Rome Lazio, Italy Travel Guide
Local SIMS from TIM, Vodafone, or WindTre are available at airports and official stores; registering your passport is standard. For compatible devices, eSIM options like Airalo offer ease without a physical card. Portable Wi-Fi devices from Solis Wi-Fi also keep you online.
Poste Italiane represents the national postal service. Post offices, identified by yellow signs, handle letters and packages. They also extend banking plus payment methods services.
Italian serves as the official language. English finds common use in tourist areas and major establishments. Smaller shops or areas in the suburbs may have less English spoken. Google Translate (with offline features) is a valuable tool. Learning some basic Italian phrases through a platform like Rosetta Stone will enrich your interactions.
Efforts to speak Italian are consistently met with appreciation.
An afternoon break, "riposo," is common for many small shops, a tradition to note during your daily planning.
Navigate Rome's social landscape assuredly.
Always use "Buongiorno" or "Buonasera" upon entering shops or addressing people. "Ciao" is for close acquaintances or younger individuals. A handshake is a common formal greeting.
Cover shoulders and knees in churches and the Vatican; this rule is strict. Smart casual dress for dinner is fitting, as Romans often dress nicely for evenings out. Avoid overly casual clothing in public.
Await seating in restaurants. Meals are unhurried. Keep elbows off the table. Cutting pasta with a knife is not customary. Tipping is not mandatory; round up the bill or leave a few Euros for good service.
Photographing public spaces and landmarks is generally fine. Always request permission before photographing individuals, especially children. No flash photography is acceptable in museums, churches, or sensitive historical sites. Some locations may prohibit photography entirely.
Avoid conversations on politics, the mafia, or religion with strangers. Refrain from overly loud speaking or behavior, especially in public or residential areas. Romans appreciate efforts to communicate speaking Italian. Italy is generally welcoming to LGBTQ+ individuals, with civil unions recognized.
With planning, Rome can be navigated by all. Advance research into specific sites' accessibility is prudent.
Journey with care, safeguarding Rome's environment and culture.
Regional parks, such as Parco Regionale dell'Appia Antica, surround Rome. These initiatives protect nature and history. Rome employs differentiated waste collection; sort your waste into plastic/metal, paper, glass, and organic bins. Water conservation is significant; refill bottles from public drinking fountains ("Nasoni") to reduce plastic use. Offset your carbon footprint with Terrapass or by using public transport, walking, and cycling. Look for accommodations like Ecobnb which feature sustainability certifications.
Respect ancient sites; do not touch, climb, or damage historical structures. Observe all rules and signage. Report any vandalism you see. Your reverence defends these treasures. Use basic Italian phrases. Dress modestly in holy sites, speak quietly, and silence your phone. Obtain permission before photographing people, for kids especially; avoid intrusive shots.
Support the local economy by selecting independent trattorias, artisan shops, and local markets over global chains. This directly benefits Roman residents. Seek "Made throughout Italy" products, especially from small, local artisans, confirming fair practices and traditional craftsmanship. Avoid purchasing counterfeit goods. Consider ethical tour operators such as G Adventures for your adventures.
Be wary of aggressive street vendors or individuals offering unsolicited "help" near attractions or transport hubs, as they may be running scams. For charitable donations, contribute to reputable local charities working on social or environmental issues, rather than individuals. Products from Package Free Shop promote responsible consumption.
Every small action, from recycling to supporting local artisans, adds to Rome's future health and authenticity.
Craft your perfect Rome journey with these tailored plans.
Maximize shorter visits to Rome's iconic sights. Prioritize efficiency with public transport or taxis between areas.
Longer stays permit dives into local life, niche museums, and regional day trips. Integrate cooking lessons or food tours.
Tailor your visit to your specific passions, from historic times history to culinary delights.
Additional themes for crafting an unique Roman adventure.
Travel smart with strategies for every budget.
Hostels, street/market food, public transport with passes, free attractions. Consider a Roma Pass for select paid entries.
Explore ActivitiesB&Bs, local trattorias, balance paid/free sites, public transport with occasional taxis.
Find Local Tours5-star hotels, fine dining, private tours/transfers, exclusive experiences.
Premium ExperiencesRome accommodates all budgets. Strategic planning can maximize value, regardless of your spending level.
