9 Best VPN for Rai TV so you can watch RaiPlay abroad in 2024

Have you ever been overseas, aching to catch the latest episode on RaiPlay, only to face the bitter ‘region-locked’ message? The solution could be a VPN. We reveal the best VPNs for RaiPlay and how to watch RaiPlay from the US or anywhere else in the world. We have put together this article through our meticulous research and hands-on testing.

Rai TV is geo-locked to Italy, meaning you’ll need an Italian IP address to unblock RaiPlay from outside the country. An IP address is a unique identifier that indicates your general location. If you try to access RaiPlay from abroad, you’ll get the following error message:

“Video non disponibile fuori dall’Italia”

Or, in English:

“Video not available outside Italy”

The easiest way to circumvent RaiPlay’s geographic restrictions is with a VPN. Short for ‘Virtual private network’, a VPN encrypts all of a device’s internet traffic and routes it through an intermediary server in a location of the user’s choosing. In this case, you would connect to a VPN server in Italy, which will assign you an Italian IP address and mask your real IP address.

In a rush and want to skip reading the whole article, here are the top-performing VPNs for viewing RaiPlay outside of Italy, including summaries.

Best VPN for watching RaiPlay Abroad:

1. NordVPN: Our #1 choice to watch Rai TV in the US and beyond. Streams RaiPlay in the US and elsewhere with no issues. Even has an Italian section on their website. Fast and secure. 30-day money-back guarantee.
   TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly for Rai TV.
2. Surfshark: Best budget option. Unlimited connections, 24/7 live chat, and works reliably with services like RaiPlay and Netflix.
3. IPVanish: Plenty of Italian servers, including 10 in Milan. Excellent speeds for streaming RaiPlay. Strong security.
4. ExpressVPN: Fast servers in Cosenza and Milan are great for RaiPlay and most Italian streaming content. Strong privacy and security features.
5. CyberGhost: Another great-value option with speedy servers and solid security. Thousands of server locations. Works great with RaiPlay in the USA and hundreds of other countries.
6. PrivateVPN: Strong security and decent speed. Works with RaiPlay in the US and plenty of other streaming content like Netflix.
7. PureVPN: Fast speeds, affordable plans, and all the tools you’ll need to stream safely. Ideal for watching Rai TV and other Italian channels during a trip abroad.
8. ProtonVPN: Versatile VPN that offers impressive performance and plenty of Italian servers. Great record of privacy. Protect up to 10 devices at a time.
9. Private Internet Access: Servers in 80 countries, including Italy. No bandwidth throttling means lag-free streaming of RaiPlay. Use it on 10 devices at once.

How to watch Rai TV in the USA (or anywhere) outside of Italy

For novices, below is a quick guide on how to set up a VPN and use it with Rai TV online. The process below can be used to install a VPN and watch RaiPlay on your mobile phone, tablet or computer.

From our research, here’s how to watch RaiPlay abroad (outside Italy) with a VPN:

1. Sign up for one of the recommended VPN services listed below, we particularly recommend NordVPN.
2. Download and install your provider’s VPN app onto your device.
3. Open the app and find the server selection page
4. Filter the servers by country if they aren’t already, and choose a server in Italy. This will give you an Italian IP address so you can watch RaiPlay in the US or elsewhere.
5. Hit Connect and wait for the connection to establish.
6. The app will give some indication that you are now connected to the VPN server. Open up RaiPlay in your browser and start watching! Note that you may also need to clear your browser cookies and cache to remove old location identifiers.

Best VPNs for RaiPlay – Our hands-on review

We’ve compared the most important features for the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for RaiPlay.

Our criteria for the best VPNs for watching Rai TV outside of Italy

Hundreds of VPN services are out there, but only a handful are suitable for RaiPlay viewers. We’ve curated our list of the best VPNs for RaiPlay based on our experience and the following criteria, which we explain in more detail later:

• Servers in Italy to bypass restrictions on Raiplay and other Italian streaming services
• Fast and reliable connections for uninterrupted HD video
• Strong security like 256-bit AES encryption and a strict no-logs policy
• A generous number of simultaneous device connections (unlimited is preferred)
• Has apps for plenty of platforms (and an added bonus for browser extensions)
• Fair pricing with discounts for annual plans and a money-back guarantee
• Great quality customer support available via live chat
• Bonus points if the website is available in Italian

Best VPNs for Rai TV

Here’s a more detailed look at each of the VPNs on the list of the best VPNs for Rai TV:

1. NordVPN

Jul 2024 Unblocks Rai TVTested Jul 2024

NordVPN operates 60+ servers in Italy, so you should have no problem watching HD video without buffering. Overall, NordVPN’s network includes over 5,000 servers in more than 60 countries. NordVPN can also securely access popular streaming sites like Netflix and Hulu, among others. The Panama-based company runs on a strict zero-logs policy, meaning it retains no information about your connection or activity. DNS leak protection comes standard. The website is available in Italian.

