How to watch Netflix USA in Italy with a VPN

If you’ve logged in to your Netflix account while in Italy you may have already been disappointed to find your favorite shows missing. We explain how you can use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to access Netflix USA even if you are currently traveling abroad.

You’re likely aware that every country’s Netflix library is a little different. However, it’s an often overlooked fact that some countries have far more content than others. For instance, the American Netflix catalog currently includes around 5,500 titles, while the Italian one only has 4,100. The good news is that VPN providers have made huge strides in access Netflix recently, which means you’ll be able to access your home version of Netflix in Italy or anywhere else abroad.

So how exactly does this all work? First, it’s important to know that Netflix determines which regional library to show you by looking at your IP address. VPNs are able to hide your real IP address and assign you a new one based on the location of the server you chose. Simply, if you use an American VPN server, Netflix will believe you’re in back home in the US and will let you stream US-only TV shows and movies.

How to stream Netflix USA from anywhere using a VPN

Not sure how to get started? Don’t worry, these services are much easier to use than you might expect! Take a look below for a step-by-step guide to watching Netflix US in Italy.

Here’s how to watch Netflix USA in Italy:

1. Begin by choosing one of the suitable VPNs from the list below (we recommend NordVPN).
2. Download the app and install it on whichever device you’d like to watch Netflix on. It’s fine if there are a few; most major VPNs permit around five connections at once.
3. Open the app and select a server in the US. Generally, the closer the server, the higher the speeds, but if there’s any doubt which you should use, New York and Los Angeles are usually safe choices.
4. Now, log into Netflix and search for a US-only show or movie. If it doesn’t appear, try clearing your cookies and cache before refreshing the page. If problems persist, ask your VPN’s support team if there’s a specific server for Netflix US.

VPNs have come a long way but they can still be quite confusing to shop for. This is partially due to the sheer number of services on the market, but jargon-heavy websites and a tendency to emphasize advanced features certainly don’t help. In our experience, the best VPNs are those capable of handling every day-to-day task reasonably well, rather than being excellent in one specific situation. With this in mind, we created a list of criteria VPNs must meet to be considered for our list, we go into further detail on these criteria below.

• Works with Netflix US from abroad (and ideally, other Netflix libraries too)
• Must provide fast enough speeds for 4K streaming
• Has to have apps for a wide range of operating systems
• Includes powerful encryption and cutting-edge security features
• Follows a strict no-logging policy

Just looking for a quick overview of the best VPNs for streaming Netflix US in Italy? We’ve briefly covered our top picks below, although if you keep scrolling, you’ll find more detailed reviews a little further down the page.

Best VPNs for watching Netflix USA in Italy

1. NordVPN: Our top VPN for Netflix US. Combines a huge network with better-than-average speeds, a no-logs policy, and strong security to create a service that’s ideal for any international traveler. What’s more, there’s even a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
   TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly for Netflix.
2. Surfshark: The best low-cost VPN for streaming Netflix abroad. The fastest service on the market by far. Has no connection limit and offers plenty of powerful security and privacy tools.
3. ExpressVPN: An extremely capable service that works with over a dozen Netflix libraries. Quick and security-conscious, with servers in an unmatched 94 countries.
4. CyberGhost: Offers access to speedy servers specifically designed for streaming Netflix US. Boasts pre-configured security tools, an easy-to-grasp interface, and 24/7 live chat.
5. IPVanish: Secure all of your devices at once with this zero-logs VPN. Offers a wealth of privacy features and has no issues streaming Netflix USA or similar services.
6. PrivateVPN: A no-logs provider that puts your privacy first and works anywhere in the world. Perfect for streaming thanks to its impressive speeds and unlimited bandwidth.
7. VyprVPN: This is a highly versatile service that’s as comfortable helping you watch Netflix US as it is keeping you anonymous online. Great security toolkit and a verified no-logs policy.

PRO TIP: It’s not just US Netflix that can be accessed with a VPN. A good VPN will let you change Netflix region so you can watch your home library wherever you are. We have a more detailed guide here on how to change Netflix country.

The best VPNs for watching Netflix USA in Italy

Let’s jump right in with a review of our first choice, NordVPN:

1. NordVPN

Apr 2024 works with netflix usTested Apr 2024

NordVPN is our #1 choice for watching Netflix USA in Italy (or anywhere else, for that matter). It has seen significant speed increases lately thanks to its new NordLynx protocol and has almost 2,000 US servers to choose from. Better still, this service works with plenty of other streaming platforms too, so if you want to use Disney+, HBO Max, or Hulu in Italy, you’re in good hands.

