Table of contents
- RaiPlay: the official Rai streaming platform
- How to watch Rai 1 live streaming from abroad
- Is it legal to use a VPN to watch Rai?
- What’s available on Rai 1 and Rai 2 live streaming
- Watch Italian TV on any deviceù
- How long are Rai programs available
- Troubleshooting: what to do if Rai Streaming isn’t working
- Rai 1 streaming abroad: the ultimate solution for Italians living overseas
Find out how to watch Rai 1 and other Rai channels live, even from abroad, on your PC, smartphone, or Smart TV.
Watching Italian television has never been easier. Thanks to digital advancements and modern streaming platforms, it’s now simple and free to watch Rai in streaming, whether you’re in Italy or abroad. From the Sanremo Festival to hit series like Don Matteo or Che Dio ci aiuti, all of Rai’s content is now accessible live and on demand.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to watch Rai 1 live streaming even from abroad, along with Rai 2 streaming, Rai 1 streaming abroad, and more. We’ll cover official platforms, devices, geoblocking issues, and the best legal tools to bypass restrictions.
RaiPlay: the official Rai streaming platform
The go-to platform to watch Rai 1 streaming and other Rai channels live is RaiPlay, the official streaming service of Italy’s public broadcaster. RaiPlay is available as a website and as a mobile app for smartphones, tablets or computers.
Once you sign up for a free account, you can access RaiPlay and start watching Rai 1 live streaming, Rai 2 live streaming, and much more.
How to use RaiPlay on smart TVs
On Smart TVs, RaiPlay is available as a downloadable app. After installation, just log in to start watching Rai in streaming directly on your TV. This setup is perfect for enjoying your favorite shows — from fiction like Un passo dal cielo to variety shows like Ballando con le stelle, and national sports events.
How to watch Rai 1 live streaming from abroad
The editorial team has received several inquiries such as: How can I watch Rai 1 live streaming from abroad? How can I stream Rai abroad? Let’s try to help.
One of the main issues for those living abroad concerns geolocation. Rai 1 live streaming and other live channels are not always available outside of Italy due to restrictions on broadcasting rights.
Those looking for how to stream Rai abroad often encounter a message like: “This content is not available in your country.”
The solution: VPN (Virtual Private Network)
To bypass this limitation legally, a VPN is the best tool. A VPN masks your IP address and allows you to simulate an internet connection from Italy, even if you’re physically overseas.
How it works:
- Choose a trusted VPN provider (e.g., NordVPN, ExpressVPN, Surfshark)
- Install the app on your device (PC, smartphone, or Smart TV)
- Connect to an Italian server
- Visit RaiPlay and start the live stream
This setup lets you watch Rai 1 live streaming even from abroad without any geographical blocks.
Is it legal to use a VPN to watch Rai?
Yes, using a VPN is legal in Italy and most other countries, as long as it’s not for illegal activities. Rai may attempt to block known VPN IPs, but most top-tier VPNs constantly rotate their server addresses to stay one step ahead.
There’s no piracy involved, since you’re accessing free content on Rai’s official platform, just routing through a server in Italy.
What’s available on Rai 1 and Rai 2 live streaming
Aside from the iconic Sanremo Music Festival, Rai 1 and Rai 2 live streaming offer a wide variety of programming:
- Hit series like Don Matteo, Che Dio ci aiuti, and Un passo dal cielo
- Prime-time entertainment shows like Ballando con le stelle, Tale e Quale Show
- News and talk shows such as TG1, Porta a Porta, and interviews with the most prominent figures of the moment
- Sports broadcasts and national events
Some programs may be restricted, especially international sports or movie rights, but most content is available without interruption.
Watch Italian TV on any device
A key advantage of RaiPlay is its device compatibility. In addition to Smart TVs, you can watch Rai streaming on:
- Android and iOS smartphones using the RaiPlay app
- Tablets
- Computers and laptops, via the raiplay.it website
- Chromecast or Fire TV Stick, to cast content to your TV screen
You’ll only need a registered account to unlock Rai 1 streaming, Rai 2 streaming, and all other channels.
How long are Rai programs available
Many shows on RaiPlay remain available for up to 30 days after they air. This includes dramas, talk shows, and variety programs.
Some events — like films or sports — may have shorter availability depending on the licensing agreements.
Troubleshooting: what to do if Rai Streaming isn’t working
If Rai streaming isn’t working, try these fixes:
- Check your internet connection
- Clear your browser cache or reinstall the app
- Make sure RaiPlay is updated
- Switch VPN servers (if watching from abroad)
- Try a different browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge…)
If Rai 1 streaming isn’t working on Smart TV, log out and back in or restart the device.
Rai 1 streaming abroad: the ultimate solution for Italians living overseas
For Italians living abroad who want to watch Italian TV, the best approach combines:
- A reliable VPN subscription
- Access to RaiPlay
- A compatible device (PC, mobile, or Smart TV)
With this setup, you can enjoy live streaming and on-demand access to Rai programming anywhere in the world — legally, safely, and for free.
To conclude
Watching Rai 1 live streaming even from abroad is now simple, fast, and legal — if you use the right tools. RaiPlayis the official, free route to view Rai channels flexibly, while VPNs help overcome geographic blocks effectively.
Whether you’re tuning in for a major event or your favorite weekly drama, Rai streaming is within reach. All you need is a connected device and a few clicks — and you’re back home, no matter where you are.
