Contents

Rome Travel Guide | Attractions, Weather & More

Why Visit Rome

Rome is a fantastic mix of heritage, archeology, art, religion, and delightful food. While it is undeniably the most popular place to visit in Italy, it is also a city that has stayed loyal to itself – very much a place where locals live. Rome, the capital of one of the world's most powerful ancient empires, is a fascinating city that has motivated visitors to travel for centuries and remains a common choice for travelers of all kinds.

Top 10 Things to do in Rome

Rome Travel Essentials

Must-Know
Weather
When to Visit
What to Pack
Budget
Travel Tips
Free Things
Apps
Rome Travel Guide - 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
Rome Travel Guide - Spring

Spring in Rome

When: March to May

Average Temperatures: 10°C - 22°C

Rome City Travel Guide - Summer in Rome

Summer in Rome

When: June to September

Average Temperatures: 16°C - 28°C

Rome Travel Guide - Autumn in Rome

Autumn in Rome

When: October to November

Average Temperatures: 9°C to 21°C

Rome Travel Guide - Winter in Rome

Winter in Rome

When: December to February

Average Temperature: 4°C to 15°C

Rome City Travel Guide - High Season

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.

Rome City Travel Guide - Shoulder Season

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.

Rome Travel Guide - Low 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.
Rome Travel Guide - What to pack

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.

Rome Travel Guide - Budget

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 Guide - Travel Tips

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.
Rome Travel Guide - Free Things

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
Rome Travel Guide - Apps

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
Visa
Insurance
Language
Internet
Phone Calls
Health
Money
Safety
Laws 
Rome Travel Guide - Airports

Airports in Rome

Rome Travel Guide - Visa

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.

Rome Travel Guide - 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.


Rome Travel Guide - Language

Must-Know Phrases in Rome

  1. 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’.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
Rome Travel Guide - Internet

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:

  1. Xfinity Cable
  2. AT&T
  3. Colt
  4. Telecom Italia
Rome Travel Guide - Phone calls

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.
Rome Travel Guide - Health

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.

Rome Travel Guide - Money

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
Rome Travel Guide - Safety

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.

Rome Travel Guide - Laws

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.

How to Save Money in Rome

Given the variety of options, Rome, like all other tourist destinations, can become costly. Here are the top money-saving tips to help you enjoy Rome even if you're on a tight budget.

  • Purchase the City Pass once you are in Rome. The Roma Pass is an all-inclusive city ticket that is usable for 48 or 72 hours. The 48-hour pass includes free admission to one attraction, while the 72-hour pass includes admission to two attractions.
  • Use the public transport pass. The tickets are legitimate for 100 minutes after being stamped. If you plan on making more than five trips in a day, the 24-hour pass is a better option.
  • Have an inexpensive dinner at a bar. One of the quirks of Italian culture is the custom of having drinks before dinner. Most places serve light snacks with drinks, but some bars serve a full-fledged buffet where you are perfectly entitled to refill your plate several times.
  • Visit the free attractions and get a taste of Rome without spending the big bucks. Many of the Eternal City’s attractions can be visited for free on the first Sunday of the month. Additionally, the city’s famous fountains, iconic bridges, and lively squares are always good places to visit for free.
  • Try to line up your visit with the off-season. During the peak season, Rome becomes increasingly congested and, as a result, remarkably costly. The Roman winter, which lasts from November to March, is considered off-season. This is the time of the year when you can score lucrative discounts.

