Things to know before visiting Rome

Ready to pack your bags for this year’s holiday? Whether you’re looking for a destination with an element of adventure, peace and quiet, or extraordinary culture, Rome has you covered.

Before you head off into the unknown, it’s always best to do a bit of research first. Making sure you are aware of transport options, deals and cultural customs, all while being a respectable visitor. These bite-size bits of knowledge can be the different between a stressful ordeal and an easy breezy holiday. So don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with this full guide on things to know before you go, so you can make the most of Rome.

Basic Italian Phrases

Regardless of whether you’re only stopping through for a short period, or planning an extensive escapade, learning some Italian along the way is crucial. While Italy is filled with English speakers, learning the basic phrases helps you form better bonds and impress the locals. Make sure to learn the difference between the informal and formal way of speaking, with each one used all depending on who you are addressing. Looking up the common greetings, polite phrases, and basic questions help you slid smoothly into the daily happenings of Rome.
Transportation

Now you are here, how do you get around? Taxis may seem like the easiest and laziest option but using them throughout your trip can cost you an arm and a leg. So, working out the best public transport near your hotel and the top attractions is always the best. With bus’, metro, and trams all available throughout the city centre. The public transport system in the city is a cheap and easy option for travellers, with a one-day ticket, a week pass, or monthly to annual.
Deals

Some top requirements for a traveller is a cheap, easy, and enjoyable holiday. So, organising the best price possible for a fantastic experience is always at the top of the do list. When seeing great attractions such as the Colosseum, the wait in line can stretch out to hours. Thus, organising a Colosseum tour or a skip the line ticket can work wonders for saving time and limiting frustration.
Attractions in Rome

Although this may sound like very obvious advice, working out what attractions make your bucket list is vital when squeezing everything in. Sorting out the times and sessions of each attraction or activity can help you organise your days better and limit those crucial moments when the time is trickling away. Planning the best days and times for each activity can help avoid the foot traffic, letting you breeze into each site effortlessly.
Skip the line tickets

Following on from our last tip…Rome can get very very busy with tourists scrambling to get to the best attractions. To avoid long waiting times book your tickets in advance and skip the queue! This gives you more time and energy to enjoy what really matters, and takes the added stress out of your day. This is definitely a must for things like the Colosseum where you could be waiting hours. You may have to pay a little more to book in advance, but its definitely worth it.
Enjoy your coffee standing

Yes you heard right, Italians love their coffee but they don’t hang around to savour it. Usually a quick espresso knocked back and then their own their way. It is quite uncommon for locals to be seen sitting and sipping a hot drink. This might be way many cafes apply a sit down fee, which can often catch tourists out, seating themselves before being aware of the extra cost. If you want to avoid this and save some dollar, do it the local way and drink your coffee standing at the bar or outside in the sun.
Wear comfy shoes

You’ll only have yourself to blame when you can’t make the next attraction because your feet are too sore to walk on. Be smart and wear your comfiest, most reliable shoes! The long distances, cobblestone streets and many steps are no joke. In order to enjoy a comfortable exploration of Rome, comfy shoes are a must.
Bring a scarf or two

If you’re travelling to Rome during the summer months, you’re probably aware that the city gets very, very hot. This makes the idea of anything long sleeved or any layers unbearable. But this becomes a problem when visiting certain religious sites in Rome, as you will not be allowed in without modest clothing. To get around this, a light scarf is a great way to cover your shoulders or wrap it around your wait to add length to your shorts or skirt if needed. You can then remove it again when you’re done!
Beware of tourist scams and pickpockets

As with any major city or tourist spot there’s always the risk of sneaky pickpockets, especially in crowded areas. These are not lacking in Rome, so make sure to keep your bag close and any valuables out of your pockets. Most scams should be easy to spot, if it makes you feel uncomfortable or it seems to good to be true then stay clear away. Be firm and dismissive and they’ll soon get the picture that you’re not one to be swayed. Don’t let this news deter you though! Rome is a beautiful city and the locals are super friendly, so be alert, not alarmed.