21 Rome Travel Tips That Could Ruin Your Trip If You Ignore Them

There’s nothing worse than arriving in Rome and realizing you weren’t prepared. We’ve all been there—wearing uncomfortable shoes, falling for tourist traps, or struggling with local customs. 

To make sure your trip goes smoothly, here are the essential Rome travel tips to help you enjoy Rome without the headaches.

Travel Tips for Rome

Here are the 21 travel in Rome tips, the kind of advice you’d want a friend to share before you go: 

1. Invest in Comfortable Walking Shoes

Walking in Rome is unavoidable. You’ll be roaming cobblestone streets and climbing stairs at places like the Spanish Steps or Palatine Hill. Comfortable shoes are your best friend here.

Leave the heels or flimsy flats at home and go for cushioned sneakers or sturdy walking sandals. You can expect to cover a lot of ground here—easily 20,000 steps a day. 

2. Bring a Universal Adapter

Italy uses Type C plugs, so you’ll need an adapter to charge your devices. It’s way cheaper to grab one before your trip than to scramble and overpay once you’re there. 

Keep all your gadgets like your phone, camera, and tablet ready to go for all those pictures you’ll take.

3. Plan Your Visit During the Shoulder Season

Rome is busiest in summer, which also means it’s hot and packed with tourists. Instead, visit in April-May or October-November. The weather is just right, and the crowds are much more manageable.

It’s easier to enjoy places like the Colosseum or Piazza Navona when you’re not elbowing through people.

4. Book Tickets in Advance

Lines for big attractions like the Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Sistine Chapel can get really long, especially during peak season. 

Save yourself the hassle by booking a tour that covers all three, so you can skip the lines and make the most of your visit.

For some places, like the Borghese Gallery, advance booking is required since they limit entry. A little planning here goes a long way. So go grab a ticket for Borghese Gallery ahead of time to make things much easier.

5. Use Refillable Water Bottles

Rome has free public fountains called “nasoni,” and the water is perfectly safe to drink. We recommend you bring a reusable bottle and refill it as you check out the city. 

It’s a simple way to save money and stay hydrated without buying tons of plastic bottles.

6. Learn Basic Italian Phrases

Even if you’re not fluent, learning a few Italian words makes a difference. Saying “Buongiorno” (good morning) or “Grazie” (thank you) shows effort, and locals appreciate it. 

For practical stuff, learn “Dov’è il bagno?” (Where’s the bathroom?) or “Quanto costa?” (How much does it cost?). Apps like Duolingo can help, and having a phrasebook as backup doesn’t hurt.

7. Use Public Restrooms Wisely

Public restrooms are rare in Rome, and many charge a small fee. The best tip is to use the bathroom whenever you’re at a cafe or restaurant. 

Carry tissues and hand sanitizer too, because some facilities might not have everything you need. Better to be prepared than stuck searching for a restroom later.

8. Visit Early Morning or Late Evening

The big attractions like the Colosseum and Vatican Museums get packed fast. Your best bet is to go as soon as they open or later in the evening. It’s quieter, and you’ll actually enjoy the experience without being surrounded by crowds. 

Some places even have extended hours in summer, so check before you go.

9. Be Mindful of Pickpockets

Pickpocketing is a thing in busy areas like Termini Station, the Spanish Steps, or near the Colosseum. Keep your valuables in a secure bag, preferably one with zippers, and never leave them unattended. 

Watch out for distractions in crowded places (just use common sense, and you’ll be fine).

10. Avoid Taxi Scams

Taxis from the airport to the city center have a set fare (around €50-€60), but some drivers might try to overcharge tourists. Confirm the price before you get in, or better yet, use a shared shuttle or train. It’s cheaper and just as easy.

11. Skip the Spanish Steps and Similar Tourist Traps

The Spanish Steps are iconic but they’re crowded and overrated. Plus, you can’t even sit on them without risking a fine. 

Some places we highly recommend spending your time are spots like Trastevere or the Campo de Fiori.

If you want a more local and tasty experience in these places, join a Trastevere & Campo de Fiori street food walking tour.

12. Dress Modestly for Churches

If you’re visiting churches like St. Peter’s Basilica or the Pantheon, make sure to cover your shoulders and knees. Pack a light scarf or shawl to throw on if needed. 

Hawkers outside churches sell scarves, but it’s better to bring your own.

13. Take Advantage of Free Museum Days

On the first Sunday of every month, many state-run museums and archaeological sites offer free entry. It’s a great way to save money but be sure to get there early to beat the crowds. 

If you want something quieter, try smaller spots like Palazzo Barberini and Galleria Corsini.

So better grab a ticket now for Palazzo Barberini & Galleria Corsini.

14. Order Coffee at the Bar

Drinking coffee at a table in Rome costs extra. To save money, do what the locals do—order at the bar and enjoy your espresso standing up. It’s quick, it’s affordable, and it’s part of the Roman way of life.

15. Enjoy Rome’s Culinary Staples

Rome is all about food, so don’t hold back. Try pasta dishes like cacio e pepe or carbonara, and don’t miss out on gelato. Places like Della Palma, with its 150 flavors, are a must-visit. If the restaurant offers house wine, go for it. It’s usually delicious and budget-friendly.

If you really want to taste the best of Rome, a food tour in Trastevere is a fun way to try local favorites while wandering through the city’s neighborhood.

16. Use Public Transport Efficiently

Rome’s metro and buses are cheap and reliable. Buy tickets at tobacco shops or kiosks before getting on because you can’t buy them on the bus. A weekly pass for €24 is a great deal if you’re staying for a while.

If you plan on getting around a lot, the Best of Rome Pass is a great option since it covers public transport and gives you access to top attractions.

17. Take a Day Trip from Rome

If you have extra time, consider a day trip to places like Pompeii, Amalfi Coast, or Sorrento. High-speed trains make it super easy to explore beyond Rome in just a couple of hours.

If you want to visit Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast, and Sorrento all in one trip, this day tour from Rome makes it easy and hassle-free.

18. Respect Dinner Culture

Dinner in Rome is a relaxed affair, usually starting after 8 PM. Don’t expect the check to arrive automatically—you have to ask for “il conto” when you’re ready. Take your time and enjoy the meal like the locals do.

19. Go Beyond the Tourist Spots

Rome has plenty of hidden spots aside from the big attractions. Check out lesser-known areas like Testaccio or Palazzo Doria Pamphilj. Wandering quiet streets often leads to unexpected finds, from charming cafes to peaceful piazzas.

20. Take a Cooking Class

One of the best ways to experience Roman culture is by learning to cook local dishes. Many cooking classes include wine tastings and are a fun way to meet people while making delicious pasta or tiramisu.

If you want a hands-on food experience, we greatly recommend a pasta-making class with wine, limoncello, and dessert to learn classic recipes while enjoying great drinks and company.

21. Hydrate and Rest Strategically

Rome can get hot, especially in summer. Drink plenty of water, take breaks in shaded piazzas, and use cafes to recharge. It’s all about pacing yourself so you can enjoy every moment.