Know The City Neighborhoods

Rome Travel Guide - Ancient Rome

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
Rome Travel Guide-  Centro Storico

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

Rome Travel Guide - Monti, Esquilino and San Lorenzo

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:

Rome Travel Guide - San Giovanni and Testaccio

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
Rome Travel Guide - Southern Rome

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


Rome Travel Guide - Trastevere and Gianicolo

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
Rome Travel Guide - Trevi Fountain

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

Rome Travel Guide - Northern Rome

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:

Getting Around Rome

Rome travel guide - metro

By Metro

Since traffic above the surface is poor, the Metropolitana, or underground metro, is the fastest way to get around by public transportation. The metro in Rome, run by Azienda per I Trasporti Autoferrotranviari del Comune di Roma, or merely ATAC, has three lines and stations are marked by signs with a big red "M" on them. Though Rome's metro system is not as advanced as those in London or Paris, it can be a quicker option than the city's above-ground transit options.

Fare: €1.50 For a Single Ticket

Know more

Rome Travel Guide - Bus

By Bus

In Rome, there are several types of buses, such as night buses and express buses. The city has a plethora of routes and stops, but one of the most popular is route No. 64, which takes travelers from Roma Termini (the city's main railway station) to the Vatican. Routes typically provide daily facilities between 5:30 a.m. and midnight, with night buses operating for longer hours. Routes and maps can be found on the ATAC website. Remember that muggers are a problem on buses as well, so keep a close eye on your wallet.

Fare: €1.50 For a Single Ticket
Know more

Rome travel guide -  Trains

By Train

Because the tickets are the same as those for other mass transit systems in Rome, they can be purchased at city train stations, metro stations, newsstands, and convenience stores. If your hotel is close to one of these terminals or you anticipate using public transportation in Rome frequently, we recommend purchasing a few tickets at a time or purchasing a travel card. Urban trains run from 5:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. The Rome-Lido line operates until 11:30 p.m. Depending on the time of day, trains depart every 10 to 20 minutes.

Fare: €1.50 For a Single Ticket

Know more

Rome Travel Guide - Tram

By Tram

Trams in Rome are typically cleaner than buses, and many consider them to be more romantic. Nonetheless, the tram lines are small, and the lack of access to the city center makes the network less appealing to visitors. It is important to note that none of the six lines have any special attraction for tourists unless one of them halts at the door of your hotel. The best line for tourists is possibly number 8, which connects Trastevere to Largo di Torre Argentina. Trams, like city buses in Rome, run from 5:30 a.m. to midnight every day. The trams are supplanted at night by night buses.

Fare: €1.50 For a Single Ticket

Know more

Know Before Driving in Rome

Visitors should be conscious of the various road markings and signs when driving in Rome. There are several one-way streets, so pay attention to these things and make sure you're going in the right direction. In Rome, there are also a lot of pedestrians, so be cautious when driving and always yield to walkers at crosswalks. Also, be mindful of the following things:

  • When possible, avoid using your car for the city tours and instead reserve it for exploring the city's outskirts or taking a day trip.
  • If you want to see the sights in downtown Rome, park your car in a garage or at your hotel and take public transportation into the city.
  • There is no parking in the historic center of Rome, and traffic signs are not always posted.
  • Many of Rome's streets, like those of many ancient cities, were designed for foot traffic, and as a result, everything is easily accessible by walking.

What to Eat in Rome

Roman cuisine is well-known for being flavorful, simple, and filling. Continuing eons of old rituals, dishes in the Italian capital have their origins in "poor man's food," resulting in creative gastronomy that pays tribute to the Lazio region's delicacies.

Must-Try Italian Food

Rome Travel Guide - Italian Food

Suppli

Any Roman will tell you that the best way to pique your appetite before diving into an individual pizza is with fritti: deep-fried treats that are delicious, comforting, and oh-so-satisfying. The suppli, a fried rice ball stuffed with ragù and mozzarella and cooked perfectly, is a traditional option. Try it at I Suppli, a Trastevere takeaway that makes delectable variations.

Rome Travel Guide - Italian Food

Fiori di Zucca

Fiori di Zucca, battered zucchini flowers stuffed with grated cheese and anchovies, are another fried favorite. It's not only a beautiful dish, but it's also extremely flavorful, with oozing mozzarella and a nice kick from the anchovies. If you don't want to eat it with fish, Emma makes a delicious version with just mozzarella.

