Rome - Your Ultimate Guide
Rome, the Eternal City, is a captivating blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, and mouthwatering cuisine. With its rich tapestry of iconic landmarks and hidden gems, navigating the city can be both thrilling and overwhelming. Here’s your ultimate guide to making the most of your Roman adventure.
Cheat Sheet - Click to collapse
- Emergency Numbers:
- Police: 112
- Ambulance: 118
- Fire Brigade: 115
- Currency:
- Euro (€) is the official currency.
- ATMs are widely available, and most places accept credit cards.
- Tipping:
- Restaurants: Tipping is not mandatory. A service charge (coperto) is often included in the bill. If not, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is appreciated.
- Taxis: Not expected, but rounding up to the nearest Euro is common.
- Hotels: €1-2 per bag for porters and €1-2 per day for housekeeping is a nice gesture.
- Public Transport:
- Tickets: Buy tickets at kiosks or tobacco shops (Tabacchi). Validate them on the bus/tram or at the station for trains/metro.
- Metro: Rome has 3 metro lines (A, B, and C). It's efficient for getting around the city center.
- Buses/Trams: Buses are often crowded, but they reach places the metro doesn't.
- Uber Availability:
- Uber operates in Rome but primarily offers Uber Black (premium service). Regular taxis are more common and readily available.
- Best eSIM for Travelers:
- Roamsim: Offers a great range of data plans for Italy and Europe. We recommend an Italy eSIM or Europe Multi-Country eSIM.
- Language:
- Italian is the official language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but learning a few basic Italian phrases can be helpful and appreciated.
- Best Time to Visit:
- Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to October) offer mild weather and fewer tourists. Summer can be hot and crowded.
- Water:
- Tap water in Rome is safe to drink. The city's famous nasoni (public drinking fountains) provide free, clean drinking water.
- Local Etiquette:
- Dress Modestly: When visiting churches, cover your shoulders and knees.
- Table Manners: It’s considered polite to keep your hands visible (not in your lap) when dining.
Must-Visit Attractions
- The Colosseum: Start your journey with a visit to this ancient amphitheatre. Arrive early to avoid long lines, or better yet, book skip-the-line tickets. A guided tour can enrich your experience, offering insights into the gladiatorial games and the Colosseum’s history.
- The Vatican Museums & St. Peter’s Basilica: Home to the Sistine Chapel and Michelangelo’s masterpiece, The Last Judgment, the Vatican is a must-see. Buy tickets online to skip the lines, and consider visiting early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid peak crowds. Don’t miss climbing to the top of St. Peter’s Basilica for a breathtaking view of Rome.
- The Pantheon: This remarkably well-preserved ancient temple is free to enter and a marvel of engineering. Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to enjoy it without the crowds.
- Trevi Fountain: One of the most iconic spots in Rome, the Trevi Fountain is stunning, especially at night. Toss a coin over your left shoulder to ensure a return to Rome, but watch out for pickpockets in the crowded area.
- Piazza Navona: This lively square is filled with street artists, performers, and fountains. It’s a great place to soak up the atmosphere, but be wary of overpriced restaurants and street vendors.
- The Roman Forum and Palatine Hill: Walk through the ruins of ancient Rome and imagine the bustling marketplace that once stood here. A combined ticket with the Colosseum offers the best value.
Tourist Traps to Avoid
- Restaurants Near Major Attractions: Eateries close to the Colosseum, Vatican, and Trevi Fountain often serve overpriced, mediocre food. Instead, explore the side streets and residential neighborhoods for authentic dining experiences.
- Souvenir Shops: Shops around popular landmarks often sell overpriced, low-quality items. For unique souvenirs, visit local artisan markets or stores in less touristy areas.
- Free Guided Tours: While some free tours are legitimate, many guides work for tips and might pressure you into buying things from specific vendors. Research and book through reputable companies.
Where to Eat
- Trastevere: This charming neighborhood is famous for its cobblestone streets and vibrant nightlife. It’s also home to some of the best trattorias in Rome. Da Enzo al 29 and Osteria Fernanda are must-tries for traditional Roman dishes like cacio e pepe and carbonara.
- Testaccio: Often overlooked by tourists, this district is a haven for food lovers. Visit Trapizzino for unique pizza pockets or enjoy a meal at Flavio al Velavevodetto for some of the best pasta in Rome.
- Campo de’ Fiori: While the square is a tourist hub, venture into the side streets to find gems like Roscioli, known for its incredible carbonara, or Forno Campo de’ Fiori for a quick slice of pizza.
- Monti: A trendy area with a mix of vintage shops and eateries. Ai Tre Scalini offers an excellent selection of wines and small plates, while La Carbonara serves a classic Roman pasta experience.
Tips for a Great Experience
- Public Transport: Rome’s metro, buses, and trams are efficient for getting around. Buy a multi-day pass if you plan to use public transport frequently. Always validate your ticket to avoid fines.
- Tipping: Tipping is not expected in Rome but appreciated. Leaving a small tip for excellent service is customary.
- Stay Hydrated: Rome’s public drinking fountains, or nasoni, provide free, clean water. Carry a reusable bottle and fill up as you explore the city.
- Be Aware of Pickpockets: Popular tourist areas can be hotspots for pickpockets. Keep your belongings secure and be vigilant, especially in crowded places.
Rome is a city where every corner reveals a piece of history, and every meal is a celebration of Italian culture. With this guide in hand, you’re ready to explore the city like a local, avoiding the tourist traps and savoring the true essence of Rome. Enjoy your journey through the Eternal City!
