Rome might be a city of ancient ruins, gelato dreams, and Vespa glamour – but it’s also chaotic, sizzling hot, and full of little surprises that can catch first-timers off guard. If you’re looking for smart, practical tips for visiting Rome, this guide is here to help.
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Hey! I’m Hazel, a travel blogger with a soft spot for Italy (and carbs). I’ve been visiting Rome for over two decades, and I’ve learned a thing or two the hard way. Here’s everything I wish I knew before my first visit, so you can skip the rookie mistakes and enjoy the magic.
From free water fountains to sneaky pickpockets, this guide covers the stuff your average travel brochure skips. Consider this your honest pre-trip prep – no sugar-coating, just solid advice from someone who’s been around the Colosseum block a few times.
1. Don’t Pay for Water in Rome 🚰
Rome has hundreds of free drinking fountains called nasoni, and the water is clean, cold, and constantly flowing. Bring a refillable bottle (I love this foldable one), and skip the overpriced plastic.
Tip: never put your mouth on the spout – use your hands, or tilt the bottle to catch the flow. And don’t even think about drinking from the Trevi Fountain… unless you fancy a fine and a photo on the Carabinieri’s wall of fame.
2. Dodge the Street Sellers 🙅♀️
Around big landmarks like the Colosseum and St Peter’s Square, you’ll be swarmed by unofficial vendors selling hats, shawls, bracelets, and questionably cold water. Just smile, shake your head, and keep walking.
Buying from them isn’t just risky – it’s illegal. And yes, tourists have been fined for it. Plus, you don’t need their water (see above), and that sarong might just cost more than your Aperol.
3. Cover Up at the Vatican (No Shorts, Sorry!) 🙏
The Vatican isn’t messing around when it comes to dress codes.
If you’re visiting St Peter’s Basilica or the Sistine Chapel, your knees and shoulders must be covered – no exceptions.
Pack a light scarf or sarong to throw over your outfit when needed. And don’t be surprised if the street sellers try to sell you one right before you enter – it’s one of their top sellers for a reason!
4. Pickpockets Are Professional (And Clever) 🚫
Rome is one of the pickpocket capitals of Europe. They’re smooth, fast, and often work in groups.
Watch your belongings, especially on buses (hello, Bus 64) and in crowded areas.
Anti-theft bags, zipped compartments, and cross-body styles are your friends. And don’t be that person who checks their pocket after seeing a warning sign – that’s exactly what they’re waiting for.
Looking for a quick itinerary? Try my One Day Itinerary for Rome.
5. The Vatican is Always Busy 🙌
There’s no such thing as a “quiet time” at the Vatican. It’s packed year-round, and even more so on Wednesdays and Sundays when the Pope might make an appearance.
Want to make life easier? Book a skip-the-line tour and go early in the morning. Don’t forget your scarf or shoulder cover if you want to get inside!
6. Big Attractions Take Ages ⌛
Rome’s top sights are incredible – but they’re also slow-moving and often crowded.
Leave extra time, and don’t try to cram too much into one day.
- Vatican Museums take 3-4 hours, even with a tour.
- St Peter’s Basilica? Expect a two-hour queue.
- Colosseum? Security checks can take forever – unless you’ve booked fast-track tickets.
7. Book Everything Ahead ✉️
Rome runs on reservations. Popular tours, museum entries, and even restaurants can get booked up weeks in advance.
Use Viator or Get Your Guide to book key attractions like the Colosseum underground, Vatican Museums, or Trastevere food tours. You can often cancel for free if plans change.
8. Plan Your Attractions Like a Pro 🗓️
Rome is big, hot, and full of tourists. You don’t need to see every church or museum to have an amazing time. Pick your favourites and group nearby sights together.
Example: Colosseum + Forum + Palatine Hill are all next to each other and can fill a whole day. Save your feet, your patience, and your energy for gelato.
9. Skip the Tourist Traps for Dinner 🍝
Restaurants near the big sights often serve overpriced, underwhelming food. If it has laminated menus in 6 languages and a waiter waving you in? Keep walking.
Instead, wander a few streets away and look for places full of locals. Better yet, book a local food tour and eat your way through Rome the delicious way.
10. Don’t Even Think About Eating at the Trevi Fountain ⚠️
Eating or drinking near the Trevi Fountain can earn you a hefty fine. It’s considered disrespectful (and messy), and there’s a strong police presence keeping an eye on things.
