When people speak about trips to Italy, they often mention the capital city of Rome as being a key attraction. This is because it includes things like the Vatican, the Colosseum and Palatine Hill. If you’re planning to visit Rome, here are a few things you need to know before you go.
Book Your Excursions Upfront
When you book these in advance, you’re able to save both money and time. You can be sure that you’ll get a spot, and at a lower price. You’ll avoid being turned away or wasting precious time in long queues. It’ll also be easier to arrange your itinerary beforehand, to make sure you see and do all that you want in Rome. You can book these types of tours online or through a travel agency.
Some things to keep in mind are: what’s included in the price, how long the tour will last, what type of transportation is provided, and if there are any age restrictions. The people who choose to buy Roma pass do it to enjoy exclusive access and discounts, and additional benefits such as audio guides. Specialist websites can explain how the pass works and where you can buy it, as well as feature client reviews and FAQs.
Take Advantage of Free Attractions
There are many attractions in Rome that are free to the public, which is ideal for those with limited budgets. They include some of the most popular places, such as the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, and St. Peter’s Basilica. By taking advantage of these free attractions, you can save a lot of money while still getting to see some of the most amazing sights that Rome has to offer.
To make the most out of these visits, it’s recommended that you arrive early. This will help you avoid the crowds and lines that form later in the day. Additionally, be sure to dress appropriately for each attraction. For example, modest clothing is required when visiting the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica.
Plan Your Meals in Advance
This way, you can budget for each meal and know exactly where you’ll be eating. Additionally, by planning your meals ahead of time, you can be sure to try all of the traditional foods that Rome has to offer. They include:
Pizza
Spaghetti alla Carbonara
Pinsa
Supplì
Gelato
Tiramisù
If you’re not sure where to start your search for the best restaurants in Rome, try looking online for food bloggers who live in or have visited the city. They’ll be able to give you some great recommendations. Some superb places to eat in Rome include Trattoria da Danilo, Pizzeria da Baffetto, and Ristorante Pierluigi. These restaurants are affordable and serve delicious food. If you’re looking for something a bit more luxurious, there are also many Michelin-starred restaurants in Rome.
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Use Public Transportation
Rome has an excellent public transportation system that can help you get around the city without having to use a car. The subway, buses, and trams are all efficient ways to travel around this great city. By using public transportation, you can avoid getting stuck in traffic and experiencing delays.
If you plan on regularly using this during your trip, it’s recommended that you purchase a Roma pass (as discussed earlier). This provides unlimited travel on all of Rome’s public transportation for either 2 or 3 days.
Learn A Few Basic Phrases In Italian
Visiting a foreign country can be daunting, especially if you don’t know the local language. Even if you only know a few basic phrases in Italian, it can go a long way in making your trip to Rome more enjoyable. Some of the benefits include:
Being able to communicate basic needs such as food and drink, directions, and transportation
Feeling more confident and comfortable when traveling in Rome
Making a good impression on locals and showing them that you’re interested in their culture
Avoiding misunderstandings and potential problems
Here are a few key Italian phrases that will come in handy during your trip to Rome:
Buongiorno (good morning)
Buona sera (good evening)
Grazie (thank you)
Per favore (please)
Scusi (excuse me/sorry)
Parla inglese? (Do you speak English?)
Non parlo Italiano. (I don’t speak Italian)
Dove si trova…? (Where is…?)
Mi dispiace. (I’m sorry)
If you take these things into consideration before your next trip to Rome, you’ll be well-prepared. You’ll feel better organized and more able to communicate and know what to see and do. In turn, you’ll make the best of your trip and enjoy all that Rome has to offer.
