25 Apr Do’s and Don’ts in the Eternal City: A Guide for Roman Holidaymakers

Rome, the “Eternal City,” beckons travelers with its rich history, awe-inspiring architecture, and vibrant culture. But navigating a new city, especially one steeped in tradition, can be daunting. Fear not, intrepid explorers! This guide will equip you with the essential “Do’s and Don’ts” to ensure a smooth, respectful, and truly unforgettable Roman adventure.

Do:

• Embrace the Walking Culture: The best way to experience Rome’s charm is on foot. Stroll along cobbled streets, wander through hidden piazzas, and stumble upon unexpected gems. Comfortable walking shoes are a must!
• Explore Beyond the Colosseum: While the Colosseum is a must-see, Rome offers a treasure trove of historical sites. Visit the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill to delve into the city’s ancient past, or marvel at the breathtaking Pantheon.
• Vatican City: Step into a sovereign state within Rome – Vatican City. St. Peter’s Square and Basilica are architectural marvels, and the Vatican Museums house priceless works of art, including Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel.
• Indulge in Gelato: It’s practically a crime to visit Italy and not savor its legendary gelato. Skip the tourist traps and seek out local gelaterias for authentic flavors and creamy perfection.
• Sample the Local Cuisine: Roman cuisine goes beyond pizza (though you should definitely try that too!). Sample pasta dishes like cacio e pepe (cheese and pepper) or all’amatriciana (tomato sauce with guanciale, a cured pork cheek). Don’t forget to try supplì, delicious fried rice balls filled with mozzarella cheese and tomato sauce.
• Learn a Few Italian Phrases: While English is spoken in tourist areas, a few basic Italian phrases like “Buongiorno” (good morning), “Grazie” (thank you), and “Scusi” (excuse me) go a long way in showing respect and appreciation to the locals.
• Carry Cash: While credit cards are widely accepted, smaller shops and restaurants might prefer cash. Having some euros on hand ensures a smooth experience.
• Book Tickets in Advance: Popular attractions like the Colosseum and Vatican Museums can have long lines. Booking tickets online or purchasing them in advance saves you precious vacation time.
• Enjoy the Aperitivo: Embrace the Italian tradition of aperitivo, a pre-dinner drink and snack ritual. Many bars offer an “aperitivo hour” with discounted drinks and a complimentary buffet of light bites. It’s a fantastic way to relax and socialize.
• Savor the Slow Pace: Romans take pride in their relaxed way of life. Don’t be in a rush. Enjoy leisurely meals, linger in charming cafes, and soak in the city’s atmosphere.
• Catch a Free Concert: Throughout the summer, Rome hosts numerous free outdoor concerts, particularly in piazzas. Pack a picnic, grab a spot on the grass, and soak in the atmosphere.
• Take a Day Trip: Explore the surrounding region! Castel Gandolfo, the Pope’s summer residence, offers stunning lake views. Or, take a train to Pompeii or Herculaneum for a glimpse into the past with these fascinating ancient Roman cities.
• Learn about Local Customs: Research local customs to avoid any faux pas. For example, shaking hands is a common greeting, and pointing with your index finger is considered rude.

Don’t:

• Eat Near Major Tourist Attractions: Restaurants near popular landmarks often cater to tourists and can be overpriced. Venture deeper into neighborhoods for more authentic Roman meals at better prices.
• Forget to Dress Modestly When Visiting Churches: When entering churches and religious sites, dress modestly. This means covering your shoulders and knees. A scarf or light jacket can be handy to have on hand.
• Be Afraid to Haggle: In some markets and flea markets, haggling over prices is expected. Do your research beforehand to have a baseline idea of fair prices, and be prepared to have some fun with the negotiation.
• Fall Victim to Tourist Scams: While Rome is generally safe, be aware of petty scams. Avoid street vendors being overly pushy, watch your belongings in crowded areas, and be wary of anyone offering unsolicited “help” with directions or attractions.
• Litter: Respect the city by keeping it clean. Use designated trash bins and avoid littering.
• Speak Too Loudly: Italians tend to speak at a lower volume than some cultures. Be mindful of your noise level, especially in restaurants and churches.
• Forget to Validate Your Metro Ticket: Rome’s metro system is efficient and affordable. Remember to validate your ticket before entering the station to avoid fines.
• Skip the Tipping: While tipping isn’t mandatory in Italy, leaving a small tip (around 10%) at restaurants shows appreciation for good service.
• Forget Sun Protection: Rome’s sunshine can be strong, especially during the summer months. Apply sunscreen liberally and wear a hat to avoid sunburn.
• Skip the Siesta: Many shops and businesses close for a midday siesta, typically between 1pm and 4pm. Plan your exploration accordingly or use this time to enjoy a leisurely lunch.

By following these Do’s and Don’ts, you’ll have a fantastic and culturally enriching Roman adventure. Remember, the key is to be respectful, embrace the local way of life, and most importantly, have fun! Buon viaggio! (Have a good trip!)