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For me, the Eternal City is eternally fabulous. No matter how crowded it gets, how dysfunctional its current government is, or how many bad pizzas there are in ratio to good ones, Rome remains. It’s persisted and resisted for more than 2,775 years, and even at this ripe old age, Rome is still evolving. 

It’s an exciting time to visit Rome, and even for people who live there, the flurry of post-pandemic activity in the travel sector has been dizzying. “Archaeological sites that have been fenced-off for years are now accessible to visitors, there’s a host of innovative new tour options, and I can barely keep up with the number of absolutely stunning luxury hotels that have opened ,” says Travel + Leisure contributor and Rome resident Laura Itzkowitz, who also writes about Rome in her newsletter, The New Roman Times . “It’s a delight to see so much investment in the city and so many new ways to experience it.” 

No matter how you decide to see the city or whether your tastes swing towards art and architecture, high-end shopping and dining, or browsing markets and munching on street food, Rome gives you options. We asked Itzkowitz and some other Rome travel experts to weigh in on their favorite places and experiences to recommend in eternal Rome.

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Swoon over the cityscape. Few things are as romantic as Rome at night from a vantage point like the Fontana dell'Acqua Paola or the Capitoline Hill.
• See marble turn to flesh. At the Galleria Borghese, Bernini’s lifelike sculptures are a gazillion times more impressive than what you remember from art history class. 
• Do the Full Monty of Italian dining. Bring your appetite and go big, with antipasto, pasta, main course, and dessert at a homey trat like Da Enzo da 29.  
• Get up early. At least once during your stay, request an early wake-up call to discover a deserted city. ArcheoRoma can lead the way. 
• Shop at a market. If you don’t buy produce, trinkets, or street food at a real Roman market like Testaccio or Campo de’ Fiore, have you been to Rome? 

Courtesy of Bettoja Hotels

Palazzo Vilòn

If there’s one thing our experts agree on, it’s that Palazzo Vilòn luxury apartment is the most sumptuous new address in Rome. Nicole Bono, luxury travel and events planner with Bono Events International says, “When they open the doors for you, your jaw will drop.” Gary Portuesi, a T+L Top Travel Advisor with Authentic Explorations , says that at Vilòn, “you get to live like a Roman aristocrat in an intimate palazzo in the best neighborhood.”

Singer Palace

“I'm in love with the Singer Palace these days,” says Bono of this 19th-century beauty in the former Singer sewing machine headquarters. “It's family-owned, and that is felt with every single detail in this property. You're truly cuddled from the moment you walk in the door till your last Spritz before you leave.”

Hotel de Russie, a Rocco Forte Hotel

T+L readers’ favorite hotel in Rome is also a hit with Portuesi, who raves about its “with its unique and secluded Mediterranean tiered secret garden walking distance from the Spanish Steps, Fontana di Trevi and Piazza del Popolo.” The hotel’s Stravinskij Bar remains one of Rome’s most elegant locales for a cocktail.  

Hotel Mediterraneo

Every time I exit Termini Station, I sigh with comfort at the sight of this trusty four-star in a fascist-era Art Deco building. Stepping through the doors feels like stepping back in time, in a good way, with old-school service, a delightful lobby bar, and humongous suites, some with skyline views of Rome.

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

Basilica di San Clemente

For a real sense of how Rome’s history is layered like a lasagna, head to this church near the Colosseum — or rather, underneath it. An atmospheric archaeological area beneath the not-too-shabby 12th-century church holds an even earlier Christian church, which lies on top of a pagan altar and an ancient Roman apartment building.  

ArcheoRunning

If you’re a runner, join archaeologist, guide, and running enthusiast Isabella Calidonna on an early morning jogging tour through Rome's truly magical empty streets. (Trust me, it’s okay if you run slowly.) If you’re not a runner, don’t sweat it — she’ll be happy to do the same informative tour at a walking pace. 

Via del Governo Vecchio

Spend a late afternoon vintage shopping on my favorite street in Rome , then stick around for an aperitivo, followed by pizza and gelato. If that trifecta of Roman drinking and eating isn’t enough, this splendid street near Piazza Navona has a buzzy but manageable bar-hopping scene. 

Largo Argentina

Want to stand at the very site (or very near it, anyway) where Julius Caesar lost his life? Long visible only from street level and best known as a cat sanctuary among picturesque ruins, the archaeological area at Largo Argentina site is now open to the public, thanks to funding from Bulgari . The Curia of Pompeo, where Caesar got shivved, stands near the ruins of four ancient temples.

Galleria Borghese

Reserve your tickets in advance and prepare to be overwhelmed by the beauty here, both of the ornate salons of this noble palace turned art museum, and the amazing works inside, including Bernini’s spellbinding "Rape of Proserpine" and several Caravaggio paintings.

Testaccio Market

This sprawling covered market in the working-class Testaccio neighborhood offers an authentic slice of Roman daily life. Even if you’re not shopping for clothing, produce or fresh fish, stop for some of Rome’s best street food, especially a suppli at Food Box or a drippy panino at Modri e Vai. 

Itzkowitz is a fan of this artisan jeweler in Monti and even had owner Antonio design a pair of custom earrings for her wedding. If you don’t have time for a made-to-order bauble, the shop has many original designs, many of which feature colorful gemstones.

Essenzialmente Laura

For a real only-in-Rome gift or souvenir, Portuesi refers friends and clients to the perfumery of Laura Bosetti Tonatto, who’s made custom scents for celebrities, royals, and aristocrats, including Queen Elizabeth II. “You can create your own perfect perfume or find the scent you love,” he says. 

La Bottega del Marmoraro

It’s hard to imagine a store like this anywhere else — a tiny workshop on pretty Via Margutta where stone carver Sandro Fiorentino tinks away at marble plaques by hand. “I love to bring out-of-town visitors here,” says Itzkowitz. “Prices start at around 15 euros, which means you can find an affordable, handmade souvenir.”

Courtesy of Hassler Hotel

Fontana dell'Acqua Paola

Some of the best things in Rome are free, including the views from this monumental fountain high on the Janiculum hill. It’s one of T+L’s top underrated things to do in Rome . Fans of the Oscar-winning film “Rome, the Great Beauty” will recognize this majestic spot.

This classy bar offers great cocktails and light bites with a sublime view. “A table there in the stunning Piazza di Pietra,” says Bono, “with the incredible Roman columns all lit up is truly magical, and it feels like it's just there for you."

Hassler Hotel 7th Floor Terrace

The recipe for an unforgettable Roman evening: Start with panoramic city views from atop the Spanish Steps, stir in a specialty cocktail, garnish with some elevated aperitivo fare, and drink it all in at one of our favorite family-run hotels in Italy and one of the absolute best in Rome.

Da Enzo da 29

Despite its near-legendary status and the long lines for a table (Enzo doesn’t take reservations), Itzkowitz says a meal here is “worth the wait and lives up to the hype — every time.” She’s a fan of the handmade tonarelli cacio e pepe but says that the food here is consistently good across the menu. 

Trattoria Da Cesare Al Pellegrino

This new-in-2023 sister property of a neighborhood favorite in residential Monteverde brings hearty, traditional Roman pasta and meat dishes to the centro storico. “Run, don't walk,” says Bono, “because this city location is super charming, and tourists haven't found it yet.”

Pro Loco Pinciano

Portuesi says you’ll feel like a local at this super-casual pizza and pasta joint just outside the city walls, where the emphasis is on ingredients and wines sourced from the surrounding region on Lazio. Charcuterie platters are delicious and abundant here. 

L'Antica Pesa

Regularly named one of the best restaurants in Rome, this Trastevere culinary landmark is, per Portuesi, “a standard and consistent classic” and worth crossing the river for. Head here for a special dinner or when you’re ready to go big (before going home, maybe?) and order an appetizer, pasta (primo), meat, and dessert for the full Italian dining experience.

You’ve heard all the warnings about visiting in high summer, but if that’s the only time you have to visit, Itzkowitz says to do as the Romans do: rest in your cool hotel room in the afternoon and venture out again in the early evening. Bono agrees that summer can be...sticky but adds, “Those summer sunsets on a rooftop with an Aperol spritz certainly make for that 'Dolce Vita moment' we all crave.”

Portuesi recommends November, as it’s still relatively warm and the crowds have thinned out; January, when sale season starts; or April and October. “Tourists might still be there, but the colors of spring and autumn are amazing, and temperatures are on the warm side.” I love visiting in January or February when the crowds are much more manageable, and if you’re lucky, you can catch some lovely, crisp, sunny days.

Most visitors fly into Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci/Fiumicino Airport (FCO). From there, you can take a 30-minute non-stop train to Termini, the central station, and take a taxi, Metro, bus, or tram to your accommodation. A cab from FCO to anywhere inside the Aurelian Walls costs 50 euros. Ride-sharing services other than Uber Black are not available in Rome. 

Rome’s historic center is primarily flat and highly walkable. Many visitors take the Metro to reach the Vatican Museums, then walk back into the city from there (or take a cab from St. Peter’s Square). 

Buses and Metro, both run by ATAC , are also reliable ways to get around, though depending on the distance, walking may be faster. Note that taxis in Rome cannot be hailed on the street. Instead, they wait at taxi stands or ranks generally located near tourist areas. 

I strongly recommend against renting a car in Rome, as traffic and parking are a mess and the centro is a maze of one-way streets, many of which are pedestrian-only. If you pick up a car in Rome for a more extended tour in Italy, make sure you have your route mapped out in advance — and nerves of steel. 

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The Complete Guide To Planning Your Trip To Rome: Tips, Restaurants, and More

Sean Finelli Last Updated: August 29, 2023

Traveling to Rome for the first time? Nobody wants to pick a hotel in the wrong part of town or sit down at a bad restaurant. The good news is you’re reading this article, so you won’t have these problems! This guide will cover some of the Rome basics and links to a ton of great resources to make planning your trip to Rome easy and fun. 

Pro Tip: Bookmark this post and other helpful articles, like where to stay in Rome in a trip folder on your browser so you can quickly find them when you need them. Rome is an expansive city worthy of a tour or two, explore our top-rated Rome tours and experiences . Also, check out our other resources on planning your trip to Rome .

How To Plan Your Trip To Rome: A Complete Guide

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know to plan a memorable vacation in the Eternal City, with plenty of additional resources to explore. From the logistics of where to stay and how to get around the city to the finer details of how to get your coffee, basic Italian phrases, and top things to do, we’ll help you prepare for your dream trip in Rome.

• Airports and Public Transport (Metro)
• Where To Stay
• Things To Do
• Food Culture
• Credit Cards, Tipping, and Communicating

When To Travel To Rome and What To Pack

Rome airports and public transport, rome airports.

There are two main airports in Rome, Ciampino and Fiumicino, and they are both roughly the same distance from the city center.

Fiumicino (FCO)

In short, to get from Fiumicino Airport (FCO) to Rome’s city center, the train is the most popular means of transport, taxi is the most convenient, and the bus is the least popular.

By far, the most popular way to get from Fiumicino airport to the city center is by train. For €15, you can get the Fiumicino Express from FCO to Termini station (main station).

A taxi is the most convenient way to get to the center. There are regulated rates from the airport to the city center that fall between €45 – €50, depending on a few difficult-to-explain criteria, such as what type of license the taxi has. If you’re staying outside the historic center of Rome, you may also have to pay more or less. You can normally pay with a credit card in taxis but always ask.

Ciampino (CIA)

The bus is the most popular way to get from Ciampino Airport (CIA) to the city center. Buses tend to cost around €6 – €7, depending on the airport and the coach company. They run based on arrivals. Terravision has been around for a long time and is pretty cheap. 

Taxi, again, is the most convenient. They cost between €35 – €45 depending on the same factors mentioned above, which are difficult to understand.

Rome Transportation Options

Rome has plenty of transportation options. How you decide to get around Rome on any given day on your trip will depend on your preferences, what you have planned to do, and where you’re going. We’ll go over all of them:

Walking in Rome

Rome is an extremely walkable city. If you’re in reasonably good shape and the weather isn’t overly hot, you can walk Rome’s historical center very well. However, the streets can sometimes be confusing. If you aren’t using a mobile map app, it could get tough.

The Colosseum is a 35-minute walk from the Piazza del Popolo and around a 60-minute walk from the Vatican Museums Entrance. However, it’s important to pick your battles. For example, you may not want to walk to the Vatican from the Colosseum, considering that you’ll be on your feet for at least three hours when visiting the Vatican Museums with a guided tour. Some of our top-rated Vatican tours last up to 5 hours to give visitors an enriched experience of the museums. In this case, it might be better to take the subway or even a taxi to conserve energy.

That said, be prepared to walk when you’re in Rome. If you aren’t already doing so, walk at least an hour each day to get your legs ready for your trip!

Rome Bus System

We have a great video on what you need to know to use the buses in Rome . It’s a little dated but fun to watch, and you’ll see exactly where to get bus tickets, how to ask for one, and how to conquer Rome’s bus system. There are three fundamentals that you need to know when using the buses:

• Buy a ticket before you get on and validate it when you’re on the bus.
• The bus signs are pretty confusing unless you know the city really well. So, download an app .
• The buses go literally everywhere. They’re a good option but get hot and crowded in the summer—just something to keep in mind.

Walking around Rome can get really tiring. Hopping on a bus for a kilometer or two can make all the difference. Save your energy for the highlights of your trip.

Rome Metro (Subway) System

The Roma metro system has two lines: the red A-line and the blue B-line. As a visitor, you’ll find yourself on the A-line the most. It goes from Termini past the Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Piazza del Popolo, and most importantly, the Vatican.

The B-line will get you from Termini Station to the Colosseum and Circus Maximus. These are the most popular stops for visitors using the metro to get to Rome’s top attractions .

You can’t get to Trastevere by metro, but you can get close to Testaccio by getting off at Piramide. Both Trastevere and Testaccio are known for their lively nightlife and great food. Your hotel and most Airbnbs will have a metro map that you can keep handy.

Getting a Taxi in Rome 

I use public transportation for short, direct rides to get from place to place. For example, going from the Vatican to the Spanish Steps or from Termini Station to the Colosseum. For anything complicated, I normally pony up and take a taxi. They’re relatively cheap if they don’t rip you off—which they will try to do.

A good workaround is to search for your destination in your phone’s map app, get directions from your current location, and hit go. Then, show that map to the taxi driver when they ask where you want to go. This way, they know you’re tracking. Otherwise, there’s really nothing you can do. Just don’t pre-negotiate the rate. There’s a meter in the vehicle that determines the cost.

Renting a Scooter in Rome

If I’m in Rome for more than a couple of days, I’ll rent a scooter. It’s a good option if you have scooter experience. If you don’t, I wouldn’t recommend it. It can be dangerous getting around an unknown city when you don’t even know how to drive the thing, let alone negotiate traffic and figure out where to go.

Where To Stay in Rome

Rome is a large metropolitan city, but the area most visitors are interested in is the historical center or  Centro Storico because it’s pretty condensed. You can walk from the Colosseum to the Vatican, almost on opposite sides of the historical center or “center” for short, in an hour.

The center is the place to be in Rome, and each neighborhood is really great. I prefer the northern sections like Piazza Navona and Spanish Steps.  To me, they are classical Roman/Italian and super nice. Here are the best areas to consider with links to in-depth neighborhood guides:

• Spanish Steps
• Pantheon/Piazza Navona
• Prati (Vatican)

Again, I really like anything near the Spanish Steps, as I like being in the thick of it. It will come with a price tag, but savvy travelers find deals. Check out our in-depth guide on where to stay in Rome, covering the city’s best neighborhoods.

Top Things To Do in Rome

From visiting the Sistine Chapel to an underground apothecary run by priests, there are unlimited things to do in Rome. One of the best ways to see a city with this kind of history is to join local guides on fun tours with exclusive access and endless stories to tell. There are so many things to see and ways to see them. Check out all our Rome tours that include the top monuments and museums, plus incredible day trips.

This is a list of the top things to do while you’re in the Eternal City. Be sure to follow the links for more in-depth information on visiting each one of these monuments and museums.

Top Museums

Rome has over 60 incredible museums containing some of the world’s most important works of art. It may be difficult to decide which of them you’ll see. Check out our guide on the seven best museums to visit in Rome for details. Here’s a quick list:

• The Vatican Museums
• The Borghese Gallery
• The Capitoline Museum
• Palazzo Barberini
• Palazzo Altemps
• Palazzo Massimo alle Terme
• MAXXI Museum

Top Monuments

Rome is filled with historical monuments and attractions. Some of them you have likely heard. Others may be new to you. Here is a list of what you should see on your Rome trip. Check out this guide for the stories behind these top monuments and attractions in Rome .

• The Colosseum
• The Basilica of St. Peter
• The Catacombs of Domitilla
• The Roman Forum
• The Pantheon
• The Palatine Hill
• The Trevi Fountain
• Piazza Navona
• The Spanish Steps
• Belevedere of Gianicolo Hill
• The Tiber Island
• The Mouth of Truth
• Trajan’s Column
• Il Pincio and Piazza del Popolo

Must-See Gardens and Parks

If you love beautiful manicured gardens and green spaces, this is for you. There are a number of must-see gardens and parks in Rome . The Villa Borghese and Vatican Gardens are the more well-known among them, but you may also want to visit some of these:

• Villa Doria Pamphili
• Villa Borghese
• Park of the Acquedotti
• Giardino degli Aranci
• Vatican Gardens
• Villa Ada Savoia
• Villa Sciarra

Absolutely Free Things To Do

You may be surprised by the cool free things you can do in Rome . Some of the city’s most well-known sites are completely free to explore. Check out this list:

Food Culture in Rome

Where to start with Italian food? It’s often one of the top reasons why tourists come to Italy, and for good reason. Every region serves amazing, fresh, handmade delicacies.

A traditional Italian meal will go like this: antipasto (starter), primo (pasta), secondo (meat and vegetables), dolci (dessert), followed by coffee and liquors. Do Italians eat like this every day?

Fortunately for those of us who live here, no! But these are typically the headings that you’ll see on a menu, so it’s best to have an idea of what they mean. There’s a lot to cover in this section, here’s a breakdown: 

• How to Find Local Restaurants

Types of Restaurants

Rome meal times.

• Coffee Culture
• Drinking Fountains

How To Find Local Restaurants in Rome

Rome is a very touristy city, but that doesn’t mean that there aren’t good places to eat in the city center. Check out our Rome restaurant master list that we regularly update . From there, you can navigate and see our restaurant recommendations near every major Roman attraction. 

In general, avoid restaurants within sight of a tourist attraction, particularly if they have pictures of the food on the menu or people standing outside trying to hustle you in. Even in the most authentic restaurants, don’t expect particularly friendly service.

Some of the best food is often flung at you without so much as a “hello,” but it’s guaranteed to be worth it. Areas a little more off the beaten track are where you’re more likely to have an authentic experience. For example, the area of Testaccio is well-known for being a classic Roman foodie area, packed with local restaurants.

A really great way to experience a wide variety of Roman cuisine in good restaurants is to join a food tour. They’re a trendy and fun way to get to know the local food scene. Check out our top-rated  Trastevere food tour in Rome .

In Italy, there are stereotypical classifications for almost anything, including restaurants. When you’re in Rome, you’ll notice restaurants don’t just have a name, like “Tony’s,” but also a classification, such as “Trattoria.”  Each one means something specific, and it lets you know what kind of food and experience to expect. Unfortunately, very few visitors to Italy know the difference between an osteria and a trattoria . We’ll solve that for you right here.

Imagine waking up at 6:30  am, rolling over to your significant other, and saying, “Want to head to the bar?” This is what happens almost every morning to millions of Italians.

No, they are not alcoholics. You can get alcohol at an Italian Bar, but you normally don’t. It’s where you get breakfast. You’ll see the “Bar” sign all over Italy, and when you walk in, you’ll find espresso drinks, cornetto, and panini. You can also get freshly squeezed orange juice or vegetable juice. I highly recommend it!

Unlike the bar, you definitely shouldn’t wake up at 7 a.m. asking you’re significant other to go to the enoteca . This is where you go for an alcoholic drink like a glass of wine or a beer.

A good enoteca will serve tons of wine by the glass in many different price ranges. They’ll often also serve cured meat plates for a snack or even warm meals at times. I definitely recommend stopping by one of these on your travels in Italy and Rome.

Tavola Calda

One of my favorite types of places to eat lunch is a tavola calda . They are normally unassuming and serve many different types of dishes, from cooked vegetables to lasagna and pasta dishes. The dishes normally change from day to day based on what is in season and other factors.

For example, gnocchi in Rome is only served on Thursdays. If you see it on the menu seven days a week, you may be in a tourist trap. Authentic Roman restaurants only serve this dish on  giovedí.  You have been warned.

These are pretty cool little sandwich shops. Dotted all over Rome, they range in quality. Don’t refer to your sandwich as a “panini” unless you get more than one. The “i” makes it plural. Italian’s order a  panino. 

Check out 200 Gradi by the Vatican. It’s an awesome place. Campo dei Fiori also has an awesome drive-up stand open for lunch that serves porchetta.

Osterie are pretty cool if you can find one. They are basically super cheap and simple places to eat. A true osteria would have communal-style tables and serve very cheap meals. Back in the day, when Italy was extremely impoverished, they’d even allow you to bring your own food and just drink there.  Imagine that today?

You can find restaurants with the title “Osteria” in Italy, but you shouldn’t bring your own food or normally expect to eat with strangers. There is a place in Florence, Da Mario , which says it is a trattoria, but it feels more like what a traditional osteria would have been like.

Expect a warm and cheap meal if you happen to go inside an osteria in Rome, and even more so in the Italian countryside. The menu will either be non-existent or small. In the countryside or in small towns, they can be really cool. The waiter may rock up to your table and say, “Today, we are serving pasta with clams. Would you like fettucini or spaghetti with that?” Enjoy!

