Rome Travel Guide | Attractions, Weather & More
Top 10 Things to do in Rome
Rome Travel Essentials

Travel Essentials in Rome
- Language: Italian
- Socket Type: Types C, F, and L
- Currency: Euro | EUR | €
- Country Code: + 39 06 (+39 indicates Italy, 06 indicates Rome)
- Time Zone: Central European Standard Time (CET) - (GMT + 2)
- Emergency Numbers: 113 - Police | 115 - Fire brigade | 118 - First aid

Spring in Rome
When: March to May
Average Temperatures: 10°C - 22°C

Summer in Rome
When: June to September
Average Temperatures: 16°C - 28°C

Autumn in Rome
When: October to November
Average Temperatures: 9°C to 21°C

Winter in Rome
When: December to February
Average Temperature: 4°C to 15°C

High Season
When: May to August
What to Expect:
- Long lines are expected at museums, landmarks, and other tourist attractions.
- During the High Season, expect maximum flight rates and elevated hotel occupancy.

Shoulder Season
When: March, April, September, and October
What to Expect:
- The best seasons to visit are spring and fall when the climate is pleasant and the crowds are minimal.
- Hotel and dining costs are high, but they are more easily obtained during the shoulder season.

Low Season
When: November to February
What to Expect:
- In general, the weather is cold and damp.
- If they don't mind the rain, visitors will be rewarded with fewer throngs of people and queues at top tourist attractions.
- Off-season tourists will find great deals on airfare and hotels.

What to Pack for Rome
- Jeans, heavy cotton pants, sweaters, cardigans, skirts, light tops, light jackets, coats, and scarves. Layering is important in Rome throughout the year.
- Waterproof jacket/windcheater and a rain hat. Pack for drenching showers. Keep rain boots, raincoats, umbrellas, and waterproof jackets in handy.
- Comfortable walking shoes as you'll be doing a lot of sightseeing during your stay in Rome.
- A backpack to carry around during the day to store your personal belongings when exploring the city.

Per Person Average Daily Budget in Rome
Budget Travel: €55
- Budget travelers have reported spending around €55 per day in Rome. Visitors have spent €10 on meals and €5 on local transportation for a day.
Mid-Range Travel: €150
- Regular travelers spend around €150 each day. Visitors have spent €25 on meals for a day and €14 to get around the city. In addition, the average price for a couple's stay in Rome is €200.
Luxury Travel: €500
- Luxury tourists may spend as much as €72 per day on meals and €40 on transportation, with accommodation coming up to €600 for two people.

Rome Travel Tips
- Grab a Snack in the Evening: Most restaurants don't start serving dinner until after 8:30 p.m., so bring a snack if you think you'll be hungry sooner.
- Drink from the Water Fountains: Never, ever spend money on water. Simply use the city's water fountains.
- Tip Only if You Want to: Tipping is not required. However, if you are satisfied with the service, you are free to do so.
- Visit the Major Attractions for Free: Every first Sunday of the month, all state-owned parks, galleries, exhibitions, and archeological sites are free.
- Plan Ahead for Long Walks: When visiting Rome, always wear comfortable walking shoes because the streets are not evenly paved in most places.
- Wear the Right Outfit Before Going to Churches: When visiting houses of worship in Rome, make sure to cover your knees and shoulders or you may be denied entry.

Free Things to do in Rome
Even though Rome is generally an expensive city to visit because of its popularity and the sheer abundance of attractions, it is not often that you will be told that the Eternal City has plenty of free things to do dispersed all over.
- Visit the state-owned attractions of the city for free on the first Sunday of every month
- Walk around the Trastevere neighborhood and enjoy the vibe of this incredibly appealing locality
- Hang out at Piazza Navona for free and watch Rome go by its day
- Enjoy a visit to the Trevi Fountain which looks stunning at all times of the day and costs nothing to visit
- Take a few photos and enjoy a few hours of introspection at the beautiful Spanish Steps
.png?auto=format&w=814.9333333333333&h=458.4&q=90&fit=crop&ar=16%3A9)
Transportation Apps
- CityMapper
- Free Now
- Urbi
Food Apps
- Deliveroo
- Too Good To Go
- The Fork
Other Useful apps
- WeTap
- Time Travel Rome
Know Before You Visit Rome

