Planning a trip to the Eternal City? Rome’s ancient streets, incredible cuisine, and artistic treasures await you—but a successful visit requires some preparation. Here’s what you need to know before you arrive to ensure your Roman holiday goes smoothly.

Rome’s major attractions can become overwhelmingly crowded, especially as peak season approaches. Instead of following the typical tourist schedule, plan strategically. As an example, visit St. Peter’s Basilica an hour or two before closing rather than first thing in the morning when tour buses arrive. The Colosseum and Vatican Museums are typically less crowded during lunch hours (1-3 PM) when many tour groups break for meals. Consider booking “skip-the-line” tickets where available, and if possible, visit major attractions mid-week rather than weekends. For the Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps, early morning (before 8 AM) or later in the evening offers more breathing room and better photo opportunities without the crushing crowds.

Spontaneity is wonderful, but in Rome, it can lead to hours wasted in queues or disappointment when you can’t access key attractions. As we discussed , it’s best to book tickets online for major sites like the Vatican Museums, Colosseum, and Borghese Gallery at least a few weeks before your trip—these frequently sell out during busy periods.

The same applies to restaurants: Romans typically eat dinner after 8 PM, but many popular establishments require reservations weeks in advance, especially for weekend dinners. Use apps like TheFork or contact restaurants directly via email. For smaller, family-run trattorias, a popular app like Whatsapp is often super useful to message the owners and secure a table.

Rome has implemented several regulations to protect its historical heritage and maintain quality of life for residents. Breaking these rules can result in hefty fines. Don’t sit on the Spanish Steps or other monuments unless seating is clearly provided. , including the famous Trevi Fountain, if you don’t want to pay a hefty fine!

Alcohol consumption in public areas is prohibited after 10 PM in many districts, and you cannot purchase alcohol to go after this hour in the majority of stores (pro-tip: if they’re selling it, they’re after your money and clearly breaking the law!). Eating and drinking near major monuments is also restricted in the historic center. Additionally, dress codes are enforced —shoulders and knees must be covered when entering churches, including St. Peter’s Basilica.

While many Romans working in tourism speak English, a little Italian goes a long way. Learn basic greetings and courtesies: “buongiorno” (a formal “hello”), “grazie” (“thank you”), “per favore” (“please”), and “arrivederci” (a formal “goodbye”). Romans appreciate when visitors make an effort with their language!

When, always greet the staff with “buongiorno” or “buonasera” (“good evening”) rather than immediately asking for items. Remember to say goodbye when you leave, too: shops are considered an extension of the owner’s home, and politeness is key there! On public transportation, offer your seat to elderly passengers, pregnant women, or those with disabilities. If you’re invited to a Roman home, bringing a small gift like wine or pastries is customary. Remember that Italians typically don’t rush meals—dining is a social experience to be savored!

Before traveling to Rome, check what medications you can legally bring into Italy. Some common over-the-counter medications in your home country might require prescriptions in Italy or could be prohibited altogether. Bring a prescription from your doctor explaining any medications you’re carrying. Familiarize yourself with Italy’s : visitors from EU countries can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for public healthcare services, while non-EU travelers should purchase comprehensive travel insurance. Save emergency numbers: dial 112 for general emergencies, 118 for ambulance services. Be aware that Italian pharmacies (“farmacie”) are marked with green crosses and can provide basic medical advice for minor issues.

Conversely, some medications that are expensive and only sold with a prescription in your home country might be cheaper or OTC here: know what to buy when entering an Italian pharmacy and keep in mind that some popular items include sunscreen, toothpaste or moisturizers – all of which can be bought in pharmacies on top of regular supermarkets.

Rome’s climate and physical layout can catch travelers off guard. The city experiences extremely hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 95°F (35°C) from June through August, while winter months can be surprisingly chilly and rainy. Pack accordingly: lightweight, breathable clothing and sun protection for summer; layers and a waterproof jacket for winter visits.

Regarding footwear, Rome’s cobblestone streets are notoriously hard on feet and ankles—leave the high heels at home and opt for comfortable walking shoes with good support. The city center is built on the legendary seven hills, meaning you’ll encounter plenty of inclines and stairs during your explorations. Stay hydrated by carrying a refillable water bottle, which you can top up at Rome’s (“nasoni”) providing clean, cold water throughout the city.

Rome’s historic center is relatively compact and often best explored on foot, but knowing your transportation options saves time and energy. Purchase a bus pass if you plan to use public transportation frequently—it includes unlimited use of buses, metro, and trams, plus free entry to some attractions. Download apps like Moovit or Citymapper for real-time updates on Rome’s public transportation. Be aware that taxis cannot be hailed on the street as in some other cities; they must be found at designated taxi stands or booked through apps like FreeNow or itTaxi. For those planning day trips to places like Tivoli or , research regional train schedules beforehand as they run less frequently than city services.