Rome has an abundance of attractions and activities that can keep you engaged for weeks. While there are so many great things to do, here are my top “must-do” experiences in the city:
- Visit the Colosseum: My favorite experience in Rome was visiting the iconic Colosseum. I was in awe as I walked through the ancient amphitheater, not only because of its awe-inspiring architecture, but because I felt as if I was taken back in time, imagining the drama of gladiator contests and the spectacles that unfolded on its arena floor. Definitely put this on the top of your list, as its historical significance should not be missed.
- Tour the Roman Forum: Wander through the Roman Forum, the heart of ancient Rome, where you can see the ruins of temples, basilicas, and other important structures.
- Palatine Hill: Explore the Palatine Hill, where Roman emperors once resided, and enjoy panoramic views of the Forum and Circus Maximus.
*Note: I strongly suggest opting for a private guided tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. The guides leading these tours possess a deep understanding of Roman history, transporting you back in time and immersing you in the days of the Roman Empire.
- Take an Italian Cooking Class: Learn to make traditional Italian Ravioli and yummy Tiramisu. This class by Eat and Walk Italy is a great one.
- Pantheon: Marvel at the Pantheon, a remarkably preserved ancient temple, known for its impressive dome and architectural brilliance.
- Tour the Vatican and Sistine Chapel: View the amazing art collection in the Vatican Museums, including the beautiful Sistine Chapel painted by Michelangelo.
- St. Peter’s Basilica: Visit St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest church in the world, and see its stunning architecture and learn of its religious significance.
*Note: I suggest booking a semi-private or private tour of the Vatican, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica. Be sure to go first thing in the morning and get “skip the line” access, or you may find yourself waiting in line for hours.
- Throw a Coin in the Trevi Fountain: There will be a million people there, but you’ve just got to do it! This tradition is supposed to ensure you will one day return to Rome. If you want to try and get a picture when no one is there, I suggest going between 1-6am. LOL
- Spanish Steps: Climb the Spanish Steps for panoramic views of the city and explore the Piazza di Spagna below.
- Piazza Navona: Walk around Piazza Navona and enjoy its lively atmosphere. Get a table at one of the cafes and enjoy an Aperol Spritz as you take in the baroque fountains and street performers.
- Villa Borghese Gardens: Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the Villa Borghese Gardens, a sprawling park offering greenery, museums, and great views.
- Capitoline Hill: Visit the Capitoline Hill, one of Rome’s seven hills, where you can find the Capitoline Museums and beautiful piazzas.
- Trastevere Neighborhood: Wander through the charming Trastevere district, known for its narrow streets, vibrant atmosphere, and excellent dining options.
- Explore the Jewish Ghetto: Discover Rome’s Jewish Ghetto, a historic neighborhood with a rich heritage, including the Great Synagogue.
- *Note: Download Rick Steve’s free audio tours and maps for touring Trastevere and the Jewish Ghetto on your own.
- Galleria Borghese: Admire the exquisite art collection at the Galleria Borghese, showcasing masterpieces by Bernini and Raphael.
- Piazza del Popolo: Visit Piazza del Popolo, a large square featuring an ancient Egyptian obelisk and twin churches.
- Ancient Appian Way: Walk or cycle along the Ancient Appian Way, one of the oldest roads in Rome, dotted with historic ruins.
- Mithraeum of Circus Maximus: Explore the underground temple of Mithras, a mystery religion practiced in ancient Rome. Reservations are usually required.
- Crypt of the Capuchins (Bone Chapel): Visit this creepy yet fascinating site where the remains of Capuchin friars are artistically arranged to form intricate decorations and sculptures. Random and weird, but interesting!
- Indulge in a Food Tour: Take part in a food tour and eat your way around the city and indulge in the best dishes Rome has to offer.
If you have more than a few days in Rome, escape the city and take one of these great day trips:
- Day Trip to Ostia Antica: If time permits, take a day trip to Ostia Antica, an ancient Roman port city, to explore well-preserved ruins and mosaics.
- Day Trip to Orvieto: Hop on the train and take a day trip to Orvieto, an Umbrian Hill town not far from Rome. Wander the charming streets and admire the beautiful Duomo. Orvieto also has a network of tunnels under the town that provide an insight into its medieval history.
JK Place Roma
Hotel Class: 5-Star
Style: Elegant, Luxury, Boutique
J.K. Place Roma Hotel is a sophisticated luxury hotel in the heart of Rome. Positioned conveniently close to iconic landmarks like the Spanish Steps, this hotel is in a prime location for your Roman exploration. The rooms are luxurious with soft bed linens and comfy beds, and the large marble bathrooms have heated towel racks and built-in speakers. They also have the exquisite Ortigia Sicilia bath products inspired by the scents of Sicily.