The trattoria of Rome sits somewhere between osteria and ristorante . Almost all Italian restaurants are family-run, bu t trattories are quintessentially family-run. They are normally inexpensive but have a larger menu than an osteria.

Expect traditional regional cuisine at a trattoria. If you go to two different ones, you may find the exact same things on the menu. This is because they offer their family’s version of that regional dish.

This is basically the Italian equivalent of a more formal restaurant. They’ll have a menu with all the Italian courses, and you’ll be expected to eat each course. You should definitely find a top-rated ristorante in Rome and budget 3 hours for your meal. Really indulge in the food, wine, and desserts.

Pasticceria

This is an Italian bakery serving all types of delightful local treats. They are probably the best places to go for breakfast as they’ll make their cornettos fresh and supply them to all the bars.

You should be able to get a coffee here, too, but that isn’t a given. If you’re staying in an Airbnb or apartment rental, find a pasticceria close by and pick up a bunch of  cornetti  for your group. You’ll be everyone’s favorite person!

Rosticceria

You won’t find this is in Rome, but it’s worth mentioning. A rosticceria is a place you can go to find pre-cooked meals like roasted meats and high-quality products. If you do find one and you’re renting an apartment, consider doing take-out one night from a rosticceria.

Taverna or Rifugio

You’ll find restaurants in Rome with  taverna in their names, but this is more a colorful play on words.  Taverne  are secluded restaurants in the Italian mountains where you could get a hearty meal, something to drink, and possibly a warm bed to sleep in.

Today, you can still find a few dotted in the landscape, but you’re more likely to find an agriturismo, which is more of a B&B. A taverna in Rome is most likely going to decorate its interior in a rustic countryside style and have hearty meals on its menu. It’s kind of like going to a seafood restaurant that’s decorated in a nautical theme but nowhere near an ocean.

One of the biggest cultural differences is that Romans tend to eat much later than basically everyone except the Spanish. In fact, many of the best restaurants won’t open until at least 7:30 p.m.

Lunch: 12:30 pm – 2:30 pm

Dinner: 7:30 pm – 11 pm

To avoid eating in an empty restaurant and to really make the most of your evenings in Rome, try and fit in with them and eat a bit later. Around 8 pm is a good time to sit down.

Coffee Culture in Rome

Italians take their coffee culture very seriously, and there are almost as many rules about coffee as there are for food. Here’s what you need to know to get your coffee fix in Rome:

Espresso “un Café”: A very small shot of coffee. Unless you’ve been to Italy, it’s never been this small.

Café Doppio: Double shot of espresso.

Café Macchiato:   Basically a mini cappuccino. Imagine an espresso and foamed milk all in a tiny espresso cup. Normally, men order these in the morning.

Cappuccino:  This is espresso and foamed milk in a small cup. It’s larger than a macchiato, but nowhere near that tall cappuccino you are used to. You won’t find a larger size.

Café Americano:  Espresso with hot water. The name is from WWII, when American troops would ask Italians to put hot water in the espresso.

Latte: A cup of milk—don’t order this if you want caffeine.

Café Latte: Warm, non-foamy milk with espresso.

The Coffee Rules (Yes, there are rules)

• No cappuccino or milk-based espresso after 11 a.m. You can do it, obviously, but it’s not really the culture.
• No cappuccino or milk-based espresso with meals. Don’t do this.
• It is cheap when you stand up at the bar (€1 – €2), expensive when you sit down. Same for everyone, not just tourists.

Rome Water Fountains

One of the best things to know about Rome is that there’s no need to buy plastic bottles of water when you get thirsty—there are tons of fountains dotted around the city, and Romans are very proud of them.

Bring a refillable water bottle, and fill it up whenever you see one. There’s also an app to help you find them called I Nasoni di Roma. If you’re going in the heat of summer, you’ll find this tip invaluable!

People are always surprised that you can drink from these fountains, which is crazy if you think about it. Their original purpose was to provide running water to each neighborhood since most houses didn’t have running water. Today, we forget that fact and are astonished by this basic concept due to our many creature comforts.

Credit Cards, Tipping, and Communicating in Rome

Cash or Credit?

The currency in Italy is the euro. An important thing to remember about Italy is that cash is still king. It’s necessary to carry a reasonable amount of cash around with you at all times to avoid getting stuck.

In general, most restaurants will allow you to pay on a card, as will large shops and tourist attractions. But for drinks, coffee, transport tickets, and small items, cards often aren’t accepted. There may even be a €10 minimum on card payments.

Rule of Thumb:  If it’s less than €10, pay cash. It’s more than €10, and you can probably pay credit as long as there isn’t a “Solo Cash” sign on the door.

The Good News:  The Italian word for credit card is carta di credito . Any Italian shop owner will understand when you ask, “Credit Card?” They’ll also know to respond, “Cash” if they don’t accept credit cards. So, there’s no need to stress.

Tipping isn’t really expected in Italy. I’ve tried to convince visitors that you just need to leave some extra change, a euro per person, regardless of check size, but it normally falls on deaf ears. To simplify things, I have created different levels of tipping to help people understand:

Don Corleone:  Leave 20%, and when you go back, the restaurant staff will celebrate your return as if you were the Godfather. You may get some sneers from other restaurant goers who can’t get your waiter’s attention.

Super Nice : Leave 10%. It’s less than you are used to but far more than anyone in Italy would expect.

Roman : Leave a euro or two extra per person. The wait staff will be very happy.

Nothing at All : Leave nothing and nobody will say anything. Your food will not be poisoned upon returning.

Communicating in English or Italian

One of my favorite things to watch is travelers trying to string together Italian words into sentences from a guidebook. I have been that traveler in many countries. The worst part, though, is when you actually make sense, and the person responds, much to your bewilderment.

Let’s not romanticize the key phrases part of a guidebook here and keep it simple. The phrases below will make you look like a pro because you’ll get simple responses such as si (yes) or a finger pointing to the bathrooms. Remember that c’s have a hard “ch” sound, unlike Spanish.

How much does this cost? Quanto costa?

Check, please. Il conto per favore.

Do you take credit cards? Posso pagare con la carte? 

Where is the bathroom? Dov’è il bagno? Or simply, “bagno?” 

Water?  Acqua?

Table for two, please. Tavolo per due, per favore.

Can you order for me? Fai te?

The last recommendation is by far my favorite. If your waiter is Roman, they will accept the challenge and bring some tasty food. A key phrase is certo (pronounced cherto), which means “of course”. Romans use this all the time, so you may hear it instead of si .

When To Travel

Part of the reason why people love Rome is the weather. It’s pretty much always nice, and bad weather is when it is too hot. That’s a good problem to have.

Temperature

The average monthly temperature in Rome ranges from a low of 37 degrees Fahrenheit (F) to a high of 89 F.  It snows once every 10 to 50 years, and people don’t know what to do when that happens—it’s the greatest.

To decide when you want to travel to Rome, you can use this equation to get a rough idea.

How much am I willing to spend / Am I ok with cooler weather = Daily budget

Cheapest Months:

• December (1st – 20th)
• Jan (7th – 31st)
• March (1st – 20th)

Mid-Range Months:

• March (21st – 31st)
• April (excluding 5 days on either side of Easter)
• October (although it can be higher in price early in the month)

Full-Price Months:

• Christmas to New Year
• Easter (5 days on either side)

What To Pack

Check out the infographic below on what to pack. While it’s very useful, the ideal amount to pack is one change of clothes and a mostly empty suitcase. Shopping in Italy is great, so the more space you can leave in your suitcase, the better.

You don’t need to pack an umbrella. As soon as it rains, hundreds of people will appear out of nowhere selling umbrellas. It’s magical. Also, you can’t wear heels in Rome. Let me clarify, you can wear flats and pack heels in your purse for when you are inside bars and restaurants. The cobblestones make wearing heels nearly impossible.

Rome has a rich cultural history and many iconic landmarks to explore. Plan where to stay in the magnificent Eternal City in the best neighborhoods.

Reader Interactions

Comments (12).

September 3, 2019

What a lovely description of Italy and Italians you have given to us! I love to read about the transport, food and most importantly the people. Awesome work done! Keep them coming!

September 4, 2019

Ciao Tanisha! What a lovely comment. We are so happy to provide you with helpful tips for your vacation!

October 24, 2019

A very informative article. Thank you so much for sharing these things.

October 28, 2019

Ciao! Thanks so much for reading our blog! It’s our mission to provide you with the most useful information possible for your trip.

November 19, 2019

Nice quality post. Thumbs Up from my side. Special thanks to theromanguy for sharing this valuable information. Once again appreciated!

January 6, 2020

Nice tips. I’d add the 48 euro fixed rate from the airport to the centre as the best option if there are at least 2 people. By the time you take the train then Metro or taxi from Termini it just about equals out.

January 21, 2020

Thanks for the tip, Gary!

May 15, 2020

Rome really such a beautiful city, wish more people will be able to experience it. Thanks for the insightful article.

June 9, 2020

It is nice you included few basic lines of Italian language everyone should know when visiting Italy or and other country. People are so friendlier to you if you can say “Hi” to them in their language.

July 21, 2020

Hey, thanks for sharing this, I enjoyed reading it looking forward to my next trip to Italy.

April 23, 2021

Admiring the time and energy you put into your blog and detailed information you provide.

September 27, 2022

thank you – very helpful and have taken notes for our trip 🙂

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Planning a Trip to Rome (2024): Tips & Tricks for Better Experience (+Info for First Visit)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: September 2, 2024

Planning a trip to Italy and looking for travel tips for Rome ? Read on! In this article, I share simple but very important tips for visiting Rome for the first time. Not only will these tips help you have a more enjoyable trip, but they will also help you make the most of your trip. Find out!

I wrote this post after one of my first trips to Rome. My head was still spinning from all the impressions, my legs were sore and, despite walking more than 46km (29 miles) in three days, I definitely gained a few pounds…

I wanted to share some advice for a  more enjoyable travel experience  in the Eternal City and give you some useful tips on how to get the most out of your time in Rome .

From where and when to go, to where to eat and where to stay, to what shoes to wear – find out all you need to know when planning a trip to Rome so that you can get the most out of your visit and truly enjoy it.

Good to know: This blog with Rome travel tips has been updated after our most recent trips to Rome. We do our best to keep it up-to-date with experience-based tips and insights. I hope that it will help you plan a fun and truly memorable visit to the Eternal City!

Top 4 Tickets You Should Book in Advance:

• Airport Transfer .
• Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel .
• Colosseum & Roman Forum .
• The Pantheon (yes, nowadays you need a ticket here too!).

Rome is a beautiful place! One of the most beautiful cities in Italy and one of the most impressive cities in the world! I often refer to it as the city-museum because it really feels as if you are walking through a huge museum.

Every street, every church, every building breaths history. There’s so much to see in do in Rome and it’s a city like no other, a place everyone should visit, at least once in their lifetime.

Unfortunately, it feels as if everyone is actually visiting Rome at the same time as you are… Rome is crowded . It’s certainly the case for the main tourist sights. Visiting the Trevi Fountain in the middle of the day is really no fun. It’s so busy that it makes many other popular destinations look like a rather quiet experience…

Despite the crowds, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the city. Below are some top tips that should help you make the most of your trip to Rome and have a more enjoyable visit. Read on!

Here are our top Rome travel tips:

1. Book in advance

When traveling to Rome for the first time, you probably have a pretty good idea of what you want to see. The Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Vatican…

You will quickly realize that you are not the only one, however. There are huge crowds at each of the most famous landmarks. Often, it’s so busy that if you don’t think to book well in advance, you may not be able to visit at all.

The tickets to the most popular places – the Colosseum and the Vatican Museums – often get sold out at least a few weeks in advance . So if you absolutely want to visit the Colosseum or see Sistine Chapel, you HAVE to book upfront. In the high season (April – October), be sure to book at least 2-3 weeks in advance. In winter, you might be able to find tickets in the same week as well, but don’t count on it.

Here you can get tickets for the Colosseum and the Vatican Museums .

Also, keep in mind that some places – especially the Vatican – can be closed for some religious celebrations or other occasions. When booking in advance, you’ll immediately see which days are unavailable and will be able to adjust your itinerary if needed . Otherwise, you risk not being to able to visit some places at all…

PRO TIP: If the tickets you want to are sold out, you can usually still visit the place by joining a guided tour. Many tour companies have access to additional tickets, and often, they prebook them long in advance as well. More info about tours and tickets below.

2. Get ‘skip the line’ tickets or go with a guided tour

If you are like most tourists, you have just two or three days in Rome and want to see it all. Do you really want to spend most of your time queuing at the most famous landmarks, wondering where exactly to go and what to see, and completely miss out on the more authentic travel experience?

If you don’t, then you should really consider booking ‘skip the line’ tickets or guided tours.

Otherwise – if you are really short on time – you can also skip some must-see places and only see them from the outside. Spend your time getting to know the city and don’t waste it queuing!

Guided tours might cost you a few extra euros, but considering how much your trip costs, it’s really worth spending that tiny bit extra and getting more out of your time in Rome. After all, your trip to Rome is not cheap and it would be a complete waste of money to spend all your time waiting in lines or visiting a place and getting completely overwhelmed not knowing where exactly to go and what to see…

So save time at the most popular attractions and make the most of your trip!

PRO TIP: The Rome Tourist Card is an easy way to secure timed entry tickets to the most popular tourist attractions in Rome in one place. It includes priority access to the Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill, Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel, and more. It’s all digital so really simple to use.

Here are some more tips for visiting two of the most popular attractions in Rome . Take a look!

Tips for visiting Colosseum

Skip the lines at the Colosseum by booking your tickets in advance, take a guided tour, or just see the Colosseum from the outside and don’t go inside at all. 

Don’t skip Colosseum completely, just don’t spend the whole day in line!

The ruins of the Colosseum’s basements are well worth a visit, and so is the Arena Floor and the rest of the Colosseum, but do yourself a favor and research what exactly you want to see and how to best do it in advance ! Otherwise, you’ll get overwhelmed, won’t see everything, and/or end up paying way too much to just be able to get in.

TIP: We recently did and recommend this highly-rated all-in Colosseum tour . After hours of research, it looked like the most complete tour and we were so glad we took it. Yes, it was more expensive than just the entrance tickets, but it saved us so much stress and we saw all the very best places in just 3 hours. And yes, the Underground of the Colosseum and the Arena Floor are absolutely worth it!

PRO TIP: If you visit the Colosseum on your own, be sure to book your tickets well in advance ! If you want to visit the Colosseum Underground, you will always have to go with a guide. Without a guide, you can choose between regular tickets or – slightly more expensive – tickets that also include a visit to Arena Floor (recommended).

If you get this ticket and go on your own, make sure you don’t miss the entry to Arena Floor! Because if you pass it, you won’t be allowed to turn back (to control the crowds, there’s a one-way ‘flow’ inside). We heard from many people that things might get confusing and that they missed several parts of the Colosseum or thought they would visit them later and then were not allowed to go back. This is also why we personally go with a guide and recommend it to our readers as well.

Good to know: The more in advance you book, the more choice of available time slots you’ll have. On the other hand, the Colosseum usually only releases its tickets a month upfront . For that, a guided tour is again a better option since you can usually reserve it several months in advance. Alternatively, try the Tiqets website .

READ ALSO: How to Visit Colosseum in Rome (all levels and tickets explained)

Tips for visiting Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel

Visit the Vatican Museums with a guided tour or plan your visit at a quieter time. Do you really want to spend 3 hours queuing and wandering around the Vatican Museums in order to spend 2 minutes inside the Sistine Chapel to see the famous ceiling painted by Michelangelo?

I understand that you want to see the Vatican museums – they are absolutely worth it! Just try to at least plan your visit in such a way that you spend more time at the museums and not waiting to get in or trying to figure out where exactly to go.

Nowadays, you HAVE to book your tickets for the Vatican Museums online . We did this and the entrance was easy and smooth. However, we absolutely regretted not booking a guided visit. The place is crowded, it’s not at all clear where exactly to go and what is worth it the most… In the end, all the routes lead to the Sistine Chapel, so we did get there, but we have no idea what else we missed… Either way, we found a visit really stressful and overwhelming. Next time, I’d absolutely go with a tour.

TIP: Going first thing in the morning (=as soon as it opens) or very late in the afternoon is the best way to visit the Vatican Museums. I would also advise booking a tour with a guide – that way you are sure you actually get to see all the best places. This is the most popular tour of the Vatican Museums, this is a great early-bird option without the crowds (recommended!), and here you can find (an overwhelming) choice of all the available tours of the Vatican.

PRO TIP: If you decide to visit the Vatican Museums on your own, book your tickets well in advance . They often sell out days upfront, not even to mention the high season.

Last-minute Vatican tickets. If you can’t find tickets for the Vatican anymore, check here . Sometimes, they have some last-minute tickets available.

UNIQUE TOUR: If you are looking for an even more special experience and don’t mind to splurge, check out this unique VIP Key Master’s Tour . You enter Vatican Museums about 2 hours before they open to the public and walk together with the Key Master as they open the galleries and Sistine Chapel.

3. Outsmart the crowds

One of the concerns I always hear from people visiting Rome is how to actually enjoy the most popular places if it’s always so busy. The good news is that it is absolutely possible to see some of the most popular landmarks in Rome without the huge crowds IF you plan well. And the best way to do this is to go at the less popular times.

TIP: If you want to avoid the biggest crowds, visit Rome in the lower season (November – March) – more about the best months to visit further below, towards the end of this article. But also in the high season, it’s possible to enjoy some of the main sites without too many other people around.

One of my top travel tips for Rome is to try and visit the most popular places in the city early in the morning . But for some places – going in the afternoon might actually be better. Below are some examples and tips for visiting some of the most popular landmarks in Rome . Take a look!

Best time to visit Trevi Fountain

If you want to see Trevi Fountain without hundreds of other people, get up early! Early morning (no later than 7-7.30 AM) is really the best time to visit the Trevi Fountain without the crowds . However, nowadays, it’s often quite busy in the morning too, especially in the summer season…

Alternatively, go to the Trevi Fountain very late in the evening. It will still be busy – it always is – but it’s nothing compared to the crowds during the day.

Best time to visit the Vatican

Depending on where you go exactly – St. Peter’s or Sistine Chapel – it might be better to come either very early or late. Whatever you do, avoid the busiest daytime hours (10 AM to 2-3 PM).

We’ve been to the Vatican in high season and in low season, in the morning, during the day, and also in the afternoon… It’s always very busy during the day, but can be amazing (very) early in the morning or very late in the afternoon.

During the day, all the streets leading to the Vatican are so crowded that it’s really hard to enjoy a visit. But if you come early in the morning or in the late afternoon, it’s a totally different experience.

For the Vatican Museums , we recommend visiting either as soon as they open or going about 2 hours before the closing time. For St. Peter’s Basilica , the best time to visit is late afternoon.

Even in the high season, we once visited St. Peter’s Basilica at 6 PM and we were inside in less than 10 minutes (security check included)! In the low season, it’s already pretty quiet from about 3-4 PM. Just be sure to check the opening times, especially if you also want to climb the Dome.

Good to know: While you absolutely need to book tickets/tour for the Vatican Museums in advance, the entrance to the Basilica doesn’t require a booking and is free of charge. You do need a ticket to go up to the top of St Peter’s Dome, but it can’t be booked in advance. You’ll have to queue and get the tickets for the Dome when you get there.

Recently, we decided to go with a tour because we wanted to learn more and be sure we saw everything. We took this tour that included the Dome and the Underground and it was really good.

TIP: If you visit St. Peter’s on your own, get an audioguide at the entrance. That way, you’ll get some explanation and have a better idea of what you are seeing in this colossal building.

When to visit the Pantheon

First things first – since recently, you need a ticket in order to visit the Pantheon. It used to be free, but that is no longer the case.

You can get tickets on the official website (which is quite confusing according to many recent reports), on GetYourGuide (very easy and you can cancel up to 24 hours before your visit), or simply stand in line and get them on the spot (even more confusing and there are two lines – one for cash payments and one for card payments – and you never know which one will be shorter).

In order to avoid having to stand in a long queue without any shade for an hour or even longer, we highly recommend getting your tickets online. If you get a fast-track timed-entry ticket , you can go to the ‘online’ queue and enter at the specified time slot.

Good to know: At the moment of the last update, all online bookings (official site too) involve picking up the actual ticket at another location. So be sure to read the instructions carefully!

TIP: If you can, visit the Pantheon first thing in the morning or half an hour before the closing time.

The Pantheon is one of the most popular landmarks in Rome and is extremely crowded. The best way to appreciate it without the biggest crowds is to visit in the morning right after it opens or about half an hour before the closing time.

We once managed to see the Pantheon completely empty by visiting it right before it closed. You have to make sure you are not too late as they don’t let people in just before closing time. But once inside, you can stay until it closes and everyone leaves. Great experience!

Good to know: Nowadays, all online tickets include an audio guide. It’s a great way to learn more about the Pantheon, its history, architecture, and the people buried inside. If you listen to the entire narrative, it takes about half an hour.

Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona & other landmarks

Spanish Steps are probably best visited very early in the morning or late at night. This area is always so busy during the day! Often, you can’t even see the steps because of the number of people there.

The same for the Piazza Navona . It’s beautiful in the morning and late in the evening, but crowded during the day.

If you only have a few days in Rome, skip the busiest museums (=save lots of time) . Capitoline Museums are especially busy, with long queues every time we visit Rome.

If you like art, consider some of the less busy places. For example, the art gallery at Villa Borghese is one of the gems of Rome ( tickets have to be booked in advance ). Alternatively, visit some of the churches instead of museums. Often, you can admire the most amazing pieces of art at the churches for free and without the crowds.

