There are lots of pitfalls to be avoided and things to be aware of before visiting Rome. I will give some hints and tips below so you can be properly equipped for your visit to the Italian capital.
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I have travelled extensively throughout Rome over two decades, with my most recent visit being in September 2022. Rome is a big city, so it will help to know where all the attractions are and how to get to them. You may want to read my other Italy posts before your trip.
Here is my list of things to know before visiting Rome.
1 . Don’t buy water when visiting Rome.
You don’t ever need to buy water when visiting Rome. There are free drinking water fountains (called nasoni) all around the city, and you can fill your water bottle from these. The water is clean and fresh. There are sometimes queues at the fountains, but they don’t last long.
There are some rules to observe when using the nasoni: never put your lips to the spout (instead fill a bottle or drink from your hands) and don’t put your head under the water. I recommend a foldable water bottle like this one or this one.
Don’t get confused with the Trevi Fountain and other public fountain attractions. These are water features, not drinking fountains, and if you try to drink from them you could be arrested or fined.
2. Be prepared for persistent street sellers.
It is illegal to sell things on the streets in Rome. However this doesn’t stop the street sellers trying to sell you stuff, especially near tourist attractions like St Peter’s Square and the Colosseum.
You can be fined for buying things from these unauthorised sellers, so don’t entertain them.
Be especially wary of the bottled water they sell. The locals say they don’t know where the water is from and it could be dangerous. There should be no need for you to buy water anyway, due to the nasoni fountains as mentioned above.
3. Dress modestly for the Vatican & churches.
If you are visiting Rome, in particular the Vatican, the Basilica, the Sistine Chapel or any church, you must have your shoulders and knees covered. I recommend taking a light scarf like this one to cover up when required. This is also another reason the street sellers will approach you – they are trying to sell you a sarong to wrap around your waist and cover your knees. If you are wearing shorts you will get approached more than others, as the sellers will assume you are in need of one.
4. Beware of pickpockets when visiting Rome.
Rome is unfortunately one of the pickpocketing capitals of the world. Be very careful with your belongings. Leave valuables at home, keep hold of your bags and resist looking down at your valuables. One way pickpockets operate is by watching you read a warning sign about pickpockets, then instinctively glance down or check your pocket. You have now told them exactly which pocket your phone and money is in!
Backpacks are especially vulnerable, and so is anyone standing near an ATM. You may want to consider an anti-theft sling bag or an anti-theft backpack. You can keep your bank cards safe by storing them in an RFID blocking pouch or an RFID travel wallet.
Be careful on buses, there are pickpockets who work the buses all day long (the 64 Vatican bus is well known for this).
If you do fall victim to pickpocketing when visiting Rome, report it in the nearest Carabinieri (police) station. You can also call the emergency Carabinieri number on 112.
5. Know when to visit the Vatican.
The Vatican is super busy all the time. You will need to allocate most of a day if you want to see it properly. The Pope visits on Wednesdays and Sundays, and this makes it even busier. You may want to avoid those days, or of course aim for those days if you want to catch a glimpse of the Pope. I recommend getting Skip the Line tour from Viator. Don’t forget to cover up with a light scarf if needed.
6. Allow extra time at tourist attractions.
When visiting Rome you might need to allow a lot more time than you might think.
6.1 Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
The Vatican museums take a long time to visit. There are around 4.5 miles of corridors to walk through in total. You cannot get to the Sistine Chapel without walking through the Vatican museums, and when you get to the chapel you will have to go through extra security. The traffic is extremely slow moving and extremely crowded. You will need to allow about 4 hours (most guided tours are 3 hours long).
Taking photos in the Sistine Chapel is strictly forbidden.
6.2 St Peter’s Basilica
One of the free things to do when visiting Rome is to visit St Peter’s Basilica, but the queue is usually around 2 hours long. Remember to cover your shoulders and knees with a scarf like this one, or you won’t get in.
