Rome

Italy

Rome is an unparalleled city of ancient history, stunning art, and vibrant culture. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks like the Colosseum and Vatican City, savor delicious Italian cuisine, and immerse themselves in the city's lively atmosphere.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay4 days
Budget$70/day
Mid-range$150/day
Luxury$500/day

Known For

Eternal CityVatican CityColosseumRoman EmpireCapitoline HillTrasteverePantheonTrevi FountainSpanish Steps

🇮🇹 Country Information: Italy

CapitalRome
CurrencyEuro (€)
LanguageItalian , German, French, Slovene, Ladin, Albanian, Greek, Sardinian, Catalan
Phone Code+39
Electricity230V (Type C, F, L)
Tap WaterSafe to drink

Tipping

  • Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated for good service; 5
  • 10% in restaurants for good service; rounding up taxi fares; 1
  • 2 euros per bag for porters; 1
  • 2 euros per night for hotel housekeepers

Money & Payments

  • ATMs are widely available, especially in cities
  • Credit cards are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas and larger establishments; cash is still common for smaller purchases and local markets
  • It is advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller towns and certain local vendors
  • There is no black market for cash

Cultural Norms

  • Dress respectfully when visiting religious sites
  • "Fare la bella figura" (making a good impression) is important, so dress neatly
  • Meals are social events and can be lengthy; wait to be seated in restaurants
  • Italians often greet each other with a kiss on both cheeks among friends and family

LGBTQ+ Information

Generally LGBTQ+ friendly. Italy recognizes civil unions for same-sex couples, but not marriage. Discrimination based on sexual orientation is prohibited in employment.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

  • Legal drinking age is 18
  • Drug laws are strict, even for small amounts; penalties include heavy fines and imprisonment

Special Laws

  • It is mandatory to carry identification at all times
  • Driving in ZTL (Limited Traffic Zones) without a permit can result in fines
  • Be aware of pickpockets, especially in crowded tourist areas

Common Phrases

NoNo (noh) No
YesSì (see) Sì
HelloCiao (chah-oh) Ciao
PleasePer favore (pehr fah-voh-reh) Per favore
Excuse meMi scusi (mee skoo-zee) Mi scusi
Thank youGrazie (grah-tsee-eh) Grazie

Climate

Climate Zone: Mediterranean

Best Time to Visit

Getting There

Getting Around

Health & Vaccinations

Staying Connected

Local Cuisine

Carbonara must_try

This quintessential Roman pasta dish features spaghetti or rigatoni tossed in a creamy sauce made from egg yolk, grated Pecorino Romano cheese, cured

Cacio e Pepe regional_speciality

A simple but flavorful Roman pasta made with just three ingredients: Pecorino Romano cheese, black pepper, and pasta (often spaghetti or tonnarelli).

Carciofi alla Giudia seasonal

Known as 'Jewish-style artichokes,' this dish involves deep-frying whole artichokes until the outer leaves are crispy and brown, and the inside is ten

Suppli street_food

These are deep-fried, oblong rice balls often referred to as Rome's answer to Sicilian arancini. They contain risotto rice, tomato sauce, and a molten

Pizza al Taglio street_food

This rectangular-shaped pizza is baked in large trays and sold 'by the slice' by weight, featuring a thicker, focaccia-like, or sometimes thin, crispy

Book in Advance

Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:

🔴 Must Book in Advance

Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill Tickets Attraction
Book 4–8 weeks in advance

Tickets are limited, required for entry, and often sell out, especially for specific access like the underground/arena floor. Booking ahead minimizes stress and maximizes time.

Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel Tickets/Tours Attraction
Book 4–8 weeks in advance

Tickets and reserved entry are required, and timed entries often sell out quickly, preventing long waits or denied entry during peak times.

Borghese Gallery and Museum Tickets Attraction
Book 4–8 weeks in advance

Entry is mandatory via timed reservation due to strict visitor limits (only 360 people admitted per two-hour shift). It frequently sells out.

Fun Facts

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