40 Top Rome Italy Travel Tips! (What to Know BEFORE You Go)

Don’t leave home without checking out these Top Rome Italy Travel Tips!

Top Rome Italy Travel Tips

Are you searching for the top Rome Italy Travel Tips?  You just hit the jackpot!

Whether you’re traveling to Rome for the first time, taking off on a romantic getaway, or just heading back for another fun family trip to your favorite Italian city, in this guide you’ll find the best Rome Tips and Tricks for where to eat, stay and play.

Plus… I’ll show you my favorite hidden gems where you’ll find that rustic Italian charm you’re searching for!

Though many people opt for guided tours to Italy, traveling with just our family was so much fun!

There were no time constraints and we could visit each site on our own terms, while taking time to wander off and find the best spots that the locals enjoy as well!

Seriously, traveling to Rome, Italy was my favorite trip ever!!  We loved seeing the well preserved ancient Roman history, exploring early Christian history, eating our fill of delicious pasta and Italian food, meeting so many wonderful people… and of course… the coffee and gelato were the best I’d ever had!

So if you’re looking for some Top Rome Italy Travel Tips for visiting Rome on a Budget, and what to know before you go, these tips are for YOU!!

Here are my family tested insider tricks and Top Rome Italy Travel Tips for spending an amazing week in Rome!

Are you ready to go explore Italy??  Pasta, Gelato, and Coffee… here we come!

Now let’s get started on your trip planning!  You won’t want to miss these incredible spots…

Things to Do in Rome Italy

Related: How to Travel for Free or Cheap (21 Budget Travel Hacks)

Now that you’ve figured out how to score great deals on lodging in Italy as well as cheap flights to Rome, it’s time to start planning your itinerary!

Visiting the Vatican Tips

Visiting the Vatican is an absolute must… it’s AMAZING!!!  It’s a must for any list of Top Rome Italy Travel Tips.  Be sure to book tickets online through the Vatican ahead of time to ensure you don’t have to wait in long ticket lines.

One ticket will gain you entry to the Vatican Museums and the famous Sistine Chapel, featuring works by Michelangelo.

Another ticket will gain you admittance to St. Peters Basilica, where the apostle Peter is buried. We also purchased a separate ticket to climb the stairs to the top of the Dome, a lot of climbing, but the views of the city and St. Peter’s Square were amazing.

The Vatican Dress Code

Are you wondering about the dress code when visiting the Vatican?

Yep… there is one, and you need to be sure to follow it, or they may not let you in.  When packing for Rome, make sure to take along at least one modest, dressy outfit.

Per the Vatican, low cut or sleeveless clothing, shorts, miniskirts, and hats are not allowed.  When I was in Rome it was HOT, so I did wear a sleeveless shirt throughout the day, but just packed a little light sweater to wear while at the Vatican.

I paired it with a cute long skirt, and was good to go!

Visit the Coloseum Rome (Tips for Visiting the Coliseum)

Coloseum Tickets Skip the Line Trick!  Visiting the Colloseum (or Coliseum) in Rome is one of the first things that comes to mind when planning a trip to Rome.

I recommend booking tickets online before you go to avoid the ticket lines.

Photography Tip: If you visit during the day, be sure to head back again one evening an hour or so before sunset to catch some great outside photos.

The golden hour for photographers has a way of lighting up the Colloseum with some gorgeous hues.

These likely will be some of your favorite photos from your trip!

The Roman Forum

Adjacent to the Coliseum is the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, where you will find an abundance of ancient Rome to explore.

Your ticket to the Coliseum will also gain you a one-time admittance to the Forum and Palatine Hill.

I recommend taking water and sunscreen in the summer, and definitely wear your good walking shoes as the paths are a bit bumpy after 2000 years of use!

Trust me… a good pair of tennis shoes is a must-have on your trip to Rome.  You will be doing SO much walking, it’s worth it!

Cute sandals are great for the days you will be driving more or taking taxis, but on those big walking days… some comfy walking shoes will be a lifesaver!

Visit the Pantheon in Rome (It’s FREE!)

Are you wondering what the cost to visit the Pantheon in Rome is?

Guess what… it’s FREE!

So yes, this stunning 2,000 year old building definitely needs to be on your list!

Now I have a confession to make, we actually visited the Pantheon 5 times while in Rome.  It was AMAZING!  It is likely one of the best preserved historic buildings in all of Rome.

The current structure was thought to be built in 120 AD, so talk about an ancient structure!  With a regal pillar entrance into a remarkable dome room, as well as the original marble floors, it is beyond breathtaking.  And guess what… it has an open hole in the roof!

On one of our visits it was raining, so we could actually watch the rain fall inside through the hole in the center of the roof that acts as a compression ring for the concrete dome!!

We really fell in love with this ancient 2000 year old concrete dome, a true architectural phenomena. What once was built as a temple for all of the Roman gods is now a Catholic church.

As with most churches in Rome, you can visit Free all days except Sunday, when Mass is held.

There are also an abundance of great Coffee Bars and Restaurants in the blocks surrounding the Pantheon.