6.3 Colosseum
There is a lengthy security and queuing process at the Colosseum. It can take hours to get in. The second time I visited, I purchased a skip-the-line tour through Viator and this was really worth it. The tour also accessed parts of the Colosseum that other people couldn’t reach, plus included fast track entry to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill as well. It also had audio headsets, which was invaluable as you can still hear the guide no matter how far in front they are.
Here are some photos from the tour below. The colosseum never ceases to amaze me. You can also go underground into the sectioned off area (in a separate tour).
Edit: I’ve had lots of queries about this one, so have included the exact tour for you below.
7. Book tours and tickets far in advance.
You will need to book tours 2-3 weeks in advance. Even though there seem to be lots of tours available, I found most tours on Viator were sold out 2 weeks prior to my trip. You should avoid the ones right in the middle of the day if it is very hot.
8. Stay in the shade when visiting Rome.
It gets extremely hot in Rome. Remember places like the Forum and Palatine Hill are out in the open with no shade available. My advice is to do your tours in the morning to avoid the blazing afternoon heat. I also recommend taking a foldable sun umbrella, plenty of sunscreen and a packable sun hat. Sunglasses are important too – my favourite sunglasses are here and here.
9. Know which attractions you want to visit.
Unless you have a week or more, you won’t be able to do all the attractions in Rome properly. It’s a big place and there are long queues and lots of tourists. It gets very hot and frustrating if you haven’t planned sufficiently.
Decide which attractions you are interested in beforehand. If you don’t love churches, only visit one (or none). If you only have one day visiting Rome, look at which attractions are close to one another. For example the Forum and Palatine Hill are right next to the Colosseum. You could do those three in one day.
10. Don’t eat near tourist attractions.
The food is notoriously expensive near the big attractions, and also not great quality either. Real authentic food can be found down the side streets.
When visiting Rome look for where the locals are eating, rather than where the tourists are eating. The good places don’t open before 19:30. These places may also be very small and will probably have queues outside.
11. *Literally* don’t eat near the Trevi Fountain
A lot of things are illegal at the Trevi Fountain. Eating ‘messy’ food and drinking from glass containers are two of them. Also wading in the fountain, drinking from the fountain, taking money from the fountain, bathing any body parts (including pets), jumping in, sitting, lying down or climbing on the fountain are all forbidden.
There is quite a police presence here, as at all Roman landmarks. Make sure you know the rules, to avoid fines or worse.
12. There is no need to tip in restaurants.
Tips are not required or expected in Italy. In Rome especially, the staff get paid enough to not have to rely on tips. Some Italians might just leave the small change on the tip tray, but most will tell you they only tip in exceptional circumstances. It can also be seen as rude to leave money on the table.
13. Don’t expect the ‘Italian’ dishes you see at home.
Fact: pepperoni pizza is not a thing in Italy. You will never find a chicken alfredo dish (unless it is in a restaurant catered to tourists) and they rarely offer parmesan cheese. You wont get a spoon with your pasta, and garlic bread does not usually exist on Italian menus.
A Margherita pizza has three ingredients – tomato, white mozzarella and basil. There is a reason for this – it represents the three colours of the Italian flag (white, red and green).
Be prepared for simple flavours. When visiting Rome, I met some American people who were sorely disappointed with the pizza, as they found it very bland. They were used to chilli oil and bold favours on their pizza back home.
I recommend trying a local food tour like this one or this one if you want to get a real authentic favour of Roman food.
14. Local dishes to know when visiting Rome.
Each town has its own local dishes, including a different type of pasta and pizza for each place. In Rome the specialities are Alesso di Bollito (a simmered beef dish), Cacio e Pepe (cheese and pepper pasta), Spaghetti Alla Carbonara (pasta with pancetta and eggs), and different types of artichokes.
15. Avoid taxis and ubers in Rome.
When visiting Rome, only take an Uber if you have to. The Ubers available are ‘Uber Black’ which are inflated in price – about 40 euros for a five minute trip. Taxis can sometimes be ok, but mostly they are known for overcharging tourists.
