How to Unblock and Watch Rai TV Outside Italy (Anywhere)

RaiPlay (formerly known as RaiTV) is an inclusive streaming platform serving Italian citizens with exciting TV shows and radio streaming at no cost. Perhaps, this free availability of their favorite stuff is what users miss the most when they travel outside Italy since RaiPlay is typically geo-restricted within Italy.

However, you can still access RaiPlay outside Italy if you know how to spoof your IP address to get an Italian location online. This article explains how to stream Rai TV from anywhere.

A quick list to our top VPNs

What is Rai TV, and why is it limited to Italy only?

The platform is owned by RAI Net, a famous Italian media broadcasting giant. The service started in 2007 as Rai TV, a website offering programs produced by Rai.

While it continued as a website, it initially lacked live-streaming features.

However, it later transformed into RaiPlay in September 2016. After that, the service underwent massive transformations and upgrades to compete with streaming giants like US-based Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.

Today, RaiPlay offers live streaming of free TV and radio content to Italian users.

The service doesn’t necessarily require registration from the viewers. However, users can create free accounts on the service to enjoy On-demand content and more exciting features.

And don’t be confused; you’ve read it right. RaiPlay does offer FREE streaming to users.

But, unfortunately, this whole lot of fun is limited to Italian users only!

But you can’t blame the platform for that, as they have to abide by copyright and streaming rights regulations.

Though, as elaborated on their website in the FAQs here, users can access RaiPlay abroad. But the service is limited. Also, users can’t stream Rai TV live outside Italy. As mentioned on their site [translated],

If you are abroad, the message will appear instead of live streaming: “We are sorry, Rai holds the rights to stream the content exclusively for connections from Italy.”

So, even if you have an account on RaiPlay, you can’t access everything you want when traveling outside Italy.

But don’t worry; there’s a key for every lock. So, we’ll explain how to unblock Rai TV when abroad in the following sections.

Top ways to watch Rai TV abroad

Now that you know you can’t watch it outside Italy the way you do inside Italy, the question is, what’s the workaround for it? Well, to unblock the site anywhere, you should first understand how this content geo-blocking works.

As you now know, watching Rai TV doesn’t cost money. Nor does it require the users to register on the platform necessarily. So, what’s that particular thing that Rai TV detects when managing content broadcasts?

It’s your IP address!

Like many other services, it also applies content filtering by tracking the IP addresses generating the requests. The service tracks the users’ location through these IP addresses and decides on the content provision.

If the incoming request belongs to Italy, the service will allow full access to the content. If not, it will display the following error message.

So, in short, if you wish to watch Rai TV from abroad, you should look for ways to get an Italian IP address without physically relocating there.

And how would you do that?

Below, we list the top methods to let you unblock Rai TV anywhere.

Method #1. Get Rai TV unblocked outside Italy with VPN

The number one solution to changing your IP address is using a VPN.

A VPN or a Virtual Private Network is an excellent resource to change your virtual location as it offers a plethora of different IP addresses to you from around the world.

If you wish to learn about how VPNs work, please go through our simple beginners’ guide to VPNs.

But for a quick understanding, let us explain that VPNs work by rerouting the traffic generated from your device through its own servers.

Even before this transmission, it encrypts all your data, making your information unreadable to everyone online. It then decrypts your data as it leaves the VPN servers.

However, the rerouting makes your IP address masked with the VPN server. Consequently, your online location also changes.

This is how VPNs help you change your location in the comfort of your home. So, use a VPN if you wish to watch Rai TV from any country as an Italian resident does.

Here’s how you should proceed.

1. Subscribe to the right VPN service

It is exclusively an Italian platform. Therefore, you should choose a VPN carefully while ensuring that it has its servers in Italy.

Moreover, the VPN should also facilitate streaming services without speed lags. Also, it should offer IP leak protection for an uninterrupted streaming experience.

Once you select a VPN service provider, create an account and subscribe to one of its subscription plans.

2. Install the VPN app on your device

After completing the subscription process, download the VPN on your device.

Ideally, you should get a VPN that offers multiple device connections. This will let you watch Rai TV abroad on any device you want. It would take downloading and installing the respective VPN client on your device(s).