Enjoy a meal at JK Café, where classic dinner dishes like spaghetti carbonara grace the menu. For breakfast, they offer an excellent buffet featuring an array of freshly baked breads, meats, cheeses, yogurts, fruits, and cereals, as well as cooked-to-order dishes like frittatas and omelets.
J.K. Place Roma balances modern amenities with an intimate and cozy atmosphere, making it an exceptional home away from home during your time in Rome. It’s undoubtedly a stellar choice for your Roman sojourn!
Grand Hotel Palace
Hotel Class: 5-Star
Style: Modern, Classic
Whether you’re in Rome for a romantic escapade, cultural exploration, or simply indulging in the dolce vita, the Grand Hotel Palace in Rome is your ticket to a world of modern luxury. The rooms are a haven of comfort with thoughtful details. The beds are plush with the softest linens for a truly dreamy night’s sleep and the bathrooms are spa-like with a huge selection of toiletries.
The location is a gem – just a stone’s throw away from the legendary Via Veneto and other iconic sights. And when you’re tuckered out from all of the sightseeing, get swept off your feet with a heavenly foot massage at the hotel spa.
Hotel Artemide
Hotel Class: 4-Star
Style: Contemporary, Classic
Hotel Artemide has fabulous reviews and is a hot ticket in Rome. It’s got all the features and amenities you could want for a killer Roman adventure!
Had a long day exploring? No worries – they’ve got a spa that’s all about unwinding.
Need a soothing wake-up call? Enjoy your morning coffee on the panoramic rooftop deck.
Hungry? You’re in for a treat. The hotel’s restaurant serves up some seriously mouthwatering Italian dishes. Buon appetito!
The hotel staff? They’re not just friendly faces, they’ve got the lowdown on all the best spots and hidden gems that you won’t find in a guidebook.
So there you have it, a rundown of why Hotel Artemide is a hot ticket in Rome. Get ready to make memories that’ll have you grinning from ear to ear!
Liberty Boutique Hotel
Hotel Class: 4-Star
Style: Art Nouveau, Elegant
The moment you walk in, you’ll feel the perfect blend of modern vibes and classic charm that makes this place a standout. It’s not just about the stylish décor – it’s about the thoughtful details that make it feel like a cozy home away from home.
What makes the Liberty Boutique Hotel shine is the incredible service that comes with a genuine smile. The staff goes above and beyond, plus the location is a cherry on top – you’re close to all the must-see spots.
VRBO Via Veneto
4.9/5 Exceptional
Premier Host
This cute 2 bedroom/2 bathroom is in a great central location near Via Veneto. It has air conditioning (which is a must in my opinion during Rome’s hot summer months), is tastefully decorated, and has outdoor garden with lovely lemon and orange trees.
Getting around in Italy’s capital city offers several convenient options. Here are some of the best ways to navigate the city:
- Walking: Rome’s historic center is highly walkable, and many of its attractions are within reasonable distance of each other. With that in mind, Rome is a big city, so I suggest creating a daily itinerary that takes into account distances between attractions. Be sure to download the Google Maps app!
- Metro: Rome’s metro system has two lines, Line A (orange) and Line B (blue), which intersect at Termini Station. The metro is a quick way to cover longer distances within the city. I recommend downloading the “MyCicero” app which will allow you to find the best public transportation options to a given destination. You can purchase and validate tickets for bus, metro, and train.
- Buses: Rome’s extensive bus network serves areas that are not accessible by metro.
- Trams: Trams are a convenient mode of transport for certain parts of the city, connecting suburbs and areas not covered by the metro.
- Electric Scooters and Bicycles: Electric scooters and bicycles are available for rent through the “Lime” app. They offer a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city, especially for short distances. Rome also has a public bike-sharing system called “Roma Bike,” which allows you to rent bikes from various docking stations around the city.
- Taxis: Taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or found at taxi stands. While convenient, they can be more expensive than other modes of transportation.
- Hop-On Hop-Off Buses: These tourist buses are often a good way to get a good overview of the city and its major attractions. They offer flexibility, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
- Ride-Sharing Services: Uber is available in Rome and is a great alternative to traditional taxis.
- Hiring a Local Guide: A good local guide can help you navigate the city efficiently and provide insights into its history, art, and culture.
When moving around Rome, consider the location of your accommodations, the attractions you want to visit, and the most suitable modes of travel for your needs.
