Rome City Guide: Must‑Sees, Itineraries & Hidden Gems

The cradle of antiquity and playground of the Renaissance's greatest masters, Rome is a true open-air museum where history waits around every corner.
The Italian capital is also home to the heart of Catholicism and the world's smallest state: the Vatican.

Whether you have planned a 24-hour layover, 2 packed days or an extended weekend, Rome offers countless ways to explore its history, heritage, and iconic neighborhoods.

To help you plan your trip to Rome, discover our practical tips, itinerary ideas tailored to the length of your stay, and our top recommendations to make the most of your time and uncover all the secrets of the Eternal City.

Written by S.Castlemilk
Date: 09.24.2026

Table of Contents:

• 🚋 Getting Around Rome
• 🏨 Where to Stay in Rome
• 📅 What to Do in Rome in 1, 2, or 3 Days
• 🍝 Where to Eat in Rome
• 👪 Rome with Kids
• 🧭 Off the Beaten Path in Rome
• 💶 Free Things to Do in Rome
• 🗺️ What to See Around Rome
• 📋 Planning Your Trip to Rome
• ❓ FAQ: Visiting Rome

Getting Around Rome: Transportation, Airports, and Practical Tips

Rome is easy to explore on foot, but a few key pointers will help you save time. Airports, transportation options, tickets, and insider tips — here's everything you need to get around the Italian capital.

How Do You Get from Rome's Airports to the City Center?

Rome has two main airports:

• Fiumicino – Leonardo da Vinci (FCO), Rome's primary airport (about 30 km (19 miles) west of the city center)
• Ciampino – Giovan Battista Pastine (CIA), served mainly by low-cost carriers (about 15 km (9 miles) southeast of Rome).

Both airports are connected to the city center by public transit, shuttles, and taxis, but the options vary depending on which airport you're using.

📌 Good to know: the regional train from Fiumicino.
If your accommodation is in Trastevere, Ostiense, or Tiburtina, the regional train FL1 may be more convenient than heading to Termini. It serves several Rome stations and connects directly to Trastevere and Ostiense from Fiumicino. Tickets cost €8.

1. The shuttle: an affordable way to get into Rome

Shuttles connect both airports to Roma Termini, Rome's main train station.

• From €6 one way
• Regular departures
• Approximately 40 minutes travel time
• Several companies serve both airports, including Terravision and SIT Bus Shuttle

📌Note: for Fiumicino, the train is also a very convenient option. The Leonardo Express runs directly to Termini (about 32 minutes).

2. Taxis: what are the fares from Fiumicino and Ciampino?

Official city of Rome taxis* charge a flat rate to the center of Rome, subject to certain conditions.

• €55 from Fiumicino
• €40 from Ciampino
• Fixed fare for the journey, covering up to four passengers and their luggage

* These fares (valid in 2026) apply to official taxis licensed by the city of Rome. Check the vehicle before getting in.

⚠️IMPORTANT! How do you recognize an official taxi in Rome?

• White vehicle
• "TAXI" sign on the roof
• City of Rome emblem on the doors
• License number clearly displayed

3. Rideshares: can you use Uber in Rome?

Yes, Uber operates in Rome, but the standard low-cost option (UberX) is banned there. The app only offers two options:

• Uber Black / Van / Lux: Premium vehicles driven by NCC (Noleggio con Conducente) licensed chauffeurs. Fares are shown upfront but run higher than a standard taxi.
• Uber Taxi: For booking an official white taxi directly through the app.

💡 Our tip: To book a Rome taxi at the official rate (metered or airport flat fare), use these local apps instead:

• FREENOW: The easiest option for travelers to use.
• itTaxi: The official app of Italy's licensed taxi network.

What are the best ways to get around Rome?

Rome's historic center is fairly compact and easy to explore on foot. For longer journeys, the metro and bus lines will be your best allies.

• On foot: the best way to explore the historic center
  Walking is often the most enjoyable way to move from one landmark to the next and discover the streets of Rome.
  
• Metro: fast access to the main tourist sites
  The network has three lines. It is less extensive than in other major European capitals, but it connects several neighborhoods and key attractions.
  
• Bus and tram: a wider network
  Many bus lines serve Rome. That said, schedules can be irregular and some buses get very crowded. The tram complements the network but covers little of the historic center.

👉 For routes, schedules, and maps, visit the official Rome public transit website, ATAC.

