Visiting Rome for the first time is exciting—but it helps to know a few things before you land. This guide covers the basics I wish someone had told me: how to get from the airport, where to stay, what to expect, and why Google isn’t always right (especially when it comes to opening hours). Rome doesn’t always go to plan—but that’s part of its charm.
I spent three full days in Rome on my first Italian adventure, arriving early in the morning on Boxing Day (Saint Stephen’s Day in Italy). It was here that I quickly learned my reliance on Google might not be the best strategy. While it’s great for maps, businesses in Italy don’t always update their Google profiles. What does this mean? A place might say “Open” online, but in reality, it could be closed for the day—or permanently.
After checking into my hotel (lucky to get an early check-in), I set off on foot, determined to get my first taste of pizza. Pinsere, a spot that came highly recommended, was a 30-minute walk from my hotel. I mapped out my itinerary in advance to make a giant loop of all the places I wanted to visit on my first day. But, of course, Italy had other plans for me.
Pinsere was closed. After all, it was still a public holiday, and I’m sure Romans had partied hard the night before. Not wanting to waste time, I grabbed a sandwich from an open café and continued my journey. This would set the tone for the next three days—Rome is a city where plans can change, but the experience is never dull.
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Rome at First Glance
Rome can be overwhelming—in the best possible way. With over 2,500 years of history, it’s a place where the past, culture, and everyday life collide—sometimes literally, in the middle of a busy intersection. Walking its streets feels like stepping through a living museum, with ancient ruins, grand architecture, and artistic masterpieces around every corner.
The city’s magic isn’t just in its monuments but in its rhythm: lively piazzas, bustling cafés, and food that always seems to exceed expectations. Don’t leave without indulging in pasta, Roman-style pizza, and more gelato than you meant to eat.
It’s a place best explored on foot—though your ankles may protest after a day of cobblestones. To really take it in, pause. Sip an aperol spritz at a street-side café, and remind yourself: in Rome, getting a little lost is part of the experience. Welcome to la dolce vita.
When to Visit Rome
Rome shines in spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) when the weather is mild, the light is golden, and the crowds are a little more forgiving.
- Summer (July–August) – Hot. Like, really hot. Expect temperatures over 35°C (95°F) and long queues under a relentless sun. Unless you love heat and don’t mind crowds, this season can be a challenge.
- Winter (December–February) – Mild and quieter, though it can be rainy. Average temperatures range from 6–12°C (43–54°F). Prices drop, crowds thin, and Christmas lights and markets add a festive charm.
- Easter & Golden Week – Major tourist surges. Book ahead and expect long lines—especially at religious sites and major landmarks.
Side note: I visited in winter, right after Christmas. The weather was cool but walkable, and while some places were closed for the holidays, the city still felt alive and festive.
If you’re after fewer crowds and reasonable weather, aim for shoulder seasons. Rome rewards those who time it well. well.
Getting to Rome
Rome has two major airports:
- Fiumicino Airport (FCO) – Also known as Leonardo da Vinci Airport, this is the main international hub and where most long-haul flights land.
- Ciampino Airport (CIA) – Smaller and used mainly by budget airlines flying within Europe.
From Fiumicino, you can reach the city center by:
- Leonardo Express train to Termini Station – 32 min (€14/ SGD$21)
- Regional FL1 train to Trastevere, Ostiense, or other stops (slower but cheaper) – (€8/ SGD$12)
- Taxis have a fixed fare of €50 (SGD$75) to central Rome
- Shared shuttles (budget option; can take longer depending on traffic)
From Ciampino, options include:
- Terravision or SIT Bus to Termini Station – (€6/ SGD$9)
- Taxis have a fixed fare of €31 (SGD$46.50) to the city center
Flying from Singapore?
I flew direct from Singapore to Rome on Singapore Airlines—a comfortable 13-hour flight that lands at Fiumicino. It’s the easiest non-stop option from Singapore, though airlines like Qatar Airways, Emirates, and Turkish Airlines also offer one-stop routes if you’re looking for flexibility or better prices.