3. Connect to an Italy server

After installing, sign in to your VPN with your account credentials to launch the app.

Once done, search for a fast-speed server from Italy. Generally, a server from any Italian city would allow you to access Rai TV easily. Ensure it shows stable and robust connection strength to avoid long buffering times while streaming.

4. Visit the Rai TV website or app

After the VPN connection sets up, go to the Rai TV website or app and click on your desired media to watch.

Then, if you wish to avail yourself of the ‘on-demand feature, sign in to your Rai TV account.

Also, if you’re a new user, you can subscribe to this service as you have received an Italian IP address now – thanks to your VPN.

Rai TV is a free service, so you don’t have to worry about managing your payment methods.

---

Method #2. Use Smart DNS

Another strategy to enjoy Rai TV streaming abroad is using a Smart DNS.

Briefly, a Smart DNS provider works by rerouting your DNS queries through its DNS servers.

In this way, it lets you bypass content filtering. Moreover, since it doesn’t encrypt your data, your connection speeds remain unaffected. Hence, you face no trouble while streaming.

However, the main issue with using a Smart DNS is the lack of encryption that exposes your IP address and location online. So, you remain vulnerable to getting detected by the service you’re trying to access and eventually be blocked.

Nonetheless, a Smart DNS, in most cases, is free. So, you can try and see if this method works for you.

---

Method #3. Use Tor

Tor is another helpful option to encrypt your data and go anonymous online, evading all content censorship.

However, Tor’s extensive security and data encryption policies make it an unfeasible option for streaming purposes.

So, again, you can test yourself and see if this method works for you.

---

Which is the best VPN for Rai TV?

After going through all the methods described above, you must have understood that using a VPN is the best way to unblock and watch Rai TV from anywhere.

But the question is, how do you pick the right one?

To learn how to make better decisions, you may go through our detailed guide on choosing the right VPN for your needs.

Also, if you want a quick list of the best VPN services overall, you can check out our extensive list here.

But, if you’re in a hurry and want quick recommendations from us, here we list the three VPNs we like most for streaming Rai TV anywhere.

1. NordVPN

This service provider boasts one of the largest server networks, with 6000+ servers across 61 different countries. It means you get multiple servers from one location, thus getting more chances of uninterrupted access to your desired content.

For Rai TV fans, NordVPN is an excellent option as it has 65 servers across 2 locations in Italy.

In doubt about its feasibility? Sign-up and assess yourself without worrying about your money, as they offer a 30-day money-back guarantee.

---

2. ExpressVPN

Our top recommended VPN to unblock Rai TV is ExpressVPN.

Due to their robust security features and privacy protection, ExpressVPN works seamlessly to unblock Rai TV.

Also, you don’t have to worry about connection issues. Thanks to its vast network of 3000+ servers across 160 locations in 105 countries, it also offers multiple servers from two different locations in Italy.

The service also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee to first-time users. So, you can easily subscribe to assess the feasibility of ExpressVPN for you.

---

3. Surfshark

Surfshark has managed to establish a substantial global presence within a short time. Today, they have over 3200 servers in 100 countries, including two server locations in Italy.

Also, like the other significant players, Surfshark offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. So, feel free to subscribe to this service and evaluate its suitability.

---

Best Rai TV VPNs comparison table

	NordVPN	ExpressVPN	Surfshark
Avg speed	136Mbps	129Mbps	96Mbps
Supported devices	Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV, Linux, Routers	Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux	Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Routers, Smart TVs
Server network	6,040 in 61 countries	3,000 servers in 105 countries	3,200 in 100 countries
Simultaneous connections	10 devices	8 devices	Unlimited
Cheapest plan	$3.99	$8.32	$1.99

The methodology used to test Rai TV VPN

We use a rigorous scientific methodology for VPN testing to evaluate each service’s suitability for different use cases. Our testing process includes assessing for WebRTC, IP, and DNS leaks and confirming that the virtual private network (VPN) delivers on its promise of providing online privacy.

Additionally, we thoroughly examine the encryption protocols employed by the provider to ensure that they are robust and can be trusted to secure your data.