💡 Local tip: Rent a Vespa to get around Rome and experience the Eternal City in a whole new way. The iconic "little wasp" even celebrated its 80th anniversary in style in 2026! And if you're a James Bond fan, you can always picture yourself cruising along the Tiber in an Aston Martin DB10 — just don't tell Q.

How to pay for public transit in Rome and money-saving tips

• Contactless payment (Tap & Go): a convenient option for short stays.
• Single-ride ticket (Biglietto Integrato, BIT): €1.50, valid for 100 minutes.

💡 Money-saving tip: For a 48- or 72-hour stay, the Roma Pass can be a great option. It includes urban public transit and offers perks at select museums, sites, and attractions.
Note: connections to Fiumicino Airport are not included, though some bus routes to Ciampino may be covered.

Where to stay in Rome: the best neighborhoods for tourists

Rome is a large city, and your choice of neighborhood can truly shape your experience. Here are the areas to consider based on your budget and travel style.

Where to stay in Rome: the safest neighborhoods

• Centro Storico: the best choice for a first visit
  Ideal for exploring Rome's main sites on foot and soaking up the atmosphere of the city center in the evening.
  
• Prati, Monti, and Trastevere: three popular alternatives
  Prati is quiet, upscale, and family-friendly.
  Monti draws visitors with its trendy, lively vibe.
  Trastevere offers a charming, laid-back setting with plenty of restaurants and bars.
  
• Ostiense and Appio Latino: more budget-friendly options
  These neighborhoods are farther from the center but still well connected by public transit.
  Ostiense is lively and hip, while Appio Latino is more family-oriented and residential.

💡 Backpacker tip: religious guesthouses, such as Casa Il Rosario or Trinità dei Monti, can be a unique way to stay in Rome. They often offer simple, comfortable rooms — sometimes with a private bathroom — in central neighborhoods.

Hotels, rentals, Airbnb — which areas should you avoid in Rome?

• Around Termini Station: the Esquilino neighborhood is convenient for transit, but less appealing as a base for your hotel, especially at night.
  
• Some outlying neighborhoods: Tor Bella Monaca, San Basilio, and parts of EUR (Esposizione Universale di Roma) are less suited to a first stay in Rome.
  
• San Lorenzo: this student neighborhood is lively and welcoming, though the atmosphere can get rowdier (and louder!) in the evenings.

💡 Did you know? The Corviale, in the southwest of Rome, is one of the longest residential buildings in the world. It stretches nearly 1 km (about 0.6 miles) long and stands 9 stories tall. That said, it's best avoided by visitors who aren't familiar with the area.

Scams and tourist traps in Rome: how to avoid them

1. The friendship bracelet or rose scam

• The trap: A vendor ties a bracelet around your wrist or hands you a "free" rose, then aggressively demands payment.
  
• High-risk areas: Piazza Navona, the Spanish Steps, and the area around the Colosseum.
  
• The solution: Say a firm "No" without stopping. Keep your hands in your pockets if needed, and don't let anyone grab your arm.

2. Pickpockets and distraction theft

• The trap: Staged jostling or group distractions (sometimes involving very young children) designed to empty your pockets.
  
• High-risk areas: Metro Line A (Termini to the Vatican), Bus 64, and the area around the Trevi Fountain.
  
• Smart move: Wear your backpack on your front with the zippers facing you on public transportation and in crowds. Never keep valuables in your back pockets.

3. The paid photo with fake gladiators

• The trap: Costumed performers invite you to pose with them, then aggressively demand between €20 and €50 after the photo is taken.
  
• High-risk areas: Around the Colosseum and the Roman Forum.
  
• The solution: Avoid any contact (this street activity is actually banned by municipal order in Rome). If you really want a photo, negotiate and agree on a firm price before taking out your camera. Also avoid photographing them without permission, and always ask first.

4. Fake tickets and "skip-the-line" touts

• The trap: Street vendors offer discounted "skip-the-line" tickets that turn out to be expired, invalid, or reserved for residents.
  
• High-risk areas: Ticket lines at the Colosseum and the Vatican Museums.
  
• The right approach: Never buy tickets on the street. Only purchase through official websites (museivaticani.va, colosseo.it) or directly at the monument's ticket office.

5. Fake artists and mass-produced artwork

• The trap: Vendors sell "original watercolors" of Rome that are actually simple paper prints sold at inflated prices.
  