If you’re already in Europe, Rome is well-connected by train and budget flights. Termini Station is the main rail hub if you’re arriving overland.
Where to Stay in Rome
Choosing the right neighborhood can shape your entire Rome experience. Whether you want postcard views or practical convenience, here’s a quick breakdown of areas worth considering:
- Historic Center (Centro Storico) – Best for first-time visitors. Close to landmarks, cobbled streets, and lively piazzas. Expect charm—and higher prices.
- Trastevere – Bohemian, atmospheric, and full of character. Great for nightlife and riverside walks. Ideal if you like things a little less polished.
- Monti – Central and stylish, with a local feel. Think boutique shops, wine bars, and a mix of young creatives and old-school Romans.
- Testaccio – A residential gem known for its food scene. Less touristy, more authentic—and a great base if you plan to eat your way through Rome.
- Termini Area – Budget-friendly and ultra-convenient for transport. Not the prettiest, but it works—especially if you’re arriving by train or flying out early.
Also, keep in mind that Rome adds a “city tax” (tassa di soggiorno) to every hotel or guesthouse stay. It’s usually €3–€7 per person per night, depending on the accommodation type, and is often paid in cash at check-in or check-out.
Getting Around Rome
Rome is a walkable city—until your feet tell you otherwise. While many major sights are clustered within walking distance, you’ll likely still need public transport at some point (especially if you’re staying farther from the center or visiting places like the Vatican or Trastevere).
Here’s what you need to know:
- Metro – Fast and straightforward, but with limited lines. Great for getting across town quickly, though stations aren’t always near the big sights.
- Bus & Tram – Wider network than the metro, but schedules can be unpredictable. Google Maps or the Moovit app helps with real-time tracking.
- Tickets – A single ticket €1.50 (~SGD 2.20) is valid for 100 minutes across metro, bus, and tram (but only one metro ride per ticket). You can buy them at tabacchi shops, metro stations, or via the Trenìt or ATAC Roma app.
- Validating your ticket – Always validate your paper ticket at the machines on buses or before entering metro platforms—or risk a fine.
Tip: If you’re planning to use transport multiple times in a day, grab one of these passes:
- 24h pass: €7 (~SGD 10.20)
- 48h pass: €12.50 (~SGD 18.20)
- 72h pass: €18 (~SGD 26.20)
- Taxis & Ride Apps – Use official taxi stands or call one via the Free Now app. (Uber exists but usually sends a premium car.) Don’t flag down random cars on the street.
- Scooters & e-bikes – Apps like Lime, Dott, or Bird rent them by the minute. Fun for short distances—if you’re steady on cobblestones.
Basic Italian Phrases You Should Know
You don’t need to be fluent to survive in Rome, but knowing a few key phrases can go a long way—especially in cafés, train stations, or when you’re trying to find the nearest bathroom. Locals appreciate the effort, even if your accent is a little off.
I’ve put together a quick-reference image you can screenshot or save to your phone before your trip.
Tap and hold the image to save it to your device.
Travel Essentials & Safety Tips
Cash or Card
Most places in Rome accept credit and debit cards, but it’s smart to carry some cash for small purchases—like snacks, coffee bars, or public toilets. Keep a few €1 coins on hand, especially if you’re sightseeing all day.
Tip: It’s usually best to exchange your currency in your home country (like at Changi Airport or a trusted local money changer), as you’ll often get better rates than in Rome.
If you need to withdraw cash while in Italy, use an ATM inside a bank branch rather than a standalone one (like the kind outside a tabacchi or souvenir shop). Bank ATMs tend to have lower withdrawal fees, better exchange rates, and are less likely to add hidden charges.
For everyday spending, I use multi-currency travel cards like YouTrip or Wise. You top up your account in SGD and the app automatically converts currencies at near-market exchange rates when you spend overseas. Both are secure, encrypted, and let you track your spending in real time.