4. Stay close to the Pantheon

If your budget allows, try to find a hotel in the old city center. In my opinion, the best place to stay in Rome is the area close to the Pantheon . The best location is pretty much anywhere between Piazza Navona and Trevi Fountain, with the Pantheon being right in the middle. 

Every time we go to Rome, we always stay close to the Pantheon. It’s so central that you can easily walk to all the main landmarks and visit everything without ever needing to use public transport.

Staying here, you can easily discover most of central Rome on foot. It’s also really simple to visit some of the most popular places in the morning without the crowds. Get up early, walk to Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, or the Spanish Steps, then go back to your hotel for a relaxing breakfast – it’s a great way to start your day in Rome!

You can find some of the best deals for Central Rome accommodation here . Alternatively, here are some hand-picked hotel suggestions in this area for all budgets:

• €€€€€ Eitch Borromini Palazzo Pamphilj – a very popular 4* hotel overlooking Piazza Navona.
• €€€€ 9HotelCesari – a beautiful 4* hotel with the most beautiful rooftop bar/ restaurant. This is the hotel where we stayed on our last visit to Rome.
• €€€ Albergo Abruzzi – an excellent 3* hotel close to the Pantheon.
• €€ Navona Theatre Hotel – 3* hotel with a very good price/ quality/ location ratio. One of the best sellers in Rome!
• €+ Hotel Primavera – a popular 2* hotel offering good value for the location.

READ ALSO: Where to Stay in Rome: Best Area & Hotels

TIP: There are also lots of hotels, apartments, and short-term rental accommodations in the center of Rome. Take a look at the map below where you can compare various accommodation providers in one place and look for the best deals for your trip.

Simply insert your travel dates and group size and you will see what’s available in the area of your choice. Check it out!

5. Research & book airport transfers in advance

If you are arriving in Rome by plane, you’ll most likely land at the Fiumicino Airport , aka Leonardo da Vinci International Airport. This airport is located about 30 kilometers (18.5 miles) outside the city center and the drive usually takes about 35-45 minutes.

Ciampino Airport is about 15 kilometers (9 miles) from the center, but the drive usually takes almost just as long – over half an hour.

There are many ways to get from these airports to the city; the best option depends on where you are staying, at what time of day you arrive, and, of course, your budget. Either way, you will save time and money by doing some research and booking in advance!

Here are the best Rome airport transport options:

• The easiest way to get from any airport directly to your hotel in Rome is by booking a private transfer . Alternatively, you can take a taxi. The rates they charge are now fixed in order to avoid tourist scams. However, depending on the time of the day, traffic can be busy, not even to mention that there is often a long wait for a taxi (for that, a private transfer is better).
• The fastest, most reliable, and most convenient way to get to Rome city center from Fiumicino airport is by train – Leonardo Express . Trains run every 15-20 minutes from early morning to almost midnight. You get a digital ticket that is valid for any train on the selected day, so you don’t have to worry about having to look for a ticket desk or stress in case your flight is delayed. Also, there are no luggage limits. Round-trip tickets are also available.
• The cheapest way to travel between Fiumicino airport and the city center is by this bus that brings you straight to the central railway station without any stops. This shuttle bus is slightly more expensive and has several stops along the way including the Vatican and Rome Termini central station. There is also a similar shuttle bus transfer to/from Ciampino Airport .

LEARN MORE: Rome Airport Transfers (all the best options from Fiumicino or Ciampino)

6. Get off the beaten path in Rome

If I could give one general piece of advice on how to avoid big crowds in Rome, it would be to go in the opposite direction of where most of the people go! Take a side street, look around, enter a narrow passage, try the closed door of a church…

We visited a couple of amazing places just meters away from the main streets where – literally- thousands of people were passing by focused on their main goal and completely ignorant to all the rest.

Here you can find some ideas for Rome underground sites and the best Ancient Rome landmarks (many of these hardly see any visitors), and also for the best views in Rome .

We also have some great suggestions for some of the nicest off-the-beaten-path, different places to see in Rome in a more detailed guide. Take a look via the link below.

LEARN MORE: Hidden Gems of Rome

7. Avoid tourist restaurants

A big part of any Italian trip experience is related to the food. Food in Italy can be absolutely delicious, but don’t just assume it will be everywhere you go.

If I can give one piece of advice when it comes to food in Rome, it would be to avoid tourist places. Eat where locals eat and avoid restaurants with pictures on the menu!

Usually, restaurants at the busiest tourist landmarks (directly on Piazza Navona, at the Pantheon, or Campo dei Fiori) don’t have the best food. Not to mention that they are often seriously overpriced too.

If you are not sure where to eat, ask your hotel for suggestions, but keep in mind that some hotels might recommend places for other reasons than their quality. The best way to find good places is to check reviews on Google Maps – this is really the easiest way to avoid tourist traps.

TIP: A nice way to get to taste some really good local food is by joining a food tour or a cooking class . If you do this at the beginning of your stay in Rome, you will immediately have a few good addresses of places to eat in the city. Be sure to also ask your tour guide for some local recommendations as well!

Our experience: On our most recent visit to Rome, we booked this amazing street food tour on one of the first days we were in the city. Not only it was a great way to learn the more local side of Rome, but we also tried some absolutely delicious food and got plenty of restaurant ideas for the rest of our stay. Here you can find our review of this street food tour in Rome . Highly recommended!

LEARN MORE: How to Find the Best Food in Rome Best Traditional Food in Italy

8. Take some cash

When visiting Rome (or anywhere in Italy, for that matter), you should always have some cash on you . Italy uses Euro, so you do need Euros, of course.

While in the past credit cards were really unpopular in Rome, the situation has changed a lot recently (probably because of the pandemic). On our most recent visit to Rome, we could use our credit cards pretty much everywhere in the city – all the shops and restaurants accept credit cards and we never really needed cash. Except on a few occasions – see below.

First, taxis – they seem to really hate credit cards. So if you are planning on taking a taxi in Rome, you should always have enough cash. It’s still very difficult to find a taxi driver who will want to take a credit card. ‘Cash, no card’, they’ll tell you. We took a taxi from the airport to the city and couldn’t pay by card. Also our private transfer arranged by the hotel back to the airport only accepted cash, even though the hotel told us that we could pay by card…

If you don’t want to use cash for airport transfers , you can easily pre-book them online in advance . Often, it’s also the cheaper way, depending on where you are going.

Second, street vendors, souvenir shops, and local markets . If you buy something from one of the street vendors, small souvenir shops, or at a local market, you will need cash as well.

And third, tipping . If you are taking tours and want to tip a tour guide, or if you want to leave a small tip at a restaurant, you’ll want to have some cash. Remember that tipping isn’t a must in Europe, but we have a feeling that most Italians appreciate/expect a tip. So we usually tipped about 10% at the restaurant and also some (private) tours.

But apart from this, you can now pay for pretty much everything by card. Even small purchases like gelato at the best gelaterias in Rome can be paid by card. Also museums and other attractions accept credit cards.

All that being said, don’t carry lots of cash with you. 50-100 EUR (ideally in smaller notes) should be plenty. Leave the rest at your hotel and top up when you spend some.

9. Take a bike to get more out of your time in Rome

The old city center of Rome is pretty compact. You can easily walk to the main sights such as Piazza Navona, Pantheon, The Trevi Fountain, and the Spanish Steps. Even the Vatican and the Colosseum are within walking distance from the city center.

However, if you want to explore more of Rome and discover some of the less known hidden gems of the city you may want to consider renting a bike or joining one of the many guided bike tours . By bike, you can cover big distances in less time and get more out of your time in the city.

We recommend the latter – bicycling in Rome is hectic and it’s only fun if you know the city well and know where exactly to go. Guided tours follow routes that they have tried and tested many times before allowing you to truly enjoy the experience.

TIP: If you opt to explore Rome by bike, opt for e-bikes. It’s a hilly city and an electric bike will make it so much easier! This is one of the best-rated bike tours of the highlights in the city center . And this is the AMAZING off-the-beaten-path bike tour that we recently did in Rome (highly recommend).

10. Visit Rome in the lower season

Most travel guides will probably tell you that spring and early autumn is the best period to visit Rome and they are absolutely right. April-May and late September-October are the best months to visit Rome weather-wise. But it’s also extremely busy in that period.

On the other hand, you really want to avoid visiting Rome (or any other cities in Italy for that matter) in summer when temperatures soar to well over 35°C (95°F), often even higher. Furthermore, locals leave the city in the summer, and – especially in August – Rome feels a bit like a theme park with hardly any locals at all.

Once we visited Rome the first weekend of May and with temperatures of just 18-22°C (64-72°F). It was pleasant most of the time and sometimes it even felt too warm.

Another time, we were in Rome at the end of September and it was still HOT during the day. I cannot even try to imagine how hot it feels there in July or August.

Our most recent visit to Rome was at the beginning of November. We did get a few showers one day and one day it was really warm, but for the rest – the weather was perfect for sightseeing. We had temperatures of about 20°C (68°F) most of the time. As for the crowds, it was still very busy at the main landmarks.

Visiting Rome during the cooler months is best if you want to avoid the heat, the crowds, and save some money on accommodation. If you don’t mind a higher possibility of some rain, I recommend the ‘shoulder season’ – end of March – the beginning of April (but avoid Easter!) and the beginning of November. In fact, November can be a great month to visit the bigger cities in Italy. Here you can read about what it’s like to visit Italy in November and here – what to expect when visiting Rome in November .

READ ALSO: Best Time to Visit Europe

11. Wear comfortable shoes & dress respectably

I could have as well put this at the very beginning of this article as one of the most important tips for Rome – wear comfortable shoes!

Don’t underestimate the importance of good footwear when visiting a big city and especially Rome! Rome is a very walkable city, but the distances can add up and you’ll be walking a lot.

If your feet are hurting, you will not be able to enjoy the sights much. So forget about all the ‘Italy is about looking stylish’ advice and pack comfortable shoes. Normally, I don’t really like wearing sports shoes in the city, but sneakers have become very common in Europe in recent years as well. And given the choice, I would always go for the good old comfy sneakers instead of summer sandals with a thin sole…

You can often tell what kind of shoes people are wearing just by looking at the expression on their faces. People who still look happy and are smiling at the end of the day, are usually the ones with the most comfortable footwear.

These days, there are so many comfortable and stylish shoes available that you don’t even need to sacrifice comfort for style.

Another important tip for Rome is to be sure that your shoulders are covered and that you wear respectable clothing . Most churches in Rome don’t allow shorts, mini skirts, or sleeveless shirts. This is also the case when visiting the Vatican.

READ ALSO: Most Beautiful Churches in Italy (+ Tips for Visiting)

12. Pack a water bottle

No matter when you visit Rome – in summer or in winter – you’ll want to carry a bottle of drinking water with you. And while you can buy bottled water in the city, there is absolutely no need to waste money and use more plastic than necessary!

There are more than 2,500 drinking fountains in Rome. The water is fresh, cold, always available, and it’s completely free of charge.

So pack a reusable water bottle and be sure to fill it up every time you pass one of these drinking fountains!

13. Prepare a good itinerary, but don’t overplan

One last piece of advice for visiting Rome – don’t plan every minute of your day in advance, especially if you have more than a day or two in the city.

Yes, it’s important to have an approximate itinerary and pre-book tickets for the main attractions (or you’ll waste too much time and might not even be able to visit at all). But be sure to also allow yourself some time to get off the beaten path and explore some interesting places you’ll come across along the way.

Look around you and you will be amazed to see how many hidden treasures you will find in Rome: the most beautiful churches, wonderful architecture, secret alleys, and little town squares…

All you have to do is keep your eyes open and your mind flexible.

Enjoy your trip!

Suggested itineraries:

• Rome in a Day (how to see all the musts in just 1 day)
• Rome in 2 Days (all the best places + a few hidden gems)
• 4 Days in Rome (amazing itinerary that covers all the main landmarks & and lots of hidden gems)
• You may also like: 2-week Italy Itinerary (covers all the musts in the most efficient way)

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Rome

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin this image!

More tips for your trip to Italy:

• Best Places to See in Italy
• Best Things to Do in Venice
• Best Things to Do in Naples
• Best Things to Do in Florence
• Best Things to Do in Milan
• Best Things to Do in Bologna
• Best Things to Do in Siena
• Best Things to Do in Verona
• Best Things to Do in Como
• One Day in Venice
• Milan in One Day
• Amalfi Coast Itinerary
• Most Beautiful Towns in Tuscany
• Cinque Terre vs. Amalfi Coast
• Tips for Cinque Terre
• Emilia Romagna Itinerary
• Hiking in the Dolomites
• Best Places in the Dolomites
• Bellagio, Lake Como
• Varenna, Lake Como
• … For more destinations, please see Italy travel guide .

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Thursday 4th of July 2024

Rome is breathtaking! Thanks for the tips. We had a great trip!

Friday 5th of July 2024

Glad to help, Lina. Happy travels!

Thursday 13th of June 2024

Thank you for all of this info! We're headed in July. Question for a nervous nelly traveling all day - what about public restrooms? We will be on a train morning and night from Florence, so I'll at least have access to that :) Thanks in advance!

Saturday 15th of June 2024

There are bathrooms at all the main tourist attractions and also at most restaurants. It never really struck me as something that wasn't readily available, but as I always say to my kids 'use it when you get the chance'.

Sunday 21st of April 2024

Thank you for the indepth insights. It is wonderful. Any know abouts to consider if traveling with toddler and infants? Is it convenient to take a stroller every where ?

Monday 22nd of April 2024

@Jurga, Thank you very much. The tip to carry lock is great !!

Regards, Noshir

Hi Noshir, the historic center of Rome is rather flat but there are cobbled stones everywhere. And the moment you leave the center, there are also some hills - like the Spanish Steps, for example. So it's not a straightforward answer. You will be able to visit many places with a stroller (with big wheels that can handle cobbled streets), but there are also many places where it won't be easy. Like the Colosseum, for example - you can walk around it with a stroller, but visiting inside won't be easy. That said, we have been to other hillier places in Italy when our kids were in strollers and we managed (with three kids and two strollers - one of them double). But you have to do a bit more research for every place you want to visit. There's also a huge difference when you travel with just one kid/stroller or a couple of young kids and a few strollers. One tip - pack a bicycle lock with you. So that if you have to leave the strollers somewhere, you can lock them up.

Liviu Trimbitas

Friday 23rd of February 2024

Sorry Jurga, me again, We are planing on staying 4 days in Rome, visit the main landmarks, I just can't make up my mind if we should get the Rome Tourist Card or just book individually for each one of those. Thank you, Liviu

Tuesday 27th of February 2024

Hi Liviu, if you mean this Rome Tourist Card, then it has pretty much the same advantages as booking everything individually, but normally, it's a bit cheaper AND you get to choose all tickets/time slots in one place. So it's very convenient, if you want to visit all those places anyway. If, however, you would like to book a guided tour at e.g. Colosseum, then it's better to book individual tickets for the other attractions. But if you are just looking for tickets and want to visit everything on your own, then you can just as well book everything in one go. Hope this helps. Have a great trip!

Hi Jurga, Most comprehensive guide, congratulation and thank you. Liviu

Rome tips for beginners: complete Rome guide for first time visitors (by a local!)

Expert first timers’ guide to the Eternal City with tips and tricks for your first trip to Rome: what to do, what not to do and the all the Rome tips and tricks you need for a safe first time in Rome. Updated November 2024 .

Rome makes a strong impression on the first time visitor.

Its beauty, personality and chaos envelop you the moment you step out onto its busy streets and, for many, it is love at first sight.

For others, however, Rome’s overwhelming personality feels more like a slap in the face and no matter what tricks the city ends up pulling, many leave feeling Rome is just not for them.

This happens for many reasons. Rome can indeed be an infuriating overly chaotic place, however I believe it has much to do with expectations and planning.

In this first timers guide to Rome, I share my best advice for a first visit to Rome.

I believe these tips will help you know what to expect, plan your time at best and make you skip some of the traps that make some visitors leave disappointed.

Ready for my Rome’s tips and tricks? Let’s go!

First things first! Double check on official sources the travel rules and restrictions that may affect your trip. Find all info on our guide >>> Can I travel to Rome right now ?

Please note: this post contains affiliate links and, should you make a purchase through them, we might make a small commission.

Table of Contents

Rome tips and tricks for first time visitors

Visiting Rome for the first time? Bookmark or pin this guide for easy access!

Pick the right season

Rome can be visited all year round but there is no doubt that some seasons are better than others.

The best time of all to visit Rome for the first time are the spring (with the exception of the Easter weeks) and fall, especially May and October .

At these times, the weather is pleasant, dry and the city sparkles under bright skies, dressed up in blossoms (March to May) or autumnal foliage.

The worst time of all to visit Rome is the summer. July and August are hot and sticky, mosquitoes reign supreme and locals are scarce: at this time, Romans escape to their air-conditioned offices or the coast and the city is full of tourists.

This is a truly unpleasant time to visit the city and is responsible for so many bad reviews of the city from the unlucky ones who get caught in the city’s relentless sun.

Winter in Rome is hit and miss. The weather is usually dry but chilly and the biggest issue you will find are the short days: many attractions close early in winter so make sure you check beforehand if you are planning to cram a lot into each day.

Decide how many days to stay

Deciding how many days to spend in Rome depends on your interests and expectations.

If you are interested in seeing Rome’s main sights only, you will be able to cover a lot of grounds even just with two days in the city.

If you want to see museums and go for a bit of shopping in town, you need a minimum of four days.

To help you narrow down how many days you may need to see Rome, I wrote detailed itineraries for 1 to 5 days in Rome. You can find here >>> my guide to deciding how many days are enough to see Rome .

Decide where to stay:

Find accommodation in the city center

The most beautiful part of Rome is its historical center and there is no better place to stay in Rome to enjoy it that with a hotel or apartment right in the center of the action.

Staying here you may have to put up with slightly higher prices but you will be rewarded by easy access to all the major attractions in Rome , a plethora of restaurants and the chance of wandering around Romes’ dusty cobbled streets after the crowds of day trippers have left.

Best area to stay in Rome for first time visitors

You can find a full overview of Rome’s neighborhoods here but for your first visit, I recommend you choose.

Monti district

Old and hip, the Monti neighborhood is the best area to stay in Rome if you want to be walking distance form the main sites, have easy access to the train station and love alternative bars and vintage shopping.

Check our the Fifteen keys hotel for boutique accommodation in this area

At the very heart of Rome, this location is so central you will be able to walk everywhere. This is the part of Rome famous for cobbled streets and small restaurants and it is ideal for first time visitors both for charm and ease of access.

Check out Le Clarisse al Pantheon for a charming and reasonably priced option in the area or find our full guide to the best hotels near the Pantheon .

Piazza Navona

Rome’s most famous square is a wonderful backdrop for accommodation in Rome. This is a wonderful area to choose as your base for your first visit to Rome as it allows easy access to both the historical center and the Vatican as well as a vantage point to visit Trastevere.

Check out 5 star Raphael Hotel for something really special in this area or find our list of recommended hotels near Piazza Navona

The dress code is enforced in Rome basilicas too (San Giovanni, Santa Maria Maggiore) but is less strict in other churches however, always carry a large shawl with you should be in short sleeves and avoid shorts.

Please be advised: while a shawl around your shoulder will do, one around your waist to cover your legs won’t be deemed sufficient.

You can find my complete guide to dressing for the Vatican and Rome churches here.

Give yourself plenty of time if using public transport

Few experiences are more irritating in Rome than having to deal with the city’s public transport system.

While the network of buses, trams and metro is extensive (especially the first two), buses follow a schedule that is erratic at best and are often so crowded you will find hard to believe locals can put up with it at all.

Granted, this is not the experience on all buses and at all times but if you rely on bus journeys every day, this will impact on the quality of your stay significantly.

If you can, especially on your first visit, walk as much as you can and give yourself time if using public transport: at busy times, you may have to wait for more than one bus or more than one metro train to get on as it gets really busy.

You can find our full guide to public transport in Rome here

Bring comfortable walking shoes

In Rome, you will find yourself walking a lot, part because of the lack of good transport and part for the pleasure of it.

This means that you absolutely must be equipped with a good pair of walking shoes, a pair that will protect your feet from the hard cobbles of the city and will give you enough support to clock in up to 25000 steps a day (this is what many people average sightseeing in Rome)

In case you have heard that in Rome you should not wear sneakers if you want to feel like a local, let me tell you: this is complete nonsense!

I see this piece of advice over and over again on internet and is simply nonsensical. Sneakers are the best type of shoes to wear in Rome and the only ones to avoid if you want to feel fashionable are actual runners (you know the ones: high soles, neon colors).

If you wear fashion sneakers like Adidas foam, Vans or New Balance style, you will fit in perfectly and save your feet from very sore days.

Of all the Rome tips and tricks I share on this page, this is the one I hope you will remember the most: put practicality above fashion! You can find my recommended walking shoes for Rome here.

Dress for churches

On the topic of look and gear, you may have heard that Rome enforces a dress code for churches in general and for the Vatican in particular.

This is correct and not abiding by this rule may cost you in terms of access to some of Rome’s most beautiful churches.

The Vatican is the place with stricter rules: here, you must avoid sleeveless tops, shorts (this is true for men and women) and skirts above the knee.

While flip flops are not officially banned, there are also frowned upon – in general, they are not considered proper footwear for the city, in Italy.

But do visit them

The idea of a dress code may put you off visiting churches, especially in the warmest months, but some really should not be missed.

San Luigi dei Francesi has a wonderful Caravaggio, Santa Prassede and Santa Maria in Trastevere have incredible mosaics and San Pietro in Vincoli has a Moses by Michelangelo, just to name a few – all worth a fashion compromise!