• High-risk areas: Piazza Navona and St. Peter's Square.
  
• Don't get fooled! Watch the painter at work for a few minutes and ask for their artistic Instagram account before buying anything.

📌 Safety reflex: If someone becomes aggressively insistent, simply say the word "Polizia" or move toward the nearest Polizia Locale officers, who are a visible presence at all major historic and tourist sites.

What to do in Rome in 1 day? 2 itineraries for 24 hours

"1 day? A lifetime!" You could spend an entire life exploring Rome, but 24 hours are enough to capture its essence. Its centro storico — compact and vibrant — brings together the must-sees and all the magic of the capital.

First visit? Follow our optimized itinerary to make sure you don't miss a thing. Been before? Discover a more hidden side of Rome. Plus, our golden rules for making the most of every minute on the ground.

Itinerary 1: Rome's Must-Sees in One Day

For a first visit, this route focuses on monuments and piazzas best admired from the outside, with one major attraction to choose based on your interests.

• St. Peter's Square and St. Peter's Basilica: start by taking in the square and the basilica from the outside.
  
• Castel Sant'Angelo: head to the castle next, either on foot or by metro via Line A.
  
• Piazza di Spagna: continue on to the famous square and its iconic steps.
  
• Trevi Fountain: make a wish by tossing a coin into the fountain.
  
• The Pantheon and Piazza Navona: keep strolling through the historic center.
  
• Campo dei Fiori: make a detour for a quick bite at a local forno.
  
• The Capitoline Hill and the Colosseum: wrap up your route by walking along the Roman Forum.
  
• Monti neighborhood: end the day with dinner in this more local, laid-back district.

📌 Good to know! The Trevi Fountain now charges an entry fee.
As of February 2, 2026, access to the Trevi Fountain basin costs €2 for tourists and non-residents, from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Of course, you can still admire the fountain for free from the piazza.

Itinerary 2: A Different Side of Rome, Between Piazza Navona and Campo dei Fiori

Already seen the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, and the Spanish Steps? Switch things up and take the time to explore these two iconic neighborhoods in the historic center:

• Piazza Navona and its surroundings: wander through the side streets and make your way to Via dei Coronari, known for its antique shops. Also worth a detour: the Torre dell'Orologio and the Chiostro del Bramante, celebrated for its architecture, exhibitions, and café.
  
• Campo dei Fiori: explore its famous market, then head over to Piazza Farnese and its palazzo. Don't miss the remarkable trompe-l'oeil in the courtyard of the Palazzo Spada, and for those who love offbeat spots, the underground ruins of San Paolo alla Regola.
  
• For dinner: end the day in an ancient Roman cellar at Ristorante Pancrazio, just steps from Campo dei Fiori.

The 5 Golden Rules for a Successful 24-Hour Visit to Rome

1. Start early with an espresso on a piazza and finish late with a Roma Spritz and a great view. You can rest another day!
   
2. Pick just one iconic site to visit — the Colosseum or St. Peter's Basilica, for example. Save the Vatican Museums for a longer stay: the Sistine Chapel is at the very end of a long series of rooms.
   
3. Mix walking and the metro to make the most of Rome's layout and save time on longer stretches.
   
4. Plan for just one proper sit-down meal, in the evening. The rest of the time, snack on local specialties: pizza al taglio, pizza bianca, pizza rossa… and why not a gelato along the way?
   
5. Plan your breaks around your itinerary. A public restroom map can come in handy for locating facilities along your route.

💡 Seasoned traveler tip: where to store your luggage? In transit, before check-in or after check-out, use a secure luggage storage service like Nanny Bag, Bounce, or Stow your Bags. Choose one along your route to avoid unnecessary detours.

What to Do in Rome in Two Days? The Perfect Weekend Itinerary

With 48 hours to spare, you can take your time exploring one or two major sites in depth, wander through some lesser-known neighborhoods, and of course enjoy the best of Roman cuisine! This itinerary blends must-see landmarks with more local discoveries.

💡 Pro tip: check what's happening in Rome during your stay. Festivals, concerts, markets, and exhibitions can easily be worked into your schedule. Browse the Rome Tourism Office events calendar, search #romeevents on social media, or ask locals for recommendations.