So yes, throw your coin. But save the snack break for a nearby piazza instead.
11. Tipping is Optional (Not Expected) 💸
Tipping in Rome isn’t necessary – most locals don’t do it. Service is included, and a few coins left for great service is appreciated, but not required.
Waiters are paid a fair wage here, and overtipping can actually come across as awkward or over the top.
12. Italian Menus Aren’t What You Think 🍽️
Forget chicken Alfredo and garlic bread – that’s not a thing here. Roman dishes are simpler, saltier, and way more authentic.
Try Cacio e Pepe, Carbonara, or Artichokes done Roman-style. And don’t panic when they don’t bring parmesan or a spoon with your pasta – it’s just not how they do it.
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.
13. Don’t Rely on Uber 🚗
Uber works in Rome… sort of. But it’s all Uber Black, which means luxury cars and luxury prices. Taxis can be hit or miss, and tourists often get overcharged.
Public transport is cheap and works well (especially the metro). Or just walk! Rome is basically an open-air museum.
14. Validate Your Train Tickets ✉️
If you’re catching a train in Rome, make sure you validate your ticket before boarding. Look for the yellow or green boxes near the platform.
If you forget? That’s a fine, even if your ticket is legit. No excuses, no exceptions.
15. Metro Ticket Helpers Are Not Your Friends 🛋️
At some metro stations, people will hover by the machines offering to “help”. They are not official staff. They want a tip – or worse, your money.
Just say “no grazie” and move on. Use machines with green lights only, and stay alert.
Helpful Tips for Visiting Rome 📅
Some helpful tips on visiting Rome:
🌞 Start early: Beat the heat and the crowds by heading out first thing in the morning.
👖 Dress for success: Shoulders and knees covered for churches and the Vatican. A light scarf is your best friend.
🌚 Stay hydrated: Use the free fountains (nasoni), and refill your bottle often.
🚕 Use public transport: Metro is quick and cheap. Validate tickets and avoid shady helpers.
🍜 Eat like a local: Head away from major attractions to find authentic, delicious food.
📸 Watch your stuff: Especially on public transport and near tourist hotspots.
🛏️ Pre-book your highlights: Don’t leave big-ticket tours and attractions to chance.
🌄 Pack comfy shoes: Rome is beautiful, but cobblestones and hills are unforgiving.
FAQs About Visiting Rome 💡
Here are some quick answers to common questions travellers have before visiting the Eternal City:
When is the best time to visit Rome?
Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) are ideal. Summer is hot and busy, winter is cooler but quieter.
Do I need to tip in restaurants In Rome?
No you don’t. It’s optional and not expected.
Is Rome walkable?
Yes, especially in the historic centre. But there are hills, cobbles, and long distances – wear comfy shoes.
How safe is Rome?
Pretty safe, but keep an eye out for pickpockets. Use the same common sense you would in any big city.
Can I drink the tap water in Rome?
Yes – and better yet, refill from the public nasoni fountains.
What foods should I try in Rome?
Cacio e Pepe, Carbonara, Roman-style pizza, and artichokes. Oh, and gelato. Lots of gelato.
Do I need to speak Italian in Rome?
Not really – most people in tourism speak some English. But “grazie” and “ciao” go a long way.
Final Thoughts on Rome ✨
Rome is messy, magical, and full of life. It’s a place where ancient history and modern chaos collide in the best way. Yes, there are a few quirks to navigate, but once you know what to expect, it’s an unforgettable adventure.
You’ll eat well, walk loads, and probably get lost at least once. That’s part of the fun. Enjoy it – and maybe bring comfy shoes. I hope these tips for visiting Rome help you skip the stress and soak up all the magic.
Related reading for visiting Rome.
Below are some related articles for those visiting Rome, Italy.
🏛️ Rome in One Day: The Perfect 1-Day Itinerary
🇮🇹 La Dolce Vita: Exploring the 14 Best Cities in Italy.
🏛️ Best European Cities for History: Solo Traveller Favourites.
✈️ Tips for Travelling in Italy: Your Essential Q&A Guide.
💃 Solo Female Travel in Europe: Ultimate Guide.
Pinterest for Visiting Rome 📌
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Tags: Europe, Italy, Rome