To help you choose the best VPN for streaming Rai TV, we have compiled a list of key features essential for a premium VPN service.

1. Compatibility and accessibility: We test each VPN’s compatibility with Rai TV and other popular Italian TV streaming services and international servers to see if they work with leading streaming platforms like Netflix and Hulu. This ensures excellent accessibility to all the content you want to watch.
2. Superb customer service: We recommend VPNs with live chat and email support to address any queries or concerns quickly and efficiently.
3. Robust Security: Security is a top priority, and we thoroughly test each VPN for robust encryption and DNS leak protection to ensure a high standard. We also test the kill switch, which cuts off your internet traffic if the VPN malfunctions, preventing unprotected data from leaking outside the VPN tunnel.
4. Advanced Features: We also check for advanced features such as multi-hop connections, ad blocking, malware protection, obfuscation, and Smart DNS. These extra features provide greater versatility and value for money for users.
5. Apps for all platforms: We seek out VPNs with apps for all platforms, including custom apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, as well as support for other devices like Firesticks, routers, and browser extensions. This ensures versatility and ease of use for all users.
6. Extensive server Network: We look for VPNs with a large global server network, including servers in Italy, to enable access to content and services worldwide.

Can a free VPN help me unblock Rai TV outside Italy?

Technically, yes. But, in practice, free VPNs often fail to evade advanced content blocking. It’s because these services often come with compromised features that fail to resist VPN detection.

Also, most free VPNs do not offer as thorough protection for your privacy as paid ones do.

Check out our guide here for an in-depth comparison of free and paid VPNs.

Yet, if you’re adamant about using a free VPN, you can select a service by going through this extensive list of the best free VPNs. Unfortunately, though, we cannot assure you that these VPNs will succeed in letting you watch RaiPlay outside Italy for a long.

How to sign up for Rai TV

1. Launch Rai TV. Visit the RaiTV website or install its app on your device from your location in Italy. The app supports iOS, Android, and smart TVs. 
2. Sign up. Click on the Registrati (Register) button to create an account. Enter your information, such as your username, email address, and password. Alternatively, you can register with your Google, Facebook, Apple or Twitter account. 
3. Verify your registration. Click on the email Rai TV sent you in your email to confirm your registration.
4. Start streaming. Now, you can enjoy your favorite Italian movies and TV shows.

What to watch on RaiPlay from abroad?

Best channels to watch live with Rai TV

Here are some of the channels you can watch live.

• Rai Sport
• Rai 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
• Rai Yoyo
• Rai Gulp
• Rai News 24
• Rai Scuola (School)
• Rai Premium
• Rai Movie
• Rai Storia (History)

---

Popular titles on Rai TV

• Lockout (2012) (IMDB: 6.0)
• Malmkrog (2020) (IMDB: 6.5)
• The White Crow (2018) (IMDB: 6.6)
• A Magnificent Haunting (2012) (IMDB: 6.6)
• No Home Movie (2015) (IMDB: 6.6)
• Brothers of the Wind (2015) (IMDB: 6.8)
• Valmont (1989) (IMDB: 7.0)
• PS I Love You (2007) (IMDB: 7.0)
• The Upside (2017) (IMDB: 7.0)
• Fathers & Daughters (2015) (IMDB: 7.0)
• The Traitor (2019) (IMDB: 7.1)
• Silver Skates (2020) (IMDB: 7.1)
• Wind River (2017) (IMDB: 7.7)
• Taipei Story (1985) (IMDB: 7.6)
• Magnolia (1999) (IMDB: 8.0)

---

What’s new to watch on RaiPlay in January 2024?

• Gifted 
• Pattini D’Argento
• Moonfall 
• Upside Down 
• American Woman
• Licorice 
• Cena Con Delitto 
• De Bondgenoten 
• El Maleficio 
• Colorful na Everyday

---

Devices compatible with Rai TV

Rai Italian TV Network is widely available on many platforms, including;

• PC
• Smart TV
• Apple TV
• Firestick
• Xbox
• PS3PS4
• Roku
• iOS
• Android

Stream Rai TV on PC

1. Download and configure a premium VPN. ExpressVPN is our top recommendation.
2. Connect to an Italy-based server.
3. Visit the Rai TV website, create an account, or log in.
4. If you still can’t watch Rai TV, delete your PC’s cookies and cache. 
5. Using a VPN that provides secure and stable connections is essential, enabling you to bypass geo-restrictions and watch Rai TV abroad on all these devices.