Day 1: Ancient Rome and Trastevere

• Morning: The Colosseum and Ancient Rome
  Start your day with the big must-sees: the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Palatine Hill. Allow plenty of time to explore this remarkable archaeological complex.
  Along the way, make a detour past the Circus Maximus and then head to the Bocca della Verità. Legend has it that it bites the hand of liars — go ahead and give it a try!
  
• Lunch: Roman Specialties in Trastevere
  Cross the Ponte Palatino to reach the "bohemian heart" of Rome: Trastevere. Dig into local favorites like supplì (crispy rice and mozzarella croquettes), a trapizzino (the Italian answer to a stuffed sandwich), or a porchetta roll.
  
• Afternoon: Strolling Through Trastevere
  Take your time getting lost in the vicoli — the neighborhood's charming narrow alleyways. Vintage shops, colorful facades, and quiet little piazzas give Trastevere a feel that's worlds apart from the major tourist sites.
  Don't miss Piazza di Santa Maria and its basilica, one of the oldest churches in Rome.
  
• Evening: Dinner on Isola Tiberina
  End your day at Tiberino, a nearly century-old restaurant set on Rome's only urban island. Be sure to make a reservation and enjoy a dinner suspended between the two banks of the Tiber, right in the heart of the Città Eterna.

Day 2: The Vatican, the Historic Center, and Rome from Above

• Morning: St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican
  Start as early as 7 a.m. to beat the crowds. Head straight up to the dome — either on foot (551 steps!) or by elevator — to catch the sunrise and take in a breathtaking view over Rome. Then head back down into the basilica to admire its masterpieces: Michelangelo's iconic Pietà, Bernini's magnificent baldachin, and the Vatican Grottoes.

👉 Information and visit slot reservations: St. Peter's Basilica official website

• Lunch: Prati or Along the Tiber
  After visiting the Vatican, take a relaxed break in the upscale Prati neighborhood or along the riverbanks. For something a little different, stop by Bibliobar, a charming open-air café and bookshop tucked at the foot of Castel Sant'Angelo.
  
• Afternoon: The Classic Highlights of the Historic Center
  Make your way between Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, and Piazza di Spagna. In Rome, the journey matters just as much as the destination. The distances are short, so take your time wandering from one alley to the next.
  
• Evening and Sunset: Rome from the Rooftops
  For your last evening, reach for the sky with a cocktail or a panoramic dinner. Head up to Cielo, the rooftop bar at Hotel de la Ville, near Piazza di Spagna. Take in sweeping views of Rome's rooftops, the dome of St. Peter's, and the gardens of Villa Medici.

What to Do in Rome in 3 Days? Our 3 Options for the Last Day

After 48 hours, you'll have already discovered Rome's greatest classics.
For your third day, three options are open to you: stay in the historic center to explore a less touristy neighborhood, hop on a bike and follow in the footsteps of ancient Rome, or make the most of your last day with a day trip from the capital.

💡 Pro Tip: keep the same hotel throughout your stay to avoid wasting time hauling luggage across the city.

Option 1: Explore the Jewish Ghetto and the Rione Sant'Angelo

Founded in 1555, the Jewish Ghetto of Rome is one of the oldest in the world, second only to Venice's. Here are some highlights to discover in the neighborhood:
Start at Piazza delle Cinque Scole and the Fontana del Pianto, then stop by the Casa di Lorenzo Manilio, built in 1468 "as a sign of love for his city."

On Via della Reginella, keep your eyes open for the Stolpersteine by Gunter Demnig — those small brass-covered cobblestones that pay tribute to the victims of the Deportation.

Continue to Piazza Mattei and its Turtle Fountain, then along Via del Portico d'Ottavia, where you'll find the Great Synagogue, the Jewish Museum, and the Portico of Octavia, once a fish market.

A little further on, discover the Theater of Marcellus, then the Ponte Fabricio — the oldest bridge in Rome still in its original state — which leads to Isola Tiberina.

❤️ Our favorites: try the specialties of Jewish-Roman cuisine, especially the famous alla giudia artichokes. Pasticceria Boccione, a neighborhood institution, is well worth a stop for its legendary fresh cherry jam and ricotta tart.

📌 Good to know! Due to Shabbat, some addresses in the neighborhood are closed on Saturdays.

Option 2: Cycling the Via Appia Antica

Discover the perfect route to combine a bike ride, nature, and ancient heritage, far from the hustle and bustle of central Rome. Pedal along the Via Appia Antica, one of the oldest Roman roads. Built starting in 312 BC, it once stretched nearly 500 miles (about 800 km). Don't worry — you don't have to cover the whole thing!

