With over 2,500 years of history, Rome is a treasure trove of ancient wonders, delicious cuisine, and vibrant culture, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler. Whether you're here for a weekend or a quick stopover, these tips will help you make the most of your first visit to the Eternal City.
Rome is served by two main airports: Fiumicino (FCO) and Ciampino (CIA). Fiumicino is larger and handles most international flights. From Fiumicino, take the Leonardo Express train to Termini Station; it costs €14 (around $15.50) and the journey takes about 30 minutes. If you're flying into Ciampino, the bus service to Termini costs about €6 (approximately $6.50) and takes about 40 minutes.
Once in the city, the best way to get around is via public transport. The ATAC system covers buses, trams, and the metro. A single ticket costs €1.50 ($1.60) and is valid for 100 minutes across all forms of transit. Be mindful of the bus and metro schedules, especially on weekends when services may be reduced. For extensive travel, consider a 24-hour pass for €7 (€6.50 for kids), which offers unlimited travel on all public transport.
For first-time visitors, staying in the historic center is ideal. Look for accommodations in the Trastevere neighborhood, known for its charming cobblestone streets and great dining options. The Hotel Santa Maria in Trastevere offers cozy rooms at around €180 ($195) per night, including breakfast, and is conveniently located near the bus stop connecting to major attractions.
If you prefer a more upscale experience, the Kolbe Hotel Rome in the Palatine Hill area offers stunning views and modern amenities starting at about €250 ($270) per night. For a budget-friendly option, consider the Generator Rome hostel, where dormitory beds start at €25 ($27) a night, providing a friendly atmosphere and communal spaces.
No visit to Rome is complete without indulging in its culinary delights. Start your day with a cappuccino and cornetto (Italian croissant) at Bar Sant’Eustachio, renowned for its coffee, located near the Pantheon. A cappuccino here costs around €1.50 ($1.60). For lunch, head to Pizzeria ai Marmi in Trastevere, where a Margherita pizza will set you back about €8 ($8.70) and is considered one of the best in the city.
For dinner, treat yourself to traditional Roman dishes at Trattoria Da Enzo al 29, where you can savor cacio e pepe (pasta with cheese and pepper) for about €12 ($13) or the famous saltimbocca for €14 ($15). Don’t skip dessert; try the gelato at Giolitti, one of the oldest gelato shops, where a cone starts at €2 ($2.20).
To navigate Rome efficiently, keep these practical tips in mind:
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Leonardo Express Train | €14 ($15.50) | From Fiumicino to Termini Station |
| Bus from Ciampino to Termini | €6 ($6.50) | Direct service takes about 40 minutes |
| Single bus/metro ticket | €1.50 ($1.60) | Valid for 100 minutes on all ATAC transport |
| Hotel Santa Maria (Trastevere) | €180 ($195) | Cozy and centrally located |
| Margherita Pizza (Pizzeria ai Marmi) | €8 ($8.70) | Highly recommended local pizzeria |
| Skip-the-line Colosseum Ticket | €24 ($26) | Pre-booking essential to avoid queues |
| Gelato at Giolitti | €2 ($2.20) | Try their classic flavors |
Use this rough planner to sanity-check the total trip cost before you lock flights, hotels or activities.
Spring (April to June) and early fall (September to October) are ideal for visiting Rome, with pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to the summer peak season. During these months, you can enjoy outdoor attractions comfortably, and many festivals occur throughout the city.
Tipping is not mandatory in Rome, but it is appreciated. Most restaurants include a service charge (coperto) of about €2-€3 ($2.20-$3.30) per person, but you can add an extra euro or two for good service. For cafes or gelato shops, rounding up the bill is common.
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