Essential Tips for First-Time Travelers to Rome
Reading Time: 7 minutes
Dreaming of a trip to Rome? Your dream is about to come true! Get ready to immerse yourself in rich history, iconic art, and indulge in endless pizza. For those experiencing their first time in Rome, the city promises an unforgettable adventure.
If it’s your first time in Rome, there are a few essential tips to keep in mind. Therefore, we’ve compiled some of the best travel advice for Rome to ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable experience. From navigating public transportation to learning a few handy Italian phrases, these tips will help you make the most of your Roman holiday.
When is the best time to visit Rome?
Rome is known for having wet winters and dry summers. The summer sees the majority of the tourists, as everyone seems to want to enjoy some alfresco dining and a gelato dessert. The temperatures peak around 88 degrees F in the height of summer. Winter brings cooler temperatures, around 45 degrees F, along with rainy weather. You’ll face fewer crowds during this season with the exception of Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and Carnevale.
The shoulder seasons are a prime time to visit as the weather is pleasant. Keep in mind that Easter and Holy Week are very popular holidays in the spring, bringing lots of tourists. Meanwhile, September sees the start of the soccer season.
Where to Stay
Find Hotel B&B or Apartments in Rome with our official partners.
What is the best airport to fly in Rome?
When planning your first time in Rome, keep in mind that the city is served by two airports: Fiumicino International Airport “Leonardo da Vinci” (FCO) and Rome Ciampino Giovan Battista Pastine Airport (CIA).
For travelers from the U.S., FCO is likely your destination, as it is the primary international airport, located about 18 miles west of the city center. Convenient transportation options, including buses and trains, connect FCO to Rome Termini, the main train station, ensuring easy access to the city.
In contrast, CIA is a smaller airport with a single terminal, catering mainly to short-haul flights within Europe. If you’re flying from the U.S., you’ll only use CIA if you’re connecting from another European city. Due to its size, CIA offers limited amenities and dining options.
Exploring Rome: Transportation tips for your first time in Rome
One of the major perks of Rome is that it’s such a walkable destination. Additionally, many of the most famous and popular attractions are clustered together, making it easy to visit each one on foot. There are also many pedestrian-only areas of the city, which don’t allow any sort of vehicle. Pack a pair of comfortable shoes so you can explore the cobblestone pathways with ease.
Public transportation is another one of the best ways to get around Rome. The city has its own underground metro system. Line A brings you to popular spots like the Vatican Museums and the Pantheon, while line B will take you near the Roman Forum and Colosseum. If you plan on riding the metro a lot during your stay, look into the multi-day cards to help you save money. You can buy 24-, 48-, and 72-hour passes.
For those experiencing their first time in Rome, you might be wondering: “But what about the Vespa?” Yes, it’s not just in the movies. You will see tons of people zipping around on the motorized scooters. As long as you have previous experience riding a motorcycle or scooter, you’ll have no trouble renting one. You can even join a Vespa tour and zip around the city after a guide. Just remember to wear a helmet and follow all traffic and city laws.
What are the best activities for those visiting Rome for the first time?
Planning your first trip to Rome make sure to include these must-do tours and activities in your itinerary:
Explore Rome at Your Own Pace: The Rome Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour is an excellent way to see all the top attractions conveniently.
1. Savor Roman Cuisine: Upon arrival, dive into the local food scene. Seek out Roman-style pizza, gelato, and a variety of pasta dishes. From spaghetti carbonara to pasta alla Gricia, you’ll want to try every delicious sauce and noodle.
2. Toss a Coin into Trevi Fountain: Ensure your return to Rome by tossing a coin into Trevi Fountain. According to legend, if you throw the coin with your right hand over your left shoulder, you’ll come back to the Eternal City.
3. Visit the Colosseum: Step back in time at the Colosseum, which opened in 80 A.D. and hosted thrilling gladiatorial battles.
4. Admire Michelangelo’s Masterpieces: Rome is home to many of Michelangelo’s works. Don’t miss his fresco on the Sistine Chapel ceiling, his statue of Moses at Basilica di San Pietro in Vincoli, and The Pieta at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City.
These activities will ensure you experience the best of Rome, making your first time in Rome unforgettable.