The route starts at Porta San Sebastiano, with an optional stop at the Museum of the Walls and the Aurelian Walls.
Along the way, discover the catacombs of San Sebastiano and San Callisto, the mausoleum of the notorious Caecilia Metella, the Villa di Massenzio and its circus, and the archaeological park of the Tombs of the Via Latina.

For the more adventurous, continue on to the Villa dei Quintili, about 4.5 miles (roughly 7 km) from the starting point, and then to the Aqueducts Park.

📌 Good to know: Some monuments charge admission and are closed on Mondays.

Option 3: A Day Trip to the Sea Just Outside Rome

Want a breath of sea air without straying too far from Italy's capital? Head to Santa Severa, just 34 miles (55 km) from the historic center.

• Getting there: about 55 minutes by car or 40 to 55 minutes by train, with one-way tickets under $5.
  
• Why go? For its medieval castle right on the water, seasonal festivals, hiking trails, and swimming spots.
  
• A nature lover's bonus: make a detour to the Macchiatonda Nature Reserve and its 603 acres (244 hectares), a resting stop for migratory birds.

Where to Eat in Rome: Pizza, Local Specialties, and Top Spots

Rome is just as much a feast for the palate as it is for the eyes! Roman-style pizza, pizza al taglio, classic Roman pasta dishes, tiramisu, or a quick bite on the go — here are some must-try specialties and top addresses:

• For the best pizza romana: L'Elementare. Located in Trastevere, this pizzeria is celebrated for its thin, crispy Roman pizza — the famous scrocchiarella.
  
• For pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice): Forno Campo de' Fiori or Antico Forno Roscioli. These Roman forni also carry sweet treats (biscotti, crostata di visciole…).
  
• For a quick lunch: Saporizzo. Near the Capitoline Hill, this beloved little spot serves up generous sandwiches on focaccia-style bread.
  
• For an award-worthy tiramisu: Pompi. This Roman institution puts its signature dessert in a variety of flavors — the perfect stop after a stroll through the city center.
  
• To sample and stock up on Italian specialties: Eataly (Ostiense). This sprawling food market brings together restaurants, a gourmet grocery, and locally sourced products all under one roof.

Things to Do in Rome with Kids: 5 Family-Friendly Activity Ideas

• The Gladiator School! A great way to burn off energy before visiting the Colosseum — two hours of combat training for the whole family, open to kids ages 6 and up.
  
• Fun at Villa Borghese : this large, free park offers playgrounds, carousels, pedal carriages, and even rowboat rides on its artificial lake.
  
• Step back into ancient Rome at Roma World: just 35 minutes from the city center, this theme park immerses visitors in the daily life of ancient Romans, with live shows and outdoor activities.
  
• Explore Explora: this interactive dei bambini museum for children ages 0 to 12 makes learning hands-on and fun. The perfect solution for a rainy day!
  
• See Rome through the Aventine Keyhole: push open the gate to the Garden of the Knights of Malta and peek through the famous keyhole. The surprise? St. Peter's dome appears perfectly framed in the opening!

Shopping and Markets in Rome: Where to Find Authentic and Unique Souvenirs

• Porta Portese Market: every Sunday morning, this sprawling Trastevere flea market lines up hundreds of stalls. Vintage clothing, decorative objects, books, and all kinds of finds
  
• Domenica dell'Orso : this antiques market draws collectors and vintage enthusiasts alike. It takes place on the third Sunday of each month.
  
• Borghetto Flaminio : on Sundays, this flea market set up at Piazzale della Marina is a go-to for fashion lovers hunting vintage clothing, accessories, eyewear, and leather goods from top Italian brands.
  
• Monti neighborhood : the hub for independent boutiques. It's the ideal spot to discover handcrafted jewelry or clothing from up-and-coming Roman designers.
  

❤️ Two favorite shops in Rome:

• Sartoria Gammarelli: The official tailor to the popes since 1798. The ultimate tongue-in-cheek souvenir: pick up a pair of their famous Scottish-thread socks, whose colors follow the dress codes of the clergy — red (cardinal) or purple (bishop).
  
