Rome Lazio, Italy Travel Guide
Tivoli features two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Villa d'Este, known for its gardens and fountains, and Hadrian's Villa, a grand imperial estate. Ostia Antica is ancient Rome's well-preserved seaport, less crowded and with intact multi-story buildings. The Castelli Romani, charming hill towns southeast of Rome, showcase volcanic lakes and local wines.
For a streamlined experience booking day trips, consider options on GetYourGuide.
Discover scenic outdoor areas around Rome.
The Parco Naturale Regionale dei Castelli Romani highlights volcanic landscapes, forests, and lakes. The Alban Hills, encircling the Castelli Romani, present lush panoramas and crater lakes like Lake Albano and Lake Nemi.
Beaches like Lido di Ostia, Fregene, and Santa Marinella stand accessible by train or bus. The Monti Simbruini mountains east of Rome welcome winter sports and summer hiking.
Navigate Rome with essential information at hand.
Local SIM cards (TIM, Vodafone, WindTre) at the airport or stores require a passport. eSIM options from Airalo simplify connectivity. Portable WiFi devices from Solis Wi-Fi are another alternative. Widespread Wi-Fi exists in hotels, cafes, and some public areas. Google Translate with offline functions is a recommended tool, or language learning with Rosetta Stone.
Shops often close for one afternoon "riposo." Supermarkets typically open all day. Restaurants serve midday meal from 12:30/13:00 and dinner from 19:30/20:00. Banks operate Mon-Fri with a midday break. ATMs are always available. Public holidays bring closures; check particular times for museums and attractions. Many small businesses close for Ferragosto during The month of august.
Greetings like "Buongiorno" or "Buonasera" are common. Dress modestly for churches and the Vatican (dress to cover shoulders and knees). Dining is a leisurely event; wait to be seated. Tipping is not obligatory, a few Euros for good service works. Always ask before photographing individuals. Avoid loud behavior in public spaces. Rome is welcoming to LGBTQ+ individuals, with civil unions recognized.
A few Italian words are always appreciated by locals.
Basic phrases for getting around and inquiring about help.
Journey thoughtfully, honoring Rome's heritage and environment.
Rome is home to regional parks protecting natural and historical landscapes. The city employs differentiated waste collection. Drink water mindfully and refill reusable bottles from "Nasoni" public fountains to cut plastic waste. Consider carbon offset programs via Terrapass or choose public transport. Seek accommodations with sustainability certifications like Ecobnb.
Honor ancient sites; avoid touching or damaging structures. Adhere to signage and rules. Basic Italian greetings demonstrate respect. Dress modestly for religious sites. Always request permission before photographing people, notably children. Refrain from intrusive photography and loud public behavior.
Support Rome's local economy. Go with independent trattorias, artisan shops, and local markets rather than multinational chains. Look for "Made in Italy" products from local artisans, avoiding counterfeit goods. Your choices directly benefit Roman residents. Consider ethical tours from operators like G Adventures.
Guard against aggressive street vendors or individuals seeking to scam at attractions. Give to reputable local charities rather than individuals. Research organizations aligned with your values for charitable contributions. Carry reusable products from places like Package Free Shop.
Support global conservation efforts by discovering options from organizations like The Rainforest Site (GreaterGood). Choosing brands like Patagonia also aligns with sustainable values.
Resources and information for rainforest conservation.
Sustainable outdoor apparel and equipment.
Awareness for consumer choices with environmental impact.
Tailored plans for your Rome journey.
Morning: Colosseum (exterior), Roman Forum. Midday: Pantheon, lunch. Afternoon: Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps. Evening: Aperitivo and dinner near Piazza Navona. Use public transport or taxis.
Day 1: Ancient Rome (Colosseum, Forum, Palatine Hill). Day 2: Vatican City (Museums, St. Peter's). Day 3: Baroque Rome (Trevi, Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona) & Borghese Gallery.
Combine the weekend plan with a day trip to Tivoli, exploration of local life (Testaccio market, cooking class), and niche museums/hidden gems (Jewish Ghetto). Consider booking things to do via GetYourGuide.
Outdoor opera at Baths of Caracalla, evening strolls, long daylight. High temperatures are common.
Fewer crowds, festive Christmas markets, lower prices. Focus on indoor museums and warm cafes.
Embrace cooler weather, less tourists, and lower costs. Enjoy a more authentic local scene.
