How should I prepare for a trip to Rome?
Last Updated on January 14, 2026
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.
We have not visited anywhere else in the entire world that has provided such a raw, emotional response and feeling of awe than walking the streets of Rome. The city is a mix of beautifully preserved historic sites spanning thousands of years along with rich art and culture. You’ll also find amazing shopping, markets, music and of course food!!
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.
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.
The European Union EU Entry/Exit System (EES)
The new digital European Union (EU) Entry/Exit System (EES) has started registering all non-EU nationals travelling in or out of the Schengen area.
European countries using the EES will gradually introduce the system at their external borders. Data collection will be gradually introduced at border crossing points with full implementation by 10 April 2026.
When you enter the Schengen area on your first visit to Europe after the EES is introduced, you will be required to:
- have your fingerprints and photo taken
- answer Schengen Border Code questions.
This will create a digital record that registers your biometric details.
If you revisit the Schengen area within 3 years of creating your digital record, you’ll only need to provide your fingerprint and/or photograph at the border on entry and exit.
You do not need to do anything before arriving at the border.
The EES registration is free.
The EU has received reports of fraudulent websites misleading travellers, claiming they must register and pay fees before traveling to the EU/Schengen area. This information is false.
The registration process should only take a few minutes, but when the system starts, you may experience longer border queues.
If you frequently travel to the Schengen area for work and/or leisure, ensure your total stay is no more than 90 days in every 180 days. This period is calculated as a single period for all the European countries using the EES. It is attached to you as a person, rather than to your passport. This means that even if you enter the Schengen area using a different passport, you will still be restricted to the same 90 days in every 180 days.
If you stay longer than permitted, you will be considered an ‘overstayer’.
If you overstay the period allowed in the European countries using the EES, the system will identify you and record this information. This may result in you being detained or removed from the country, a fine or prevent you from returning to the EU in the future. It is up to each country to decided how they’ll manage overstays.
From sometime in 2026, travelers from visa waiver countries, will need to fill out an ETIAS application.
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 with at least 6 months validity 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.
Have some good Footwear
One thing that is guaranteed during your trip to Rome. You will WALK, WALK and WALK some more. From the Trevi Fountain, to the Pantheon, back to the Spanish Steps and up and over to the Colosseum you will be carried away with exploring this magical city and your feet will thank you for looking after them. Good joggers are recommended however remember that the cobble stone streets of Rome can be uneven so consider ankle support if there are any concerns about being steady on your feet!
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.
You may also like: 5 Must-Visit Attractions in Rome
What to visit in Rome
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Rome is brimming with exciting tourist attractions for you to see. These include:
● The Colosseum. 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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