I link my travel card to Apple Pay (or Google Pay on Android), which means I can tap to pay without ever reaching for my wallet—extra handy in crowded areas where pickpockets might be watching.
I still bring the physical card, but I rarely need to use it.
Want to try it? I have referral links for both YouTrip and Wise—feel free to use them if you’re setting up your travel wallet.
Not sure which to choose?
- YouTrip – Great for travel spending only. No foreign transaction fees, excellent rates, and easy to use for short trips.
- Wise – Ideal if you also want to send or receive international payments. You get a personal EUR account with bank details—useful beyond travel.
I use both for different reasons, but either one is a solid choice for Rome. (More on that in a separate post soon.)
Staying Hydrated
Whether it’s warm or chilly, dehydration creeps up fast when you’re walking all day. Rome is full of public water fountains (nasoni) with cold, clean drinking water. Bring a reusable bottle and fill up often.
What to Wear
Rome has style, yes—but you don’t need to overthink your outfit. Wear what’s comfortable and situation-appropriate. Locals are used to tourists and won’t side-eye your sneakers.
For solo travellers: I dressed in muted tones—navy, black, grey, and olive—just to blend in a little more and not attract attention. That was just me doing what felt comfortable; it’s not a hard rule.
A few dress code notes to keep in mind:
Churches require shoulders and knees to be covered—yes, even for men. No shorts. A scarf or wrap works well as a quick cover-up.
Shoes
Rome’s cobblestones are charming to look at, terrible to walk on. Wear proper walking shoes—supportive, cushioned, and ready for uneven ground.
I once wore Vans on the cobblestone streets of Tallinn and my feet were wrecked for weeks. Rome has the same energy. Don’t underestimate the pavement—it will win.
Visiting in winter? I’ve written a full Winter Wear Guide with tips on how to stay warm, layer smart, and still pack light.
Timing & Culture
- Bars are cafés – In Italy, a bar is where you get your morning espresso and cornetto, not where you order a Negroni (though many do serve both). It’s totally normal to stand at the bar, drink your coffee in one go, and move on. As for cappuccino—there’s an unwritten rule about not ordering it after 11:00 AM. You can respect it, but honestly, if they know you’re a tourist, they’ll likely let it slide.
- Afternoon closures (a.k.a. siesta hours) – Rome isn’t as rigid about siesta as smaller towns, but some shops, family-run restaurants, and smaller museums do shut between 2:00–5:00 PM. If a place looks open online but is closed in person, it’s probably on a break. Good time for a walk, gelato, or scenic detour.
- Dinner starts late – Italians typically eat dinner around 8:00 PM or later, so restaurants often don’t get busy until well after dark. That said, some open earlier—especially in tourist-heavy areas—and eating earlier can help you get a table without a reservation. If you need to tide yourself over, look for aperitivo bars from 5:00–7:00 PM, where drinks often come with snacks.
- Book tickets in advance – Major sights like the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, and Borghese Gallery can sell out days ahead. Always book in advance—either from the official site or a reputable vendor like GetYourGuide or Tiqets.
Pickpocketing & Bag Security
Rome is generally safe, but pickpockets are skilled and fast, especially in crowded places like Termini Station, buses, metro lines, and tourist hotspots like the Trevi Fountain.
Here’s how to protect yourself without becoming paranoid:
- You’ll likely be taking lots of photos with your phone—consider using a phone lanyard or strap so you can wear it around your neck or wrist. This keeps it secure and always accessible, especially in tight crowds.
- Always keep your bag in front of you, particularly in queues, crowded trains, or escalators. Don’t wear it on your back where you can’t see it.
- Use a crossbody bag with a zip, and clip it shut with a mini carabiner or safety pin. Bonus points for one with anti-theft features.
- Backpacks should be worn on one shoulder (not both) or swung to the front in crowded areas. If possible, avoid carrying valuables in them.
- According to Italian law, you’re technically required to carry your passport with you. Keep it in the deepest, least accessible part of your bag, or wear it under your clothes using a travel waist pouch (also known as a running belt or money belt). These are slim, secure, and great for holding your passport, cash, and cards discreetly.