Have a crossbody bag

Rome is crowded and pick-pocketing misadventures are not unheard of. Opt for a cross-body bag for maximum security and never ever leave it unattended or hanging off the back of your chair at a restaurant.

Rome is not the jungle but unattended stuff gets snatched fast so a little extra caution goes a long way.

Without getting paranoid about pickpockets, this is probably the most important tip for first time visitors in terms of safety.

Always have ID on you

In Italy it is compulsory to have ID on you at all times so make sure you have some form of identification on you.

If you don’t want to carry your passport with you, make sure you have a driving license or some other form of photo ID handy in the (unlikely) event of an officer asking.

While you should avoid carrying large sums of cash, some cash on you is important to have, in Rome.

Credit and debit cards are usually accepted in restaurants and hotels but they are no good for small purchases: you cannot buy gelato with them nor pay for taxis so having some cash is paramount.

Opt for small notes as much as possible: paying a 5 euro purchase with a 50 Euro not will not make you any friends and shops may simply deny to serve you if they don’t have (or don’t want to use up) change

Don’t rely on wi-fi

Wi-fi is dreadful in Rome. When you open the ‘available networks’ screen you may be surprised to see many are free stay assured: the vast majority of them do not work!

Get a local sim card or make sure you have a good data plan on your won if you cont on using maps or any other wi-fi dependent app.

Learn a few words of Italian

You do not need to speak Italian to enjoy Rome but a few words go a long way.

‘Per favore’ (please) and ‘grazie’ (thank you) will be sufficient in most touristy places to be treated a little better – Romans are notoriously grumpy but making an effort with the language may even win you a smile.

You can find here >>> a great introduction to basic Italian phrases and expressions for travelers

Start with an itinerary

Rome has loads of attractions and having an itinerary to follow is invaluable to make sure you can hit all the sites you want to see in the time you have.

Depending on the time you have in Rome and your party, you can use these itiernaries as a base and costumise them to your own needs.

Rome in one day : a whistle stop DIY walking tour of Rome

Rome in 2 days : a slow-ish pace itinerary around Rome hitting some of the main museums and all the main sites

Rome in 3 days : a good itinerary to allow you to see Rome’s most important attractions, plus time to shop and relaz

Rome in 4 days : our recommended itinerary with main Rome attractions and hidden gems over 4 days

Rome in 5 days : a complete itinerary to cover Rome main sites and some hidden gems, for a longer stay in Rome

Rome in 5 days (for families) : a family friendly sample itinerary over 5 days to discover the city as a family appropriate pace and hitting main sites and child- centered attractions.

If you prefer to make your own instead, you can start from our planning guide here , explaining what attractions are close to one an other and can be visited on the same day

Then ditch it and get lost!

A little bit like rules, I believe the best approach to itineraries is: know it then break it.

Once you have your main outline of the day, I believe allowing yourself to get lost in Rome is one of the most rewarding things you can do in the city.

The best areas for a planned ‘getting lost’ experience are the streets around the Pantheon, the area of Piazza Navona and Trastevere.

Areas I recommend you do not get lost into are the streets around Termini station: while these are not dangerous as such, they are not the most pleasant area for a stroll and, in the evening, get on the uncomfortable side.

See the main sites

Many will tell you the best of Rome is found off the beaten track but seriously: only go off the beaten track after you have seen the main sites.

They are on the beaten track for a reason and it would be crazy not to see them just to be different from anyone else!

At the very minimum, I recommend you see the Colosseum , the Pantheon , the Campidoglio Hill and Piazza Navona , even just from the outside if you really cannot stand the crowds. See below my Rome first time must-see sites .

I feel that not seeing these sites would take away massively from your experience and will make you miss you an important part of Rome’s personality.

But book skip the line tickets

The best way to visit Romes’ main attraction (actually, the only way for a pleasant experience) is to book skip the line tickets and to do it well in advance.

This is crucial especially for two attractions that are otherwise almost inaccessible: the Colosseum and the Vatican Museums.

You can find my best tips on how to skip the line at the Colosseum here while for the Vatican, I recommend you book tickets online from the museums itself here or book a guide here .

Venture off the beaten path

After you have seen the main sites, do take the advice of those who tell you to get off the beaten path and venture to some of Romes’ residential neighborhoods to seek out Rome hidden gems.

Rome has a very different personality outside of the center and each area has a distinctive flavor.

Go to Ostiense or Tor Marancia if you love street art, head to the Coppede’ district for an art deco fix or venture out to Ostia Antica for a magical walk among Rome’s ancient port.

Seek birds eye views

Rome is built on 7 hills and this means that it has several viewpoints from where you can admire the city.

The best time for photos and romance is the early evening, when the sun sets setting the okra and red colors of Rome’s buildings catch on fire.

Some of the most scenic locations are the terrace of il Pincio ( Villa Borghese , above Piazza del Popolo), Campidoglio (amazing view over the forum) and Giardino degli Aranci (on the Aventino hill , view over the river and the city).

Get out early / stay out late

Rome gives its very best early in the morning and late in the evening, when the crowds disappear and the silence falls on the city.

You don’t have to be out stupidly early or late to enjoy (I am not advocating a 6 am wake up call on your vacation!) but if you can be in the city center before 9 am, you will see the city at its most beautiful.

You can find here some of my favorite things to do in Rome at night .

Make the most of your hotel breakfast

Rome has amazing food but one meal it doesn’t do particularly well is breakfast .

Sure, you can get your fix of coffee and cornetto (Italian croissant) pretty much anywhere in the city but this is a treat more than a proper meal: if you are hoping for yogurt, cereals or a cooked breakfast, don’t venture out but rather, have it at your hotel or your will easily find yourself going hungry.

Have coffee at the bar

While not great if you are after a full breakfast, Rome bars are excellent for a coffee fix and the way to go about it is to do what locals do: order it at the bar.

Cafes often have small tables to sit down but there is a good reason locals avoid them: a sit down coffee costs easily 3 times as much as one sipped at the bar (find more tips for visiting Rome on a budget here )!

When ordering, make sure you stop at the till first to pay and get your receipt, then head to the bar and had the receipt while placing your order (many add a 20c coin to make the service faster but it is not compulsory. I never do it).

Ask for ‘Un caffe’ per favore’ if you want espresso or ‘un cappuccino per favore’ for a traditional cappuccino.

Don’t believe in those who tell you you should not order it after 11, this is another nonsensical myth. The only no-no for cappuccino is ordering it as a drink during a meal, the rest is totally up to you!

If you love coffee, don’t miss my list of the best coffee experience in Rome.

Taste Roman food

In Rome, you find all the usual staples of Italian food but if you want a very special food experience you must try the foods that are specific to the Rome tradition.

Some of the most noticeable are:

Pasta to try in Rome

Make sure you taste real carbonara (we Romans are evangelical about it and you will quickly understand why once you taste it), pasta alla gricia and the famous cacio and pepe for a burst of taste

Rome meat dishes

Try earthy abbacchio scottadito (lamb), light straccetti (veal, served with rocket salad and fresh cherry tomatoes), saltimbocca (veal, prosciutto and sage).

If you feel adventurous, also try coda alla vaccinara (ox tail) and trippa!

Vegetarian dishes in Rome

Rome cuisine is not known for its vegetarian options but two side dishes are so famous and unique they make up for all the rest: carciofi all giudia ( jewish style fried artichokes ), carciofi alla Romana ( Roman style artichokes ), and puntarelle alla romana (chicory heads, spring only)

Rome desserts

Rome’s mos famous sweet treat is il maritozzo, a special type of bread/brioche filled with cream

Fried Rome treats

As a starter before your pizza or as a bite during the day, don’t leave without trying Rome’s suppli’ (fried rice balls with a melting core of mozzaella), baccala (fried cod, the roman version of fish and chips, without chips) and fiori di zucca ( fried battered zucchini flowers ).

One of the two capitals of pizza in Italy (the other being Naples) Roma has amazing, thin pizza.

Order the traditional full ones for dinner and, for lunch, have a piece of what Romans call ‘pizza al taglio’ instead.

It comes in many styles and it’s one of the most budget friendly meals you can find in the city. Click to find our guide to the best pizza in Rome

Order vino della casa

The best thing to wash down a true Roman meal is with a glass of wine. In traditional establishments, order ‘vino della casa’ (house wine) for a budget friendly yet tasty option.

Have a drink in an enoteca

If you love fancier wine or cozy interiors with good wines and earthy meals, don’t miss having dinner in one of Rome’s wine bars (enoteche).

These are small, cozy places that pack a punch in terms of charm and taste: my favorite is probably Cul de sac, near Piazza Navona but the city teems with them.

These are a very popular option among locals and among the best places to have a somewhat authentic Rome experience.

Eat only gelato artigianale

The only thing more commong in Rome than pizza places are gelato places but don’t just venture into any: make sure the gelato you order is the real thing, the one we call ‘gelato artigianale’.

Gelato artigianale is tasty, not too fatty and less sugary than industrial style ice cream and a real delight. if you don’t want to run any risks in terms of taste, you can do to one of my favorite gelato places in this list .

Know where to shop

Rome is a wonderful destination for shopping but you need to know where to go not to find yourself out of pocket.

If budget is not an issue, the place for you is Via Condotti: elegant and stunning, this is the road with all the designer boutiques and ateliers. If you are looking for your Gucci or Prada fix, this is the place to be.

More affordable options can be found on nearby Via del Corso or, even better, in Via Cola die Rienzo, in Prati, where you will find a mix of high street brands and independent shops

For vintage, head to Monti and in particular to its market (help every weekend) which is fun and often has great finds.

Take a break in the park

Rome has some amazing parks .

Many are private estates of aristocratic Rome families now turned public parks and this means they have beautiful landscaping and sometimes gorgeous architecture.

The most famous of all is probably Villa Borghese, right in the center, but others are worth seeking out too. Villa Doria Pamphili in particular is a treat as it offers stunning views over St Peter’s dome.

Top things to do in Rome on your first visit: Rome first time must do

As I mentioned above, going to Rome for the first time and not seeing the main sites would be madness, so here are my top 10 things to see in Rome in your first visit

Visit the Colosseum

A wonderful first stop in any Rome itinerary, the Colosseum is impressive, beautiful and unique. If you can, take a visit inside and opt for a tour that includes the arena, the underground area and the top tier.

There are several you can choose from but you don’t need to break the bank for a good one. You can find my selection of best Colosseum tours and tips to skip the line here .

Stroll around the Roman Forum and Palatine hill

Beside the Colosseum and usually included in the Colosseum ticket, the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill are the areas where ancient Rome developed, from its very foundation to the empire years.

This area is poorly served in terms of information panels but it wonderful and scenic. Even just for the view and visual impact head to the top of the Palatine and the Emperors’ palace: one of the most beautiful spots in the whole of Rome, ancient or modern!

Climb up Campidoglio

Ancient Rome meets the Italian Renaissance in this incredible corner of Rome: Piazza del Campidoglio.

Take the steps up to see Michelangelo’ masterpiece (the square itself) and then walk to the back of the main palazzo for unrivaled views over the forum.

Find our guide to the Capitoline hill here .

Rome first time must do for couples: the Spanish steps

They don’t need any introduction and are one of the easiest and more rewarding free things to see in Rome.

Catch the Spanish Steps in the evening if you can for beautiful views over the sparkling city. If you are looking for romance, it doesn’t get much better than this….

Throw a coin in the Trevi fountain

Can I be honest? I don’t think I am the only Roman who does not love Fontana di Trevi but I do understand is a must see and I recommend to go see if on your first visit to Rome.

Why I don’t love it? Because the area is so crowded you can hardly see the fountain itself and there is zero atmosphere not just on the square but on the surrounding streets.

With one exception: the evening. Head here after the crowds have left and you will quickly see why despite not loving it, I simply had to add it to this list. Find our guide to visiting the Trevi Fountain here.

Look at the sky from inside Pantheon

Two things stand out about the Pantheon : its stunning facade, gracing one of Rome’s most beautiful squares and the hole in its roof.

The Pantheon is one of the most beautiful attractions in the whole of Rome and its square a must see.

You will find yourself passing by it often, pretty much no matter what itinerary you follow and, if you don’t find excessive lines, do go it and join the crowds who wonder: what happens when it rains?

The Pantheon used to be free but now is a ticketed attraction: if you are short on time, you can book tickets in advance and limit the time of waiting in line.

Learn how to buy tickets to the Pantheon here.

Visit Piazza Navona and Campo de’ fiori

At the two sides of Corso Vittorio lie two of Rome’s most beautiful squares: grand Piazza Navona and dusty Campo de’ fiori. Visit both one after the other for a taste of how varied Rome can be even in small areas

Cross the border into St Peter’s Square

Technically a different country but in practice a square in Rome, Piazza San Pietro is stunning and should not be missed.

The square is part of the Vatican state but there is no border crossing or check as such and the only access difficulties you may find are the excessive crowds. You can read more about the Vatican here .

The square is free to visit and so is the main floor of the basilica both very worth a visit during your first time in Rome.

You can find here my tips for visiting St Peter Basilica , the Vatican Gardens and Vatican City and Museums or my complete guide to planning a visit to Vatican City here .

First time in Rome must do for foodies: take a stroll in Trastevere

I can think of several areas to recommend for an evening stroll but during your first time visiting in Rome I reckon the best one to start with is Trastevere .

Located on the opposite side of the river from the main historical sites, Trastevere is atmospheric and has a dynamic nightlife: head here fro a late afternoon stroll and pizza: it is known for having some of the best pizzerie in the whole of Rome.

See also >>> my guide to Rome for foodies, full of food finds!

First time in Rome must do for families:Villa Borghese

As a proud Rome mama of 2 I could not close this list without a mention of the best things do to in Rome with kids.

Rome is stunning for families and there is so much to see and do here I have a full list of over 50 things to do in Rome with kids – I recommend you have a look to pick those that attract your kids the most!

As well as many of the must see sites also on this list, make sure you seek out Villa Borghese .

This is one of the most beautiful parks in Rome and has lovely playgrounds as well as the zoo and a small pond with rowing boats and turtles. Not to be missed on your first family visit to Rome!

I hope you enjoyed this first timer’s guide to Rome and helped answer the question: what Rome tips and trick should I know to visit the Eternal City?

My name is Marta, I am a travel-loving mama born and bred in that messy, wonderful, infuriating, awe-inspiring unbelievably beautiful city that is Rome. A classics graduate and professional travel blogger, on this site I share my insider tips to help you plan your dream trip to Rome, Italy.

5 days in Rome with kids: the Rome itinerary for families you’ll love (by a local mom)

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Rome Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 27, 2024

Considered the center of the western world for centuries, Rome is the birthplace of Caesar and home to the Catholic Church. It’s also bursting at the seams with ancient historic ruins and tons of delicious restaurants (I particularly love Trastevere for food), bars, and world-class shopping.

Here you walk down the street and see modern buildings next to ruins dating back thousands of years.

It’s a city filled with life, beauty, and charm that appeals to travelers of all stripes. Backpacking here is popular with budget travelers on Eurotrips, history buffs come to explore the ruins, couples visit Rome on honeymoons, and the jet-set splash out on the city’s upscale dining and nightlife.

No matter your interests, Rome has you covered.

This budget travel guide to Rome can help you plan your trip, navigate the endless amount of sites and attractions, learn how to get around in the chaos, and save money in one of the most expensive cities in Italy !

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• How to Stay Safe
• Where to Stay
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• How to Get Around
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Rome

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in rome.

1. Explore the Colosseum

Even though the line of tourists can seem endless, the Colosseum is not to be missed. Built in the 1st century CE, it is nearly 2,000 years old and was the largest amphitheater in the entire Roman Empire (it could hold 50,000-80,000 people). During the Roman Empire, it was used for gladiatorial contests and other public events including animal hunts, dramatic plays, executions, and military re-enactments. I really enjoyed seeing it from all the different angles and levels, imagining what it was like in its prime. From the Middle Ages onwards, it was repurposed into workshops, housing, and even a Christian shrine. Admission is 18 EUR for a ticket that offers 24-hour access to the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and the Roman Forum (though not the Colosseum’s arena). A two-day ticket with access to all areas (including the arena) is 24 EUR.

For an in-depth tour with special access to the arena floor, book a tour with Walks of Italy . They run the best tours in the city and use expert local guides who ensure you have fun and learn a ton. I always take their tours when I’m in Rome.

2. See the Forum and Palatine Hill

The Roman Forum was the seat of Ancient Rome. It was the center of Roman public life and the place from which Rome administered its empire. Today, the forum is a two-hectare (five-acre) site filled with ruins of countless important buildings amongst which you can wander around. Next to the Forum is Palatine Hill, where the Roman aristocracy lived. Admission to both is 18 EUR or 24 EUR (depending on which combination ticket you purchase). It is also worth getting a guide to give you context and bring the ruins to life. You can book a tour with priority skip-the-line access for 91 EUR.

3. Tour Vatican City

Vatican City is an independent city-state surrounded by the city of Rome. It gained its full independence from Italy in 1929 and is the smallest city-state in the world. Don’t leave Rome without spending some time here to see the home of the Pope, St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and all of the wonderful museums. Give yourself at least half a day here. I spent most of a day and could have easily gone back for more. (Please dress modestly as the Basilica has a strict dress code requiring shoulders and knees to be covered). Tickets are 20 EUR while skip the line tickets cost around 31 EUR. Keep in mind that tickets sell out weeks in advance (especially in the high season, so you’ll want to plan this one in advance).

If you want a behind-the-scenes tour with VIP access, book the Key Master’s Tour of the Vatican . You’ll get to help unlock the chapel in the morning, giving you access to the Vatican before all the other tourists enter. It’s an amazing, unique opportunity with limited space so be sure to sign up in advance!

4. Admire the Trevi Fountain

The 18th-century Trevi Fountain was built at the ending point of the aqueduct that supplied ancient Rome with water from the surrounding countryside. Designed by Roman architect Nicola Salvi and composed largely of stone from a quarry just 35 kilometers (22 miles) from the city, the Baroque fountain is a true emblem of Rome and has been featured in numerous films. It is always crowded, especially at night when couples come for a romantic picture. The best time to see this beautiful fountain is before breakfast when the crowds are thin. Tradition says that if you throw a coin over your left shoulder into the fountain, you’ll find your way back to Rome. (The thousands of euros thrown into the fountain each day are donated to charity).

5. Eat your way around Trastevere

This former working class district turned bohemian neighborhood is one of my favorite areas of the city to explore. The winding, cobblestone-lined alleys and buildings covered in ivy are incredibly picturesque, so spend some time strolling around — you won’t regret it! Fewer tourists go here as compared to the historic center, so it has a much more authentic Roman feel to it. There is some really great food to be found here too. Food and wine tours around the neighborhood start at 124 EUR.

Other Things to See and Do in Rome

1. take a free walking tour.

Walking tours are a wonderful way to learn about a city. I recommend Rome’s Ultimate Free Walking Tour. Their tours are 2.5-3 hours during which you’ll cover about 3 kilometers. Along the way you’ll pass iconic sights like the Pantheon and Castel Sant’Angelo. New Rome Free Tours also give great walking tours and have a few to choose from. Their tours last about two hours, cover all the highlights, and can introduce you to the city on a budget. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!

If you’re looking for a paid guided tour that goes above and beyond, check out Walks of Italy . They have expert guides and can get you behind the scenes at the city’s best attractions. They’re my go-to walking tour company!

2. See the churches

Rome has a ton of churches so don’t hesitate to wander into them as you pass by to take in the art, sculptures, decorations, and stained glass. The Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, dating back to 440 CE, is one of the most impressive and my personal favorite because of the ornate interior. It’s covered in colorful 5th-century mosaics which display 36 scenes from the Old Testament. Other noteworthy churches include the Santa Maria Sopra Minerva, one of the few Gothic churches in Rome and known for its deep blue vaulted ceiling; and San Giovanni in Laterano, the official cathedral of Rome which apparently is home to the heads of St. Peter and St. Paul. It’s also home to the world’s first baptistry.

3. Explore Ostia Antica

The ruins of the ancient Rome port of Ostia Antica are well worth a visit. About 2,000 years ago, this place was a bustling commercial center and home to 60,000 people. Now you can wander the ruins of the docks, apartments, mansions, baths, and warehouses. You should plan at least a half-day for this trip. Entry is 18 EUR. City Wonders runs half-day tours for around 58 EUR.

4. Tour the Pantheon

The Pantheon looks today much like it did nearly 2,000 years ago before it became a church (it was originally a temple for the twelve Roman gods ). Hadrian built the current structure over Agrippa’s earlier temple, and it has been around since 125 CE. As soon as you walk through the heavy bronze doors and across the marble floors, you can look up and marvel at the largest unreinforced dome ever built. It’s by far one of the best-preserved buildings in the world, as its been in use continuously since its construction. It inspired the Renaissance artist Raphael so much that he asked to be buried there. Admission starts at 15 EUR and includes an audioguide.

5. See the Spanish Steps

The Spanish Steps, built in the 1720s, are a long and grand staircase in Rome with the Piazza di Spagna at its base and Trinità dei Monti looming at the top. While the Spanish Steps were once a social hub on which you could hang out and people watch, sitting on the steps is no longer allowed. This is part of new preservation measures enacted in 2019, intended to ensure that the monument will be around for generations to come. While you can’t linger on the steps, visiting this iconic sight is a must, and you can still climb them to get to the top.

6. Check out the art museums

If you enjoy art museums, Rome will not disappoint. There are a ton of great ones here, several of which are some of the highest-ranking in the world. The Galleria Nazionale d’Arte Moderna is a good starting point as it is home to several Italian masterpieces. The Galleria Borghese is also excellent as it boasts a garden villa filled with Bernini sculptures and artwork from Caravaggio, Raphael, Titian, and other masters. Cardinal Scipione Borghese originally commissioned this collection. For something different, check out MAXXI, Rome’s first national museum devoted entirely to contemporary art.