The metro system is quite good (there are two lines, A & B, red and blue) and there are buses too. The Hop On Hop Off buses follow a great route, but some charge a lot, so look for ones with special offers.
16. Validate your train ticket (or get fined).
On the Roman train network, you have to ‘validate’ your ticket. If you don’t do this you could face a massive fine. Look out for yellow/green validator boxes and make sure you tap your ticket to validate.
17. Be wary at Metro ticket machines in Rome.
When visiting Rome, you will find lots of keen ‘friends’ who will offer to help you buy tickets at the machine. These are not your friends, they want your money. Politely say ‘No thank you’, and if they persist, be a bit more firm with them.
Make sure your machine has green lights to show it is working. Ones with red lights will always attract people trying to ‘assist’ you.
FAQs about visiting Rome.
Below are some frequently asked questions about visiting Rome.
Q: What are the must-see attractions when visiting Rome?
A: Some must-see attractions when visiting Rome include:
- Colosseum: The iconic ancient amphitheatre known for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles.
- Vatican City: Home to St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel with Michelangelo’s famous ceiling.
- Pantheon: An ancient Roman temple with a stunning domed roof and a famous oculus.
- Roman Forum: The heart of ancient Rome, featuring ruins of important government buildings and temples.
- Trevi Fountain: A magnificent Baroque fountain where visitors traditionally toss a coin to ensure their return to Rome.
Q: When is the best time to visit Rome?
A: The best time to visit Rome is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant and tourist crowds are manageable.
Summer (July and August) can be hot and crowded, while winter (November to February) is cooler but generally mild and offers fewer crowds.
Q: How can I get around Rome?
A: Rome offers various transportation options:
- Metro: The city’s metro system has three lines (A, B, and C) that cover major areas and attractions.
- Buses and Trams: Extensive bus and tram networks serve Rome, with routes connecting various parts of the city.
- Taxis: Taxis are available throughout the city; look for official white taxis with a taxi sign.
- Walking: Many of Rome’s attractions are within walking distance of each other, especially in the historic centre.
- Bikes and Scooters: Rental bikes and electric scooters are popular for getting around the city.
Q: What are some unique experiences to try when visiting Rome?
A: Unique experiences to try when visiting Rome include:
- Vatican Museums Tour: Explore the extensive art collections and see Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling.
- Trastevere Neighbourhood: Wander through this charming area known for its narrow streets, vibrant nightlife, and authentic Roman cuisine.
- Food Tour: Taste local specialties like pizza, pasta, and gelato on a guided food tour.
- Catacombs: Visit ancient catacombs like those of San Callisto and San Sebastiano to explore early Christian burial sites.
- Roman Baths: Discover the ancient baths at Caracalla or Diocletian, offering insights into Roman public bathing culture.
Q: Are there any day trips from Rome worth taking?
A: Yes, several great day trips from Rome include:
- Tivoli: Visit Villa d’Este and Hadrian’s Villa, both known for their stunning gardens and architecture.
- Ostia Antica: Explore the ancient port city of Ostia Antica with its well-preserved ruins and mosaics.
- Pompeii and Naples: Take a trip to the ruins of Pompeii and the vibrant city of Naples, known for its pizza.
- Assisi: Visit the historic town of Assisi, famous for its connection to St. Francis and its beautiful basilica.
Q: What are the best neighbourhoods to explore when visiting Rome?
A: Some of the best neighbourhoods to explore when visiting Rome include:
- Trastevere: Known for its lively atmosphere, narrow cobblestone streets, and excellent dining options.
- Centro Storico: The historic centre of Rome with landmarks like the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and Piazza Navona.
- Monti: A trendy area with a bohemian vibe, boutique shops, and charming cafes.
- Prati: A residential neighbourhood near the Vatican, offering elegant streets, shopping, and dining.
- Testaccio: Famous for its food market, traditional Roman cuisine, and vibrant local culture.