What are the top foods to savor in Rome? Must-try dishes for your visit
Exploring Rome’s rich culture, history, and attractions is a must, but the culinary delights are equally captivating! Navigating the local cuisine can be a bit challenging if you’re not familiar with the dishes or the language. When visiting Rome for the first time, indulging in the local food is essential. Here are some must-try dishes (and for more inspiration, check out Rome for Foodies).
Bucatini all’Amatriciana: This iconic pasta dish is a local favorite. The savory red sauce features guanciale, pecorino cheese, tomatoes, pork jowl, and other ingredients.
Rigatoni Carbonara: Simple yet incredibly delicious, this pasta dish is typically topped with pecorino Romano and Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, raw eggs, and pancetta. Make sure to try it at least once during your visit.
Carciofi alla Giudìa (or Romana): These deep-fried artichokes are a popular menu item. Combining Jewish and Roman culinary traditions, the variations in preparation are slight but equally tasty.
Coda alla Vaccinara: Oxtail might not be common on U.S. menus, but in Rome, this tomato-based oxtail stew is a must-try.
Supplì: Grab this delicious street food on the go. These fried rice balls are filled with ragu and mozzarella.
Limoncello: This chilled lemon liqueur is especially refreshing on a hot summer day in Rome. It’s often enjoyed as an aperitif or digestif.
To help you navigate the menu, here are some common sections you’ll encounter:
- Antipasti: Similar to appetizers, these dishes are served before the main course.
- Primi: These “first courses” often include pasta and soups.
- Secondi: This section features main dishes, usually consisting of meat.
- Dolci: This is where you’ll find desserts like gelato, cannoli, and panna cotta.
- Bevande: This section lists beverages, often including a selection of wines.
I hope this helps enhance your dining experience in Rome! Buon appetito! 🍝🍷
What are the Best Areas to Stay in Rome for an Unforgettable Visit?
When deciding where to stay in Rome, you’ll discover a wide array of hotels to meet your needs. The city offers several neighborhoods that are perfect for tourists, each providing unique experiences. Here are some top recommendations:
Trastevere: If nightlife is your main interest, Trastevere is the ideal spot. This area is filled with clubs and bars that stay open late, allowing you to enjoy the lively atmosphere all night long.
Testaccio: For those who love food, Testaccio is a must-visit. This neighborhood is famous for its local trattorias and pizzerias, making it a haven for anyone wanting to savor authentic Roman cuisine.
Historic Center and Ancient Rome: Perfect for those experiencing their first time in Rome, these neighborhoods house the city’s most iconic landmarks. The Historic Center is home to the Pantheon, while Ancient Rome features the Colosseum.
By choosing these neighborhoods, you can customize your stay in Rome to match your interests, whether it’s nightlife, culinary adventures, or historical sites.
Additional Essential Travel Advice for Visiting Rome
Navigate Rome’s Public Transport: Rome boasts an efficient and affordable public transport system, including buses, trams, and the metro. For unlimited travel and discounts on attractions, consider purchasing a Roma Pass.
Learn Essential Italian Phrases: While many Romans speak English, knowing a few Italian phrases can greatly enhance your experience. Simple phrases like “Grazie” (Thank you) and “Per favore” (Please) are very appreciated.
Avoid Long Queues: Major attractions such as the Vatican Museums and the Colosseum often have long lines. Save time by booking your tickets online in advance.
Stay Hydrated: Rome is dotted with public drinking fountains, known as “nasoni.” Carry a reusable water bottle to refill throughout the day.
Dress for Comfort: Expect to do a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes. Additionally, some religious sites require modest attire.
Watch Out for Pickpockets: As in any major city, be vigilant about your belongings, especially in crowded areas and on public transport.
Rome is a captivating city where you can enjoy sitting at a café, watching the world go by. Whether you plan every detail or let adventures unfold spontaneously, your first time in Rome will be unforgettable. Follow these tips to make the most of your visit!
BOOK NOW Find Low Cost Deals
Book now yoour next holiday in Berlin with our partner expedia.com
Are you looking for CUSTOMIZED tours? Do you want to find best LOW deals for your next holiday? Contact us, all the estimates are FREE!