Airports in Rome
- Fiumicino (FCO), also known as Leonardo da Vinci International Airport
Address: 00054 Fiumicino, Metropolitan City of Rome, Italy - Ciampino (CIA)
Address: Via Appia Nuova, 1651, 00040 Ciampino RM, Italy

Visa Requirements to Visit Rome
Italy is a member of the Eurozone, so tourists must obtain a Schengen visa. If you're visiting other Eurozone countries, a single Schengen visa will enable you to visit Italy as well. All Schengen, EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals are free to travel to Italy without a visa if their travel does not exceed 90 days. Here are some documents that'll come in handy for Non-EU tourists trying to obtain a Schengen visa:
- A valid passport or travel document that contains at least two blank pages
- Two passport photographs
- A financial document demonstrating your ability to support yourself throughout your trip (birth certificate, property title, or other documentation)
- A travel timetable for all your trips, including dates and flight numbers
- Your admission to the city is covered by legally required travel insurance.

Insurance in Rome
Travel insurance is required for all visitors to Italy. It is also recommended that you purchase your airline tickets and make your hotel reservations before trying to apply for the visa. If you are entering Italy from another Schengen country, you must have a passport valid for at least three months beyond your stay.
- Check to see if your policy includes medical expenses.
- Make sure to carefully read your policy's terms and conditions.
- Choose a policy that covers cargo and personal items loss.
- Purchase the plan as quickly as possible, ideally before your trip.

Must-Know Phrases in Rome
- Ahó
This roughly translates to “Hey” and is heard all over town. This informal exclamation is used to catch someone’s attention and is often drawn out to sound like ‘Aooooooo’. - Hai spicci?
‘Do you have change?’ (as in, coins). You will hear this at bars and supermarkets all over the city because Rome continues to use physical cash more than credit cards. - Buonasera
While this literally translates to ‘good evening’, in Italian it is also used to mean ‘good afternoon’. Italians begin to use it after lunch, around 2 or 3 PM.

Internet in Rome
Internet usage is quite convenient in Rome. Even if you don’t have a compatible device, you will find public wifi to connect to for an hour. You can also use the internet at public libraries in Rome. The top internet service providers in Rome are:

Phone Calls in Rome
Incoming: When dialing to Italy, enter your country's international dialing code. Dial 39, then the remainder of the number, beginning with a 0.
Outgoing: When dialing from Italy, dial 00, the international access code for Italy. If you're dialing from a mobile phone, you can usually just dial +. There's no need for the access code. Dial your country's code, then the phone number.
- +39 is the international calling code for Italy. The 00 followed by the relevant country code is the outgoing dialing code from Rome. Unless calling a mobile phone, all numbers must be preceded by the digit 0 whether they originate in Italy or abroad.
- Using a calling card is generally less expensive. These phone cards are available from newsstands and tobacconists.

Staying Healthy in Rome
First and foremost, drink lots of water. The weather in Rome can be very dry, and water loss can be an issue. Drink a lot of water, juice, and other liquids to stay hydrated. Another thing you can do is avoid the sun as often as possible. In Rome, the sun can be quite potent, and it is easy to get badly burned. When you must be outside in the sun, wear sunscreen. Here are a few suggestions for staying healthy while in Rome:
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Avoid eating on the street.
- Make certain that you get enough sleep.
- Put on sunscreen and sunglasses.