Rome Travel Guide - Italian Food

Baccalà

Cod is a popular ingredient in Mediterranean cooking and a staple in Roman-Jewish cuisine. In Rome, salted cod is fried in an eggy batter and served piping hot. Dar Filettaro a Santa Barbara, a tiny spot near Campo de Fiori with a bright "filetti di baccalà" sign, has been providing fish to hungry customers since the 1950s.

Rome Travel Guide - Italian Food

Carciofo alla Romana

Roman artichokes are another staple of Roman-Jewish cuisine, and they may change your perception of this vegetable. Artichokes cooked by Alla Romana are braised, stuffed with herbs, and topped with lemon until they have a buttery texture and melt in your mouth. Because artichokes are a seasonal appetizer, you'll only find them on the menu in the spring and fall.

Rome Travel Guide - Italian Food

Pizza al taglio

Each region of Italy has its favorite street food, and in Rome, it's unquestionably pizza by the slice (al taglio). While most Romans stick to simple combinations (tomato sauce with parsley, focaccia with rosemary, and sea salt), Gabriele Bonci's Bonci Pizzarium has opened up a whole new world of flavors. His inventive combinations include all flavors and colors of the rainbow.

Must-Try Italian Desserts 

Rome Travel Guide - Must-Try Italian Desserts 

Maritozzo

Breakfast in Italy typically consists of coffee and desserts, which varies by region. Along with croissants of various types, the unusual maritozzo: a sweet bread roll filled with whipped cream can be found in Rome. It's a sure-fire way to begin your day with a healthy amount of calories to get you going on your sightseeing.

Rome Travel Guide - Must-Try Italian Desserts 

Torta ricotta e Visciole

Italians enjoy finishing a meal with a tart, which they frequently eat at grandma's house. Although not widely available in the city, this dessert can be found on several menus in the Jewish Ghetto and at bakery shops. It's made with ricotta cheese and Visciole (sour cherry). Pasticceria Boccioni in the Jewish Quarter is a great place to get a slice.

Rome Travel Guide - Must-Try Italian Desserts 

Tiramisu

Tiramisu, perhaps the most quintessential Italian dessert, can be found on menus all over the country, including in nearly every restaurant in Rome. The dessert, typically served with Savoiardi biscuits soaked in coffee and then layered between tiers of mascarpone cheese and crowned with cocoa powder, is rich, creamy, and has a caffeine kick.

Rome Travel Guide - Must-Try Italian Desserts 

Creme Caramel

This renowned dessert is liked all over the world and is frequently found on menus in Rome. Creme Caramel is a soft pudding with a custard base and a layer of caramel on top. It differs from creme brulee in that it has a thick, burnt caramel layer. Because the flavor is comforting vanilla, it is loved by people of all ages and is frequently prepared at home because it requires few ingredients.

Rome Travel Guide - Must-Try Italian Desserts 

Gelato

Gelaterias are common in Italy, and there is one on almost every corner in Rome. Each gelateria offers standard flavors like chocolate, crema, and stracciatella, but some go above and beyond with their concoctions. Fatamorgana, an artisanal gelato chain, is well-known for its unusual flavor combinations, including lavender with camomile, rice with vanilla, and banana with lime.

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.

Rome travel guide - Budget Hotels

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:

Rome travel guide - Mid-Range 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:

Rome travel guide - luxury 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:

Rome Travel Guide - Hostels

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.

Rome travel guide - Airbnbs

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:

Rome Travel Guide - Where to shop in Rome

Via Del Corso

This is one of the city's lengthiest streets and the best place to go for gown shopping in Rome. Via Del Corso is a shopping district in Rome that features high-street Roman stores as well as international brands such as H&M, Zara, and others.

