A First-Timer's Guide to Visiting Rome
Rome is not just another European city. It's a living, breathing museum that's filled with copious amounts of Ancient Roman history. It's every history buff's dream, an artistic masterpiece and everyone's go-to for irresistible espresso.
But for first-time visitors to the city, it can be daunting, especially if you can't speak Italian. It was my first time to the city myself, when we went last month. So I thought I'd take my experienced and pop it here for you as a first-timer's guide to visiting Rome.
When is the best time to visit Rome?
Rome is a gorgeous city and an amazing place to visit all year round. The time of year you go really just depends on what you want to get out of your trip. There's no wrong or right answer. Going between April and June means you'll get some warm weather, blooming flowers and bustling outdoor dining.
If you choose to go between September and October, then the temperature is pleasant (not overly hot) and the tourist numbers are a lot less. July to August, however, is incredibly hot and very crowded. BUT it's a great time of year for eating dinner outdoors and for enjoying some drinks on your hotel balcony or rooftop bar.
Between the months of November and February, however, is even quieter in terms of crowds, the temperature is a lot cooler and it can also be a bit cheaper for eating and buying tickets for places like the Colosseum or Vatican Museums.
How to get around Rome
There is plenty to see around Rome, which is why we chose to go everywhere on foot. You got to see things that you would have missed out on had you boarded a bus or an underground train. Rome is a lot smaller than I thought.
With this in mind, we got everywhere on foot, which was as simple and easy as it sounds. However, if you're looking to make longer trips or travel more to the outskirts of the city, then there are other modes of transport you can use to get around, including the metro, buses and trams and taxis.
What are some of must-see sights of Rome?
There are loads of things to see around Rome. No matter where you walk, there will always be something to feast your eyes upon. I have written an article recently about how to spend three days in Rome, where I go into a lot more detail about the things you should go an see while you're in Rome.
But one of the first things I'd suggest you see is the Colosseum, Roman Forums and Palatine Hill. Walk in the footsteps on the gladiators and emperors and walk up to Palatine Hill for sweeping views of Rome that you won't get anywhere else in the city.
You should then go and have a walk around the city, where you'll happen across famous landmarks like the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, the Spanish Steps and Piazza Navona. Often, the streets are lined with performers, open-air markets and lovely little road-side cafes that serve up traditional Italian coffees and pastries.
Finally, Vatican City is another place that you should visit while you're holidaying in Rome. It's a huge place, so you'll need at least one day to explore the place. Visit St Peter's Basilica, the Vatican Museum and the Sistine Chapel. It's a beautiful place and St Peter's Basilica is free to enter - great if you're wanting to keep the cost of your holiday to a minimum.
Things to eat while you're in Rome
Traditionally, Roman cuisine is simple, but bold and delicious, packed with flavour and leaves unforgettable memories. Some of the most popular dishes that are often recommended you try while in Rome includes Cacio e Pepe (pasta with pecorino cheese and black pepper), Carbonara (creamy egg-based sauce with guanciale), Suppli (fried rice balls with mozzarella) and Gelato.
One of the things I would suggest you avoid when it comes to eating in Rome, however, is restaurants with pictures on the menus, laminated menus and establishments with hosts on the streets enticing people inside. Do your research before you travel and look up where the locals go to eat.
Some extra tips for first-timers visiting Rome
Some extra tips that I would give to someone visiting Rome for the first time are as follows:
- Book tickets in advance, especially to the Colosseum and Vatican Museum
- Try to stay central so as to avoid hefty transportation costs and also to stay where to charm is
- Dress appropriately when visiting churches, whether it be in Vatican City or otherwise, such as covering your shoulders and knees
- Always carry a small amount of cash with you, because not everywhere will take card
- Take your time when walking through Rome and take it all in
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I hope you enjoyed this blog post and that you found it useful? Let me know in the comments below whether you have any tips for first-timers visiting Rome and I'll see you all again very soon with some brand new content!
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