Café Mémé bistrot
Café Mémé bistrot exudes charm as a delightful spot for brunch, with a warm and welcoming ambiance complemented by a friendly staff that instantly makes you feel like part of the family. Their all-day brunch has an array of dishes crafted from locally procured ingredients. Whether it’s the delicious kiwi, orange, and pineapple smoothie, or the savory bacon, egg, and avocado toast, everything is fresh and delicious. Tucked away in the serene Trastevere neighborhood, Café Mémé offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere to enjoy brunch.
Sesamo Trastevere
You’ll find the best pizza in Trastevere at Sesamo Trastevere. This charming and casual restaurant stands out for its creative dishes and locally sourced ingredients. It’s obvious they take great care in crafting meals that are appealing to both adventurous palates and those seeking a taste of authentic Roman cuisine.
Bufalero
Dining at Bufalero Restaurant in Rome is a culinary journey that celebrates the iconic Italian ingredient of buffalo mozzarella. From traditional Caprese salads to the killer burgers, Bufalero showcases the versatility of buffalo mozzarella while incorporating other locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant has a casual, yet inviting ambiance, and is tucked into the Tuscolano neighborhood of Rome.
EatWith
EatWith is a platform that connects travelers and locals through the shared experience of dining. Local hosts open their homes or unique venues to guests, offering authentic and personalized dining experiences. Guests can enjoy homemade meals, learn about local cuisine, and engage in cultural exchange with their hosts. The concept allows travelers to immerse themselves in the local food culture while connecting with residents of the city they are visiting. I haven’t tried this yet, but I’m dying to!! They are getting rave reviews, so attending one of these unique dinners is definitely on my agenda the next time I’m in Rome. If you’ve experienced EatWith, let us know how it went in the comments.
Osteria da Fortunata
Tucked away in the historic center, Osteria Da Fortunata is known for its authentic pasta creations, with a special nod to their iconic cacio e pepe. The warm and cozy atmosphere sets the stage for a genuine Italian dining experience, including handmade pasta dishes that are out of this world! It’s a dining experience might just inspire you to enroll in an Italian cooking class so you can master these flavors yourself!
Ad Hoc Ristorante
Travelers seeking a special dining experience in Rome, look no further than Ad Hoc Ristorante. They have two locations, one at Piazza del Popolo and one at Circus Maximus, both with the same romantic vibe – soft lighting, elegant décor, and an inviting ambiance that is perfect for couples looking to share an romantic evening in the heart of Rome. You cannot make a wrong choice for dinner, but I recommend their delicious prosciutto and burrata roulade and octopus pasta. They are known for their selection of fresh truffles to top off any dish. For the adventurous, try one of their tasting menus. For an experience that combines a delicious culinary experience with a romantic backdrop, this place is pure perfection.
What are best practices regarding Tipping in Rome?
Tipping practices in Rome are somewhat different from those in other countries, so it’s useful to know the local customs to ensure you handle gratuities appropriately. Here are some best practices regarding tipping and service charges in Rome:
- Tipping at Restaurants, Cafés and Bars: While a service charge is common, leaving a small additional tip is a nice gesture. It’s common to round up the bill or leave a few euros extra, especially if you received good service. However, tipping is not as substantial as it might be in other countries, as service charges are already factored in.
- Tipping at Hotels: In hotels, you might leave a small tip for the housekeeping staff, usually a couple of euros per day. If a porter helps with your bags, you can give them a small tip as well.
- Tipping Tour Guides and Drivers: If you’re on a guided tour, it’s a good practice to tip the guide if you found their services informative and enjoyable. The amount can vary but is often around 10-15% of the tour cost. For drivers, rounding up or leaving a small tip is appreciated.
- Tipping Taxis: While not obligatory, rounding up the fare or leaving some small change as a tip is customary. If the driver helps with your luggage, an additional tip is a nice gesture.
- Service Charge (Coperto): Many restaurants in Rome include a “coperto” or cover charge on the bill. This is a small fee that covers bread, water, and table service. It’s usually a few euros per person. Check the menu or ask your server if there’s a coperto, as it’s often noted there.
While some places accept credit card tips, remember that while tipping is appreciated, it’s not obligatory in Rome. The service charges and coperto often cover the basic service, and tipping is more about showing appreciation for excellent service rather than meeting an expected percentage. Always consider the context and the level of service you received when deciding how much to tip. It’s advisable to tip in cash whenever possible, as it ensures that the tip goes directly to the service provider.
