Rome can feel overwhelming to a first-time visitor, and in more ways than one: for example, some services you are used to from back home may not necessarily be available in Italy, and the language barrier may contribute to your confusion.

That’s why we came up with a list of useful apps – these work on your phone or your tablet, with some exceptions (but we thought of alternatives, too!) and will make navigating the Eternal City much easier.  Even literally so! Please read on and, if ever in doubt, get back to us: what would you like to see added to this list?

Google Maps remains a must-have for walking directions and understanding Rome’s layout. It works offline if you download the map beforehand, which is helpful when your data runs out or you’re in areas with spotty coverage. One important thing to keep in mind is that Google Maps doesn’t work as seamlessly as other apps for public transport navigation, a known bug for years, so if you’re interested in a one-size-fits-all solution, read on for alternatives!

Moovit is a map-based app, but is specifically useful for Rome’s public transport system—buses, trams, the metro… It shows real-time arrivals, or tells you which platform to use when you feel like you’re lost. The app now also offers a feature for buying public transport tickets.

Citymapper is another excellent option for public transport navigation that many travelers prefer.

Maps.me is a solid alternative for offline navigation if you don’t want to use the Google environment.

ATAC is Rome’s official public transport app. You can buy bus and metro tickets directly through it. As with many other similar (but third-party) apps, just validate your digital tickets before boarding.

Trenitalia is essential for booking trains, whether you’re taking day trips to Florence, Naples, Pompeii, just heading to the airport, or doing a day trip to some place closer to Rome. Italo is the main alternative for long-distance trains.

FreeNow works like Uber and books both official taxis and private drivers. The interface is easy to use, and you can pay through the app. More information on how taxis work in Rome, along with other similar apps, is in .

Uber does operate in Rome, but it’s different from other cities—local regulations mean it’s a limo-based service rather than regular cars, so it tends to be more expensive. Still useful for airport transfers or when other options aren’t available (think taxi strikes).

EasyPark handles pay-and-display parking if you ever drive into Rome (although you do!). You can pay for parking directly through your phone without hunting for coins or dealing with parking meters.

MooneyGo is incredibly versatile—it can be used for buying bus tickets, paying for tolls on the autostrade (highways), and a variety of other services. Worth having if you’re planning any road trips beyond Rome.

TheFork (called “La Fourchette” in some countries) is how locals actually book restaurants. You’ll find genuine reviews, menus with prices clearly listed, and often significant discounts. Much more reliable than tourist-focused review sites for finding where Romans eat.

Google Translate with the camera function is invaluable. Point it at menus to understand what you’re ordering—Roman cuisine has lots of wonderful dishes with names that don’t translate obviously. Romans appreciate when you try to speak Italian, but this helps when you’re completely stuck. For a similar app, try DeepL.

Waidy WOW helps you locate Rome’s famous free drinking fountains (). There are hundreds throughout the city with perfectly safe, spring water. Carrying a reusable bottle and refilling it saves money and plastic.

P.Stop shows public restrooms throughout the city. This is genuinely useful since public toilets aren’t as common as in some countries, and cafes can have lines of people wanting to use theirs.

XE Currency provides quick conversions if you’re not used to euros. Even though you’ll adjust after a few days, it helps early on to understand what you’re actually spending.

WhatsApp is how Italians communicate for everything—personal and professional. Your hotel, tour guides, restaurant reservations, and any local contacts will likely expect to reach you this way rather than through SMS or email.

Too Good To Go lets you buy surplus food from restaurants, bakeries, and cafes at heavily discounted prices near closing time. It’s perfect for budget travelers and helps reduce food waste. You pick up “surprise bags” of food that would otherwise be thrown out, so this means whatever you buy won’t be delivered to you. The app works by showing you the participating eateries based on your location. A great way to discover where locals have their lunch breaks or breakfasts!

Glovo and Deliveroo are the main food delivery apps in Rome. Both deliver from restaurants, but also groceries, pharmacy items, and other essentials to your accommodation. Useful when you’re exhausted after a long day of sightseeing or just want to eat in.

Download these before your flight, and Rome will feel far less intimidating when you land. Buon viaggio!