Apps are available for Windows, MacOS, iOS, Linux, and Android. The Italy server is a standard server, but NordVPN also has specialized servers for Tor over VPN, torrenting, and more. You can connect NordVPN on up to 10 devices simultaneously, which is great for watching Rai TV at home or on the go.

NordVPN speed test data

BEST VPN FOR RAI TV:NordVPN is our first choice. Works well with Rai TV and has servers in Italy. Connects up to 6 devices simultaneously. Great privacy and security credentials. Offers a risk-free 30-day money back guarantee.

Read our full NordVPN review.

2. Surfshark

unblocks rai tvTested Jul 2024

Surfshark operates server clusters in Rome and Milan, from which you can get an Italian IP address and watch Rai TV. Surfshark excels at streaming and performs equally well with Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. Best of all, Surfshark is one of the only VPNs on the market that allows unlimited connections per account. That makes it a great option for a family or group of housemates.

Surfshark doesn’t keep logs and uses strong encryption. Torrenting is allowed, and kill switches are built into the mobile and desktop apps to prevent data leaks. Live chat support is available around the clock.

Apps are available for Windows, Linux, MacOS, iOS, and Android.

Surfshark speed test data

BEST BUDGET OPTION:Connect all your devices to Surfshark and unblock Rai TV without breaking the bank. Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full Surfshark review.

3. IPVanish

Unblocks Rai TVTested Jul 2024

IPVanish is extremely fast and has no connection limit, so RaiPlay viewers abroad should have no problem streaming video whenever and wherever they want. It operates over two dozen servers in Milan and roughly 2,000 servers in 60+ locations overall. The company owns these rather than renting them, ensuring maximum privacy and top-quality connections.

IPVanish adheres to a strict no-logs policy, meaning it doesn’t record any information about what you do while connected. DNS and IPv6 leak protection are built-in and turned on by default. 256-bit AES encryption secures the tunnel through which all your traffic travels.

Apps are available for Windows, MacOS, iOS, and Android. IPVanish is particularly popular in the Kodi community thanks to its remote control-friendly app and ability to work with any Kodi add-on. It’s one of the few VPNs on the market that supports unlimited simultaneous device connections.

IPVanish speed test data

LARGE SERVER NETWORK:IPVanish is great for families. It works well with Rai TV and is well-represented with Italian servers. Privacy and security are solid. Speeds handle multiple simultaneous connected devices. 30-day money-back guarantee on annual plans.

Read our full IPVanish review.

4. ExpressVPN

Unblocks Rai TVTested Jul 2024

ExpressVPN operates a huge network of more than 3,000 servers in 94 countries, including two locations in Italy: Cosenza and Milan. The website is also available in Italian. Every server is optimized for maximum speed and reliability. Subscribers should have no problem streaming their favorite Italian shows from RaiPlay in HD.

ExpressVPN uses the strongest encryption standards in the business and keeps no logs of your activity or real IP address. DNS leak protection is built in, meaning RaiPlay can’t identify you by determining where your website lookups are sent or by your IP address. ExpressVPN also works with popular streaming sites like Netflix, Hulu, and HBO Max.

Apps are available for Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, and Linux. ExpressVPN also makes custom router firmware that you can install for free on compatible wifi routers, or you can opt to purchase a pre-configured router directly from the company. ExpressVPN allows up to eight simultaneous device connections.

ExpressVPN speed test data

GREAT FOR STREAMING:ExpressVPN is fast and reliable. Great for Rai TV and most major streaming services. Italian servers are optimized for speed. Hard to beat on security and privacy features and keeps no logs. Good choice of user-friendly apps. Try it risk-free with the 30-day money back guarantee.

Read our full ExpressVPN review.

5. CyberGhost

Unblocks Rai TVTested Jul 2024

CyberGhost allows subscribers to connect to a whopping 90 servers in Italy alone. You can even translate the website into Italian if you prefer. In total, CyberGhost operates over 10,000 active servers in 90+ countries. This is one of the fastest VPNs available, so streaming (even in 4K) does not present any problems.