Related: How to Make Espresso at Home Without a Fancy Machine!

Best Pasta Near the Pantheon

A visit to the restaurant L’Arcano near the Pantheon is a must.  The address is: Via delle Paste, 102, 186 Rome, Italy.

Not only does it have the classic Italian charm you’re looking for with outdoor seating on the cobblestone street, the pasta is out-of-this-world!  Seriously… the Fusilli with Pesto was beyond heavenly.

The staff was also super friendly, and we ended up eating there 3 times.  It’s what Italian foodie dreams are made of, and you’ll love it!

Piazza Navona

Just a short distance to the east of the Pantheon is Piazza Navona. This square features 3 eye-catching fountains: Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, Fontana del Moro and Fontana del Nettuno (Fountain of Neptune).

You’ll also find many delicious restaurants in this charming Piazza. What once was one of many Roman arenas is now filled with local artisans and a church dedicated to a young Christian Martyr.

I could sit by these fountains all day long, they were all so beautiful!

Fontana del Nettuno in Piazza Navona

Spanish Steps

Located in an upscale part of Rome, you will find shopping opportunities at the bottom of the stairs, and beautiful views from the top.

While at the Spanish Steps, imagine the models waiting on the stairs during the Renaissance, hoping artists would hire them!

Of course the Spanish Steps were under renovation while we visited… but did you catch Amy Adams in the MaxMara ad??

Borghese Gardens

After you climb the iconic Spanish Steps, you’ll definitely want to venture beyond the top a bit on over to the beautiful Borghese Gardens.

You’ll love your walk through the picturesque gardens, as well as the breathtaking views of the city from that elevation!

Trevi Fountain

In a city known for it’s many beautiful fountains, the Trevi Fountain is the most beautiful and extravagant fountain we encountered… and that despite the fact it was under extensive renovations at the time of our visit!

Roman Baths at Caracalla

Imagine the Roman Bath at Caracalla completed around 200 AD with 3000 people… On second thought, just enjoy the beautifully intact mosaics and buildings!

Catacombes at St. Callixtus

Take a tour through ancient tombs of 7 early Christian Popes and many Christian Martyrs.

Romans required burials outside the city walls and so early Christians, which did not practice cremation like the Romans, chose to be buried in a series of Catacombes, with St. Callixtus being the most extensive.

The man in the picture with my boys was the French speaking guide that did our “English” speaking tour.

He was absolutely hilarious… an amazing man.  We kept meeting so many incredible people.

Saint Paul’s Bascilica Outside the Walls

This is the church where the Apostle Paul, author of a large portion of the New Testament portion of the Bible is buried.

The church also displays the chains that held Paul captive in his Roman dungeon. It was a meaningful experience to visit such a place.

Bascilica of Saint Clement

Saint Clement was the third Pope and this church was built in his honor.

The church was originally built around 400 AD over an old Roman temple. The church was damaged and rebuilt during Medieval times around 1100 AD.

When you venture into this 900 year old church you have only just begun.

After buying tickets, you descend stairs down to the original 400 AD church, then descend further down to a 100 AD Roman Temple, where you can touch the still flowing waters from the Roman Aquaduct!

The Cats of Rome

Shopping in Rome

Don’t forget the shopping!  Rome is a shopper’s dream come true!  Depending on what street you’re on, you’ll find anything from charming little local stores, the typical souvenir shops, Italian cooking stores, and every kind of fashion store you can imagine.

You won’t need to spend a fortune, because honestly… even window shopping along the cobblestone streets is fun!

Just look at this adorable bike I spotted when wandering through the streets and stores one day…

Rome Pinocchio Shop – Bartolucci Italy

You’ll definitely want to pay a visit Bartolucci Italy (the Rome Pinocchio Shop), too!

It’s the cutest little toy shop filled with wooden Pinocchio dolls of all sizes.  Talk about a fun place to pick up an authentic souvenir!

It’s in easy walking distance of the Pantheon and the Trevi Fountain.  Address: Via dei Pastini, 96-98

Italian Phrases To Know When Traveling to Rome

Hello!  –> Ciao!
Thank you  –> Grazie
You are welcome –> Prego
Excuse me! –> Mi scusi!
Please –> Per favore
OK –> OK
Do you speak English? –> Parli Inglese?
I do not speak Italian –> Non parlor Italiano
How much does it cost?  –> Quanto costa?
Do you accept credit cards? –> Accettate carte di credito?

We also used the Google Translate App on our smartphone.

By using the camera option, it could translate menus and signs for us!  Sweet!

More Top Rome Italy Travel Tips

Where to Stay in Rome on a Budget

I used Choice Privilege points for Free Hotel Nights and stayed at the Clarion Principessa Isabela Hotel.  Note: all Hotels in Rome are required to charge an additional daily 6 Euro per person tax.

Our stay at the Clarion Principessa Isabela ended up being an amazing deal… and we ended up getting 8 FREE Nights!!

We also made best friends with the hotel staff!!  And yes… I even got a sweet Italian kiss on the cheek from one of the guys at the hotel.

