Rome Travel Guide 2024
The ultimate guide to Rome, Italy. Explore 43+ ancient wonders, master the metro system, find the best accommodation deals, and discover insider secrets of the Eternal City.
Ancient Wonders of Rome
Step back in time and explore the magnificent ruins and monuments of the Roman Empire
Colosseum
📍 Piazza del Colosseo • ⭐ Must-see
Ancient amphitheater and iconic symbol of Imperial Rome, where gladiators once fought before crowds of 50,000 spectators.
🚇 How to Get There:
• Metro Line B to Colosseo station (direct access)
• €1.50 per ticket, €7 for day pass
♿ Wheelchair accessible with elevator
🎫 Current Deals:
Colosseum + Roman Forum + Palatine
€16 (vs €24 separately) • Valid 2 days
📍 GPS: 41.8902, 12.4922
Roman Forum
📍 Via della Salara Vecchia • ⭐ Must-see
The heart of ancient Rome's political, commercial, and judicial life, featuring spectacular ruins and temples.
🚇 How to Get There:
• Metro Line B to Colosseo station
• 5-minute walk from Colosseum
💡 Pro Tip
Visit early morning or late afternoon for best lighting and fewer crowds
Vatican City
📍 Vatican • 🎨 Art & Religion
World's smallest country housing the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter's Basilica, and incredible Renaissance art collections.
🚇 How to Get There:
• Metro Line A to Ottaviano-San Pietro
• Bus 75 connects directly from Colosseum
⏰ Important
Book Vatican Museums in advance - often sold out weeks ahead
Getting Around Rome
Navigate Rome like a local with our comprehensive transportation guide
Rome Metro
Pricing: €1.50 per ticket, €7 day pass
Operating Hours: 5:30 AM - 11:30 PM (12:30 AM Fri/Sat)
Best For: Major attractions, avoiding traffic
💡 Money-Saving Tip
Buy a 3-day pass for €18 if staying longer
City Buses
Pricing: €1.50 per ticket (same as metro)
Operating Hours: 5:30 AM - midnight (varies by line)
Best For: Areas not covered by metro
🌟 Useful Route
Bus 75 connects Colosseum to Vatican City
Parking & Cars
Availability: Very limited at major sites
Alternative: Park at Termini station
Best For: Day trips outside Rome
⚠️ Important
No parking at Colosseum - use public transport
Where to Stay in Rome
From luxury hotels to budget hostels, find the perfect base for exploring the Eternal City
Hotel Artemide
Elegant 4-star hotel near Termini Station with classic Roman décor and modern amenities.
Price Range: €150-220 per night
Distance to Colosseum: 15 minutes walk
Best For: Business travelers, central location
The RomeHello
Modern hostel with private rooms and dorms, perfect for budget-conscious travelers.
Price Range: €25-45 per night
Distance to Colosseum: 20 minutes walk
Best For: Budget travelers, solo travelers
🏙️ Best Areas to Stay
Historic Center
Walking distance to Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps
Near Colosseum
Close to ancient sites, authentic Roman neighborhoods
Trastevere
Charming area with great restaurants and nightlife
Safety in Rome
Important safety information and common scams to avoid in the Eternal City
⚠️ High Risk Areas
Termini Station Area
Pickpocketing, drug activity, fake taxi drivers
💡 Stay alert, use official taxis, don't engage with panhandlers
Colosseum & Roman Forum
Fake gladiator photos, pickpocketing, unofficial guides
💡 Ignore costumed characters, use official tour guides
Trevi Fountain & Spanish Steps
Pickpocketing in crowds, street vendors
💡 Visit early morning, keep bags secure in crowds
🎭 Common Scams to Avoid
Fake Gladiators
Costumed people offer photos then demand high payment
Friendship Bracelet
Someone ties bracelet on wrist then demands payment
Petition Signers
Ask to sign petition while accomplice pickpockets
Gold Ring Scam
Pretend to find gold ring, offer to sell cheap
🚇 Transportation Safety
Metro Lines A & B
- • Validate tickets immediately (€50+ fines)
- • Keep bags zipped and in front
- • Extra caution at Termini, Colosseo, Spagna stations
- • Don't accept help from strangers with tickets
Taxis & Buses
- • Use official white taxis with meters
- • Avoid unmarked cars at airports/stations
- • Same validation rules apply to buses
- • Be cautious of pickpockets on crowded buses
🚨 Rome Emergency Contacts
Police
113
Medical
118
Fire
115
EU Emergency
112
Tourist Police
06 4686 2987
Key Phrase: "No grazie" (No thank you) - say firmly to avoid scams
Current Rome Deals & Offers
Save money on your Rome trip with these exclusive deals and insider tips
Ancient Rome Combo
Combined ticket for Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill archaeological sites.
Savings: €16 (vs €24 separately)
Valid Until: January 2026
✅ Valid for 2 consecutive days
Vatican Museums Fast Track
Skip the long lines at Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel with priority access.
Time Saved: 2-3 hours in peak season
Includes: Audio guide in multiple languages
🌟 Book weeks in advance
💰 Money-Saving Tips
- • Many churches are free and contain incredible art
- • Drink water from public fountains (nasoni) - it's safe and free
- • Aperitivo time (6-8 PM) often includes free snacks
- • First Sunday of month: free entry to state museums
- • Eat where locals eat - avoid tourist areas near attractions
- • Walking tours often work on tip-based system
Insider Tips for Rome
Local secrets and expert advice to experience Rome like a true Roman
Roman Food Culture
Try authentic Roman dishes like carbonara, cacio e pepe, and supplì. Romans typically eat dinner after 8 PM. Avoid restaurants with tourist menus near major attractions.
Ancient Sites Strategy
Visit Colosseum early morning or late afternoon. Combine Roman Forum and Palatine Hill in one visit. Book Vatican Museums weeks in advance, especially during peak season.
Local Life Hacks
Use public water fountains (nasoni) - they're everywhere and the water is excellent. Validate metro tickets or face hefty fines. Dress modestly when visiting churches.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do I need in Rome?
We recommend at least 3-4 days to see the major ancient sites and Vatican. This allows time for the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Vatican Museums, and some exploration of Roman neighborhoods.
Is Rome safe for tourists?
Rome is generally safe for tourists. Be aware of pickpockets near major attractions and on public transport. Avoid empty areas at night and keep valuables secure.
What's the best time to visit Rome?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best weather and fewer crowds. Summer can be very hot and crowded, while winter is mild but some attractions have reduced hours.