Money in Rome
Currency: Euro | EUR | €
In Rome, credit cards are commonly used for payment. There are many ATMs in the city where you can withdraw money. Be wary of ATMs that appear to have been tampered with. Before changing money, make sure to inquire about service charges and exchange rates to avoid being charged an exorbitant fee. The following online payment methods work in Rome:
- Amazon Pay
- Apple Pay
- Bancomat Pay
- Google Pay

Safety in Rome
Rome is generally safe. However, any place with an overload of tourists and away from your own jurisdiction should be dealt with a little carefully. Here are some tips to keep you safe on your Rome trip:
- Pickpockets can be found on public transportation and in densely populated areas.
- Take only what you need, leaving your personal belongings and extra cash at the hotel, and carrying only the cash you need in a fanny pack tucked away on your person.
- If you are traveling with additional cash and personal documents, use a purse or bag with zips and a secure handle, or a money belt.
- When exploring ruins, keep an eye on where you're going and make sure you're on solid ground.

Laws in Rome
Rome has recently updated its tourism rules to bring more decorum among the visitors. Here are some laws you need to know:
- You cannot let your lips touch the water spout when drinking water.
- Swimming, paddling, or going inside the fountain pools of Rome will attract heavy fines.
- Men are not permitted to walk around the streets bare-chested. Illegal street trading and ticket touting outside tourist attractions are also prohibited.
- Pub crawls and those advertising "skip-the-line" tours outside historical buildings such as the Vatican are also prohibited.
- It is also prohibited to eat in an unsanitary manner near historic monuments.
Explore Rome

Via dei Condotti

Via dei Coronari

Via Cola di Rienzo

Castel Romano
Know The City Neighborhoods

Ancient Rome
Historic Area | Tourist Hotspot
This neighborhood, located just south of the city center, encloses the great ruins of the old city, all of which are within easy walking distance of one another. They become crowded in the mid-morning and throng with visitors until the mid-to-late afternoon, though during peak season they can be crowded all day.
Things to do:
- See the enormous Roman Colosseum
- Explore the Capitoline Hill
- Visit the Bocca della Verità

Centro Storico
Local Hotspot | Historic Area
The historic center of Rome is a densely packed jumble of cobblestoned alleyways, Renaissance palaces, ancient ruins, and baroque piazzas. Its cinematic streets are teeming with boutiques, cafes, trattorias, and stylish bars, and its vibrant sections are teeming with market traders and street performers.
Things to do:
- See the Roman Pantheon
- See the city’s administrative center, the Piazza Colonna
- Shop at Campo de’ FIori

Monti, Esquilino and San Lorenzo
Romantic Area | Transport Hub
This is a sizable and eclectic area centered on the transport hub Stazione Termini that, at first glance, can appear busy and overwhelming. However, among its congested streets are some beautiful churches and a plethora of cafes and bars.
Things to do:
- See the Palazzo Massimo alle Terme
- Start your trips from Termini Station
- Explore the Esquilino

San Giovanni and Testaccio
Scenic Area
This sweeping, multifaceted area encompasses two of Rome's seven hills and offers everything from spectacular basilicas and medieval churches to old ruins, vibrant markets, and famous clubs. San Giovanni and the Celio, as well as Aventino and Testaccio, can easily be split into two patches.
Things to do:
- Visit the Basilica di San Giovanni
- Walk around the Villa Celimontana park
- Eat out at Testaccio

Southern Rome
Artistic Neighborhood | Natural Beauty
When in Rome, be sure to explore the vibrant neighborhoods in the southern part of the city! From Trastevere to Testaccio, there's so much to see and do in this fascinating area. Start your day with a cappuccino and pastry at one of the many cafes dotting the streets, then stroll through the charming markets and shops.
Things to do:
- Explore the Appian Way
- See the Museo Capitoline Centrale Montemartini
- Bike your way around the neighborhood

Trastevere and Gianicolo
Laidback | Photogenic
Trastevere is one of Rome's most vivid and Roman areas of the city, with its antiquated cobbled lanes, ochre palazzi, ivy-clad exteriors, and boho vibe. Its maze of backstreet lanes heaves after dark as masses swarm to its foodie and stylish restaurants, cafes, and bars, which are infinitely photogenic and largely car-free.
Things to do:
- Walk around Trastevere
- Try out the cafes and bars
- Take photos of the picturesque neighborhood

