Ultimate Guide to Rome – The Eternal City

Rome has it all! This is what all the people say after visiting this fascinating city, the capital of Italy. One of the most traveled cities in Europe, Rome managed to take the crown as one of the most beautiful cities in the world forever. Rome offers great attractions, great culture, great food, and also great facilities to welcome everyone who decides to visit the city. Here’s my ultimate travel guide to Rome with all the things you need to know before starting to plan your trip, and also a step-by-step guide for your first 72 hours in Rome. 

Best time to visit Rome?

Considering that Rome rests just off the Mediterranean Sea, it has a pleasant time all over the year. Considering also that Rome is one of the most traveled cities in Europe, expect it to be very crowded during the peak season, mostly in the summer months. I have been twice in Rome twice and came to the conclusion that the best time to visit Rome is from early October to late April. Most of the tourist crowds have disappeared and also the prices are lower.

How many days should you spend in Rome?

There is a lot to see and to do in Rome so you can spend more than one week visiting the city. I’ve seen a lot of visitors extend their stay in Rome. I have also visited the city two times and planning to visit again as soon as I can. The absolute minimum to stay in Rome is 3 days, and the perfect amount of time is 5 days.

How to reach Rome?

Rome has two airports with a hundred flights every day from almost any destination in the world. You can fly to and from Fiumicino and Ciampino airport to reach Rome. If you are based in Italy, or Rome isn’t the first city you are visiting in Italy, you can travel by train. Most train lines run to Roma Termini and online you can find many solutions.

Getting around in Rome:

Once you arrive in Rome both from the airport and by train you can take the metro to the city center. Using public transportation is the cheapest way to get around in Rome, and also the most convenient way. Keep in mind that if you have enough time, Rome is completely a walkable city. You can read my travel guide to Rome on how to visit the main attractions for three days by walking.
You can also visit Rome by taxi but the taxis in Rome tend to be very pricey.
Renting a car is the last option I suggest getting around in Rome. The traffic is crazy, and the parking is so expensive.

What to keep in mind before visiting Rome:

– The country’s currency is euros, and you can pay by card almost everywhere.

– If you’re in town for at least 72 hours, a Roma pass is the best idea. It costs around 38 euro and it offers you full access to public transportation and also free entrance to most of the museums.

– Keep an eye out for pickpocketing, especially if you are using public transportation.

– Don’t forget to bring a refillable water bottle, there you can find fountains with drinkable water everywhere.

– Choose your accommodation carefully, especially if you are visiting Rome on walking.

– Dress modestly if you are visiting the holy sites.

– Don’t take pictures of policemen or other people wearing centurion or legionnaire costumes. It’s forbidden in Italy.

– As I said you can pay by credit card everywhere, but is always advisable to always have spare cash with you. At least some coins for Trevi Fountain. 😊

– Double-check if all the places you want to visit are open and not under construction.

– As everywhere else, eat where locals eat.