Tipping in Rome
Tipping in Rome isn’t expected, but it’s appreciated for good service.
- Round up at cafés or leave €1
- At restaurants, 5–10% is plenty (if not already included)
- No need to tip taxis—just round up
- €1–€2 for hotel staff is optional
One thing to note: many restaurants include a “coperto” (cover charge) on your bill—usually €1–€3 per person. It’s not a tip, and it’s not a scam—it’s a long-standing Italian custom that covers bread, table setting, etc. Tipping is still optional on top of that.
SIM Cards & eSIMs
Staying connected in Rome is easy—whether you’re navigating cobblestone streets, checking train times, or hunting down the nearest gelato.
You’ve got two main options:
- Local SIM card – You can pick one up from TIM, Vodafone, or WindTre at the airport or mobile shops in town. Plans are affordable and usually tourist-friendly.
- eSIM – If your phone supports it, this is by far the simplest option. I personally use Airalo, which lets you download and install an Italy data plan straight to your phone—no physical SIM, no kiosk queues, and no stress.
Tip: Set it up while you’re still at home or connected to strong Wi-Fi. Just download the Airalo app, choose your plan, and follow the steps to install your eSIM profile. Once you land in Rome, all you need to do is turn it on. You’re connected before you even leave the airport.
Want to try Airalo? Use my referral code: DEWIMA0506 to get US$3 off your first purchase.
Travel Insurance
It’s not the most thrilling part of trip planning, but it’s something I never travel without. A basic travel insurance plan can give you peace of mind—especially if you’re coming from overseas. I always make sure mine covers medical emergencies, trip delays, and lost or delayed baggage at the very least. Some plans also cover theft, cancellations, or unexpected expenses like missed connections. Shop around for a policy that fits your trip length, travel style, and budget. It’s the kind of thing you hope you never need—but you’ll be glad you have it if anything goes sideways.
Travel Apps I Actually Used in Rome
I don’t download 20 apps “just in case.” These are the ones I actually opened—and relied on—daily during my trip:
- Google Maps – For walking routes, opening hours, and finding random bakeries on side streets.
- Flush – A lifesaver when you need a toilet and don’t want to play the “should I pretend to be a customer?” game.
- Trenìt – Great for checking train schedules quickly. (You can also use the official Trenitalia app, but I found Trenìt easier to navigate.)
- Interbus – If you’re taking intercity buses (like to Sicily or southern towns), this app helps you check routes and book tickets.
- Rome2Rio – Ideal for figuring out whether a trip makes more sense by train, bus, or foot. Not always perfect, but a good starting point.
- WhatsApp – Essential for messaging local hosts, drivers, or small tour operators who may not use SMS.
- Google Translate – For reading menus, signs, and the occasional awkward pharmacy encounter.
Tip: Download offline maps on Google Maps and pre-load your Airalo eSIM before you land to make your first few hours smoother.
Conclusion
Yes, I know—this guide is long. But it’s everything I’ve learned from two Italian trips, countless train rides, a lot of walking, and one too many confusing ticket machines. I made this so you don’t have to figure it all out the hard way.
Italy is one of the most visited countries in the world—and Rome is right up there. And I get the obsession. It’s a place people return to again and again. Kind of like how Singaporeans feel about Japan—there’s always something new to eat, admire, or wander into.
If I could live in Italy for a while, I would. But until then, I’ll keep coming back. One visit at a time. One supplì or cannolo at a time. One slightly dramatic internal monologue at a time.
Curious what my first few days in Rome actually looked like?
Read Explore Rome on Foot—a 3-day walking guide packed with personality, pasta, and the kind of stops you won’t find on a generic list.
Planning to go beyond Rome?
You can also check out my Sicily travel series, based on a two-week winter escape through Taormina, Catania, Ortigia, and Palermo—complete with rooftops, ruins, and ridiculously good food.