We’re the first to admit that while wonderful, Rome isn’t the easiest city in the world to explore… Luckily it’s one of the safer cities to visit in Europe. That said, it’s always good to be prepared, whether it’s your first visit or your fifteenth – so here are tips and advice from the locals about things to watch out for.
How to Eat Gluten Free in Rome
Many people who can’t tolerate gluten fear they’ll be excluded from the culinary delights of Italy. Thankfully, this is not true – there are plenty of gluten-free restaurants in Rome for you to enjoy. There’s no reason to be deprived: even if you can’t eat gluten-containing products in Rome, you can, in fact, have it all.
How to not get pickpocketed
What to look out for, and seven tips on how to avoid being a victim.
Sites in Rome under construction for the Jubilee
Some – but not all – sites in Rome are under restoration. Here’s a list of which ones, and when the work is expected to be finished.
How much cash to bring with you to Italy
A lot of people get antsy about bringing a lot of cash with them when they visit a new country. We explain what to carry and how to get local currency.
What is the dress code in Rome?
In this article we explain where in Rome there are strictly enforced dress codes, and also provide advice about what not to wear.
How to avoid being ripped off at a tourist trap restaurant in Italy
Tourist traps charge high prices for poor food. In the short time you have in Rome, you don’t want to eat badly. Learn how to avoid wasting money in the traps, and eat like a local.
How to get English-speaking medical treatment in Rome
Romans take their health very seriously and there is a host of world-class medical treatment available in the city, from life-saving intervention to simple advice.
Where’s the bathroom in Rome?
There are very few public bathrooms in Rome. Here are some shortcuts for when you’re caught short.
How to get a Covid test in Rome with English language certificate – 2025 update
How to get tested for Covid-19, and how to get a Covid-19 test certificate in English for international travel.
How to avoid the African bracelet scam
There’s a peculiar but annoying scam practised in Rome that provides a cheap African bracelet to the ‘victim’, and then intimidation into parting with money. Here’show locals avoid it.
Can I splash in the fountains in Rome?
Tempting as they look, most fountains in Rome are priceless works of art, and local attitudes match this. Learn the dos and don’ts here.
What’s with all the trash in Rome?
The most beautiful city on earth has an unfortunate truth: surrounding its mind-blowing beauty, Rome is utterly filthy.
12 reasons you shouldn’t drive a car in Rome
We explain why renting a car in Rome will not enhance your vacation – and why a rental car could become an expensive liability.
August 15th is Ferragosto, a national holiday, and many things in Rome are shut
Much of Rome is closed during August, and even more is shut on Ferragosto, August 15th, for a national holiday. But don’t panic: here’s what to do.
How do you use the bidet when on vacation in Rome?
Once you learn how to use the Italian bathroom furniture you will become friends with it for life, and be a much fresher person too.
The best time of day to visit the Colosseum
There is a layer of complexity around what time to plan your visit to the Colosseum. Here is a steer on the best time to see the monument.
Why do shopkeepers in Rome never seem to have any change?
In a country where many businesses are cash-only, the continual lack of small change is perplexing. We find out why.
What to do in Rome in an emergency
Hopefully, like millions before you, your trip to Rome will pass off without incident. In the unfortunate event of an emergency, however, here are some contacts that may prove vital.
How to cross the street in Rome (and live to tell the tale!)
Walking across the street in Rome can seem intimidating. Rome Vacation Tips shows you how to do it in safety.
Special rules for visiting the Vatican during the coronavirus pandemic
Here are the new rules and restrictions around visiting the Vatican Museums to keep you safe.
Avoid common problems with Rome’s public transport
Rome’s public transportation system is comprehensive and usually pretty convenient. There are, though, a few things you should be aware of when getting around the city. Here we tell you how to avoid some of the problems.
