Wow!! What can I say? Rome is a city where ancient ruins blend with lively piazzas, and gelato breaks are part of the adventure. My trip to the Eternal City was a magical dream destination I finally visited after years on my travel list. I dove into history, shopped, and stayed at a charming Airbnb in the city center. Whether traveling solo, on a budget, or with a flexible plan, these 10 tips will help you plan a fun trip to Rome.
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1. Visit Rome in spring or autumn.
Timing is everything when it comes to Rome. The sweet spots are April to June and September to October when the weather is mild, and the crowds are thinner. You’ll enjoy shorter lines, picturesque sunsets, and pleasant walking weather.
2. Start early for major attractions.
Iconic landmarks like the Colosseum and Vatican City get busy fast. I didn’t know this, and I ended up unable to see the Vatican as the line was long; I arrived there at around 11 am. Plan to visit early or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy the calm, golden light.
3. Stay in the heart of the city.
I stayed at an Airbnb near the Colosseum; it was the best decision ever. It felt like having my Roman apartment! For those who prefer hotels, Trip.com or Expedia offer plenty of options for every budget. Staying central means less time commuting and more time exploring.
4. Don’t skip the must-see spots.
• The Colosseum: Take a guided tour to learn fascinating stories about gladiators.
• Vatican City: The Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica are jaw-dropping. I can’t wait to see them next time in Rome.
• Trevi Fountain: Toss a coin to ensure your return to Rome—especially magical at night.
• Pantheon: A masterpiece of ancient architecture and free to visit!
5. Explore beyond the tourist areas.
Rome’s famous landmarks are a must-see. Trastevere is a peaceful escape. It has cobblestone streets, cosy cafés, and unique leather shops.
6. Budget like a professional.
Rome can cater to luxury travelers and budget adventurers alike.
• Splurge: Rooftop dinners or fancy restaurants. My two favorites were Osteria La Segreta (first picture) and Zuma (second picture). They both had delicious dishes. You can also go on private tours and designer shopping on Via Condotti. If you know you tend to buy expensive things without planning (like me), stay away from this street. Otherwise, you will end up splurging like I did, hahaha!
• Save: Street food (try suppli and pizza al taglio), free walking tours, and public transport.
Pro Tip: Buy the Roma Pass. It gives free transport and discounts on attractions.
7. Dress in a way that is both stylish and comfortable.
Rome is a fashionable city, but you will also be walking a lot. I lived in:
Loose pants and summer tops during the day.
Churches like St. Peter’s Basilica need modest clothing (covering shoulders and knees). So, pack a light scarf. It will be a stylish accessory!
Want to steal my look? Shop here:
• Day Look
8. Stay hydrated and refuel often.
Rome’s public fountains (nasoni) offer free, clean drinking water. Bring a reusable bottle and hydrate while walking between sights. Don’t forget to grab gelato; it’s an essential part of sightseeing! I must say, the gelatos I had were among the best I’ve ever tasted!
9. Plan for Unmissable Food Experiences
Indulge in Roman classics like cacio e pepe and carbonara at family-run trattorias. If you’re short on time, grab supplì (fried rice balls) for a quick and delicious snack.
10. Embrace the Roman Pace
Rome is a city meant for savoring. Stroll through the piazzas. Linger over an espresso. Soak in the atmosphere. It’s not about what you see, but how you experience it.
Rome isn’t a destination—it’s an adventure waiting to happen. From exploring ancient ruins to shopping and tossing coins in the fountains, every moment in Rome becomes a memory. Ready to plan your trip? Start now by finding deals on flights and stays through Trip.com or Expedia.
Let me know in the comments: What’s the first thing you’d do in Rome?
NB: Save these two guides below for later on Pinterest!
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