8 Things to Know Before Visiting Rome
Rome, the Eternal City, is a stunning place to visit in Italy. It's steeped in history, culture, delicious food and general modern life. From ancient ruins to bustling piazzas, it's a city that captures the imagination of travellers worldwide. But before you pack your bags and jet off the stunning city, there are a few things you should know, and that's what I'll be detailing in today's blog post, so let's get into it.
1. There are prime times to visit during the year
People will often make the mistake of visiting Rome during the summer. But this is perhaps one of the worst times to go and explore a bustling city brimming with historic interest. Not only is it incredibly packed with tourists, but it's super hot and establishments often hike their prices up to match the peak season.
Instead, try visiting in the early spring and autumn months, such as April to June and September to November. Not only is everything a lot more affordable, but the crowds have thinned out and the temperature is a lot more pleasant.
2. Pack & dress for comfort
It can be tempting to pack sundresses, flip flops, high heels and other fashionable items to explore Rome, but it'll be the worst mistake you can make as a tourist. If you're just going for the food and your only plans are to visit restaurants, then great.
But if you're exploring Palatine Hill, walking around Vatican City or weaving your way around the Colosseum, then you need to dress for comfort. Pack your trainers, wear the shorts and T-shirts and make sure you bring some sun cream, hats and rain coats, in case the weather turns.
I know you'll want to fit in with the fashionistas strolling around town, but when you're touring the city, you really do need to be sensible. Also, don't forget your insect spray, regardless of the time of year you're going, because I became a insect buffet while we were there, haha.
3. Research the transport system
Rome is full of public transport options for every to use. Whether you hop on the buses, the trams, the trains or the subways, there are loads of ways of getting around the city. But you can do it on foot as well. When we went, we didn't use any public transport, opting to walk everywhere instead.
Something you should be aware of is that, while convenient, public transport can be extremely busy and expensive, depending on the form of transport you choose. Taxis are also costly, but if you do use a taxi, then make sure they're licensed with a TAXI sign that is white and clearly visible.
4. The currency is the Euro
While it might seem like common knowledge, those who don't live anywhere near Europe might not know that Italy uses the Euro. While credit and debit cards are widely accepted, it's a good idea to bring some cash, just in case.
Also, check that your credit card won't charge you for foreign transactions. There are some ATMs around, but I can't speak for them as I didn't use one. However, it's good to know that cash is easily accessible, even if it's just for emergencies.
5. You do not need to leave a tip
In Rome, most bills at restaurants, cafes and bars will include a service charge. This can come in the form of fees to sit outside or even to sit inside. The charge will often be itemised on your bill, so don't leave an additional tip because it would have already been covered.
Also, tipping, just generally, isn't really done in Rome, even if an additional charge isn't present on your bill. We didn't leave a tip anywhere in Rome, and that's widely accepted across the city. Don't feel pressured to tip, even if it's something you usually do when you're at home, for instance.
6. Avoid restaurants with pictures on the menu
If restaurants have pictures of the food on the menu, then avoid it all costs. It's likely that the food isn't authentic, is overpriced and is a tourist trap, generally. You should also avoid restaurants with someone standing outside enticing people in. Do your research and walk further into the city for more authentic, reasonably-priced food that is also good quality. You'll find your food experience in Rome is second-to-none if you eat where the locals go.
7. You need to plan ahead for large, popular landmarks & attractions
Rome is home to world-famous landmarks like the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel and the Colosseum. To avoid long queues and over-priced tickets, plan ahead. Buy your tickets in advance before you go, especially if you're only in Rome for a few days.
8. It's so easy to be scammed or pick-pocketed
This is the same for most major cities, even London, but you do need to have your whits about you when visiting Rome. Be wary of street vendors, unofficial tour guides, illegitimate bus tour tickets, and overly-friendly strangers offering "help".
Always use reputable vendors, transportation offices and shops. Something else you need to be aware of is that pick-pocketing is rife in Rome, especially in the busy areas. Don't put valuables in your pockets, wear backpacks on your front and hold your cross body bags in case the strap is cut from behind you.
You could also walk around busy places with your hands in your pockets, just for good measure. Don't get me wrong, you can have this happen to you at any busy place, whether in a new city or at home, but you don't want to get caught out in a foreign country with no phone or wallet.
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I hope you enjoyed this blog post and that you found it somewhat useful? Let me know in the comments below whether you have any tips for visiting Rome or anything that someone should know before visiting Rome and I'll see you all again very soon with some brand new content!
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