Travel for Food Hub The Food Blog for Travel Lovers
Last Updated on June 26, 2023
Located on a peninsula in southern Europe, Italy is home to some of the most visited cities around the world, including Florence, Venice, Milan, and Rome. Rome is the capital of Italy and the third most populous city in the entire of Europe.
As the former head of the Roman Empire, Rome is full of history and ancient ruins for you to visit while traveling the city. And as well as history, you’ll also find art, culture, shopping, and gelato!
The legend goes that Rome was founded by two brothers; Romulus and Remus, on the banks of the river Tiber and across seven hills. Though the city that stands today is much different than the one that was founded all those years ago, you’ll have plenty to do on a trip to Rome.
Before you go, you may want to find a way to prepare. Well, we’ve taken a look at the best ways you can prepare for a trip to Rome and have listed them here. Check out all you need to know for a trip to Rome below.
Things you will need to be able to travel to Rome
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Before heading out to Rome, you’re going to need to sort out a few travel documents for entry into Italy. Firstly, you will need travel authorization for Italy which differs depending upon the country you are a citizen of. Note: Visitors from other EU countries may not need any kind of authorization but it is always best to check.
For travelers from visa waiver countries, you will need to fill out an ETIAS application. The ETIAS application form questions are easy and quick to complete and this kind of travel authorization will allow you to move through the entire Schengen Zone for up to 90 days in a 180 day period.
If you are not from a visa waiver country, you will likely need to apply for a Schengen Visa. There are a few options for this kind of visa and you will need to decide which suits your kind of travel best.
Other documents you will need to travel include a valid passport or ID card, evidence of return journey or onward travel, and evidence of funds enough for your trip.
Top tips for visiting Rome
If you’re traveling to Rome for the first time, you will notice there are some cultural differences to your home country, and as with any new country, it is best to be prepared ahead of time. Below are a few top tips we have gathered for traveling to Rome.
Learn a few phrases in Italian
It is customary to greet shop owners as you enter their shop and so learning a few easy Italian phrases may help you to get better service! You could carry a phrasebook with you to ensure you don’t get stuck when trying to converse.
Buy bus tickets in advance
Bus tickets in Rome are great. They usually cover you for travel on any kind of public transport and you can find tickets, like the Roma Pass, which get you on public transport as well as into museums! However, you will need to buy your tickets before getting onto the bus as unlike in many other cities, you can’t buy them from the driver.
Carry cash safely
Rome still operates mostly on cash, though things could be changing due to the pandemic, meaning having cash on your person is a necessity. Remember to carry cash safely and have a spare stash somewhere just in case the worst happens!
Mondays are rest days
With the busyness of the weekend, you will find that many restaurants and museums will close their doors on a Monday. Factor this into your plans so that you don’t miss out.
Dress modestly in churches
There are tonnes of churches for you to visit in Rome but it is worth noting that it is expected you dress modestly when touring. This means women should avoid shorts and should ensure their shoulders are covered.
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What to visit in Rome
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Rome is brimming with exciting tourist attractions for you to see. These include:
● The Colesseum. The largest amphitheater in the Roman world, this famous building is incredibly popular so be prepared to wait in line!
● Trevi Fountain. A famous image from a trip to Rome, the Trevi Fountain is another popular tourist spot. Be sure to have some coins to make a wish!
● The Pantheon. One of the very rare free attractions, The Pantheon is very well-preserved and deserves a stop. You can see the tomb of Raphael as well as the oculus that gives this building its interesting light.
You may also like: How To Eat Like A Local In Rome – Infographic
Preparing for a trip to Rome
A trip to Rome will have you immersed in ancient history one minute and then captivated by incredible food and gelato the next. Being prepared for a trip to this fantastic city will help things to run more smoothly and will ensure you don’t miss out. Be sure to make a plan before you go and check out our tips for visiting so you’re ready when you land.
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