Rome

Rome’s Mediterranean climate makes it a great year-round destination, but some seasons are better than others:

• March–May (Spring): Best for mild temperatures, blooming gardens, and fewer crowds.
• June–August (Summer & Peak Season): Ideal for long sightseeing days, warm weather, and lively piazzas.
• September–November (Fall): Great for comfortable weather, food festivals, and fewer tourists.
• December–February (Winter & Holiday Season): Best for Christmas markets, festive lights, and fewer crowds at major attractions.

• Colosseum & Roman Forum – The iconic amphitheater where gladiators once battled and the ruins of ancient Rome’s political center.
• Vatican City & St. Peter’s Basilica – The world’s smallest country, home to Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel and the Pope.
• Pantheon – A remarkable 2,000-year-old temple with a stunning domed ceiling.
• Trevi Fountain – Toss a coin in to ensure your return to Rome.
• Piazza Navona – A beautiful square filled with fountains, artists, and cafés.
• Spanish Steps – Climb Rome’s most famous staircase for a great city view.
• Trastevere Neighborhood – A charming area known for its cobblestone streets and authentic Roman cuisine.
• Villa Borghese & Borghese Gallery – A beautiful park with an impressive collection of Renaissance art.
• Castel Sant’Angelo – A fortress with panoramic views of the city and the Tiber River.
• Mouth of Truth (Bocca della Verità) – A legendary stone carving said to bite the hands of liars.

• Cacio e Pepe – A classic Roman pasta dish made with pecorino cheese and black pepper.
• Carbonara – Creamy pasta made with eggs, pancetta, and Pecorino Romano cheese.
• Amatriciana – Tomato-based pasta with guanciale (cured pork cheek) and pecorino cheese.
• Supplì – Crispy-fried rice balls stuffed with mozzarella, similar to Sicilian arancini.
• Carciofi alla Romana – Roman-style artichokes braised with garlic and mint.
• Porchetta – Slow-roasted, herb-seasoned pork, a favorite street food.
• Pizza al Taglio – Rome’s famous rectangular pizza, sold by weight.
• Maritozzo – A sweet brioche bun filled with whipped cream.
• Gelato – Creamy Italian ice cream, best enjoyed from traditional gelaterias.
• Espresso & Tiramisu – The perfect way to end a Roman meal.

• Flights: Arrive at Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (FCO) or Ciampino Airport (CIA).
• Metro & Public Transport: Rome’s metro, buses, and trams connect major sites, but walking is often the best way to explore.
• Taxis & Ride-Hailing Apps: Taxis are available, but Uber is limited in Rome.
• Walking: Many of Rome’s landmarks are within walking distance of each other.
• Hop-On Hop-Off Buses: A convenient way to see major attractions in a short time.
• Train (Termini Station): Ideal for day trips to Florence, Naples, or Pompeii.

• For U.S. travelers: No visa required for stays up to 90 days, but a valid passport is necessary.
• For international travelers: Check Italy’s Schengen visa requirements based on nationality.
• EU Travelers: Can enter freely with a valid national ID or passport.

• Currency: Euro (€ EUR).
• Credit cards are widely accepted, but small trattorias and markets may prefer cash.
• ATMs are available throughout the city, offering good exchange rates.
• Currency exchange is available at airports, banks, and exchange offices.

• Italian is the official language.
• English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.
• Learning basic Italian phrases like “Grazie” (Thank you) and “Buongiorno” (Good morning) is appreciated.

• Greet with “Buongiorno” (Good morning) and “Grazie” (Thank you).
• Dining etiquette: Don’t order cappuccino after 11 AM—Romans prefer espresso after meals.
• Dress modestly when visiting churches – Shoulders and knees should be covered.
• Tipping is not mandatory, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated.
• Avoid touching historic monuments and artifacts – Preservation is highly respected.
• Rome has a relaxed pace—embrace the Italian “la dolce vita” lifestyle.

• Restaurants: 5–10% tip is common if a service charge isn’t included.
• Bars & Cafés: Rounding up the bill is appreciated.
• Hotels: €1–2 per bag for bellhops, €2–5 per night for housekeeping.
• Taxis: Tipping is not required, but rounding up is polite.
• Tour Guides & Excursions: €5–10 per person for excellent service.

• For peak season (June–September & Christmas holidays): Book 6–12 months in advance for hotels and flights.
• For off-season travel (October–April): Booking a few weeks ahead is usually fine.
• For major attractions like the Vatican & Colosseum: Book tickets online at least a few weeks in advance.

• No COVID-19 test is required for entry, but check for updates before traveling.
• Some attractions require timed-entry tickets—book online in advance.
• Rome’s traffic is heavy—walking or using public transport is often faster than driving.

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