Is the tap water in Rome safe to drink?
The city’s tap water is subject to strict regulations and is treated to meet European Union standards for potable water. Rome’s water supply comes from sources like springs and wells, and it undergoes treatment to ensure its safety. However, it’s always a good idea to check with your in-country host for the most up-to-date information. I recommend carrying a reusable water bottle with a built-in filter.
Do I need to make advance restaurant reservations?
I highly recommend making restaurant reservations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Is haggling over prices acceptable?
Rome, as in much of Italy, the culture of bargaining or haggling is not as common as it might be in some other parts of the world. However, there are still some situations where negotiating prices might be appropriate, especially in open air markets or small shops with independent vendors. If you do attempt to bargain, be friendly, polite, and respectful, and don’t lowball, which will be considered disrespectful.
Is there anything important to know about using public transportation?
Be sure to validate your ticket when using public transportation. Failure to do so could result in a fine if caught during routine checks.
Are there any specific dress codes I should follow for cultural sites or certain areas?
Yes, when visiting the Vatican, St. Peter’s Basilica, and other religious sites, modest attire is required. Both men and women should cover their shoulders and knees. Avoid wearing sleeveless tops, shorts, and short skirts. Carrying a scarf or shawl to cover your shoulders can be helpful.
Who do I call in case of an emergency?
To call the police or an ambulance from a USA international cell phone while in Rome, Dial the international Access Code “011”, the country code for Italy “39”, and the emergency number for Police “113” or Emergency Services “118”.
- Police: 011-39-113
- Emergency Services: 011-39-118
What about traffic laws?
While I’ve never driven in Rome, I do know the city has complex traffic patterns and congested streets. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Pedestrians should be cautious when crossing the street, using designated crosswalks whenever possible. Jaywalking is not only dangerous but also subject to fines.
- If you’re a non-European Union resident, you will need an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your regular license. These can be gotten in a matter of minutes at most Triple AAA locations in the USA. Be sure to carry your valid driver’s license, international driver’s license, and the necessary vehicle documentation at all times.
- Rome has several ZTL areas, known as “Zona a Traffico Limitato,” where access is restricted to certain vehicles during specific times. These areas are monitored by cameras, and entering them without proper authorization can result in hefty fines. Make sure to check your route and be aware of these restricted zones.
- Parking Challenges: Parking in Rome can be challenging, especially in the city center. Look for designated parking garages (known as “parcheggi”) or parking areas where you can leave your car. Parking enforcement in Rome is strict.
Should I be concerned about scams and pickpocketing?
As with any tourist destination, be mindful of scams and pickpockets, especially in busy tourist areas. A backpack or a wallet in a back pocket are easy pickings for a thief. I highly recommend this unisex anti-theft handbag.
What are the laws regarding drugs and substances?
The possession and use of illegal drugs are strictly prohibited and can lead to severe penalties. For prescription medications, carry them in their original pharmacy-issued container.
Are there any areas I should avoid?
Rome is generally a safe city for tourists, but like any major city, there are certain areas that may be less safe or prone to certain issues. While these areas might have some concerns, they don’t necessarily mean you should avoid them entirely, just exercise caution and awareness, especially at night. Here are a few areas to be mindful of:
- Termini Station Area: The Termini area is a major transportation hub, but it can be crowded and attract some pickpocketing and petty theft. Stay alert, especially around the station and nearby streets.
- Esquilino District: This area around Termini Station has been known for a slightly higher crime rate. Be cautious, especially after dark.
- Trastevere at Night: Trastevere is a popular area known for its nightlife, but some parts can get rowdy and attract scams or aggressive vendors. Enjoy the nightlife but stay vigilant.
- Campo de’ Fiori at Night: Another popular nightlife area, Campo de’ Fiori can get crowded and attract some unsavory characters after dark. Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid engaging with overly persistent street vendors.
- Metro and Bus Stops: While Rome’s public transportation is generally safe, be cautious around metro stations and bus stops, especially during busy hours or late at night.
- Touristy Areas: Touristy areas like the Colosseum, Spanish Steps, and the Trevi Fountain can attract pickpockets due to the high number of visitors. Stay aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.
- Crowded Public Transportation: While not specific to an area, crowded buses and trams can be a prime location for pickpocketing. Keep a close watch on your belongings.
Remember that safety concerns can change, and it’s a good idea to check with local sources or your accommodation for the most up-to-date information. While being cautious, also keep in mind that Rome is a vibrant and welcoming city with a lot to offer, and by following common-sense safety practices, you can have a wonderful and enjoyable v
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