Q: What is the local cuisine like in Rome?
A: Rome’s cuisine is rich and varied, featuring:
- Pasta Dishes: Try classic Roman pasta dishes such as Carbonara, Cacio e Pepe, and Amatriciana.
- Pizza: Enjoy Roman-style pizza, characterized by its thin, crispy crust.
- Supplì: Fried rice balls filled with cheese and meat sauce.
- Gelato: Delicious Italian ice cream available in numerous flavours.
- Roman Artichokes: A local specialty, often prepared in the traditional Jewish-style or as a side dish.
Q: Are there any local festivals or events in Rome?
A: Rome hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including:
- Festa della Primavera: A spring festival celebrating the arrival of spring with various cultural events.
- Estate Romana: A summer festival featuring outdoor concerts, theatre performances, and film screenings.
- Rome Film Festival: Held in October, showcasing international films and attracting major stars.
- Natale di Roma: Celebrated on April 21, marking the founding of Rome with re-enactments and historical parades.
- Feast of the Immaculate Conception: A religious celebration on December 8, with processions and events.
Q: What should I know about safety and local customs when visiting Rome?
A: Visiting Rome is generally safe for tourists, but keep the following in mind:
- Pickpocketing: Be cautious of your belongings, especially in crowded areas and on public transport.
- Local Etiquette: Italians greet with a handshake or a kiss on both cheeks. It’s polite to say “buongiorno” (good morning) or “buonasera” (good evening) when entering shops or restaurants.
- Dress Code: When visiting churches or religious sites, dress modestly; shoulders and knees should be covered.
- Dining Customs: It’s common to enjoy meals leisurely, with lunch often starting around 1:00 PM and dinner around 8:00 PM or later. Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory.
Things to know before visiting Rome.
That brings me to the end of my list of my 17 things to to know before visiting Rome. I hope you found it helpful for planning your Roman trip. You can now avoid some of the common mistakes that tourists make when visiting Rome.
Thank you for reading my post on things to know before visiting Rome. I hope it will help you to plan your trip to Italy. You may also be interested in Naples – the birthplace of pizza.
Related reading for visiting Rome.
Below are some related articles for those visiting Rome, Italy.
Pin it for Later – 17 Things to Know Before Visiting Rome
Organised Tours in Rome
Here are some organised tours in Rome from my preferred tour organised Viator (owned by Tripadvisor).
- VIP Vatican Breakfast: Sistine Chapel & St Peter’s Basilica Guided Tour. Beat the crowds and start your tour with a breakfast right in the heart of the Vatican Museums complex. Then tour the Vatican and Sistine Chapel before any other tourists get there.
- Sunset Rome Food Tour around Prati District. Visit some real hidden gems as you snack on cured meats and cheeses, eat amazing pizza, and meet some of the artisanal food makers who give you recipes and food making tips
- Colosseum by Evening Guided Tour with Arena Floor. Tour the amphitheatre and other sites of Ancient Rome under the atmospheric cover of darkness during this evening tour.
- Pasta Class – Fettuccine & Maltagliati Making in Rome. Private cooking class exploring traditional recipes with a local chef. Prepare pasta dough from scratch, learn classic cuts from tagliolini to tagliatelle, then sit down to a hearty meal of Italian specialties.
- Food and Wine Guided Pairing Dinner near the Pantheon in a Unique Venue. Wine and dine in a private cellar near the famous Pantheon. Feast on an indulgent dinner paired with fine Italian wines.
Hotels in Rome
Romantic Hotels in Rome
These are my top picks for romantic hotels in Rome (from Booking.com).
- Luxury Romantic Hotel: Singer Palace Hotel
- Mid-range Romantic Hotel: Lifestyle Suites Rome
- Budget Romantic Hotel: Hotel Romano
You can see all current hotel deals in Rome here. I recommend reserving your room immediately to lock in the price, even if you have to cancel it later (this is usually free of charge).
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