Rome is one of Europe’s most beautiful cities. It is also one of Europe’s most popular travel destinations. Each year, millions of people from around the globe visit the city, some for the architecture and history, and others for the city’s lively nightlife.
If you are visiting Rome for the first time, then you’re in for a treat. However, there are some things that you should know before visiting, which can make your trip there much more enjoyable.
This article will tell you about six useful things that you should know when visiting Rome:
Accommodation
Because of Rome’s popularity, it is very expensive to stay in. Some seasons are more expensive than others. With that said, there are a few effective ways of finding cheap accommodation in Rome, no matter when you decide to visit. Without a doubt, the cheapest way of staying in Rome is to stay in hostels. Many hostels in the city will give you a private room, though most will expect you to stay with other people. If you travel during the city’s offseason, then you should be able to get a room to yourself. Another way of getting your own room is to travel in a big group.
If you don’t want to stay in a hostel, then another way to reduce accommodation costs is to stay in a hotel that’s located on the city’s outskirts or even out in the country. Rome has a pretty good metro system, so commuting in and out shouldn’t be a problem.
Eating
When you attend Rome’s many cafés and restaurants, you might be tempted to sit outdoors, so that you can watch people come and go, listen to the city’s sounds, and view its beautiful architecture. You may be surprised to learn, however, that many of the city’s eateries and cafés actually charge you extra to sit outdoors. If you aren’t proficient in Italian, then you won’t be able to read your receipt and tell this when it comes. It’s significantly cheaper to sit indoors, so if you are trying to save money, do just that.
Transport
It might be tempting to catch a cab everywhere you go. In many other Western nations, this is the best way of getting around. However, Rome has a very efficient train and bus system, as already mentioned. Instead of spending a fortune on cabs, hop on the city’s underground train system or alternatively catch a bus. Not only will you save money, but you will actually get around a lot faster. Rome has a lot of traffic. Trains don’t have to worry about navigating built-up streets and getting through traffic, however.
History
Rome’s not called the Eternal City for no reason. The city has astonishing history, going all the way back to, as you might expect, the Roman Empire. Many of Rome’s ancient sites are still standing to this day, from the colosseum to the Arch of Constantine. If you are in Rome, then why not go and see these sites? Lots of people, surprisingly, go to the city just to party, eat and drink. The city’s historical sites can be seen in a day or two, so there’s really no excuse for not going to see them when you are there.
Religion
Rome also has a lot of religious history. The Vatican is open to tourists, regardless of their religious persuasion. Everywhere is open, except for living quarters, offices, and administrative areas. The Vatican is somewhere that everybody has to go at least once in their lives, it’s amazing. The architecture is amazing, the history incredible, and the art beautiful. St. Peter’s Basilica is free to enter, but the Vatican Museum, which includes the Sistine Chapel, is not. You will need to buy your tickets in advance. They sell out very fast, so it’s important to book them a few weeks or months before you travel.
Shopping
Rome has lots of beautiful artisan boutiques and shops for you to visit. It also has many mainstream fashion shops, like Gucci and Prada. You could also consider visiting one of the city’s lesser-known shops, like Gammarelli, the personal tailor to the Pope. Some of the world’s finest socks are produced by Gammarelli and can be purchased directly from their shop just outside of the Vatican. The Catholic Church’s many bishops and cardinals also shop there, so you could run into the future pope on your shopping trip!
Rome is a city that never gets tiresome. There’s always something new to discover, be it a museum, gallery, or restaurant. If you’re visiting Rome this year, then make sure that you do your research beforehand so that you make the most out of your trip.
