Tips for Planning a Trip to Rome

Rome, also known as the Eternal City, is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. As one of the world’s most famous cities, Rome has an incomparable charm that has attracted visitors for centuries. With a rich history that dates back to ancient times, Rome offers a unique blend of art, architecture, and culture that is second to none. If you’re planning a trip to Rome, here are some tips to make the most of your time in this timeless city.

To make the most of your visit, be prepared for long queues. To avoid wasting time in lines, we recommend booking your attraction tickets in advance.

What should I do on my first trip to Rome?

As a first-time visitor to Rome, it’s important to prioritize the must-see sites like the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, Saint Peter’s Basilica, the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, and the Pantheon. These attractions are a must-visit and should be at the top of your itinerary.

What are some hidden gems to see in Rome?

Rome is full of hidden gems that are often overlooked by visitors. If you’re an art lover, don’t miss the Galleria Doria Pamphilj or Palazzo Barberini. The Museo Barracco is a free museum that is definitely worth a quick visit. For those interested in ancient Rome, check out the Domus Romana at Palazzo Valentini, the Domus Aurea, and the Baths of Caracalla. To discover even more hidden gems, take a tour of Trastevere, a fascinating neighborhood full of history and ambiance.

How much time should I spend in Rome?

To see the “must-see” sites in Rome, you need at least 2.5 days. Avoid visiting the Vatican and the Colosseum on the same day, as both are huge with lots to see, and it can be tiring. Allocate two days for these attractions and leave another day or two for exploring other sites like the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, and the Pantheon. Don’t forget to set aside some extra time for strolling, shopping, and soaking up the atmosphere.

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What food is Rome known for?

Rome is known for its classic Roman pastas, all made with pecorino (sheep’s milk) cheese, including cacio e pepe, gricia, carbonara, and amatriciana. Rome is also famous for its artichokes, either braised (alla Romana) or deep fried (alla Giudia or Jewish-style). Roman cuisine is based on “cucina povera”, simple food, and includes many offal dishes like tripe, coratella, pajata, and more. For a true foodie experience, explore local trattorias or take a cooking class or food tour.

What is the best way to get around Rome?

The best way to get around Rome is on foot. Walking allows you to see more hidden courtyards, cobblestone streets, and shops. Alternatively, you can use Rome’s public transportation system of the underground metro or city bus. Another great way to get around Rome, especially for first-timers, is with a hop-on/hop-off bus that stops at all the major sites and monuments.

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What are the best months to visit Rome?

The loveliest weather in Rome is in spring and fall, but these are also the most crowded times of the year. The quietest months are January, February, and August. Christmas is a beautiful time to visit Rome, despite the cold. Summer is a great time to experience outdoor events, but expect hot, humid days. For a good mix of fair weather and smaller crowds, try late November or late August /early September.

What is neighborhood Trastevere known for?

Trastevere is one of Rome’s most popular and picturesque neighborhoods. Its history dates back at least 2,000 years, and you can find layers of ancient, medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque Rome here. Trastevere is known for its winding cobblestone streets, fascinating doorways, and charming ambiance. Despite its popularity as a “touristy” neighborhood, Trastevere is a must-visit for anyone exploring Rome.

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What are the best neighborhoods for food and shopping?

Rome is full of great neighborhoods for food and shopping. Trastevere, Monti, Campo dei Fiori, and Testaccio are some of the most well-known for food. The historic center near the Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, and Pantheon also offers some of Rome’s best restaurants. For shopping, head to the Spanish Steps neighborhood or the area around via Cola di Rienzo on the other side of the Tiber River not far from the Vatican.

What neighborhood should I stay in when I visit Rome?

Choosing where to stay in Rome is subjective and depends on your preferences. For first-timers, it’s recommended to stay as central and close to public transportation as possible, meaning staying near Piazza Barberini, the Spanish Steps, and Trevi Fountain. Esquilino is a great affordable and luxury option slightly further from the historic center. Prati, near the Vatican, is another lovely but less central area with several metro stops. Campo dei Fiori, the Jewish Ghetto, Pantheon, and Piazza Navona are charming neighborhoods but not close to a metro stop. However, they are so central that most places can be easily walked to.

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What is the best family-friendly thing to do in Rome?

The best family activities in Rome depending on your children’s ages and interests. Visiting the Vatican and Colosseum is popular but should be kept short or taken as a tour geared towards families with small children. Cycling, food tours, and cooking classes are other family-friendly activities. Strolling leisurely through the historic center with lots of breaks is also enjoyable for families.

What is the best thing to do in Rome for solo travelers?

For solo travelers, Rome offers a variety of activities depending on whether you prefer solitude or mingling. Enjoy some of Rome’s amazing churches like Saint Peter’s Basilica and the Pantheon, or spend time in parks, gardens, and markets. To meet fellow travelers, join small-group tours, especially food tours and cooking classes, where you’ll have more chances to chat and mingle.

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What is the best thing to do in Rome for couples?

Rome is already a romantic city, but for couples, it offers even more. From spring through early fall, enjoy outdoor nighttime events like shows on the Fori Imperiali, night tours of the Vatican Museums or Colosseum, wine or gelato tastings, cycling along the Appia Antica, enjoying a picnic in the park, or taking a Vespa tour.

What are the best annual events in Rome?

Rome enjoys a mild climate year-round, making it a great destination anytime. The Christmas/New Year holidays and Easter are beautiful times to visit when the city is all lit up and festive. Summertime means lots of outdoor nighttime events and nearby beaches.

What are the best areas for outdoor activities around Rome?

Rome is blessed with vast green spaces like the Appia Antica Park and the Villa Borghese. These parks offer sports activities, smaller museums, boat rentals on a lake, and picnic areas. Enjoy the city’s natural beauty while escaping the hustle and bustle of the historic center.

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In conclusion, Rome is a timeless city that offers a perfect blend of ancient history, stunning art, delicious food, and vibrant culture. To make the most of your trip, plan to visit the must-see sites like the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, Colosseum, and Pantheon, but also make time for hidden gems like Trastevere and the Museo Barracco. Take at least 2.5 days to explore the city, and consider visiting in the spring or fall to enjoy the loveliest weather. While in Rome, be sure to try some of the local cuisines like the four classic Roman pastas and artichokes, and explore the many neighborhoods for food and shopping. No matter your travel style or preferences, Rome has something to offer everyone.

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