• Spazio Museo Vespa: steps from the Colosseum, this small free museum traces the history of the iconic Italian scooter. Upstairs, the shop offers souvenirs inspired by the Italian icon: clothing, accessories, and Vespa-branded keepsakes.

Off the Beaten Path in Rome: 9 Hidden Gems and Alternatives to the Must-See Sights

Looking to step away from the most crowded routes? Here are our ideas for discovering another side of Rome — from panoramic gardens to lesser-known archaeological sites, along with a few alternatives to the classic landmarks.

3 Unusual Places to Discover in Rome

• Parco Savello (Garden of Oranges) on the Aventine Hill: A blissful retreat among orange trees and umbrella pines, with stunning views over the city.
  
• Largo di Torre Argentina and Its Cats: Right in the heart of the historic center, this expansive archaeological area reveals the remains of four Republican-era temples. The site is also traditionally associated with the assassination of Julius Caesar and is now home to a colony of gatti.
  
• The Non-Catholic Cemetery in Testaccio: Near the Pyramid of Cestius, this garden cemetery is the resting place of British poets John Keats and Percy Shelley, among others. A peaceful and singular spot, well off the usual tourist trail.

6 Alternatives to Rome's Must-See Sites

What to Do for Free in Rome? Museums, Sites, and Panoramic Views

💡 Local budget tips and tricks:

· Managing your time at the Colosseum: On the first Sunday of the month, the walk-up line regularly exceeds 2 hours. If you qualify for the EU youth rate, opt for a weekday visit with a pre-booked time slot.

· Trevi Fountain tip: Arrive before 8:30 a.m. The square is nearly empty, access from the steps is 100% free, and you'll avoid the crowds even without going down to the walkway.

· Drinking water (Nasoni): Take advantage of Rome's 2,500 public fountains to refill your water bottle for free. You can locate the nearest nasone using the Acquea app.

What to See Around Rome? The 3 Best Day Trips

Three getaway ideas just outside the city center to round out your exploration and deepen your knowledge of the Lazio region!

Less than 30 minutes from Rome by train: Ostia Antica and the sea

How to get there? About 30 minutes by train from Rome to Ostia Antica. What to see: the Ostia Antica archaeological park, with its necropolis, ancient theater, thermal baths, and one of the oldest synagogues discovered in Europe, as well as the Castle of Julius II, built in the 15th century. What's next? Just 6 km (about 4 miles) away, hop on the train to Ostia Lido to enjoy the seaside and, in warmer months, take a swim.

About 1 hour from Rome: the Garden of Ninfa

• How to get there? About 1 hour by car from Rome, or by train from Roma Termini to Latina Scalo, then by taxi to the Garden of Ninfa.
  
• What to see: medieval ruins, ponds, waterfalls, flowers, and plants in a garden considered one of the most romantic in the world.
  
• Fashion footnote: in 2017, Gucci chose this setting for its advertising campaign.

Less than 2 hours from Rome: Civita di Bagnoregio and Lake Bolsena

• How to get there? About 1 hour 45 minutes by car from Rome. You can also take the train to Orvieto, then a COTRAL bus to Bagnoregio. The final stretch is on foot across the footbridge that leads to Civita.
  
• What to see: medieval houses, the Porta Santa Maria, the loggia, the Bucaione tunnel, and the Geology Museum in the Palazzo Alemanni. Due to ongoing rock erosion and its dwindling population, Civita is nicknamed the "dying town."
  
• Keep going? Just 25 km (about 15 miles) away, Lake Bolsena — Europe's largest volcanic lake — offers a completely different atmosphere.

How to Prepare for Your Trip to Rome: Visas, ETIAS, and Travel Insurance

Before you zip up your suitcase, make sure you have the required documents and adequate health coverage.
Since Italy is part of the Schengen Area, entry requirements depend primarily on your nationality.

Do You Need a Visa to Visit Rome?

• EU and Schengen Area citizens: A valid national ID card or passport is sufficient to enter Italy.
  
• Travelers who require a Schengen visa: You must obtain your visa before departure.

👉 Check out our step-by-step guide to obtaining a Schengen visa for Italy.

When Will ETIAS Be Required for Italy?

For stays of fewer than 90 days, visa-exempt travelers (UK, Canada, United States, Latin America, and more) can visit Italy with a valid passport. The ETIAS electronic travel authorization will be gradually required: no application is needed before its official launch.