All connections are hardened with 256-bit encryption. The company keeps zero logs and offers various security tools, from leak protection to WireGuard support and tracker blocking.

Apps are available for Windows, MacOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. You can connect up to seven devices simultaneously.

CyberGhost speed test data

VALUE AND PERFORMANCE:CyberGhost is easy to use. A budget choice that is good on privacy and security. Streams HD video reliably. Good for Rai TV and Netflix and many other streaming sites. 45-day money back guarantee.

Read our full CyberGhost review.

6. PrivateVPN

Unblocks Rai TVTested Jul 2024

PrivateVPN may only have one server in Italy (and around 200 overall) but don’t let that dissuade you–PrivateVPN scores extremely well in our speed tests and works with almost every streaming service we’ve tested. Further, this service increased its connection limit and can now secure 10 devices simultaneously.

It’s not making any rookie mistakes, either. It already has a kill switch, stealth mode, DNS leak protection, strong encryption, and a zero-logs policy. There’s also live chat-based customer support, although this isn’t quite available 24/7.

Apps are available for Windows, MacOS, iOS, and Android.

PrivateVPN speed test data

GREAT SPEED:PrivateVPN is consistently reliable. Unblocks Rai TV and allows up to 10 devices on the same account. Solid security and privacy credentials. Only one server in Italy but achieves fast connections. 30-day money back guarantee.

Read our full PrivateVPN review.

7. PureVPN

Unblocks Rai TVTested Jul 2024

PureVPN has a network of more than 6,500 servers across 65 countries, including some in Milan, Italy. Thanks to its exceptionally high speeds, automatic obfuscation, and fantastic streaming ability, you can watch all of your favorite Rai TV shows from anywhere in the world – even in places like China. Up to 10 simultaneous connections are permitted, and live chat-based support is available around the clock (though response times could be improved).

There’s no need to worry about who might be monitoring your activities. That’s because PureVPN uses industry-standard encryption, a kill switch, and leak protection to thwart surveillance, censorship, and ISP throttling. What’s more, it has a strict zero-logs policy, something that has been confirmed by multiple independent audits. This service can’t get rid of ads for you, and its tracker-blocking isn’t included as standard, so there is still a way to go. All the same, PureVPN is a capable service that can handle whatever you throw at it.

PureVPN has iOS, Android, MacOS, Linux, Windows, and Amazon Fire TV apps. It can also be manually installed on a wide range of routers.

PureVPN speed test data

SIMPLE AND SECURE:PureVPN is a beginner-friendly service that works perfectly well with most Italian streaming platforms. Boasts affordable pricing, a high connection limit, and the ability to browse safely anywhere. All plans come with a 31-day money-back guarantee.

Still have questions? Learn more with our full PureVPN review.

8. ProtonVPN

Unblocks Rai TVTested Jul 2024

ProtonVPN operates over 40 servers in Italy and around 3,800 worldwide. It works effortlessly with Rai TV and platforms like Mediaset, Now TV, and TV8. We’re big fans of its automatic ad-blocking, high speeds (330 Mbps on average in our latest tests), and generous 10-device limit. Note that while this service does have a free tier, you’ll have to pay to unblock streaming sites and access Italian servers. On the plus side, premium accounts include 24/7 support just in case anything goes wrong.

Another great thing about this VPN is its outstanding privacy record. A recent audit found that it keeps no logs and that the company’s infrastructure followed best practices. By default, your connection is secured via 256-bit AES encryption (ChaCha20 on WireGuard), a kill switch, and protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks. It’s also possible to set up port forwarding and split tunneling (though not on every operating system, unfortunately). Finally, ProtonVPN has a handful of Secure Core servers stored in high-security data centers to prevent unauthorized access or tampering.

ProtonVPN offers Android, iOS, Windows, Linux, MacOS, and Amazon Fire Stick apps. The support section of its website also has detailed setup guides for users looking to install it on their router.

ProtonVPN speed test data

FLAWLESS STREAMING:ProtonVPN is a great choice for watching Rai TV outside of Italy. It prioritizes your security, blocks ads automatically, and delivers some of the highest speeds around. Not only that, but there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee for new customers.

More info is available in our complete ProtonVPN review.