This provider recently launched its own password manager and cloud storage services, but its VPN apps are extremely secure as well. They use 256-bit AES encryption, leak protection, and a customizable kill switch to ensure your activities stay hidden at all times, plus there are obfuscated servers that provide another layer of privacy. NordVPN keeps no logs, a fact that is regularly verified by independent auditors. If you run into any issues, feel free to contact customer support — staff are on-hand 24/7 via email and live chat.

NordVPN users can install apps for iOS, Android, MacOS, Windows, and Linux systems. Further, they can manually configure the service for their home router to help get around the six-connection limit.

BEST VPN FOR NETFLIX USA:NordVPN is our top pick. It’s quick enough for lag-free Netflix. Further, it includes a wealth of security features and a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can try it completely risk-free.

Interested? Find out more in our complete NordVPN review.

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2. Surfshark

works with netflix usTested Apr 2024

Surfshark is our top budget choice. For a low-cost VPN, it has plenty to offer, including record-setting 207 Mbps speeds, unlimited bandwidth, and access to 3,200 servers in 65 countries. It gets even better: unlike most other providers, Surfshark lets users connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously.

Its security toolkit is equally impressive. There’s 256-bit encryption built-in, plus protection against DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leaks, and a kill switch. Surfshark even boasts a CleanWeb feature that blocks ads, trackers, and malware, plus an anti-censorship NoBorders mode. It follows a strict no-logging policy, but you can pay in cryptocurrency for added privacy if you’d like. Having problems? Support staff are available, day and night, over live chat or email.

Surfshark apps are available for Linux, Windows, MacOS, Android, and iOS. Thanks to a recent update that added M1 chip support, users should see improved performance and reduced battery usage on MacOS devices. There’s also the option of manually installing this service on supported wireless routers.

BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark is our first choice for anyone on a budget. It boasts industry-leading speeds, a wide range of security tools, and the ability to access over 30 Netflix libraries, not just the US one. Further, all plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Why not take a look at our full Surfshark review?

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3. ExpressVPN

works with netflix usTested Apr 2024

ExpressVPN is another exceptional choice, with consistently high speeds and more than 3,000 servers spread across 94 countries (including the US). It works perfectly with Netflix US, and can even securely access other popular streaming platforms like HBO Max, Disney+, and Peacock. Up to five simultaneous connections are permitted too, so you’ll be able to watch your favorite shows both at home and on-the-go.

This service protects you from snoopers using a kill switch, bulletproof encryption, and protection against IPv6 and DNS leaks. It also offers its proprietary Lightway protocol, which keeps your traffic secure even when switching between networks. ExpressVPN doesn’t log any personally identifiable data and even accepts Bitcoin payments. Thanks to this VPN’s 24/7 help desk, customer support is only ever a quick message or an email away.

ExpressVPN includes its own Windows, Linux, MacOS, iOS, and Android apps. It also offers custom router firmware that lets you secure every device on your network at once; this was updated recently and now provides a faster, more stable experience than ever before.

ALL-PURPOSE VPN:ExpressVPN earns its spot in our list by being quick, reliable, and versatile enough for day-to-day usage. Works with over a dozen Netflix libraries and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read the full ExpressVPN review.

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4. CyberGhost

works with netflix usTested Apr 2024

CyberGhost keeps things simple by telling you exactly which servers work with which streaming service. As well as Netflix US, there are dedicated servers for accessing Hulu, Sling TV, and more abroad. Additionally, there are more than 1,200 regular servers in the US alone (and 7,000+ worldwide), so you won’t be short of options. This VPN allows up to seven connections at once, which is slightly above average.

Getting started is as easy as possible since CyberGhost’s security features all come pre-configured. These include 256-bit encryption, an always-on kill switch, leak protection, and automatic tracker-blocking. CyberGhost also offers NoSpy servers for added privacy, and thanks to a recent update, WireGuard support. This VPN also doesn’t log any data that could be traced back to you. If you need help, just reach out; live chat and email support are available around the clock.

CyberGhost offers user-friendly apps for a wide range of systems, including Android, iOS, MacOS, Linux, and Windows. Select routers are supported too, but these require manual setup.

SIMPLE BUT EFFECTIVE:CyberGhost is easy to use, yet extremely flexible. It offers a host of security features, designated streaming servers, and access to nearly 1,300 US servers. As if that wasn’t enough, this user-friendly VPN includes a 45-day money-back guarantee.

Still have questions? Find answers in our complete review of CyberGhost.

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5. IPVanish

works with netflix usTested Apr 2024

IPVanish users can choose from over 1,900 servers in 60+ countries, with hundreds of these in the US alone. Speeds are fast enough for flawless 4K streaming and recently saw a substantial improvement due to network upgrades. This is great news considering this VPN works with Netflix Japan, US, UK, Canada, and many more regional libraries. Here’s the best part: IPVanish doesn’t limit the number of devices you can connect, making it perfect for families or those hoping to secure their whole household.