👉 Check the requirements for your nationality on the official ETIAS website

Is travel insurance required to visit Rome?

• Required for a Schengen visa: If you need to apply for a visa, purchasing travel insurance that meets the EU's medical coverage requirements is a strict legal obligation.
  
• Recommended for all other visitors: Even if you're visa-exempt, travel assistance coverage is strongly advised to protect against potential medical expenses, medical evacuation, or any other unexpected events during your stay.
  
  👉 Save time and travel with peace of mind by getting AXA's Schengen travel insurance for Italy.

Why choose AXA Schengen travel insurance for your trip to Rome?

From your visa application to any medical needs that may arise, AXA Schengen supports you before and during your stay in Rome with tailored coverage and 24/7 assistance.

✔ Schengen visa: coverage that meets official requirements and reimbursement in case of visa refusal.

✔ Instant proof of insurance: receive your insurance certificate by email as soon as you purchase your plan.

✔ Up to €2,000,000 in medical coverage: including medical care, hospital stays, and emergency dental treatment.

✔ Comprehensive Repatriation Coverage: full coverage for medical repatriation or in the event of death.

✔ 24/7 Medical Assistance: Access to multilingual medical teleconsultation at any time during your stay.

✔ Comprehensive Protection: Baggage insurance, personal liability, and accidental injury coverage.

✔ Extended European coverage: Valid in all Schengen countries, the EU, and the United Kingdom.

👉 Choose the insurance plan that fits your trip and your budget

You might also be interested in:

• Tourist Traps in Europe: How to Avoid Them with Our Tips
• Explore Europe with Our Travel Guides and Expert Tips
• Everything You Need to Know About European Capitals of Culture

FAQ: Visiting Rome

What is the best time to visit Rome (and when should you avoid it)?

Spring (April through June) and fall (September through October). Temperatures are ideal
(68–77°F / 20–25°C) for exploring on foot, and the light is perfect for photos!

Avoid: July and August. The heat is stifling (often above 95°F / 35°C), crowds are at their peak, and many local businesses close in August for ferragosto.

How Many Days Do You Need to Visit Rome?

2 to 3 full days are enough to see the must-sees (the Colosseum, the Vatican, the historic center, and Trastevere) without rushing. To explore the city more thoroughly and visit several museums, plan for 5 to 7 days.

Do You Need to Rent or Bring a Car to Visit Rome?

No — driving in Rome is strongly discouraged. The historic center falls under a Limited Traffic Zone (ZTL), and tourists are automatically fined for entering. Parking is also scarce and very expensive ($33 to $55 per day in a garage), and traffic is notoriously chaotic. Stick to walking, the metro, and the tram.

Do You Need a Visa or Passport to Visit the Vatican During a Trip to Rome?

No — there are no border checks and no Vatican-specific visa required. The Vatican is an enclave state in the heart of Rome with completely open borders. Entry requirements are exactly the same as those for your stay in Italy, which is part of the Schengen Area.

What Should You Wear to Visit the Vatican and the Colosseum?

• At the Colosseum: No dress restrictions. Just wear comfortable shoes for the cobblestones and bring sun protection.
  
• At the Vatican and churches: Strict dress code. Shoulders and knees must be covered at all times (no shorts, tank tops, or short skirts). Hats must be removed indoors. Sheer or torn clothing and low-cut necklines are also not permitted.

Do You Need to Book Your Visit to the Vatican and St. Peter's Basilica in Advance?

Yes for the Museums, no for the Basilica. The rules differ depending on the site:

• Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel: Booking is ESSENTIAL. Tickets are paid and sell out fast. Book through the official website as soon as tickets go on sale (up to 60 days in advance) to avoid lines of 2 to 4 hours.
  
• St. Peter's Basilica: No reservation needed (free entry). Access is open to all. To avoid the long security line, arrive right at opening time at 7:00 a.m. (Climbing to the Dome costs approximately $9 to $11 on-site.)

What Can You Do in Rome When It Rains?

Take advantage of the bad weather to explore the city's finest indoor attractions:

• Museums and palaces: The Vatican Museums, Castel Sant'Angelo, the Borghese Gallery, or the Palazzo Doria Pamphilj.
  
• A one-of-a-kind experience: Head to the Pantheon to watch rainwater fall through its open dome.
  
• Sheltered stops: Explore covered markets (Mercato Centrale) and indoor arcades like the Galleria Alberto Sordi.