Tridente, Trevi and the Quirinale
Shopping Hub | Tourist Hotspot
With the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps among its A-list attractions, this central part of Rome is suave and always crowded with tourists. Designer shops, trendy bars, hip hotels, and a few historic cafes and restaurants fill the roads between Piazza di Spagna and Piazza del Popolo in Tridente.
Things to do:
- Have your morning coffee at historic Caffè Greco
- Spend an evening at the Trevi Fountain
- Shop at Quirinale

Northern Rome
Family Friendly | Historic Area
This vast segment of northern Rome is of high importance, despite being less tightly packed with conventional sights than elsewhere. The obvious starting point is Villa Borghese, a lovely park with a zoo, the city's largest modern-art gallery, and a breathtaking Etruscan museum between its many attractions.
Things to do:
- Explore Villa Borghese and Borghese Garden
- Attend a concert at Auditorium Parco Della Musica
- Visit the MAXXI
Getting Around Rome
Must-Try Italian Food
Must-Try Italian Desserts
Where to Stay in Rome
The Eternal City has tens of thousands of lodging options, which can be overwhelming. The most important factor when picking an accommodation is usually the budget. In this guide, you will find all the information you need about the options available for the different budgets. From 5-star properties and boutique experiences to budget hotels and hostels, this list has it all.

Budget Hotels
Rome can be an expensive city to stay in, but if you know where to look, you can find some great budget hotels. There are many affordable hotels in Rome that will provide you with a comfortable stay without spending a fortune. These are some of the top budget hotels:

Mid-Range Hotels
If you want more conventional hospitality in Rome, irrespective of your budget, there are plenty of mid-range choices from which to choose. The Left Bank, Right Bank, and Trastevere are some of the most desirable locations for hotels. These are some of the top mid-range hotels:

Luxury Hotels
If you want a more lavish hotel experience in Rome, there are several options. There are some highly-rated deluxe hotels that are regarded to be quite inexpensive when compared to other luxury hotels around the world. Here are a few examples of Rome's best and most expensive hotels:

Hostels
For budget-conscious travelers in Rome, hostels can be a good choice. They are not only less expensive than regular hotels, but they also provide a more realistic Roman experience. While staying in a hostel, you will be able to meet new people and make new friends, and you will most likely get to understand the surrounding streets quite well.

Boutique Hotels
A boutique hotel may be the best option for you if you want an elegant and one-of-a-kind hotel experience in Rome. Smaller hotels provide a more intimate and personalized experience, with many involving unique design features and/or themed rooms.
Where to Shop in Rome
The city of ruins is a true paradise for shopaholics, and shopping in Rome will allow you to have this encounter firsthand. The city has the best of everything for everyone, with top-tier brands, high-street stores, vintage shops, and more. Here are the top places to shop in Rome:
Best Tours in Rome

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours
On an open-top double-decker bus, see all of Rome's iconic sights. Explore monuments that interest you by hopping on and off the bus as you please. Visit Santa Maria Maggiore, the Colosseum, and many other lovely locations throughout the city with ease. Using the free WiFi onboard, you can capture every moment of your exciting journey and share it with your friends and family.
Best Tours in Rome:

Guided Tours
Guided tours in Rome are a wonderful way to see all of the famous tourist attractions without getting lost. You can learn about the history of each tourist attraction and discover interesting facts about them that you would not have known otherwise. You'll also be able to avoid the throngs of people and long lines at the attractions.
Best Guided Tours in Rome

Walking Tours
Walking tours are a great way to see the city, as you can cover a lot of ground and see a lot of sights in a short amount of time. Plus, it's a great way to get to know the city and the locals. The city is also dotted with beautiful parks, perfect for relaxing in the sunshine.
Best Walking Tours in Rome:

