Things To Know Before Going to Rome

Traveling to Rome is an exciting experience, as the city is filled with history, art, and culture. To help you make the most of your trip, here are some things to know before you go:

1. Getting Around

Walking: Rome is a very walkable city, and many of its main attractions (like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Trevi Fountain) are within walking distance of each other in the historic center. Comfortable shoes are a must for walking on cobblestone streets.
Public Transport: Rome’s metro system is relatively simple and can get you to major areas like Vatican City and the Colosseum. The buses and trams are also useful, but they can be crowded, especially during peak hours.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Taxis are available but can be expensive and sometimes hard to flag down in busy areas. Ride-sharing apps like Uber work in Rome but can be less reliable than taxis.
Vatican and Colosseum Tickets: If you’re visiting these attractions, it’s best to book tickets in advance to skip the lines. Both can have very long queues, especially in the high season.

2. Top Attractions

Colosseum: One of the most iconic landmarks in the world, the Colosseum is a must-see. It's worth buying skip-the-line tickets, especially in the summer.
Vatican City: Home to the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica. A guided tour can help you navigate this vast and often crowded area. Remember to dress modestly (no shorts or sleeveless tops) when visiting St. Peter’s Basilica.
Roman Forum & Palatine Hill: Right next to the Colosseum, this historical area allows you to explore ancient Roman ruins, including temples and houses. A combined ticket for these sites and the Colosseum is usually cheaper.
Pantheon: A beautifully preserved Roman temple turned church, the Pantheon is free to enter, and its dome is a marvel of engineering.
Trevi Fountain: Don’t forget to toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure your return to Rome. It’s best to visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds.
Spanish Steps: Another iconic spot, these steps lead to the Trinità dei Monti church. It's a great place for people-watching or enjoying a coffee.

3. Best Time to Visit

Spring and Fall: These are the best seasons to visit Rome, as the weather is mild, and the city is less crowded than in the summer.
Summer: Rome can get extremely hot and crowded during the summer, especially in July and August. Many locals leave the city, and some businesses may close for holidays, but the main tourist sites remain open.
Winter: Winters are relatively mild, and the crowds are thinner, which can make for a more peaceful visit to major attractions.

4. Dining in Rome

Traditional Roman Dishes: Make sure to try some classic Roman dishes, such as cacio e pepe (pasta with cheese and black pepper), carbonara (pasta with eggs, cheese, and pancetta), saltimbocca alla romana (veal with prosciutto and sage), and supplì (fried rice balls with mozzarella).
Coffee Culture: Italians drink coffee standing at the bar, so don’t be surprised when you’re asked to pay for your coffee before drinking it. Cappuccinos are typically only consumed in the morning, and espresso is the most common order throughout the day.
Eat Like a Local: Try to avoid restaurants near major tourist attractions, as they tend to be overpriced and lower quality. Seek out places with local patrons, especially in neighborhoods like Trastevere, Monti, and Testaccio.
Tipping: Tipping is not obligatory in Rome, but rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% in cash is appreciated.

5. Cultural Etiquette

Dress Modestly at Religious Sites: When visiting churches like St. Peter’s Basilica or the Pantheon, remember to dress modestly. Shoulders and knees should be covered, and hats should be removed.
Queueing: Italians don’t always form formal lines, so be prepared for a bit of push and shove, especially at popular spots like museums and restaurants.
Language: While many Romans speak some English, it’s polite to greet people in Italian. A simple "Buongiorno" (Good morning) or "Grazie" (Thank you) goes a long way.

6. Shopping

Souvenirs: Look for artisanal products like leather goods, ceramics, and jewelry. Avoid cheap souvenir stands with mass-produced items; try to buy from local shops for something more authentic.
Markets: Rome is known for its markets, such as Campo de' Fiori and Porta Portese (a large flea market). These are great places to find unique items, fresh produce, and local goods.

7. Safety Tips

Pickpockets: Like in many major cities, pickpocketing can be an issue in crowded areas like the metro, bus, and popular tourist sites. Keep your belongings close and avoid large bags. Be extra cautious in tourist-heavy spots like the Vatican and the Colosseum.
Avoid Scams: Watch out for street vendors selling "free" gifts or asking for donations, especially near major attractions. These are often scams.

8. Money and Payments

Cash vs Card: While credit cards are widely accepted, it’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller shops, cafes, and markets. ATMs are easy to find.
Currency: The currency in Rome is the Euro (€).

9. Local Events and Festivals

Festa di Noantri (July): A celebration in the Trastevere district with processions, food stalls, and music.
Estate Romana (Summer): A series of summer events including concerts, theater, and outdoor film screenings.
Christmas and Easter: If you’re visiting during the holiday season, Rome offers special events, including midnight Mass at the Vatican during Christmas and the Pope’s Easter Mass.

10. Time to Spend in Rome

3 to 4 Days: Ideally, spend 3-4 days in Rome to see the main sights at a comfortable pace. If you have more time, consider exploring neighborhoods like Trastevere, Monti, and Testaccio, or take day trips to places like Tivoli, Ostia Antica, or the Castelli Romani.

Rome is a city of endless exploration, rich in history and culture. Take the time to wander, savor the food, and immerse yourself in its unique atmosphere. Enjoy your trip!