Location: Via del Corso, Rome, Italy

What to Buy: Elegant Dresses

Rome Travel Guide - Where to shop in Rome

La Rinascente

Regardless of how many streets you explore, your Rome vacation would be incomplete without high-end shopping at some of the greatest brands in Rome's shopping malls. This multi-brand luxury store houses everything from cosmetics to home decor under one roof.

Location: Via del Tritone 61, 00187 Rome, Italy

What to Buy: Branded Cosmetics and home decor

Rome Travel Guide - Where to shop in Rome

Via Dei Coronari

Via Dei Coronari, one of Rome's oldest and finest streets, is known to sell exceptional vintage items and is a must-see in any Rome shopping guide. If you want to go shopping in Rome on a budget, this is the place to go. It is home to vintage shops that transport you back to ancient Rome.

Location: 00186 Rome, Italy

What to Buy: Vintage articles and shabby chic decor

Rome Travel Guide - Where to shop in Rome

Via Del Governo Vecchio

This cobblestone street, just behind the beautiful Piazza Navona, is known for housing high-quality Italian brands. From high-quality leather to one-of-a-kind souvenirs, you'll find everything you're looking for here. Come here to take home a few mementos to remember Rome by.

Location: 00186 Roma RM, Italy

What to Buy: Souvenirs

Rome Travel Guide - Where to shop in Rome

Via Frattina

This road is renowned for the best shoe shopping in Rome, as it is home to the most famous stores such as Fausto Santini, Andrea Fabini, and others. It is located near the famous Spanish Steps and is one of Rome's most popular shopping destinations. Just don't forget to get yourself a pair of 'Made in Italy' shoes while you're here.

Location: 00187 Roma RM, Italy

What to Buy: Italian leather shoes

Best Tours in Rome

Rome Travel Guide - 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:

Rome Travel Guide - 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

Rome Travel Guide - Best 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:

Rome Travel Guide - Best 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

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.

Top 10 Rome Travel Tips

  1. To avoid having to pay a service charge for being offered at a table, order your coffee at the bar.
  2. Enjoy your frothy cappuccino before noon to avoid committing one of Italy's most infamous food crimes.
  3. You can't buy bus tickets on the bus, so make sure to stock up ahead of time.
  4. Always keep an eye on your bags when using public transportation and near popular tourist attractions.
  5. Italy's economy is still largely based on cash, so bring cash with you when visiting Rome.
  6. When entering and leaving a shop in Italy, it is customary to greet the owner.
  7. Italians are also masters of vegetable preparation, so get your fix of sautéed greens under the "contorni" section of the menu.
  8. Most restaurants don't start serving dinner until after 8:30 pm, so bring a treat if you think you'll be peckish sooner.
  9. Never, ever spend money on water. Simply use the city's drinking water fountains.
  10. If you don’t want to risk being refused entry, always wear attire that covers your knees and shoulders when visiting a church in Rome.

Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling to Rome

What is the best time to visit Rome?

The best time to visit Rome is in the months of April, May, October, and November.

Is Rome too hot?

Rome can be quite hot in July and August with temperatures reaching up to 30°C.

If I have only one day in Rome, what are the must-see attractions?

The Roman Colosseum, St. Peter’s Basilica, and Borghese Gallery are the must-see attractions if you are in Rome for just one day.

What to see in Rome after dark?

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.

Where are the best places to eat in Rome?

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.

What are the languages spoken in Rome?

Italian, English, French, and German are some widely-spoken languages in Rome.

What are the live entertainment options in Rome?

The live entertainment options in Rome include jazz shows, concerts, and operas.

What should I pack for Rome?

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.

What to look out for in Rome?

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.

Where can I stay in Rome?

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.

What are some good day trips from Rome?

Some of the best day trips from Rome are Pompeii, Florence, and Naples.

What are the most popular tourist destinations in Rome?

The most popular tourist spots in Rome are the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, and Borghese Gallery.

What is the best way to get around Rome?

The best way to get around Rome is through the bus and metro network.