Bikes & Segway Tours
There are various bikes and segway tours available to choose from. You can explore the ancient ruins, go for a leisurely ride through the city streets, or even take a tour of the Vatican. Wind through the streets of Rome on your compact, pedal-free electronic bike and plan stops at your favoriute attractions.
Best Bikes & Segway Tours in Rome:
Day Trips from Rome

Florence
277 km | 3.5-Hour Drive
Take a superfast train from the capital to Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance. Walk through its roads and squares, admiring the magnificent architecture and artwork on display in the famed Uffizi gallery, to which you will have skip-the-line access.
Good For: History and Sightseeing
Things to do:
- With your skip-the-line tickets, you'll have priority access to the Uffizi Gallery!
- Enjoy a delightful meal at a restaurant with a view of the splendid Piazza Santa Croce.

Pompeii and Naples Archeological Trip
242 km | 3-Hour Drive
Discover the splendor of Naples, known the world over for its art, culture, and, of course, food (after all, this is the birthplace of pizza), before going to Pompeii, once a booming metropolis and now an archeological wonder, home to beautiful temples and illustrations created millennia ago.
Good For: History and Sightseeing
Things to do:
- Explore the ruins of Pompeii
- Enjoy the culture, history, and cuisine of Naples

Capri
262 km | 4-Hour Drive
Capri is a literal tapestry tinted with brilliantly blue water, strange cliff sides, pine-tree studded landscapes, and slopes covered with bougainvillea-laden homes. Capri is a picturesque island off the coast of Naples that should be high on your list of day trips from Rome.
Good for: Hiking & boating
Things to do:
- One of the most popular activities on the island is hiking.
- Other popular activities include swimming, sunbathing, and windsurfing.
Rome With Kids & Family
With far too many things to do in Rome with children, this city is an excellent choice for your first stop when visiting Italy with the family. Rome has something for everyone. Rome is like an open-air museum where kids can see history as a living thing rather than just a topic in history books.
Art & Culture in Rome
Throughout Rome, you will come across silent contemporaneous antiquity references. The Greek influence can be seen in the shape and arrangement of many Roman buildings. The temples and theaters, as well as the Roman forum, are modeled after their Greek counterparts. Roman sculptures and statues, as well as elaborate, colorful mosaics, are among the most precious jewels of the Roman era.
Entertainment in Rome
There are so many attractions and activities in Rome that you will scarcely notice that it seems to lag behind a little when it comes to entertainment options. However, for a tourist on a trip for a fortnight, Rome has enough to offer to keep you occupied. From concerts to operas, the Eternal City has it all.
Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling to Rome
The best time to visit Rome is in the months of April, May, October, and November.
Rome can be quite hot in July and August with temperatures reaching up to 30°C.
The Roman Colosseum, St. Peter’s Basilica, and Borghese Gallery are the must-see attractions if you are in Rome for just one day.
You must see the fountains of Rome after dark, walk through the cobbled streets under the moonlight, or explore the rich nightlife of the city.
The best places to eat in Rome are located in the central area of the city, like Pane e Salame, Roscioli Salumeria con Cucina, Ai Tre Scalini, and Felice a Testaccio.
Italian, English, French, and German are some widely-spoken languages in Rome.
The live entertainment options in Rome include jazz shows, concerts, and operas.
For Rome, you should always pay close attention to the weather forecast. The summer months are very hot and require breathable clothing and sunblock. The winter season requires multiple layers. It also rains in Rome in the autumn months, so be sure to carry waterproof clothing.
Avoid ordering a cappuccino in Rome after lunch, do not visit popular tourist destinations during the high season on weekends, and don’t be careless about your belongings when traveling by public transport.
You can stay at one of the many hotels in Rome available for a wide array of budgets. The city also has boutique hotels and hostels. Visitors seeking a more tranquil experience should stay near Parioli, while those seeking to be in the thick of the action should stay in Trastevere.
Some of the best day trips from Rome are Pompeii, Florence, and Naples.
The most popular tourist spots in Rome are the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, and Borghese Gallery.
The best way to get around Rome is through the bus and metro network.