7. Partake in La Settimana dei Beni Culturali

This is a 10-day event that occurs every May. During this cultural heritage week, all governmentally owned and operated landmarks, museums, and archeological sites offer free admission. There aren’t any other deals better than this! Be forewarned, these sites get really crowded so arrive early. In addition to free entry at all the sites, there are concerts, guided tours, and other cultural events throughout the week.

8. See a show

Aside from beautiful auditorium complexes, Rome often hosts world-class operas and concerts performed by international musicians. The Olympic Stadium is a hotspot for summer concerts and the Auditorium in Viale Pietro de Coubertin and at Parco della Musica holds events year-round. Ticket prices vary but expect to pay at least 35 EUR.

9. Visit Castel Sant’Angelo

This structure was built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian at the end of the 1st-century. During the course of history, it has also served as a papal residence and a prison. As you may know from The Da Vinci Code , there’s a passageway here that runs into the Vatican. It was designed as an escape passage for the Pope in case of an emergency, and it was actually used in 1527 by Pope Clement VII. You can visit the castle and look around the exhibits; there are seven levels in total. The Terrace of the Angel has some amazing city views. Admission is 15 EUR while Get Your Guide offers reserved tickets starting around 21 EUR.

10. Explore the Catacombs

Rome has three major sets of catacombs that are open to the public – the Catacombs of Praetextatus, the Catacombs of San Sebastiano, and the Catacombs of San Callisto. Some of the underground crypts are adorned with sculptures and frescoes. San Callisto is the most popular, with a labyrinth of galleries extending about 19 kilometers (12 miles) long and 20 meters deep. It’s located at the southwestern edge of the Parco della Caffarella. There are a number of martyrs buried there, along with sixteen popes. You can also see the crypt of St. Cecilia, the patron saint of music. I enjoyed learning about the history and seeing the different mosaics and paintings decorating the crypts. Though some may thing it morbid, it’s a fascinating place to visit. Admission to each catacomb is 10 EUR.

11. Take a cooking class

If you’re a foodie, taking a cooking class in Rome is a must. I like Walks of Italy as they offer some my favorite cooking classes, including a pasta making class. Their classes are around 3 hours each and are super insightful. You’ll not only have fun but you’ll learn a lot too. Prices vary but expect to spend around 71-81 EUR. Eat and Walk Italy runs tours for around 60 EUR.

12. See the Roman Appian Way

This ancient road connects Rome all the way to Brindisi. It was finished in 312 BCE and it’s so well preserved you can see the ruts in the stones left by chariots. There are lots of interesting highlights along the way, including the Catacombs of San Callisto and a huge mausoleum for Cecilia Metell, a Roman noblewoman. A lot of people rent a bike to pedal the path, but I think walking is the best way to go. You’ll be following in the footsteps of the ancient Romans! If you’d prefer a tour, Walks of Italy runs an Ancient Rome walking tour that covers the Appian Way (as well as the Park of the Aqueducts below — and much more!).

13. Hang out in the Park of the Aqueducts

This large, green park is part of the Roman Appian Way and home to some of the ancient aqueducts that once carried millions of tons of water into the city from the mountains. Although the park is located on the outskirts of the city, it’s a really great place to go and just hang out with the locals. The park covers nearly 600 acres and there are seven different aqueducts you can see in the area. It’s about a ten-minute walk from the nearest metro station, so it’s pretty easy to get to. Pack a lunch and a bottle of wine, and enjoy a lazy afternoon in the shade of some 2,000-year-old monuments.

14. Visit Piazza Navona

This is one of the most beautiful public spaces in Rome. It’s home to Bernini’s Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, with its stunning statues representing the great rivers of the world. The entire oval-shaped piazza is lined with restaurants, gelaterias, shops, and the Museo di Roma. Nearby, you’ll find Via della Pace, one of the city’s most photogenic streets. Pull up a chair at a sidewalk cafe and take it all in.

15. Wander around Centro Storico

Spending an afternoon getting lost in the maze of cobblestone streets in Centro Storico is one of the best free things you can do in Rome. Wind your way through the narrow alleyways and streets, admire the churches filled with Baroque art, pause for a coffee, and do some shopping at the many boutiques. This area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can see some of the earliest Christian churches along with ruins from the ancient Roman structures. This is where you’ll find the Piazza Navona and the Pantheon.

16. Climb Gianicolo

Gianicolo (or Janiculum) Hill offers the best views over Rome. It’s a famous spot for young lovers and tourists and from here you can see some of the city’s best attractions, including Palazzo Venezia and the Spanish Steps. It’s beautiful at dusk, but if you come in during the day, prepare for the cannon firing at noon (it has been happening daily since 1904). It’s located on the banks of the Tiber River and statue of Garibaldi on horseback stands in the middle of the square. Between the views and the surrounding art, it’s definitely my favorite spot for enjoying an epic view of the city.

17. Take a food tour

To learn more about the history and culture behind Rome’s cuisine, take a food tour. It’s the best way to eat your way around the city sampling the best eats Rome has to offer while learning what makes the cuisine unique. Devour Tours runs in-depth food tours led by expert local guides that will introduce you to the food culture and its history. If you’re a foodie like me who wants to learn more about the history and culture behind each dish, this tour is for you! Tours from 65 EUR.

How to Stay Safe in Rome

Rome is a very safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo and even if you’re a solo female traveler. However, petty theft can be a problem here so keep your valuables secure and out of sight. Pickpockets are very active around Rome’s main attractions such as the Colosseum and St. Peter’s Square so stay vigilant.

It’s also not uncommon to get ripped off in this city. You should never buy tickets from unofficial ticket offices. If you are approached by someone selling skip-the-line tickets, ignore them. Also, always make sure your taxi driver is using the meter.

If you’re worried about getting scammed, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here. However, the standard safety precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). There are many incredible solo female travel blogs on the web that can give you specific information about a place. They’ll give you tips and advice that I can’t. If you experience an emergency, dial 113 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Where to Stay in Rome

Rome has tons of fun, affordable, and social hostels. Some of my recommended places to stay are:

• YellowSquare
• The Beehive
• Palladini Hostel
• Alessandro Palace Hostel and Bar
• Hotel Laurentia
• Luxury on the River
• Eurostars Roma Aeterna
• Colosseo Prestige Rooms

For more hostel suggestions, check out my list of the best hostels in Rome . For hotel recommendations, here’s an article with my favorite hotels in Rome .

And, to find out exactly where in the city you should stay, here’s a post that breaks down the best neighborhoods in Rome.

Rome Travel Costs

Accommodation

• Hostel Dorms – 32-45 EUR per night (+25-35 EUR during the summer)
• Hostel private rooms – 92-170 EUR per night
• Budget hotels – 90-140 EUR per night (10-20 EUR less per night in the off-season)
• Airbnb private rooms – 60-80 EUR per night
• Airbnb apartments – 80-115 EUR per night
• Street food – 4-8 EUR
• Sit-down restaurants – 15-30 EUR
• Casual take-out places – 5-10 EUR
• Fast food (think McDonald’s) – 10 EUR
• Beer – 4-5 EUR
• Glass of wine – 3-5 EUR
• Cappuccino/latte- 1.50 EUR
• Bottled water – 1 EUR
• Groceries for a week – 55-65 EUR

Rome Suggested Budgets

Backpacker – 85 eur per day.

On this budget, you can stay in a hostel, cook all of your meals, and take public transportation to get around. You’ll need to limit your drinking and do mostly free activities like free walking tours and visiting the Parthenon and Spanish Steps. If you plan on drinking, add another 10 EUR to your daily budget.

Midrange – 190 EUR Per Day

On a mid-range budget, you can stay in a private Airbnb, budget hotel, or private room in a hostel. You’ll be able to eat out for most meals, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like touring the Colosseum and visiting the Vatican.

Upscale – 305 EUR Per Day

On this budget, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink as much as you want, take more taxis, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

Rome Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

It’s easy to blow a lot of money in Rome as it’s one of the most expensive cities in Europe. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to cut your costs. Here are some of the best ways to save money in Rome:

• Stay outside the center – If you are open to staying on the outskirts of Rome, you can save a lot of money on accommodation. Food outside of the city is much cheaper as well, and it’s easy to take the train to Rome for your sightseeing.
• Eat cheap – When eating in Rome, opt for sandwich and pizza places as opposed to touristy restaurants. For really good, inexpensive food, visit Trastevere across the river.
• Cook your own meals – If you’re on a tight budget, skip eating out and cook your own meals. If you have access to a kitchen, you’ll be able to save a fortune.
• Get a tourist card – If you are going to see a lot of museums, consider buying one of Rome’s many budget cards such as the Roma Pass, the Omnia Card (for Rome and the Vatican), or the Colosseum Full Experience ticket (which grants access not only to the Colosseum but several other iconic sites). You pay one flat fee for all the attractions and can save a good amount of money in the process.
• Redeem hotel points – Hotel credit cards let you earn points for everyday spending and use those points for accommodations when you travel. There’s nothing better than free place to stay and most cards come with at least 1-2 nights free when you sign up. This can save you a lot. Here’s a post that will help you get started with the basics. That way you can start earning points today and have plenty for your trip.
• Pass on the bread – Some restaurants charge you extra for bread they leave on the table — but they won’t tell you about it until the bill arrives. Send it back if you don’t want to be tempted.
• Take advantage of First Sunday – Most of the museums and other sights are free on the first Sunday of every month. This includes the Colosseum, the Forum, the Pantheon, and many more of the iconic sights. Though you won’t be able to see it all in one day, you can save a lot by visiting a few major attractions then.
• Drink the tap water – When eating out, ask for tap water or you will automatically get expensive bottled water included on your bill.
• Buy your wine at supermarkets – You can buy a great bottle of wine for 6-10 EUR at the store. It’s much cheaper than the bar.
• Stay with a local – Use Couchsurfing to stay with locals who have extra beds or couches for free. It’s the best way to save money while connecting with a local who can share their insider tips and advice.
• Go on a free walking tour – This is a great way to learn the history behind the places you are seeing and get your bearings. Rome Free Walking Tour has a few tours that can show you what the city has to offer. Just don’t forget to tip your guide!
• Get a transportation pass – A 24-hour transportation pass for the metro, bus, and trams is just 7 EUR and a 48-hour pass is 12.50 EUR. If you’re staying longer, you can get a one-week pass for 24 EUR. It’s the best way to get around the city on a budget.
• Take advantage of free museums – On the first Sunday of the month, dozens of museums and galleries around the city have free entry, including the Colosseum, the Borghese, and the modern art museum (among many others). And on the last Sunday of the month, the Vatican Museums are free. Just expect crowds!
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe. You’ll find clean drinking fountains all over the city.

How to Get Around in Rome

Public transportation – Rome has an extensive public transportation network consisting of buses, a subway (metro), trams, and trolleys.

The metro is the fastest way to get around the city. There are three lines and a single journey ticket that’s valid for 100 minutes is 1.50 EUR. You can pick up tickets from local tobacco shops, newsstands, and vending machines at the stations. You can also use contactless payment methods on the metro.

The bus can get you into the areas not covered by the metro system, but it’s a lot slower than the subway due to constant traffic jams. Tickets are 1.50 EUR.

You can purchase a one-day pass for unlimited travel for 7 EUR, and a two-day pass is 12.50 EUR. A one-week pass costs 24 EUR.

If you’re going to be using the public transportation system a lot, the Roma Pass is your best bet as it includes free access to some museums, discounts on others, and unlimited public transportation. It’s 32 EUR for 48 hours and 52 EUR for 72 hours.

Taxis – Taxis are very expensive here so I don’t recommend taking them. The meter starts at 4.50 EUR and then goes up 1.45 EUR per kilometer. Avoid them at all costs!

Ridesharing – Uber is available in Rome and their prices are usually cheaper than taxis. That said, they’re still not super cheap so skip Uber too!

Bike rental – Bicycling around Rome may seem a little scary with the high volume of traffic (and the hills), but there are bike lanes around the city center that make it possible. Bike rentals start around 9-16 EUR per day.

Car rental – The traffic in Rome is absolutely terrible so I would avoid renting a car here. Even if you’re leaving the city, it will still be a nightmare to get around and find parking. If you do want a car to explore the surrounding area, the best rental car deals can be found with Discover Cars . Prices start as low as 15 EUR per day for a multi-day rental.

When to Go to Rome

Peak season is during the summer, from June through August. You’ll be constantly competing for views at Rome’s main tourist attractions, but the weather is also fantastic during these months (although sometimes it’s unbearably hot and humid). Temperatures during this season average around 27°C (81°F), but in August, temperatures soar above 32°C (89°F) per day.

If visiting in the summer, wake up early to beat the heat and the crowds. There are a lot of outdoor concerts and activities this time of year, like the ones at the Olympic Stadium and Parco della Musica. June 2nd is Festa della Repubblica when the city celebrates the unification of Italy in 1946. The Festa dei Noantri happens in late July in the Trastavere neighborhood with street performers and lots of food and drink.

Personally, I recommend visiting during the shoulder season, which is from April-May and late September-October. It’s slightly less chaotic than the summer months, and the temperature is pleasant, hovering around 18°C (64°F). That said, post-COVID, tourism has grown so much that even those times of the year can still be pretty crowded. There’s plenty to do in the city during these times besides sightseeing as well. The Festival del Verde e del Paesaggio (Greenery and Landscape) happens in April with displays, art, live music, and vendors all related to gardening and outdoor spaces. It’s perfect for nature lovers! The Romaeuropa arts festival happens, with events from September through November, and showcases art in all its forms, and the Rome Film Festival is in October.

Winter is from November to March. This is the off-season in Rome but the city is never quiet. Although there are fewer travelers around, you can still expect a bustle of activity everywhere you go. Temperatures during this time range from 4-15°C (39-59°F).The city celebrates Epiphany in early January and Carnevale in February. Both of these events involve parades, costumes, and performers.

Rome Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• Walks of Italy – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere. Their guides rock and they have some of the best and most insightful tours in all of Italy.
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

GO DEEPER: Nomadic Matt’s In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

There’s a lot of free information online but do you want to spend days searching for information? Prob not! That’s why guidebooks exist.

While I have a lot of free tips on Europe, I also wrote an entire book that goes into great detail on everything you need to plan a trip here on a budget! You’ll get suggested itineraries, budgets, even more ways to save money, my favorite restaurants, prices, practical information (i.e. phone numbers, websites, prices, safety advice, etc etc), and cultural tips.

I’ll give the insider view of Europe that I got from years of traveling and living here! The downloadable guide can be used on your Kindle, iPad, phone, or computer so you can have it with you when you go. Click here to learn more about my book on Europe!

Rome Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Italy travel and continue planning your trip:

The 8 Best Hotels in Rome

The 24 Best Things to Do in Rome

The Best Walking Tours in Rome

The Best Tour Companies in Italy

Where to Stay in Rome: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 7 Best Hostels in Rome

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A heady mix of haunting ruins, awe-inspiring art and vibrant street life, Italy's hot-blooded capital is one of the world's most romantic and charismatic cities.

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Your Trip to Rome: The Complete Guide

• The Best Time to Visit Rome
• Weather & Climate
• Rome Airport Guide
• Tipping in Rome
• Rome's Top Neighborhoods
• Public Transportation in Rome
• Itinerary: 3 Days in Rome
• Day Trips From Rome
• Rome's Top Attractions
• Free Things to Do
• Things to Do With Kids
• Beaches Near Rome
• Top Museums in Rome
• Where to Shop in Rome
• Events in Rome
• The Best Food to Try
• The Top Restaurants in Rome
• Nightlife in Rome

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Rome, Italy, commonly referred to as the Eternal City, is a top travel destination that draws millions of visitors each year. An exuberant and modern world capital, Rome offers travelers fascinating reminders of its imperial past at every turn. It's also an international hub for contemporary fashion, design, art, and culture.

Encounter glorious monuments and ancient ruins dating as far back as at least the 3rd century B.C. Marvel at the stunning Romanesque- and Gothic-style architecture, medieval churches, picturesque squares, Baroque fountains, and world-class museums . Besides having an almost unlimited number of sights and attractions to see, Rome is famous for its traditional Roman food and wine and its vibrant nightlife , as well as pretty urban parks and peaceful nature reserves.

Planning Your Trip

Things to know before you go:

• Best Time to Visit : Since Rome has a Mediterranean climate, there's really no bad time to visit . If you want to avoid the crowds and the heat of summer, we recommend coming to Rome in the late spring or early autumn when the weather is mild and lines tend to be shorter. For average daily temperatures and rainfall, month by month, see our article.
• Language: Italian is the official language   , but you'll find that many people speak some English, especially those who work in the tourist industry. That said, it's always a good idea to bring along a pocket-sized phrasebook or download one of the many free language translation apps on your smartphone, just in case.
• Currency: As a member of the European Union   , Italy uses the Euro (€). Prices include tax and credit cards are widely accepted in restaurants, hotels, and shops. But when purchasing small items like a cup of coffee, a slice of pizza, or a glass of wine, plan on paying cash.
• Getting Around: Although Rome is a big metropolis, the historic center, or centro storico , is fairly compact, making it a highly walkable city. Public transport in Rome is run by ATAC , which operates the buses and trams linking riders to most areas in the city. The Metro subway system is affordable and quick.
• Travel Tip: You might find shorter lines if you visit the most popular attractions in the early afternoon when most people are at lunch.

Getting Around

Rome has an extensive public transportation system that consists of the Metro (subway), buses, trams, and three suburban railway lines (FS). Convenient and relatively inexpensive, the network connects to Rome's most popular tourist attractions but can be sometimes unreliable and overcrowded, especially during the summer months.

Things To Do

With so much to do and see in Rome, we recommend you start by hitting the major tourist attractions first—especially if this is your first visit. Regardless, do make sure to leave time in your schedule for people watching on an intimate piazza or strolling down Rome's many charming streets and cobbled alleyways.

Here are just some of Rome's top attractions:

• The Colosseum or Colosseo is the largest monument from Imperial Rome   still in existence today. The enormous amphitheater once housed fierce gladiator contests and wild animal fights. It's best approached from Via dei Fori Imperiali to get the full effect of its grandeur. Entrance lines can be long, so check out our tips for buying Colosseum tickets and avoid waiting .
• The Pantheon , one of the world's best-preserved ancient buildings, this masterpiece of Roman architecture began as a pagan temple before becoming a church in the 7th century AD. Located on Piazza della Rotonda, the Pantheon has a cylinder-shaped, hemispherical dome featuring a round hole in the top, the oculus, that allows natural light to stream in, as well as raindrops. Admission is free.
• Vatican City, the home of Saint Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums, is the world's smallest city-state. Geographically located within Rome, but not actually part of it, St. Peter's is the largest church in the world and houses important works by Michelangelo and Bernini. The Vatican Museums ( Musei Vaticani ) is a massive complex that contains an impressive art collection spanning 3,000 years—from Classical to modern eras. It's here that you can see the Sistine Chapel featuring Michelangelo's renowned frescoed ceiling.

For more information and details about Rome's sights and attractions see our 3 Days in Rome: What to See and Do or The 25 Top Things to Do in Rome.

What to Eat and Drink

Traditional Roman cuisine is based on inexpensive cuts of meat like offal and simple pasta recipes such as cacio e pepe (pecorino cheese and black pepper) and spaghetti carbonara (egg, cheese, and pork cheek). Other Roman favorites include deep fried artichokes ( carciofi alla giudia ), supplì (stuffed balls of rice with tomato sauce), and thin, crisp-crusted pizza.

Frascati is a white wine blend made in an area just south of the city. Artisanal and craft beer has become quite popular recently with pubs cropping up all over the city. In speakeasies and chic hipster bars, cocktails are flowing after hours.

Where to Stay

With so many diverse and interesting neighborhoods in Rome, it's hard to choose where to stay. For easy access to the airport and public transportation, staying in a cozy B&B or friendly hostel near Termini Station makes a lot of sense. If you want to be where the action is, there are a myriad of lodging options in Trastevere , Monti, and the centralissimo (very central) area, though these quarters can be rather noisy at night. If romance is what you're after, consider staying at a historic luxury hotel along the famed Via Veneto or near the Spanish Steps, but expect to pay a premium for such stellar locations. If you're on a budget, self-catering Airbnbs and inexpensive hotels are available all over the city, offering a great solution.

Getting There

There are two airports serving the Rome metropolitan area: Fiumicino (also known as Leonardo da Vinci) is the main international airport and Ciampino is a smaller, regional one. The best way to get into the city from the Fiumicino is by train to the main railway station closest to the historic center, Stazione Termini . You can also take airport buses to either Termini or Tiburtina station. We recommend you avoid driving in Rome if at all possible.

The Port of Civitavecchia is where cruise ships dock in Rome. See Civitavecchia to Rome Transportation for information about getting to the city or airport from here.

Culture and Customs

If you want to "do as the Romans do," then follow the bit of advice below.

• You must have your ticket before boarding any public transportation—buy them at station kiosks, newsstands ( edicole ), and tabacchi (tobacco shops). At boarding, be sure to stamp your ticket to validate them or you could get hit with a steep fine.
• You can't hail a cab on the streets of Rome, but can pick up one at the many official taxi stands scattered throughout the city.
• In restaurants, remember that tipping isn't obligatory, but is much appreciated. The rule of thumb is to leave €1 for each diner in your group or round up the check a few euros. If you get exceptional service, feel free to leave up to, but no more than 10% of the total bill.
• When perusing Rome's many boutiques and fashionable shops know that handling items is frowned upon, therefore it's best to ask the shopkeeper for assistance.
• Rome is a relatively safe big city, yet it does have its share of petty crime. Be aware of pickpockets, especially at train stations, on the Metro, and in crowded tourist areas.

