ROME

Plan your trip to Rome

Visit Rome

Plan your trip to Rome

Visiting Rome is one of those adventures that each of us should experience at least once in our lives. The Eternal City is not only an open-air museum, rich in historical, cultural and architectural elements, but it is also a continuous swarm of activities and people. Even though it may be impossible to visit all the magical places that this capital has to offer, an incredible journey will still awaits you in this city that has been the centre of various transformations for thousands of years. Admire the ancient ruins of the imperial forums, feel like gladiators for a day in the Colosseum, have a beer in a bar in Trastevere - these are just some of the activities and attractions you can visit during your stay in the city.

Before starting this adventure we advise you to plan your trip carefully. Below you will find all the necessary information about the weather, the transport system, the city' s security and the necessary documents.

Required documents

For European Union citizens, as for any other capital city, you will only need your identity card. You will be asked to show it both at the airport and at the hotel reception to check in and also at the entrance of the various museums if you want to use the under-18 and over-65s discounts. However, if you arrive in the city with an intercontinental flight, you will also need to present a valid passport.

If you plan to rent a car during your vacation, you will need a valid Italian or international driver's license to drive. To avoid any inconvenience with your documents we advise you to travel with a copy of them, which can be useful in case of loss or theft.

City Safety

Rome is not a dangerous city, but like any other metropolis it can fall prey to pickpockets or ill-intentioned people. This means that you should pay even closer attention to certain situations. Keep your eyes open on public transport, especially if it is very crowded or at night, and never leave your belongings unattended. Use bags or cameras over your shoulder, keep documents in an inside pocket and make a copy, try not to keep wallets or valuables in the back pockets of your trousers.

Language

Obviously the language you will hear in Rome is Italian, but you will also hear the Roman dialect, which is spoken by all citizens, from children to the elderly. Along with this colourful version of Italian, there will be many other languages that can be heard on public transport, in shops or simply on foot, such as Indian, Arabic, Chinese, French and Spanish. In fact, like other European cities, the Eternal City has also become multicultural and multilingual over the years.

In any case, English is also used in all hotels, restaurants and public services to facilitate tourists from all over the world.

Cost of living

Although not one of the most expensive cities in Italy, Rome is still on par with other European capitals, and is quite expensive. Here are some examples of current prices to give you an idea of the expenses you can expect to cover during your trip:

Double room in a hotel: from €80
Breakfast in a bar: from €2.50
Food for two people on a budget: from €30
Food for two people at mid-range: from €50
Single ticket for public transport: €1.50
Daily ticket for public transport: €7
Public taxi from the airport: from €50

Weather in Rome

The weather in Rome is typically Mediterranean, which means that the winter is mild although it is often rainy and the summers are warm and sunny. The best seasons to visit the city are, mainly, autumn and spring. They are sunny and warm but not stifling and this will allow you to fully enjoy your holiday. If you want to enjoy the atmosphere of the deserted city and also take a dip in the sea on the banks of Ostia and Fregene, August is the month to make the most of it. If, on the other hand, you are interested in the Christmas market stalls in Piazza Navona, come to the city in December. Whatever time you choose in any case, Rome will be able to surprise and fascinate you!!

Business Opening Hours

Most shops in Rome are open from Monday to Saturday with a break during lunchtime and close around 7pm. However, it is not uncommon lately, especially in the historical center area, to find shops that are also open on Sundays, which are open all day and close at 8 pm. Most of the shopping malls are now also open on public holidays. The main attractions in Rome are outdoors and therefore can be visited from morning to evening, while museums are usually open from 8.30 am to 7.30 pm. Public services such as offices, banks or post offices are closed on Saturdays and Sundays and during the week it will be rare to find them open after 5pm.

Public holidays

Before planning your trip, you must find out when the public holidays will take place, because these days the city slows down, many museums and commercial services remain closed and you may find yourself in difficulties. In Rome, as in other Italian cities, holidays are as follows: New Year's Day (1st January), Epiphany (6th January), Easter and Easter Monday (variable dates), 25th April, 1st May, 2nd June, 15th August, 1st November, 8th December, Christmas Day and Boxing Day (25th and 26th December). Also keep in mind 29th June, the main festival of the city dedicated to the Saints Peter and Paul.

Getting to know the city

Rome is often referred to as a city where moving around can be exhausting and chaotic, but don't be afraid! The city is very large and there are many neighborhoods and attractions, but the public transport service has improved a lot in recent years and it is possible to travel by metro, tram or bus. However, most of the attractions are located in the historical centre and can easily be reached on foot.

For more information about these attractions and don't miss the opportunity to visit Rome in the company of an expert Tourist Guide!!