories at your fingertips.
- BBC Brit, BBC Earth, BBC Lifestyle: Premium British entertainment, factual, and lifestyle programming.
- BBC iPlayer Radio / BBC Sounds: Listen to BBC’s radio shows and podcasts from anywhere.
- BritBox: The best British TV, streaming in the US, Canada, and beyond.
- BBC Podcasts: Diverse and engaging podcasts from the BBC.
- BBC Sports: Live sports coverage and insights.
- BBC Three YouTube Channel: Clips, full episodes, and exclusive content from BBC.
Streaming BBC iPlayer in Italy: Users Experience on Reddit
Accessing BBC iPlayer in Italy often requires a reliable VPN due to geographic restrictions, with users noting that not all VPNs are equally effective. Some VPNs struggle with BBC’s stringent geo-blocking technologies, leading to inconsistent access.
Users share that premium VPN services with robust server options in the UK are more successful in bypassing these restrictions. They recommend choosing VPNs that regularly update their server IPs and specialize in streaming to ensure smoother viewing experiences.
My Experience
From personal experience, using a VPN like ExpressVPN, which frequently refreshes their server lists and IPs, has proven effective for accessing BBC iPlayer in Italy. This service offers dedicated streaming features and reliable customer support, which is crucial for maintaining access to UK-specific content abroad.
FAQs: How to Watch BBC iPlayer in Italy
Is watching BBC iPlayer with a VPN illegal?
Can I watch BBC without the internet?
How do I bypass BBC iPlayer location?
How does BBC know my location?
What happens if you watch BBC iPlayer without a TV license?
How Much Does BBC iPlayer Account Cost?
Are subtitles available on BBC iPlayer?
Can I watch shows downloaded from BBC iPlayer while traveling abroad?
Conclusion
I am sure in this guide you got the answers to all your questions like where can I watch BBC iPlayer in Italy and how to watch BBC iPlayer in Italy. We all are fans of British content, and BBC iPlayer UK is the one-stop to watch all your favorite British shows and more.
The geo-restriction is the problem while accessing this streaming as BBC iPlayer can only be watched in the UK territory. By using a premium VPN service like ExpressVPN, you can easily access the exclusive content library and watch BBC iPlayer in Italy.
Chris Mack