For more information regarding the art of tipping in Italy, check out our article,  When & How Much to Tip in Italy: The Complete Guide .

Money Saving Tips

For budget-conscious travelers, here are a few ways to save a little coin without skimping on the fun.

• Rock the Aperitivo (pre-dinner drink): When you order a glass of wine or cocktail, it usually comes with a plate of yummy food (cold cuts, squares of pizza, etc.) at no extra charge.
• Forgo summertime and opt to visit during the winter, early spring or late fall. Temperatures are mild and travel packages and discounts are available.
• If you're going to be in Rome for three or more days, the OMNIA or RomaPass pass is a great value. Along with offering free admission to several sights, you don't have to wait in line thanks to the "fast-track" entrance feature included in the price.

Find out more about the cheapest ways to have fun by exploring our guide on visiting Rome on a budget.

Central Intelligence Agency. "The World Fact Book."

European Union. "The 27 member countries of the EU."

Encyclopedia Britannica. "Colosseum."

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Rome   Travel Guide

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Why Go To Rome

Rome, the city of seven hills, enjoyed a mythic beginning. Romulus and Remus – twin brothers who were nursed by a she-wolf and fathered by a war god – reportedly founded the Eternal City. And although historians are a little skeptical about this epic entry into the world, most travelers are absolutely certain that there is something magical about Rome. Whether it's the mystery of nearby Vatican City or the ghosts of the  Colosseum , an afternoon caffè on  Piazza Navona  or a piled-high plate of pasta at a trattoria, Rome is sure to enchant.

Italy's capital city, Rome is also known for a history that dates back to the eras of Octavian, Julius Caesar and Hadrian, among others. Left behind are structures like the  Pantheon , the  Roman Forum  and dozens of churches, among other historic gems. Art enthusiasts will relish the trove of art housed at the  Vatican Museums , and foodies will enjoy the splendid Italian fare, not to mention the gelato. And though its momentous past is the focus for many vacationers, Rome is also a fast-paced, modern and relevant city, with gleaming designer storefronts, sleek hotels and cutting-edge restaurants.

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• # 1 in Best Winter Vacations in Europe
• # 1 in Best Places to Visit in Italy
• # 1 in Best Day Trips from Florence

See All 12 Rankings

Best of Rome

Best hotels in rome.

• # 1 in Hotel Hassler
• # 2 in Hotel de Russie, a Rocco Forte Hotel
• # 3 in Hotel Eden

Best Things to Do in Rome

• # 1 in Colosseum (Colosseo)
• # 2 in Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
• # 3 in St. Peter's Basilica (Basilica di San Pietro)

Popular Tours

Skip-the-Line Group Tour of the Vatican, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilica

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from $ 55.00

Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St Peter’s Basilica Guided Tour

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from $ 88.67

Rome: Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill Guided Tour

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from $ 43.77

Rome Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Rome is from October to April when most of the tourist crowds have dissipated and room rates are lower. Although you'll need a warm coat, weather this time of year hardly ever dips below freezing. For warmer weather – without throngs of tourists and the sweltering humidity – come in May or September. High average temperatures flit between the mid-70s and the lower 80s.

Weather in Rome

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Il conto, per favore If you need the bill at a restaurant, be persistent  yet pleasant  in asking. Life moves slower in Rome, so asking for your check once doesn't necessarily mean it's on the way.

Ditch the diet This is Rome, home of fettuccine, ravioli, bruschetta, cappuccino … enough said.

Speak Italiano When in Rome, do as the Romans do and at least try to speak a little Italian. "Hello" is  ciao , "please" is  per favore  and "thank you" is  grazie .

Take a tour Overwhelmed by the amount of things to see and do in Italy's capital? Consider taking a guided tour  for a crash course in Roman life and culture.

How to Save Money in Rome

Buy the Roma Pass This  money-saving pass gives you free or reduced admission to museums, discounts on certain exhibits, and free travel on public transportation for up to three days.

Church hop Many of Rome's little churches hold beautiful treasures – and many are free to visit.

Visit on Sunday The Vatican Museums are free to visit the last Sunday of the month, while state-run sights, such as Musei Capitolini and the Colosseum , offer free entry the first Sunday of the month.

Culture & Customs

Trying to look like a resident isn't difficult, especially if your own wardrobe is filled with high-end designer labels. Men wear immaculately cut suits. On the streets, snug jeans and fitted shirts are the norm for both men and women.

Rome's official currency is the euro. Since the euro to U.S. dollar exchange rate fluctuates, be sure to  check what the current exchange rate is before you go. Major credit cards are accepted at most restaurants and shops. 

The official language in Rome is Italian, and while it's advisable to learn a few phrases – ciao for hello; addio for goodbye; per favore for please, among others – most tourist-facing institutions, whether hotels or attractions , will have people that can communicate in English.

What to Eat

Rome is overflowing with restaurants, from trattorias that cook up family recipes spanning generations to fusion restaurants that plate up the latest culinary trend. Don't miss out on Roman specialties – such as artichokes, which are so beloved they have a protected status from the European Union. Try them at Rome's Nonna Betta . Cacio e Pepe is a simple pasta dish flavored with Pecorino Romano cheese and black pepper, and it originated in Rome. If you add smoked pork jowl and egg, you get another Roman pasta dish, carbonara. 

Although the Lazio province – the region in which Rome sits – doesn't produce the world-renowned wines of other parts of the country, Rome nonetheless overflows with wine. Try a glass or two at popular wine bars, such as Enoteca il Goccetto, Cul De Sac or Trimani Enoteca – or with your meal at just about any of Roma's restaurants. 

Coffee is an art in Rome, and to enjoy one of the best espresso drinks, try out the Caffe Sant'Eustachio , established in 1938, or the Antigua Tazza d'Oro near the Pantheon. 

If you're looking to dine at Michelin-rated establishments, you'll have quite a few options. La Pergola , housed inside the luxe Rome Cavalieri Hotel, has three stars, while Il Pagliaccio, which serves up a modern twist on traditional Italian dishes, has two stars. 

For a more rustic, homestyle (not to mention cheaper) dining experience, visitors might want to try out Casa Manco for pizza and Pane e Salame for sandwiches, among several thousand other establishments. If you have limited time in Rome and are interested in a culinary crash course, consider signing up for a food tour . Most tours last several hours and include tastings at a variety of local shops and restaurants. Popular operators include, Cook With Us in Rome , Eating Italy Food Tours and LivItaly Tours .

As always, visitors should use common sense when traveling and watch out for pickpockets on public transportation or in and around heavily touristed attractions. Due to an increased number of terrorist attacks in Europe in recent years, the U.S. State Department advises travelers to be on alert in tourist locations, transit hubs and markets.

Getting Around Rome

The best way to get around Rome is on foot. And because many of the best attractions are clustered together in traffic-free zones, walking makes the most sense. However, some places, like Vatican City, are pretty far from the central historic district, necessitating the use of the metro or a taxi. A nonstop express train (the Leonardo Express) can take you from the Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport (FCO) to the Rome Termini railway station in a little more than 30 minutes; one-way tickets cost 14 euros (about $17). Buses are also available, but these aren't recommended because of crowded conditions aboard and heavy traffic outside. If you must bring a car to Rome, you should park it as soon as possible once you enter the city limits. Otherwise, you'll find heavy traffic, impatient drivers and pedestrian-only areas make driving around virtually impossible.

Entry & Exit Requirements

A passport with at least six months of remaining validity is required for United States citizens traveling outside the mainland by air or sea, as well as for U.S. citizens trying to re-enter the country. U.S. citizens do not need a visa unless they plan on staying longer than 90 days. Visit the U.S. State Department's website for the latest information on foreign exit and entry requirements.

Seek out vantage points for enchanting panoramic views of the Eternal City.

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Complete Rome Travel Guide: A Local’s Way To Discover Rome

With thousands of years of history, Rome has a huge amount of things to do whether it’s your first time or you have already been and would like to discover more and go beyond the touristy. Known as the eternal city for some 2000 years, Rome is famous for its well-preserved archaeological sites, Renaissance art and architecture, beautiful churches, and fantastic food.

Whether you should book a private Rome tour or explore the city on your own, it’s totally up to you. With this Rome travel guide, I’m aiming to give you all the tools you need to travel independently, to decide what is best to see and do within the time you have at your disposal, to get around if you have a baby or entertain your toddler, to know where to eat and how to use the public transport.

Too much information altogether? It is, but it’s all packed in a way that you have all the essential bits and pieces you need to kick off your trip planning. Of course, throughout the website, you will find everything in more detail. Planning a trip to Rome is an exciting thought but it can also be overwhelming for all the things to do and remember. We don’t leave you alone, our Rome travel guide will help you all along the way!

Table of Contents

All you need to know before visiting Rome: The ultimate Rome travel guide

Where is rome.

The capital of Italy since 1870, after the unification, and of the Latium region, Rome lies in the center of the country on the western coast of the “boot” lapped by the Tyrrhenian Sea. It takes an hour and a half to reach Florence by high-speed train, an hour and 15 minutes to reach Naples, three hours and 40 minutes for Milan and four hours to Venice.

If you are traveling around Europe by train and are including Italy in your itinerary, you can consider a handy Eurail pass to reach Rome and many other cities. Check out this complete guide on how to use Eurail Pass .

If you have rented a car, you can make easy day trips in the Lazio region as well as get to the Tuscany countryside or less touristy regions like Umbria or Abruzzo.

What is Rome famous for?

Depending on your passions, the first thing that comes to a traveler’s mind when hearing about Rome might be the Colosseum or its hearty culinary traditions. If you are a foodie, you are already inquiring what are the most popular Roman dishes and where to eat them. If you are a history buff, you have probably already booked your ticket to the city’s archaeological parks or the Vatican Museums.

To pin down what Rome is famous for in only a paragraph is pretty challenging. Think aristocratic Renaissance palaces, narrow winding alleys, all-natural artisan gelato, the Pope, designer shopping streets, the Spanish Steps , gorgeous piazzas , and fountains such as Fontana di Trevi , ancient Basilicas and so much more.

Why is Rome called the Eternal City?

Oftentimes, Rome’s eternal city moniker is assigned to the 2nd-century emperor Hadrian who would have said: “other Romes will come, whose forms I see but dimly, but whom I shall have helped to mold. When I was visiting ancient cities, sacred but wholly dead, and without present value for the human race, I promised myself to save this Rome of mine from the petrification of a Thebes, a Babylon, or a Tyre. She would no longer be bound by her body of stone, but would compose for herself from the words State, citizenry, and republic a surer immortality. […] She would endure to the end of the last city built by man.”

However, this is not what the emperor said in reality but a passage from Marguerite Yourcenar’s famous book “Memoirs of Hadrian”. In fact, the term eternal city applied to Rome had been already in use for centuries.

The first time we know Rome was referred to as the eternal city was by Latin poet Albius Tibullus (born c. 55 bc—died c. 19 bc) in his second book of elegiacs, and after that, so many have used the term that it became famous and somehow Rome’s own title, even though also other cities have been called this way, including Jerusalem and Kyoto.

When is the best time to visit Rome?

In our Rome travel guide, we are also going to suggest when to visit. Italy has four seasons and each of them is good to visit Rome. Usually, the summer months are the hottest and count the biggest crowds of tourists lined up to enter the city’s landmarks.

This is obviously because most people have their holidays in July and August, but if you can, the Springtime between April and June is probably the most pleasant to wander around, with the cold temperatures just gone and the blazing heat not yet here. If you are traveling in spring, check out our detailed guides to visiting Rome in March , April , and May .

When you are out sightseeing in Rome, a good amount of walking is involved, and doing it under a scorching sun can prove pretty challenging.

Fall, from September to around mid-November, is also a nice time to visit Rome, even though you can expect some showers and the first post-summer thunderstorms.

Don’t miss our tips on what to wear in Rome in November !

What Rome airport to fly into and from?

Rome has two airports, Leonardo Da Vinci International Airport in Fiumicino and the military airport in Ciampino. Which Rome airport is closer to the city? Probably Ciampino is slightly closer to Rome, but Fiumicino is very well connected, so the transfer time is really not much of an issue when booking your flight to Rome.

Ciampino is mainly the airport used by low-cost airlines such as Ryanair, but now these land in Fiumicino, too. While Ciampino is a small airport with limited options of shops and places to eat, Fiumicino airport is huge and features all types of stores, from technology to clothes to accessories, as well as a diverse restaurant scene that really accommodates every taste and preference.

How to reach Rome from the airport?

From Fiumicino’s airport, you can train either the train (faster and slightly more expensive) and the coach (cheaper and slower). There are two different trains you can take in Fiumicino to reach Rome.

Leonardo Express is the direct train to Termini, it doesn’t stop anywhere else, it reaches in half an hour and costs 14€. The regional train stops at every station, including Trastevere, Ostiense and Tiburtina, it takes 27 minutes to reach Trastevere, 31 to Ostiense, 47 to reach Tiburtina, and it costs 8€.

Coaches are cheaper and take longer as they drive through the traffic. In the GRA, the ring road around Rome, there isn’t always much traffic, but once inside the city, it can get pretty crazy depending on the hour.

Single tickets are around 5€ but every company has different fares and timetables, so it’s better to check directly on their website. Some of the most popular companies are Cotral , Schiaffini and Terravision . If you are flying with Ryanair, you can purchase your Terravision ticket on board.

Ciampino is a smaller airport and it can be reached only by bus, so it takes a bit longer. The companies are also Terravision and Schiaffini. From Ciampino, you can also take Atac urban bus to reach the metro station Anagnina

What to pack for Rome?

Italy has four seasons, so depending on when you are traveling, you will pack for Rome differently. Traveling to Rome for Christmas ? Definitely pack warm clothes, an umbrella, a winter jacket, and warm shoes or boots. On the other hand, if you need to pack for Rome in summer , don’t forget your swimsuit for a nearby beach or the pool of your hotel, sunscreen, light t-shirts, and shorts or light long trousers that you might need when on a tour in the Vatican .

In Rome, you can find pretty much everything, but if there are things you know you are going to need as soon as you arrive and don’t have time to look for a shop, I say pack a small version of it and then buy it in Italy when you run out.

What to wear in Rome?

There is no particular dress code in Italy, so in Rome, you can wear pretty much what you fancy and what you usually wear at home.

If you are visiting the Vatican or other churches, however, you will be asked to wear modest clothes, which will mean long trousers, light if it’s summer, long skirts, and t-shirts that cover the shoulders, so no sleeveless shirts even if outside it’s stifling hot. In case you are wearing a sleeveless t-shirt, when you enter a church, it will suffice to cover your shoulders with a shawl. Inside, it’s usually pretty fresh so don’t worry about feeling too hot.

Usually, there is no dress code to go to a restaurant or club, although some might prefer you to avoid flip flops, Bermuda shorts or sleeveless t-shirts for men. If there is a specific occasion where a dress code is required, organizers will make it clear, but usually, a smart outfit gives you access in most places.

Where to stay in Rome?

When looking for the best area to stay in Rome , you should keep in mind the purpose of your trip. Are you coming for a sightseeing holiday? Book your hotel in central Rome or Monti area to reach all the main landmarks easily. Do you like to experience traditional Rome and lively nightlife or bars and pubs? An accommodation in Trastevere is probably your solution.

Districts like Ostiense , Garbatella , or Trionfale/Monte Mario will probably have cheaper rates and are well connected to the city center, so if you are in Rome for more than three days and can take the time to use the public transport, it might be worth saving some money.

While most of the best hotels in Rome are probably around the historic center, in other areas you can find cozy places to stay that can meet your budget and needs. Even some accommodation options around the Vatican contemplate some pretty nice apartments and are close to public transport and handy shops and grocery stores/markets.

Public transport or car rental in Rome?

If you decided to book your hotel room or apartment slightly away from the city center, you can either take a daily walk or, if it’s really too far from your destination, rely on Rome’s public transport system . Consisting of buses, trams, trains, and metro, the local system is quite widespread and efficient, especially when connecting to central neighborhoods.

If you prefer to drive in Rome , you need to pay attention to the large ZTL, limited traffic zone, because fines are pretty hefty. If you are only staying in Rome, probably it’s not convenient, but if you are thinking about visiting also other regions and straying far from the big cities to enjoy some countryside, renting a car is your best bet.

In Rome, you can book a hotel that is not in the city center so you won’t be entering the ZTL and you will also have the chance to find better parking if your hotel doesn’t provide one. Staying in an area that is not in the immediate city center might also increase your chance to find much cheaper Rome accommodation .

What to eat in Rome?

Roman traditional dishes are hearty and don’t make for a light meal. Pretty meat-centric, you can also find delicious fish and seafood recipes as well as delicious side dishes such as sautéed chicory with garlic and chilli pepper, ( carciofi alla giudìa or alla romana) Roman-style artichokes and the fresh “puntarelle” (a very crunchy form of chicory) when in season.

If you are not a vegetarian or want to try the local dishes, you can start with some pasta options such as bucatini all’amatriciana , tonnarelli cacio e pepe , or spaghetti alla carbonara. As the main course, you will often find coda alla vaccinara (oxtail stew), saltimbocca alla romana (veal cutlet topped with cured meat and sage), filetti di baccalà (dried and salted codfish pan-fried). Sometimes also quinto quarto , which can be considered more of an ingredient as it’s made with the offal of a butchered beef or sheep.

If you want to stay traditional but give the meat a break, you can order the delicious fettuccine ai funghi porcini (egg pasta with porcini mushrooms) or the above-mentioned tonnarelli pasta with cacio cheese and black pepper.

Where to eat in Rome?

Our Rome travel guide couldn’t miss suggesting great places to eat. Of course, we have our favorite restaurants in Rome that we’ve been to over and over again, but there are many that we are still waiting to try.

Some of the places we have enjoyed many times and don’t hesitate to recommend are Felice A Testaccio near the Cestia Pyramid and the non-Catholic cemetery , Ginger Sapori e Salute in one of their restaurants either near the Pantheon or Via del Corso, Il Margutta vegetarian restaurant in Via Margutta, Trattoria Pennestri, delicious restaurant in the Ostiense area .

When I want to eat strictly plant-based, Romeow Cat Bistrot in Ostiense is my go-to and one of my very favorite vegan restaurants in Rome together with Ma Va?, also a vegan restaurant but in the Prati area, a neighborhood I always like to visit and where I used to live.

If you are a fan of street food, Rome offers this too in the form of supplì, pizza by the slice and the famous Trapizzino , which you can find in a few neighborhoods including Testaccio and Trastevere .

Pizza by the slice can either be a quick morning or afternoon snack or even an easy lunch on the go, and some of the best places for pizza in Rome include Pinsere in the Trieste neighborhood and the fantastic Pizzarium by Bonci in Prati near the Vatican Museums.

Where to find the best gelato in Rome?

Not to be confused with the fatter American cousin “ice-cream”, Italian gelato is a whole different deal. Creamy just enough and flavourful, it’s been quite a while that Romans have been demanding always more quality when it comes to their scoops.

So now, when you buy your gelato in Rome , you can (and should) expect an all-natural, chemical-free, additive-free sweet goodness in many flavors from all types of fruits to nuts in the most original combinations.

I would stay clear from chains showcasing unnatural, fluffy wells of ice cream and would really stick to the most recommended places, otherwise, you are just going to find an average industrial ice cream that does no justice to the real product.

Some of my favorites? Fatamorgana in Trastevere, Via del Corso and Prati, Fiordiluna and Otaleg in Trastevere, Gunther Gelato Italiano in Piazza Sant’Eustachio behind the Pantheon.

Where can I have the best coffee in Rome?

Coffee is something Italians rarely give up on. The smell of coffee is what defines an Italian home when everybody wakes up in the morning, so it’s only normal that you want to find the best coffee in Rome. Let’s start by saying that what Italians have is an espresso “shot” that you can order by simply asking for a “caffè”.

If you are more into larger cups, you need to order an American coffee, “caffè americano”. If you order your coffee “lungo” (long), you will just get the same tiny cup with the same espresso shot a little more diluted with the addition of more water.

Just as an example, I take my “caffè” simple as it is, so a single espresso. I can have a “lungo” sometimes because I know it’s still strong and velvety, but I would never be able to have American coffee.

This being said, in Rome, you can find great coffee in just about every bar, even the small one in the suburbs, where you can enter, order your coffee and have it at the counter like many Italians or at the table.

If you want a longer and more enjoyable experience with different types, styles and additions, some fantastic places are Sant’Eustachio Il Caffè in the namesake Piazza Sant’Eustachio, where they roast their coffee in-house, Castroni, a fantastic deli with several shops in locations like Via Cola di Rienzo, Via Ottaviano, Via Frattina and Piazza della Balduina, and also Pergamino Caffè in Piazza Risorgimento with the view of the Vatican Walls.

What to do in Rome?

This is a million-dollar question. It’s quite impossible to answer in a single paragraph, or article, or book, for that matter. We have even written our master guide with 95+ things to do in Rome but yet, it’s not enough either as constantly new discoveries are made and old landmarks are being restored and opened to the public.

A day or even half a day touring the Vatican is a must whether you are religious or not. Getting lost in the maze of alleys of the historic center eventually stopping to enjoy immortal masterpieces like the Pantheon, Piazza Navona for some masterpieces of Bernini , or Saint Louis of the French if you wish to view some Caravaggio paintings in Rome .

Book a tour to the Colosseum that usually includes also the Roman Forum to explore some of the most important and well-kept archaeological ruins, or stroll around Trastevere for a taste of gentrified former working-class vibe.

It’s not your first time in Rome and you don’t want to spend your day in the city center ? Venture to some of the most fascinating hidden gems or lesser-visited neighborhoods like Ostiense to know more about Rome’s industrial archaeology or street art . Are you a foodie? Embark on a themed itinerary and explore the city through its top local restaurants.

