Rome, the capital city of Italy, is a place of great beauty and history. With numerous ancient ruins, magnificent architecture, and a rich culture, it is a city that attracts millions of visitors each year. If you’re planning a trip to Rome, there are a few things you should know before you go. Here are eleven essential tips that will help you make the most of your visit to the Eternal City.
1. Dress appropriately when visiting a place of worship
One of the most important things to keep in mind when visiting Rome is to dress appropriately when entering a place of worship. The city is home to many stunning churches, cathedrals, and basilicas, but they are also sacred places of worship for the local community. Therefore, it’s important to dress modestly. This means covering your shoulders, knees, and chest and avoiding revealing clothing or shorts.
2. All modes of public transportation are not created equally
If you plan to explore Rome’s attractions by public transportation, keep in mind that not all forms of transportation are equal. The metro is the fastest and most reliable way to get around, but it doesn’t cover all the areas of the city. Buses are another option, but they can be unpredictable, especially during peak hours. Taxis are readily available, and Uber also operates in the city.
3. Rome Airport is far from the city center
When it comes to flying in and out of Rome, it’s important to know that the city’s airports are a bit of a trek from the city center. While Rome’s main airport, Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport (FCO), is located approximately 18 miles from the city center, the smaller Ciampino Airport (CIA) is approximately 9 miles away.
While both airports offer shuttle buses and train services to get to the city center, it’s important to factor in transportation time and costs when planning your trip, especially if you’re arriving late at night or during rush hour.
4. Choose your accommodation wisely
Choosing the right accommodations in Rome can make all the difference when it comes to exploring the city. With so many popular districts to choose from, it’s important to consider your itinerary and personal preferences when deciding where to stay.
If you’re looking to be in the heart of the action, the historic center is the perfect location, as it’s home to many of Rome’s iconic attractions, such as the Colosseum and the Pantheon.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more bohemian atmosphere, then the trendy neighborhood of Trastevere might be more your style. If you want to escape the crowds and experience local life, the residential neighborhoods of Monti and Testaccio are great options.
5. Public restrooms are not free
Unlike in many other cities, public restrooms in Rome require a small fee to use, typically ranging from €0.50 to €1.00. While this may be unexpected for some visitors, it’s important to carry change with you.
6. Prepare to have dinner late
If you’re used to having dinner early, you may need to adjust your schedule when visiting Rome. In Italy, dinner is usually served later than in many other countries, typically between 7:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. In fact, it’s not uncommon for restaurants to not even open until 7 or 8 p.m. This can come as a surprise to visitors who are used to eating dinner earlier in the evening. To avoid any disappointment or hunger pangs, consider having a late afternoon snack or an aperitivo before dinner.
7. Have your coffee at the bar
Like the old adage says, “when in Rome, do as the Romans do.” Locals have a unique way of drinking coffee, and it’s worth experiencing when in Rome or any other city. Instead of sitting down at a table, locals prefer to drink their coffee standing up at the bar. It’s cheaper and quicker, and it’s a great way to soak up the local culture.
8. Don’t rely on wifi
While WiFi is widely available in Rome, however, it’s not always reliable. Many cafes, restaurants, and hotels offer free WiFi, but it can be slow or unavailable at times.
9. Purchase tickets for attractions in advance
If you have your heart set on visiting some of the city’s popular attractions, it’s a good idea to purchase tickets in advance to avoid long lines. Many of the city’s top sites, such as the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, and Sistine Chapel, can have hours-long wait times, particularly during peak season. By purchasing tickets online ahead of time, you can skip the lines and save yourself time and frustration.
10. Plan accordingly for riposo
Many small shops and businesses close down for riposo, also known as siesta time in other European countries. It’s essentially a mid-day break that typically takes place between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. While it’s a long-standing tradition, it can be inconvenient for tourists who are looking to explore the city during these hours. To make the most of your time in Rome, it’s best to plan your itinerary accordingly and avoid scheduling visits to shops during riposo.
11. Museum closures
Many of the state museums are closed on Mondays. This includes popular attractions such as the National Museum of Rome, and the Galleria Borghese. However, other sites such as the Vatican Museums, Palatine Hill, Roman Forum and the Colosseum are open on Mondays. Conversely, there are sites such as the Vatican Museums that are closed on Sundays. Make sure to check the opening hours of attractions ahead of time to plan accordingly.
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