Security is one area where this provider really shines. It boasts effectively-uncrackable encryption, a kill switch, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and an automatic reconnection option. There’s also a true zero-logs policy and a feature that scrambles OpenVPN traffic, hiding the fact that you’re even using a VPN. IPVanish offers 24/7 support over email and live chat

IPVanish provides apps for iOS, MacOS, Android, and Windows devices. If you’d prefer, you can follow manual setup instructions to get this VPN running on Linux and supported routers. We have a separate round-up of the best VPNs for Linux if you want to avoid a manual setup.

WATCH NETFLIX ANYWHERE:IPVanish is a lightweight, low-cost service with a real focus on usability and security. It also effortlessly streams Netflix US abroad, allows any number of connections, and provides a 30-day money-back guarantee.

For more details, read our full review of IPVanish.

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6. PrivateVPN

works with netflix usTested Apr 2024

PrivateVPN is perfect for anyone hoping to watch Netflix US in Italy, for several reasons. First, it’s among the best at accessing geo-blocked services and made our list of the overall best Netflix VPN options. Additionally, it boasts extremely high speeds and allows torrenting on all of its servers. It does have a smaller network than most, but recently added more servers, bringing its new total to around 200 in 63 countries.

This service has IPv6 and DNS leak protection, an application-specific kill switch, and 256-bit AES encryption (with the option to reduce this to 128 bits for a small speed boost). There’s also a stealth mode designed to help you access systems that look for the telltale signs of VPN traffic. PrivateVPN doesn’t keep any logs and recently became its own ISP and hosting provider, meaning it retains full control over your traffic, every step of the way.

PrivateVPN apps can be installed on MacOS, Windows, Android, and iOS. Additionally, you can manually configure this service to work with Linux-based systems and select routers.

IDEAL FOR STREAMING:PrivateVPN can stream Netflix with ease and provides all the tools you’ll need to stream safely in Italy. Further, thanks to its outstanding speeds, it’s an equally great choice for torrenting. Why not take advantage of its 30-day money-back guarantee?

Take a look at our detailed PrivateVPN review.

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7. VyprVPN

works with netflix usTested Apr 2024

VyprVPN is capable of streaming Netflix US, BBC iPlayer, and ITV Hub, to name but a few services. It offers access to more than 700 servers with clusters in nine US cities, and is fast enough to watch 4K content with no issues (though there may be issues if lots of people try to at the same time). This VPN lets you have up to five connections at once, which should allow you to protect all of your most-used devices simultaneously.

There are all kinds of security and privacy features built-in, too. For instance, you can make use of 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and leak protection to ensure your online activities remain private at all times. There’s also automatic wifi protection that kicks in any time you use an unsecured network, plus WireGuard support in the most recent versions of the app. VyprVPN doesn’t keep any logs whatsoever and provides 24/7 support over email and live chat.

VyprVPN has apps for Linux, Windows, MacOS, Android, and iOS. If you’d like to protect an entire network simultaneously, you can manually install this VPN on a wide range of routers.

ZERO LOGS KEPT:VyprVPN has the speed needed to stream Netflix US in Italy, but it’s also highly privacy-conscious. It follows a true no-logs policy, comes packed with security features, and offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Check out our in-depth VyprVPN review.

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Methodology: How we chose the best VPNs for Netflix USA

Netflix is one of the more difficult services for a VPN to access, so not just any will work. Of course, we wanted our readers to get a well-rounded service that’s suitable for daily usage, not just one that can access Netflix. That’s why, when choosing our recommendations, we evaluated each contender on the criteria below:

• Speed: Netflix estimates that you’ll need at least 25 Mbps to watch 4K video. However, all of our recommendations have minimal impact on download speeds and have scored highly in our most recent speed tests.
• Servers in the US: Without American servers, you won’t be able to access Netflix USA while traveling abroad. More servers usually means a more consistent connection during peak times, so naturally, our top picks have plenty to choose from.
• Value: Some VPNs try to charge more than they’re really worth. We compare each to similarly-priced rivals to see if they’re priced fairly, and if not, they don’t qualify.
• Ease of use: Digital security should be available to everyone. That’s why we only recommend services that are easy enough for a complete beginner to use.
• Security and privacy: We look for, at minimum, a no-logs policy, a kill switch, leak protection, and 256-bit encryption. More advanced security and privacy features are always welcome, though, and we’ll mention these if any are included.
• Streaming services: The goal here is accesing Netflix US abroad, but we prioritized VPNs that also work with major platforms like Hulu, Disney+, HBO Max, and Amazon Prime Video.

Believe it or not, the above checks make up just a small part of our larger VPN testing methodology. We’ve actually written a detailed guide to how we test VPNs in case you’d like to know more.

Streaming Netflix US abroad: FAQs