9. Private Internet Access

Unblocks Rai TVTested Jul 2024

Private Internet Access has a server network that spans over 80 countries, including italy. With it, you can stream Rai TV, Netflix, and Mediaset while traveling abroad. What’s more, you’ll be able to do so without lag or buffering thanks to its unlimited bandwidth. It’s also worth knowing that while most VPNs only let you connect a handful devices at once, PIA permits 10 simultaneous connections per account.

PIA has no shortage of security features. Of course, this includes all essentials, such as 256-bit AES encryption, DNS leak protection, and a kill switch. There is also a built-in ad blocker and an optional antivirus add-on. Don’t want anyone and everyone to know what you’re doing online? PIA has a no-logs policy. While easy to use, know that 24-hour live chat support is available.

You can choose PIA apps for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, and even Amazon Fire TV. If you prefer, you can download a browser extension for Chrome or Firefox. Manual configuration is required for wireless routers.

Private Internet Access speed test data

SECURE 10 DEVICES:Private Internet Access is ideal for families thanks to its 10 simultaneous connection allowance. No bandwidth throttling, servers in 80 countries, and works with RaiPlay. Built-in ad blocker. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full Private Internet Access review.

Can I use a free VPN to watch Rai TV?

You might be asking why you need to pay for a VPN when so many free ones are available. In truth, these so-called “free” VPNs are still businesses, and it costs money for them to operate a VPN service. To pay for server fees and other overhead costs, free VPNs often mine your internet traffic for personal info and browsing data, which is then sold to third-party advertisers. Sometimes, free VPNs inject advertisements into your browser; other times, they insert tracking cookies to monitor what you browse online.

In addition, free VPNs tend to have far fewer servers, and those they do have are overloaded and slow. They often implement data caps or bandwidth limits, leading to long buffer times and TV shows being cut off in the middle while watching RaiPlay. Most free VPNs, of course, do not have servers in Italy anyway.

If you just want a VPN to unblock RaiPlay, you might not care so much about the privacy-related reasons for using a VPN. But at their core, VPNs are privacy services. They can protect you while using unsecured public wifi, prevent your ISP from snooping on your behavior, and mask your device’s unique IP address so hackers and governments cannot trace your activity back to you. All VPN providers need to maintain a high standard of privacy and security in order to earn users’ trust and keep them protected. Free VPNs go against this, as using free VPN apps runs a high risk of contracting malware that can damage your device and steal your private data. In short, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

See also:

• How to watch Italian TV abroad
• How to watch Netflix Italy

RaiPlay – Our VPN testing methodology

At Comparitech, we test VPNs using a scientific VPN testing methodology. This allows us to compare and recommend each service for various use cases. We test for IP, DNS, and WebRTC leaks to ensure the VPN performs as advertised to provide online privacy.

We also check the encryption to ensure you can trust it to protect your data inside the VPN tunnel. Below, we have included a list of features we looked for when recommending VPNs for RaiPlay.

• Large server network: We looked for VPNs with a global server network that allows you to access content and services from all over the world. This includes servers in Italy to stream RaiPlay in the US, UK, Canada, or anywhere else.
• Apps for all platforms: We looked for VPNs that offer versatility and ease of use, with custom apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. We also looked for additional support, such as apps for firesticks, routers, or browser extensions.
• Advanced features: We check each VPN for extra features, such as obfuscation, split tunneling, Smart DNS, malware protection, ad blocking, multi-hop connections, and more. These features make the VPN more versatile and more valuable for money.
• Robust security: We test each VPN for DNS leak protection and ensure it has robust encryption that is implemented to a high standard. We also check for a kill switch to ensure it will cut your internet off should the VPN connection fail (to stop you from leaking unprotected data outside of the VPN tunnel).
• Excellent customer service: We recommend VPNs that provide live chat and email support to let you ask questions anytime. We give extra points to those that have 24/7 live chat so that it’s accessible in all time zones.
• Superb accessibility: We check that each VPN works with RaiPlay and other popular Italian TV and streaming services. We also test the international servers to see if they work with Netflix, Hulu, and other leading streaming platforms.
• Value for money: We only recommend RaiPlay VPNs with good value. This doesn’t mean just a reasonable subscription cost but things like a money-back guarantee and many simultaneous device connections. Extra points are awarded for unlimited devices.
• Apps and devices: Streaming RaiPlay should be possible on all of your devices. This means that your VPN needs to be compatible too. We test each of our VPN recommendations on iOS, Android, PC, and Mac, as standard. We give extra points for those that also work on other platforms, such as Kodi, Linux, and gaming consoles.

Watching RaiPlay abroad FAQs