---

Stream Rai TV on Smart TV

1. Download and configure a trustworthy VPN. ExpressVPN is our top choice VPN for smartTV.
2. Connect to an Italy-based server.
3. Open your Wi-Fi router’s admin and connect it to your VPN.
4. Configure the Rai TV app on your smart TV, and set up a free account to watch your favorite content.

---

Watch Rai TV on Apple TV

1. Select a VPN service with Smart DNS. We recommend ExpressVPN.
2. Locate your Smart DNS address, open Apple TV’s Settings menu, and choose ‘Network’.
3. Select your network by clicking the Wi-Fi button.
4. Then choose Manual Configuration in DNS Configuration
5. Type in your DNS address to connect your Apple TV to a US server. 
6. Download and configure the Rai TV app on Apple TV.

---

Stream Rai TV on Firestick

1. Go to ‘Search’ on FireStick.
2. Switch to ‘Unknown Sources,’ then set up ExpressVPN and use a server in any US location.
3. Input the word ‘Rai TV’ and click ‘Enter.’
4. Click ‘Get’ to download the Rai TV app for Fire TV
5. Launch the Rai TV app and start streaming.

---

Watch Rai TV on Xbox

1. Open the Xbox menu, choose ‘My games & apps
2. Go to ‘Xbox Store and search for ‘Rai TV’ 
3. Click the ‘Install’ button.

---

Stream Rai TV on PlayStation

1. Navigate to the TV/Video Services category.
2. Look for ‘Rai TV’ from the options.
3. Select ‘Get’ from the menu.
4. Rai TV will now be included in your ‘My Channels’ list.

---

Enjoy Rai TV on Roku

1. Install and configure ExpressVPN with your Wi-Fi router.
2. Connect to an Italy server.
3. Insert a Roku device into your smart TV.
4. Switch on the device and choose Rai TV on the Roku home screen.

---

Stream Rai TV on iOS devices

1. Change your Apple ID region to Italy in Settings > Network.
2. Open ExpressVPN on your iOS device.
3. Use a server in Italy.
4. Go to the Apple App Store and search for Rai TV.
5. Install the app and log in to start streaming.

---

Access Rai TV on Android devices

1. Open the ExpressVPN Android app.
2. Connect to a server in Italy.
3. Create a new Google account and log in.
4. Search for the Rai TV app in the Play Store.
5. Install the app and create a free account.

---

Stream Rai TV on Kodi

To watch Italian video content of Rai TV on Kodi in the US, follow these steps:

1. Go to GitHub.com and download the Zip File from the given link. To locate the downloaded file easily, save it on your PC’s desktop.
2. Launch Kodi and open Kodi Add-ons.
3. Click the ‘Open Box’ icon and select ‘Install from zip file
4. Return to your PC’s desktop, where you saved the Zip file. The Zip file should be named ‘plugin.video.raitv-master.zip’
5. Click on the file to open it and wait for it to be fully installed.
6. Return to the home screen of Kodi, select ‘Add-ons,’ then choose ‘video add-ons’ Search for ‘Rai on-demand.’
7. Once you find it, click on it to open it and stream Italian video content from Rai TV on Kodi in the US.

---

Can’t you watch RaiPlay On TV? Here’s how to fix it.

Unblocking RaiPlay on TV requires you to install the VPN on your Smart TV or to connect to a VPN router.

However, even after changing your IP to an Italian one, you might face issues accessing RaiPlay. Here’s how to fix the glitch.

• Log out of your RaiPlay account.
• Change your VPN server to another one from Italy.
• Clear the device’s cookies and cache (app or browser cache).
• Sign in to RaiPlay again and start streaming.

To avoid such glitches in the future, ensure that IP leak protection is enabled on your VPN.

FAQs