Don’t worry… my hubby was okay with it all!  I just need to experience the culture! And honestly… what’s a trip to Rome without a kiss from an Italian man?!? 😉

Transportation in Rome

We skipped the rental car altogether, and used Taxis to and from the airport, and to get around town.

Your hotel can call a taxi for you, you can catch a taxi at marked Taxi locations around town, or you can call a taxi for yourself, if you have that capability when traveling with your cellphone.

We also did a LOT of walking, which then helped justify our daily pasta and gelato binges! 🙂

Traveling with a Cell Phone in Europe

Before you leave for Italy, call your cell phone carrier to find out what your international fees will be.

We added a 1-month international phone/text/data package with Verizon just for our trip, then cancelled it as soon as we got back home.  It was a lifesaver to have that plan when we were there!

Charging Your Phone in Italy

Whenever traveling international, be sure to bring an Italy Power Adapter to recharge your phones, tablets, laptops, cameras, etc.  You’ll be SO thankful you did!

Navigating Rome

Being that cell coverage can be a bit spotty and can cut in and out in Rome, having a physical Map of Rome was a total lifesaver for us!

Cell phone coverage was sometimes spotty.  We also were using our iPhones to take pictures all day long, so battery life was an issue. Having a paper map made navigating possible without having to always rely on our phone.

Best Espresso In Rome

Be sure to stop by the Coffee “Bars” around town. If you stand at the bar, the price will be about half. I recommend starting with a “Caffe Latte” or “Cappuccino.” I think coffee heaven is in Rome!

Related: How to Make Espresso at Home!

Where To Get Water

Save your Water Bottles and fill them for free at the many fountains around town. It is an easy way to always have water handy and to save a little money!

How To Use A Credit Card

Check with your Credit Card company before travelling to see what fees they charge.  Save money when you use a Credit Card that does not charge the traditional 3% foreign exchange transaction fee.

Navigating Currency Exchange

You can usually get some of the best available exchange rates by withdrawing funds at a cash machine at the airport upon arrival in Italy.

Where to Eat in Rome

By far one of the best parts of Rome is the FOOD!  Eating your way through Rome is so much fun… with the Fresh Made Pasta, Savory Pesto, Delicious Gelato, Pastries Galore, and the BEST Coffee you’ve ever had!  Check out these Best Places to eat in Rome, and make sure you don’t miss a single one…

Rome Italy Best Places to Eat

More Rome Italy Travel Tips

Ready for more Rome Travel Tips and frugal vacation ideas shared by your frugal friends?  Check this out…

Carmella said: “When we are flying, I have really tried to cut down on the packing and try to use overnight bags that don’t have to be checked in.  Luggage fees have become outrageous on certain airlines.”

Jen said: “I traveled with 7 kids in Rome, so to save money, I cooked our evening meal in our Homeaway BnB and found discount groceries nearby.  My spaghetti and meatballs tasted authentic there!!  We also used those little grocery stores to purchase lunch items every day.  Loved Rome!!”

Carrie said: “If you have time, take a ride to the countryside.  There’s a quaint town called Nemi with an amazing pork store and other little shops.”

Lauren said: “When we were there last summer we did a cooking class at an Italian restaurant and made our lunch which was fabulous.  We also went on a sunset golf cart tour, and while it sounds cheesy, our very cute guide showed us views that we would have never found on our own… spectacular parks and glorious neighborhoods.”

Rome Budget Travel Tips

Visiting Rome is one of those dream-come-true trips, but it will take some planning and preparation before you go to make it incredible.  The first thing you’ll want to do is start stashing extra money away and setting it aside in your ‘Rome Trip Fund’.

Need to increase your travel fund stash?  Make some extra money on the side in your free time!  Check this out…

27 Side Hustles Ideas

How to Save on Lodging in Rome

Wondering how to plan the perfect hotel stay for your next vacation?

It’s so much easier than you think!  Don’t book your next hotel without knowing these secrets shared by Hotel Staff and Frequent Travelers…

75 Hotel Hacks Everyone Should Know

In addition to hotels, be sure to also check out VRBO for lodging on your trip to Rome.  They have so many vacation rentals listed by owner.  I’ve personally stayed at multiple VRBO rentals, and loved every one.

Not only were they often significantly cheaper than the nearby hotels, they also came with a full kitchen.  One even had in-room laundry!

Now do you want to know my favorite tips and tricks for saving BIG on a VRBO?  These little known hacks will save you SO much money!  Check this out…

How to Slash The Cost of Your Next Trip Using VRBO

How to Get Cheap Flights to Rome

25 American Airlines Flight Hacks For Your Trip to Italy!

23 Delta Airlines Travel Hacks

More Ways To Save Money On Your European Vacation

Now that you’ve read through my Top Rome Italy Travel Tips, finish planning your trip with these travel hacks:

21 Ways to Save Money on Rental Cars

How to Travel for Free or Cheap (20 Budget Travel Hacks)

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So… have YOU ever been to Rome, Italy before?

What are some of your favorite Top Rome Italy Travel Tips for places to see, food to eat, and things to do, etc?

Leave a comment & share!