Check out our eBook for five daily itineraries for foodies in Rome

What can I do in Rome with my kids?

Plenty of things! First of all, there is hardly any kid who doesn’t want to feel gladiator for a day, so the Colosseum is a great starting point to introduce Rome to your children. Rome has also beautiful parks where your kids can run free, play in the devoted playgrounds, see the local wildlife and as well as the beautiful fountains, sculptures and lakes that are pretty much in every park in Rome.

For kids of all ages up to around 12 years old, close to Piazzale Flaminio and Piazza del Popolo is Explora , the museum where children can play and engage in plenty of interactive games.

Apart from the activities specifically organized for kids, you can ask your hotel if they know of any kids-friendly and family tours and just take your children to see Rome’s attractions, and buy them plenty of gelato and pastries!

What to do in Rome for free?

One of my favorite things to do in Rome consists of wandering around the historical streets of its neighborhoods, so it’s obviously free and really what I suggest anyone does for a first, insightful introduction to the city.

Among the most famous landmarks you can visit for free in Rome are the Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, St. Peter’s Basilica and all the other churches, including the important Saint Paul Outside the Walls , San Giovanni in Laterano, San Pietro in Vincoli , Santa Maria Maggiore and the two Trastevere basilicas Santa Maria and Santa Cecilia .

Visiting Rome’s parks is also free and doesn’t only involve a stroll in the green. Rome’s urban gardens are historical places because they all were former residences of local noble families.

So inside, you can visit palaces, museums, themed gardens, and lakes as well as see local wildlife and a variety of plant species. Villa Borghese , Villa Pamphilj, Villa Ada, and Villa Torlonia were all aristocratic residences, with Villa Ada being the residence of the Savoy royal family and Villa Torlonia where Benito Mussolini used to live.

But this is really only the tip of the iceberg because every neighborhood in Rome has its own personality and the free things to do in Rome are potentially never-ending!

Make sure you read our full guide to the free things to do in Rome .

What if I come to Rome with my baby?

I’d say to pack wisely and pick the right hotel in the right neighborhood ! While these are essential steps, exploring Rome with a baby does require some attention. First of all, if you are traveling with a stroller, you need to be careful because Rome’s streets are often connected with staircases and not all metro and train stations have (functioning) elevators.

So you might have to carry your stroller up and down the stairs. This is why, if your baby is small enough, a baby carrier is probably the best solution.

Also, food-wise, many restaurants in Rome serve dishes that your smaller ones can eat, but not all, so probably you might want to carry some prepared food on a thermos.

Obviously, this is possible only if you have rented an apartment rather than a hotel and can make your own food, otherwise, you should prefer the baby-friendly restaurants that we have tried and tested.

Should I book a guided tour of Rome or explore it independently?

As I mentioned at the very beginning of this guide, this is entirely up to you. Some of the questions you should ask yourself when deciding are: Do I have enough time to explore everything on my own? Will I be able to explore the place deeply and thoroughly by myself? Will I be able to find lesser-known local restaurants without booking a Rome food tour with a local guide?

Booking a tour has many advantages, skipping long lines being one of the main ones. But it also gives you the chance to dig deeper into the local culture and lifestyle, as well as find the best restaurants and dishes to try.

However, while joining a tour might be more insightful, it can also be more expensive than traveling on your own. If you are an independent traveler, you can choose cheaper hotels, and eat street food on the go.

You can also skip some landmarks that require an entrance fee, do more walking around the neighborhoods rather than entering museums and other sites, and enjoy the many free things you can do in the city. Rome is pretty easy to navigate, so if you are traveling on a budget, you can still love your trip.

Where to go shopping in Rome?

Rome is packed with all types of shops and stores, it all depends on what type of shopping you need to do. For food and grocery shopping, I would suggest heading to one of its beautiful local markets, while if you are looking for clothes, shoes, and accessories, there is no better place than famous shopping streets like Via del Corso, Via Cola di Rienzo, and the very exclusive Via dei Condotti and surrounding alleys.

Another cool place for shopping in Rome is the Designer Outlet Castel Romano McArthurGlen, a large pedestrian area built like a proper village of outlet stores of the biggest brands. If you have the time and are serious about shopping, you can spend there the whole day as there are a few restaurants, bars and cafes, as well as clean restrooms and toilets well-equipped also with baby changing units.

Among the 150 brands you can find for a fraction of the original price are Roberto Cavalli, Moschino, Nike, Falconeri, Burberry, Coccinelle, Ermenegildo Zegna, Samsonite, Calvin Klein, as well as homeware names like Bialetti and Caleffi. This outlet village is located south of Rome quite far from the city center, so to reach, you will have to rent a car or take a taxi.

Cool day trips from Rome

While Rome is a bottomless resource of things to see, do and experience, a day out of the city is a great alternative to the hustle. There are many day trips you can take from Rome , each of them exploring a place with their own personality and beauty. Some of the trips that I suggest are to Ostia Antica, the ruins of an ancient Roman city that archaeologists are still digging and making new discoveries, to Tivoli to see the two UNESCO heritage sites Villa of Hadrian and Villa d’Este, to Bracciano medieval town famous for its large lake, to the beautiful Viterbo, ancient papal city, and to the scenic Castel Gandolfo .

About The Author: Angela Corrias

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An Easy Travel Guide to Rome, Italy

V isiting the Eternal City for the first time? Rome is one of the most visited cities in Italy and we created an easy travel guide to Rome so that you know the best things to see and do.

In this post, we’re sharing all we’ve learned from our vacations in Rome to help you plan your getaway. We’ll cover the most popular neighborhoods, the best things to see and do, how to get around in Rome, the best time of the year to visit, how to get to central Rome from FCO Airport, and tips for traveling.

Where is Rome

Rome is located in the region of Lazio, near the and is undoubtedly one of the most popular destinations in Italy. It has the highest population of all cities in Italy and sits about 1 hour from the western coast.

And when it comes to tourism, it’s no surprise that visitors from around the globe travel to Rome to see its beauty and Renaissance art, experience Roman cuisine and Italian cooking , shop the fashion capital, discover the piazzas and fountains, explore the historical landmarks, or even practice Italian phrases that they’ve learned.

The various neighborhoods are the most widely visited by tourists because they are where most attractions can be found. Traveling through the city is easy on foot, but you should also consider the Rome sightseeing bus or the Rome golf cart tours .

The Best Time of Year to Visit Rome

Rome can be extremely uncomfortable in the summer months (primarily June through September). In April and May, the spring temperatures are nice, the mornings are cool, and by noon you probably won’t need a jacket.

The Best Things to See and Do (by Neighborhood)

Each neighborhood of Rome has museums, churches, gardens, parks, and iconic spots to visit. This list gives a brief description of each district, and helps you understand what to see in each neighborhood. It will come in handy for deciding where to stay in Rome while planning your trip.

You may need to take public transportation to reach a specific neighborhood depending on where you stay. However, once you arrive, the area is completely walkable and getting from one point of interest to another is easy.

Modern Center

This neighborhood is located around Via Veneto and the Spanish Steps, the Modern Center neighborhood combines classic and contemporary influences. It has a mix of upscale boutiques, trendy cafes, and luxurious hotels, making it a hub for shopping, dining, and experiencing the modern side of Rome.

Palazzo del Quirinale

Complesso delle Quattro Fontane

Trevi Fountain

Galleria Nazionale d’Arte Antica a Pallazo

Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri

Castro Pretorio

Chiesa di Santa Maria della Vittoria

Museo e Cripto dei Frati Cappuccini

The heart of Rome’s historic center, the Old Rome neighborhood captivates with its cobblestone streets, charming piazzas, and awe-inspiring landmarks like the Pantheon and Piazza Navona.

Scalinta di Trinita dei Monti (Spanish Steps)

Museo dell’Ara Pacis

Campo de’ Fiori

Palazza Farnese

Piazza Navona

Museo di Roma Palazzo Braschi

Chiesa di San Luigi dei Francesi

Chiesa di Sant’Agnese in Agone

By far this is the most popular neighborhood in Rome for travelers. Trastevere is a bohemian neighborhood located on the west bank of the Tiber River. It is known for it narrow, winding streets, nightlife, and charming piazzas. Trastevere has a lively atmosphere with trendy bars, and traditional trattorias.

Villa Farnesina

Galleria Corsini

Basilica di Santa Maria

Orto Botanico

Home to the iconic Colosseum, the Colosseum neighborhood in Rome immerses visitors in ancient history as they explore the grandeur of the Roman Empire, marvel at ancient ruins, and soak in the architectural splendor of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Roman Forum

Palatine Hill

Bocca della Verita

Circo Massimo

Piazza Venezia

Altare della Patria

Aventino – Tastaccio

Testaccio is a historic working-class neighborhood that has transformed into a culinary hotspot. It offers a vibrant food scene with traditional trattorias, gourmet restaurants, and a bustling food market.

Basilicia di San Giovanni

Terme di Caracalla

Knights of Malta Keyhole

Esquilino – San Giovanni

Located near Termini Station, the Esquilino neighborhood is a melting pot of cultures and flavors. Known for its diverse immigrant communities, Esquilino is a mix of ethnic restaurants, colorful markets, and architectural gems like the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore.

Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore

Palazzo Massimo alle Terme

Museo Nazionale Romano

Basilica di San Pietro in Vincole

Nomentano combines residential tranquility with commercial areas. This neighborhood is characterized by its leafy parks, elegant villas, and the iconic University La Sapienza. There is a mix of students, locals, and dining. Nomentano has a relaxed and intellectual atmosphere.

Sapienza University

North Center

The North Center neighborhood of Rome, encompassing areas like Villa Borghese and Parioli, presents a more tranquil and residential atmosphere. With its leafy parks, elegant villas, and cultural institutions like the Galleria Borghese, this area provides a peaceful retreat from the city center.

• Museo e Galleria Borghese
• Villa Borghese
• La Galleria Nazionale
• Museo Nazionale Etrusce di Villa Guilia

Vatican City

Vatican City is the smallest independent state in the world and the spiritual center of Catholicism. Home to St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel, this iconic neighborhood offers a rich blend of religious significance, magnificent art, and awe-inspiring architecture.

St. Peter’s Basilica

Vatican Gardens

Vatican Museums

Castel Sant’Angelo

Southern Rome

The southern part of Rome is less touristy and has an authentic atmosphere that portrays a taste of local Roman life. From food markets and traditional trattorias to vibrant street art and a strong sense of community, Southern Rome provides a glimpse into the city’s everyday charm.

Via Appia Antica

Catacombe di San Sebastiano

Catacombe di San Callisto

Museo Capitoline Centrale Montemartini

How to Get Around Rome

Getting around the cobbled-stoned streets of Rome is not hard. I’ve walked, biked, and bused throughout Rome and loved it! All are great ways to get around and the method you choose depends on how much time you have and your personal preference.

I recommend the  Big Bus Tour  or a Golf Cart Tour in Rome if you are short on time or if you booked your travel in the dead heat of summer (which can be intensely hot).

With these tours, you’ll see all the top Rome attractions with audio commentary in your language of choice. If you choose an open top tour bus, the added benefit is free wi-fi and for 3 extra euros, you can use your ticket for two days (it is worth it).

When it comes to seeing Rome, walking can not be avoided especially when getting to an attraction that require climbing hilly pathways or navigating ancient streets. In my opinion, being on foot is one of the best ways to travel in Rome.

Exploring the narrow streets can lead you to the most marvelous pasta, the creamiest gelato, or the most perfect pasta! I highly recommend visiting the Trastevere neighborhood for  Italian street food . 

Public Transportation

This is the best option for getting to a part of town that is more than 20 minutes on foot, especially if visiting a museum or park. Save your energy and use public transportation for less than 2 euros. You can purchase them at the tobacconist store.

You will need to validate your ticket upon boarding the bus (it’s an honor system). Getting caught with an un-validated ticket can result in a fine. You should also use a really good map of Rome. 

Bike or Vespa

Peddling around the city on your own time feels so liberating. Bike rental is very affordable and is an enjoyable way to experience the outdoors, get some exercise to make up for all the  Italian breakfasts  that you eat, and explore Rome.

You can find rentals for as little as 13 euros for 24 hours, complete with lock, for a standard bike. The price for e-bikes is higher.

Getting around on a two-passenger scooter is loads of fun!  Rent a Vespa to skirt traffic or explore outside the city. They can be rented by the hour or day. This will make your trip to Rome memorable as you travel in true Italian style!

How to Get to Central Rome from FCO Airport

There are several options to get from Leonardo da Vinci International Airport to the center of the city. I found the train to be the quickest and most affordable especially if you’ve had a long day of travel and want to get to Termini station.  

The most economical way to get from the airport to the city center is via a shuttle bus service from the airport. You can travel conveniently between Rome’s city center and the airport and take pleasure in a stress-free arrival or departure from the city.

The ride takes about 50 minutes and departures run from the airport every 30 to 40 minutes so you have time to collect your luggage. Shuttles stop in Terminal 3’s arrivals section. Look for the respective service at the arrival platform.

Terravision offers a shuttle service for less than 8 euros it’s quite popular. The buses are air-conditioned and there is no cost to bring your luggage aboard. It goes directly to Termini station with no extra stops. 

Another option is the public transportation system, which costs about 6 euros. The bus stops multiple times in the city center, including one close to the Vatican and one at Termini Station, throughout the 45- to 1-hour one-way trip.

Buses halt in Terminal 3’s arrivals section, at number 14. You can purchase tickets at the airport desk or online. 

A taxi is quite expensive. It will set you back almost 50 euros and the ride takes just as long as a shuttle service (about 50 minutes). You can find the taxis at the arrival level of Terminal 1 and Terminal 3.

The Leonardo Express train is less than 20 euros and runs every 15 minutes during peak periods. It is operated by Trenitalia and the ride takes about 30 to 40 minutes.

If you wait to collect your luggage, and then make your way to the window or kiosk to purchase your ticket, note that many others will be doing the same. Hate long lines? You can purchase tickets in advance and be ready for validation after boarding the train.

I can’t recommend a car rental unless you plan a day trip and need a set of wheels. Rome is completely walkable. Not to mention, even Italians know that finding a parking space can be a hassle.

Tips for Visiting Rome

I adore visiting Italy. And no trip would be complete without seeing some of the most iconic and historic spots in the Eternal City.

Don’t make the mistake (that I made on my first trip) and skip these incredible spots! Fortunately, I was able to see them on return visits!

Whether you are visiting the Vatican for the first time or returning because you tossed a coin into the Trevi fountain, these Rome travel tips will come in handy to make your stay enjoyable.

• Be prepared! Read these tips on the essentials for an international flight .
• Think comfort when flying coach , it will help you stay calm and confident.
• Beware of scammers, pickpockets, and panhandlers. It’s a thing in Europe and it can happen when you least expect it. 

So, what are you waiting for? Book that flight to Rome and thank me later.

30+ Important Rome Travel Tips You Need to Know

Beautiful, layered, historic Rome is one of our favorite cities in the world (and at this point, I’m pretty sure I’ve started at least half a dozen Rome blog posts in a similar way, but it’s so true!), and it’s a must-see for most visitors headed to Italy for the first time.

Like most cities with thousands of years of history and millions of visitors each year, though, visiting Rome also has its quirks–and that’s where these Rome travel tips come in.

After spending months exploring the city, including our most recent trip in the summer of 2022, we’ve compiled quite the list of travel tips for Rome !

Here’s what you need to know before visiting Rome for the first time.

Table of Contents

Rome Travel Tips for Sightseeing

Tips for eating in rome, travel tips for getting around rome, paying for things in rome, hotel + apartment travel tips for rome.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Don’t try to see the Vatican Museums and Colosseum on the same day.

It’s an absolutely exhausting endeavor, and won’t leave time for seeing much of anything else that day in Rome!

If you only have one day in Rome , we recommend touring one of the two and seeing the other from the outside.

I t’s easy and simple to walk through St. Peter’s Square or admire the Colosseum from the outside!

Add at least one offbeat attraction to your Rome itinerary.

The well-worn path from the Colosseum to the Roman Forum to the Trevi Fountain to the Spanish Steps to St. Peter’s Square is one that we absolutely love and highly recommend to visitors heading to Rome!

But, i n a city as layered and beautiful as this one, it pays to step off the beaten track a couple of times, too.

Even if you only have a short trip to Rome planned, make sure you head to a lesser-known spot at least once during your stay. 

For example, Palazzo Doria Pamphilj is one of our favorite museums in Rome and is just a 15-minute walk from the Colosseum–but it has only the tiniest fraction of the crowds. 

Galleria Spada , the top of the Altar of the Fatherland in Piazza Venezia, and Galleria Sciarra are a few other tried-and-true quiet corners of Rome we love that are easy to access from the most popular spots in the city.

We have plenty more suggestions for getting off the beaten path in Rome here !

Book tickets and tours for popular attractions in advance.

One of our favorite travel tips for Rome is to virtually always book either a tour or skip-the-line tickets before arriving at popular attractions.

This is m ost important at the Colosseum , the Vatican Museums , and the Galleria Borghese .

And, in a post-2020 world, it’s practically mandatory: all over Europe, cities are experimenting with keeping reservation requirements for popular attractions.

It requires a bit of extra planning but honestly makes for a better experience, too.

We book virtually all of our tours and tickets for Rome through either Walks of Italy or Get Your Guide , and highly recommend both companies.

Don’t forget about dress codes when sightseeing in Rome.

Many places in Rome, including St. Peter’s Basilica and the Pantheon, have a dress code that is enforced–namely, that your shoulders, knees, and cleavage should be covered.

If you’re visiting Rome during the hot summer months, the easiest way to make sure you’re always ready to enter churches in Rome is to wear a longer dress or pair of long shorts/light pants on days you might want to visit religious sights.

T hen, throw a light scarf in your day bag and you’re good to go.

If you forget a scarf, though, don’t worry–there are always salesmen ready to sell you one as you line up to enter St. Peter’s Basilica!

Consider taking a tour of the Vatican Museums.

We’ve visited the Vatican Museums both independently and with a tour, and the context gained with a tour is truly incredible. 

If you have the time and budget for it, one of our best travel tips for Rome is to book a Vatican Museums tour for either the early morning (before the museums open to the public!) or on a Friday night between April and October (the museums don’t have Friday evening hours during the low season).

If you prefer to explore independently but still want to avoid the crowds, you can book skip-the-line tickets for those special hours, too.

We took this Friday evening tour of the Vatican Museums and absolutely loved it!

… and the Roman Forum.

Most tours will cover both the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, of course, but while having a tour guide for the Colosseum is a nice addition, it’s the Roman Forum where a guide can truly make the location come to life in a way that’s hard to do independently.

That’s e specially true if you don’t already have extensive knowledge of Ancient Roman history !

We took this tour and absolutely loved it, and this one gets amazing reviews as well.

Book your tour of the Colosseum + Roman Forum today!

When planning your Rome itinerary, keep museum closures in mind.

When reading through travel tips for Rome (as well as other Italian cities) and planning your itinerary, keep in mind that many museums in Italy close on one day of the week.

The Galleria Borghese, for example, is closed on Mondays, and the Vatican Museums (naturally) are closed on Sundays, with the exception of the last Sunday of the month, when it has free entry and is open until 2:00 PM (the ticket desk closes at 12:30 PM).

The Colosseum is open daily.

Be vigilant when watching for pickpockets.

Rome is infamous for its pickpockets, and while the same general rules you should use in any crowded, large city apply to keep yourself safe, there are a few places you should be extra vigilant.

When you’re near the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Piazza del Popolo, and St. Peter’s Square , be very cautious!

Though it’s not entirely necessary, we love the peace of mind that our anti-theft backpack brings as we explore.

Taking a day trip to Pompeii or the Amalfi Coast from Rome is hard, but not impossible.

We really only recommend it if you really, really want to see those locations, are too short on time in Italy to do an overnight trip, and book a tour through a well-reviewed company that will handle logistics for you– this tour from Walks of Italy gets rave reviews.

… but there are plenty of other day trips from Rome to consider taking!

Consider hitting the beach at Santa Marinella, perusing the ruins at Ostia Antica, admiring the beautiful hilltop village of Orvieto , or even paying a quick trip to Florence .

We’ve rounded up some incredible Rome day trip ideas here .

The Pantheon isn’t free to visit… anymore.

While the Pantheon has traditionally been free to visit, the city of Rome introduced an entrance fee starting in 2023.

Today, base tickets for the Pantheon cost 5 Euro, purchased onsite or through  this website .

Alternatively, you can purchase  tickets to the Pantheon that include a downloadable audio guide .

Be sure to read the signs carefully when arriving at the Pantheon: there are separate lines for those who already have downloaded tickets and those planning to purchase one in-person.

Get your Pantheon tickets + audio guide  now!

Restaurant reservations are the norm in Rome, especially in the evening.

Romans love reservations, and popular places do fill up, especially in the evenings. 

If you have your heart set on a visiting particular restaurant or rooftop bar when traveling in Rome, give them a call to make reservations a few days in advance (or have your hotel concierge help you if you prefer).

Don’t have reservations and want to give yourself the best shot at getting a table?

Show up as soon as the restaurant opens for dinner (usually at 7:00 PM or 7:30 PM).

Get your stomach on Roman time.

Generally speaking, we’ve found that Romans tend to eat later in the day than North Americans.

Here’s a vague schedule to keep in mind:

Breakfast of coffee and pastry at the bar when you wake up (pretty flexible, the bars will stay open through the day, though the best pastries can go early-ish).

Lunch between 12-3. Aperitivo between 5-7.

Restaurants open for dinner from 7:30–occasionally 7. They’ll really start to fill up around 8:30-9.

Be sure to try at least a couple of the best pastas in Rome.

Rome is absolutely packed with delicious food, but if you’re looking for the most traditional pastas in Rome (and in our totally biased opinions, some of the best pasta in all of Italy and therefore all of the world), look no further than the four dishes.

C arbonara, pasta alla gricia, amaracitiana, and cacio e pepe are all absolutely sublime.

We don’t consider a trip to Rome complete unless we’ve at least sampled a few bites of each!

… and if you’re there in the right season, artichokes.

Artichokes in Rome are prepared in two traditional styles: Roman-style and Jewish-style.

Both are delicious , but you’ll need to visit Rome in the winter to catch them on menus.

They are an extra-special treat if you happen to be visiting Rome during the low season!

If you see an omelet for sale in Rome, you’re at a tourist restaurant.

Breakfast in Rome consists of coffee and maybe a pastry (a cornetto cioccolato is a delightful treat, take advantage of it), consumed standing at the bar and not sitting down at a table.

We have a full guide to coffee culture in Italy here !

A solid rate for a shot of espresso at the bar in Rome is 1 Euro.

You can easily find espresso for .80 or .90 Euro outside of the tourist zones, though. 

Up to 1.2 Euro is acceptable (at least to us) depending where we are and exactly how badly we want coffee at that moment, but if the price is higher than that, we move on.

Of course, these figures are only when you take your coffee standing at the bar–if you sit at a table, it can easily be twice as much!

Don’t be afraid to fill up at the water fountains!

The beautiful water fountains that you see all over Rome (and Italy in general) contain potable water.

B ring a reusable water bottle along with you as you explore Rome and fill up for free as you go.

The metro is useful, but it doesn’t go everywhere.

Rome’s metro is notoriously limited for a major European city, with very few lines.

This is d ue in part to the fact that every time they try to build another line, they keep finding more interesting things underground .

That being said, it is extremely useful for getting around Rome, and if you stay near a metro stop (which we highly recommend as part of this Rome travel tips post), you’ll no doubt use it regularly.

You can use tap to pay on the metro.

We saw this for the first time in 2022 and loved it!

Now, if you have tap to pay installed on your phone, you don’t need to purchase metro tickets separately when traveling Rome.

Simply tap to pay at the turnstile itself, and you’re good to go!

We also saw this rolled out in Milan on the same trip–definitely a huge timesaver.

The metro doesn’t reach many places in Centro Storico.

There’s a stop at the Colosseum, the Spanish Steps, and fairly close to the Vatican, so the metro is certainly useful for sightseeing!

… B ut if you’re not staying in the heart of Centro Storico, there’s a good chance you’ll have a bit of a hike in and out.

FreeNow is the local taxi app to use to hail taxis.

FreeNow has recently gone through a name change (we originally started using it when it was named MyTaxi), but it’s still incredibly useful.

Similar to Uber, it hails taxis and arranges a set price, taking the hassle out of negotiating with taxi drivers.

We use it regularly on trips to Rome (and many other places in Europe).

Avoid driving in Rome if at all possible.

It’s truly, truly not worth the headache.

Buy bus tickets before boarding.

Unlike in many cities, you can’t buy bus tickets onboard in Rome.

Pick them up at your local tabacchi before you get on, and you’ll be good to go.

If your trip to Rome includes a Sunday, be sure to buy enough tickets to get you through it, because you might not be able to buy more if the tabacchi is closed.

The Leonardo Express is the easiest way to get from Rome’s FCO airport to Roma Termini.

Roma Termini is Rome’s major, central train station, and the Leonardo Express train will deliver you comfortably right from the airport to the center.

However, it’s not the cheapest way to get into Rome!

Gr oup bus transfers like this are less expensive but take longer.

Always carry cash.

While most major tourist attractions and popular restaurants will take card, you never know when you’ll roll up to a cash-only restaurant or tourist attraction.

Plus, i n Rome, small purchases like coffee and gelato are virtually always handled in cash.

Be sure to always carry Euros with you!

Rome doesn’t have a coperto. Sort of.

An Italian coperto, or cover charge, is expected at restaurants across Italy… except in Lazio, the region where Rome is.

However, Roman restaurants have taken to having a “pane”, or bread, charge that covers a very similar purpose.

The fee is usually 1-3 Euro per person, and we go over more details about copertos in Italy here .

If you’d like to avoid the charge in Rome, you can ask for the bread to be removed from your table–that works sometimes, but so does giving into the delicious carbs and enjoying more food in Rome!

… and if there isn’t one, consider leaving a small tip.

A 5-10% tip for exceptional service is always appreciated (but absolutely not required), especially if there’s not already a coperto being charged.

However, t he typical US norm of a 15-20% tip is way too much and absolutely not expected.

You don’t need to tip your taxi driver.

However, if you feel the driver provided good service, it’s the norm to round up to the nearest Euro.

S o, if the fare came to 19.50 Euro, it’s not unexpected to hand the driver a 20 and not request change.

Centro Storico is the most central place to stay in Rome.

The biggest benefit of staying in Centro Storico when traveling to Rome is–quite obviously, perhaps–its central location.

If you’d like to stay within an easy walk of highlights like the Spanish Steps, you’ll very frequently end up staying in Centro Storico.

Of course, the downsides to that are that the area can be quite crowded and expensive!

… but Trastevere is also incredibly popular.

Touted for decades as an “offbeat” neighborhood in Rome, the Trastevere of today is incredibly popular… but without the same volume of hotels to stay in as in Centro Storico, so it can often be difficult to find a great deal on a place to stay.

If you’re staying further out, check for metro stops near your hotel.

Of course, Rome has plenty of neighborhoods to stay in, including Monti (student-centered and fairly central), Prato (located beyond the Vatican and one of our favorite places to stay in Rome), Testaccio, and more.

One of our favorite Rome travel tips is to not be afraid to look further out than Rome’s most central and famous neighborhoods, especially if you’re looking to save money.

However, if you’re not staying within walking distance of major sights, be sure that your hotel or apartment is near a metro stop!

… and you’ll need to pay the tourist tax.

These tourist taxes are paid to your hotel or Airbnb , and are calculated per person, per night of your stay when traveling in Rome (or most other major European destinations, for that matter).

They’re typically not included in pre-booked rates and are generally expected to be paid in cash.

You can read a bit more about them here if you’d like to know your exact rate before starting your Rome vacation.

Leaving your room key at the hotel is common.

It’s not done 100% of the time, but it’s a very common practice when visiting Rome (and Italy as a whole) to drop your key off at the front desk as you head out for the day and to pick it up when you come back to the room.

Your passport information will be taken when you check-in.

Generally, your hotel will either make a copy of your passport or take a photo of it.

This is very normal and done for tax purposes, so remember these Rome travel tips when you check-in and don’t stress about it!

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

6 thoughts on “30+ Important Rome Travel Tips You Need to Know”

Great blog, you guys! I am going to Rome in a couple of weeks and your travel tips are awesome. I appreciate you providing the info and wish you safe travels!

That’s great to hear, Heather! Have fun in Rome!

Hi Kate, I have no idea if you will see my posting in time but flying into Italy fco airport tomorrow morning and have no idea what to see in two (?) Days and where to stay!!! Can u help? Thanks so much for your great tips!!!!

You’re about to have a wonderful 2 days! :-)

We actually have a full suggested 2 day itinerary for Rome, with hotel recommendations and everything. Here it is: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/2-days-in-rome-itinerary/

When you land you’ll likely want to take the Leonardo Express train into the city center–be sure to validate your ticket before boarding and enjoy the journey!

Thank you for taking your time and provide us with this helpful post.

We are traveling soon to Rome after spending 12 days in Morocco

It’s our pleasure, glad it was helpful!

Hope you have a great time in Rome and Morocco both. :-)

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

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You may need tickets to visit Rome's Trevi Fountain

• Rome is considering limiting access to the Trevi Fountain, one of its busiest monuments.
• The Italian capital is preparing to host the 2025 Jubilee, a year-long Roman Catholic event expected to attract 32 million tourists and pilgrims.

Under the draft plans, visits to the fountain would require a prior reservation, with fixed time slots and a limited number of people allowed to access the steps around it.

ROME —  Rome is considering limiting access to the Trevi Fountain, one of its busiest monuments, ahead of an expected bumper year for tourism in the Eternal City, city council officials say.

The Italian capital is preparing to host the 2025 Jubilee, a year-long Roman Catholic event expected to attract  32 million  tourists and pilgrims.

"For Romans, we are thinking of making it free, while non-residents would be asked to make a symbolic contribution, one or two euros (about $2.21)", Rome's tourism councilor Alessandro Onorato told Thursday's Il Messaggero newspaper.

Destinations behind a paywall? What to know about the increasing tourist fees worldwide.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

On Wednesday, Mayor Roberto Gualtieri called measures to curb tourist numbers "a very concrete possibility."

"The situation at the Trevi Fountain is becoming technically very difficult to manage," he told reporters.

Other cities are facing protests over problems brought by so-called overtourism, including  Barcelona  and Venice, where local authorities tested this year an  entry charge scheme  for visitors.

The Trevi Fountain, where tradition dictates that visitors  toss a coin  to guarantee their return to Rome and fulfill their wishes, has long been a major attraction, even for  visiting world leaders .

Completed in 1762, the monument is a late Baroque masterpiece. Statues of Tritons guiding the shell chariot of the god Oceanus illustrate the theme of the taming of the waters.

It is also remembered for one of cinema's most famous scenes when in Federico Fellini's "La Dolce Vita" Anita Ekberg wades into the fountain and beckons her co-star Marcello Mastroianni to join her: "Marcello! Come here!" ($1 = 0.91 euros approximately)

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .

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Tracking Tropical Depression Francine

By Matthew Bloch ,  William B. Davis ,  Madison Dong ,  Judson Jones ,  John Keefe and Bea Malsky

Francine was a tropical depression over Mississippi Thursday morning Central time, the National Hurricane Center said in its latest advisory .

The tropical depression had sustained wind speeds of 35 miles per hour. Read our coverage here .

Precipitation intensity

Tracking power outages

Where has it rained.

Tropical cyclones typically drop large amounts of rain along and near the storm's path. The slower and more significant the storm’s size, the higher the likelihood of higher rainfall totals. Some storms can drop well over 30 inches of rainfall, like when Hurricane Harvey dropped over 60 inches near Nederland, Texas, in 2017.

What does the storm look like from above?

Satellite imagery can help determine the strength, size and cohesion of a storm. The stronger a storm becomes, the more likely an eye will form in the center. When the eye looks symmetrical, that often means the storm is not encountering anything to weaken it.

Francine is the sixth named storm to form in the Atlantic in 2024.

In late May, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicted that there would be 17 to 25 named storms this year, an above-normal amount .

This season follows an overly active year, with 20 named storms — including an early storm later given the official name of “Unnamed.” It was the eighth year in a row to surpass the average of 14 named storms. Only one hurricane, Idalia, made landfall in the United States.

Typically, the El Niño pattern that was in force last season would have suppressed hurricanes and reduced the number of storms in a season. But in 2023, the warm ocean temperatures in the Atlantic blunted El Niño’s usual effect of thwarting storms.

The warm ocean temperatures that fueled last year’s season returned even warmer at the start of this season, raising forecasters’ confidence that there would be more storms this year. The heightened sea surface temperatures could also strengthen storms more rapidly than usual.

To make matters worse, the El Niño pattern present last year is also diminishing, most likely creating a more suitable atmosphere for storms to form and intensify.

Hurricanes need a calm environment to form, and, in the Atlantic, a strong El Niño increases the amount of wind shear — a change in wind speed and/or direction with height — which disrupts a storm's ability to coalesce. Without El Niño this year, clouds are more likely to tower to the tall heights needed to sustain a powerful cyclone.

Sources and notes

Tracking map Tracking data is from the National Hurricane Center. The map shows probabilities of at least 5 percent. The forecast is for up to five days, with that time span starting up to three hours before the reported time that the storm reaches its latest location. Wind speed probability data is not available north of 60.25 degrees north latitude.

Wind arrivals table Arrival times are generated from a New York Times analysis of National Hurricane Center data. Geographic locations use data from the U.S. Census Bureau and Natural Earth. Time zones are based on Google. The table shows predicted arrival times of sustained, damaging winds of 58 m.p.h. or more for select cities with a chance of such winds reaching them. If damaging winds reach a location, there is no more than a 10 percent chance that they will arrive before the “earliest reasonable” time and a 50 percent chance they will arrive before the “most likely” time.

Radar map Radar imagery is from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration via Iowa State University. These mosaics are generated by combining individual radar stations that comprise the NEXRAD network.

Storm surge map Storm surge data is from the National Hurricane Center. Forecasts only include the United States Gulf and Atlantic coasts, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The actual areas that could become flooded may differ from the areas shown on this map. This map accounts for tides, but not waves and not flooding caused by rainfall. The map also includes intertidal areas, which routinely flood during typical high tides.

Satellite map Imagery is from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and Japanese Meteorological Agency via the Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere.

Precipitation map Data for multi-day forecasts or observed rainfall totals are from the National Weather Service. The 1-day forecast is from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

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Breaking news, this is the best time to fly before taking a cruise, travel experts reveal.

Experienced cruisers likely know how to snag deals, pack with ease and make the most of their time in ports of call.

If you’re new to booking a cruise vacation, it’s worth noting that it could be risky to fly the same day as your cruise departs. 

Here’s what travel experts have to say about when you should fly before a cruise  and why.

Canceled or delayed flights could cause you to miss a cruise departure

If you are taking an early flight to Miami hoping to board a cruise that day, in many cases it could go smoothly, but be aware that things could go awry without much notice. 

Weather, computer glitches, aircraft maintenance issues and even crew matters could all contribute to delayed and canceled flights.

Experts say it’s a better plan to fly the night before a cruise at the very least, but one to two days is ideal to avoid possible travel woes.

“We always, always recommend flying in at least one day early for a cruise – two, if flying internationally,” Chris Gray Faust, a spokesperson with Cruise Critic, who is based in Yardley, Pennsylvania, told Fox News Digital.

“The most obvious reason to fly in early is simply to avoid the possibility of not making it to your ship on time, due to airline delays or cancellations, which happen all the time.”

In addition, same-day flights could also cause luggage headaches. 

If your luggage goes missing, you’ll be in trouble if your ship is leaving within a few hours.

You’re in a vacation state of mind

For same-day travelers, worrying about delayed or canceled flights can put a damper on your vacation mindset, Gray Faust said.

“Aside from protecting the logistics of arriving to your cruise, coming in early brings you more peace of mind while you’re traveling,” she added.

“Airline issues are never fun, but everything becomes more frantic when you have a ship departure to make.” 

You can explore your cruise’s embarkation port city

Cruise travelers might decide against exploring the city where they board a ship. 

This could create a missed opportunity. 

“A benefit of going into a port city one or two days early is the opportunity to explore or get to know the port city better,” Kelly Connor, a travel adviser with AAA Club Alliance in Marlton, New Jersey, told Fox News Digital.

There are many domestic ports that definitely warrant at least two pre-nights before a cruise, she said.

For instance, New Orleans is a popular bucket-list city to visit, and many cruise lines sail out of that port city. 

“The city offers fabulous food, wonderful beignets, great music and, of course, the fabulous partying and people-watching along Bourbon Street. It has a southern flavor all its own,” Connor said.

There are also several interesting West Coast cruise ports in California that definitely offer great pre-cruise experiences, including San Diego, San Francisco and Los Angeles. 

“Cruise lines departing from these ports include Holland America, Disney, Celebrity and Norwegian, among others,” Connor added. 

“Los Angeles has Hollywood and Rodeo Drive, as well as excellent restaurants and the Walk of Fame – and don’t forget all of the famous celebrities who call L.A. home,” she said. 

As for San Diego, the city offers art galleries, a world-famous zoo, beaches and parks.

And, San Francisco has Ghirardelli Square and the Golden Gate Bridge, as well as amazing restaurants. 

Miami is also a lively city to spend time in before a cruise. It offers South Beach, art deco hotels, nightlife and an eclectic culinary and music scene.

A good bet for a pre-cruise stay in Miami is the Loews Miami Beach Hotel, as its South Beach location offers onsite gourmet dining, a year-round kids club, direct beach access and a pool.

And don’t miss a chance to spend time in New York City if your ship leaves from there. 

The Big Apple has the Empire State Building, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Carnegie Hall, the Cloisters, Central Park and Times Square, as well as many restaurants to try all over the city, Connor noted.

“Overall, I highly recommend pre-nights in departure port cities to give travelers the opportunity to start their vacations early with exploring, whether through day tours we can arrange or exploring on their own,” Connor added.

If you’re taking an international cruise, pre-cruise stays in places like Barcelona, Rome and London often have exceptional sightseeing opportunities as well.

Early travel can allow you to board a ship with ease

When you wake up the morning of your cruise in your port city, you’re well rested, and ready to enjoy your well-deserved vacation on the high seas. 

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“Rather than hurrying through the airport, rushing to secure transportation, or zipping to the cruise port right off the plane, arriving early allows you the chance to have a more leisurely experience so the day of boarding is more relaxed and enjoyable,” Gray Faust said.

You can prevent jet lag

If you’re traveling internationally, arriving at least a day or two before your cruise also helps to combat jet lag, Connor said.

“By having a slow day or two before you board, you’ll be able to do so much more on your cruise, since your body has more of a chance to adjust to any time differences,” she added.

While taking a recent cruise from Budapest, Hungary, Gray Faust flew in early and booked a day at a local thermal bath in the city, she said.

“Beyond being an incredible experience, it’s also known to be a fantastic remedy for jet lag,” she continued. 

“It was the perfect adjustment ahead of my sailing and meant that I was able to enjoy my first ship excursion rather than yawning the whole time.” 

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The best time to buy 2024 holiday flights, according to Google

Google Flights released its annual tips for finding cheap Thanksgiving and Christmas airfare.

The first signs of fall can trigger nostalgia over first days of school and colorful foliage . But they also should nudge would-be holiday travelers into action.

It’s just about time to start shopping for Thanksgiving and Christmas flights if you want to save money on airfare, according to a report that Google published on Thursday. The company’s 2024 travel trends announcement, based on four years of Google Flights data, shares insights on booking the cheapest flights, including the windows for finding the lowest airfare for holiday travel.

Your best bet for scoring a flight deal is to set up price alerts early and jump on desirable fares when you see them. Here’s more shopping advice for holiday airfare based on the report.

Mark your calendar for October

If you’re eyeing domestic flights for Thanksgiving, the window for the best prices is 26 to 59 days from your departure date, according to Google data, meaning the end of September through the first days of November. Expect the lowest airfare 45 days before departure. (That’s Oct. 13 if you’re flying in the day before the holiday.)

For Christmas travelers, Google recommends booking sometime in the second half of October, to hit the low-fare window 36 to 72 days out.

International flight deals

If you can eschew the traditional stateside-Thanksgiving hustle, the holiday week is an excellent time for international travel deals.

Scott Keyes, founder of the cheap-flight alert service Going , said that with so many people traveling simultaneously to be with family, it’s one of the most expensive weeks all year for domestic airfare — but one of the best times for finding international deals . For many routes, transatlantic flights can cost the same as or less than domestic airfare.

Look at weekday travel

Avoiding travel on Fridays, Saturdays or Sundays could save you some cash on booking flights year-round. In general, according to the Google Flights numbers, flying on a Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday has historically been 13 percent cheaper than over a weekend.

The holidays can complicate that equation a bit. With Thanksgiving on a Thursday and this Christmas on a Wednesday, is it still cheaper to book midweek versus the weekend? A spokesman for the company said it didn’t have specific data to answer that question but recommended using the “date grid” option when searching on Google Flights to see how prices change through the week.

In my own unscientific search, flights were cheaper leaving the Monday before Thanksgiving compared to the weekend before, though Tuesday and Wednesday were about as expensive as the weekend. For Christmas, flights were far more expensive the weekend before than flying even on Christmas Eve or the holiday itself.

A layover will save money but add risk

One last way to save on your holiday flights comes with a big asterisk. The Google Flights data shows that adding a layover to your trip instead of flying nonstop can save you 25 percent on airfare — but keep in mind that more flights mean more time and more potential for headaches on your travel day. If winter weather delays your first leg, for example, you risk missing your connection.

We recommend a nonstop flight whenever possible, particularly during busy travel periods .

More travel tips

Vacation planning: Start with a strategy to maximize days off by taking PTO around holidays. Experts recommend taking multiple short trips for peak happiness . Want to take an ambitious trip? Here are 12 destinations to try this year — without crowds.

Cheap flights: Follow our best advice for scoring low airfare , including setting flight price alerts and subscribing to deal newsletters. If you’re set on an expensive getaway, here’s a plan to save up without straining your credit limit.

Airport chaos: We’ve got advice for every scenario , from canceled flights to lost luggage . Stuck at the rental car counter? These tips can speed up the process. And following these 52 rules of flying should make the experience better for everyone.

Expert advice: Our By The Way Concierge solves readers’ dilemmas , including whether it’s okay to ditch a partner at security, or what happens if you get caught flying with weed . Submit your question here . Or you could look to the gurus: Lonely Planet and Rick Steves .

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Chargers will stay on east coast between weeks 2-3, share this article.

The Chargers will travel to Charlotte, NC, on Friday to play the Panthers this Sunday. However, once the game ends, they will not return to Los Angeles.

Jim Harbaugh will have the team stay there instead of taking multiple flights across the country in back-to-back weeks.

The Bolts are slated to face the Steelers in Pittsburgh, PA, in Week 3.

Harbaugh noted that the main factor was the 1 p.m. ET start of both games.

Harbaugh said that he is looking forward to the team bonding.

As a team on the West Coast, the Chargers typically accrue a lot of air miles. Their schedule will span 36 time-zone changes between coasts, and they will travel 26,803 miles overall, the most among teams in the NFL.

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