Rome is one of the most popular cities in the world, but it can also be one of the most challenging to navigate for first-time visitors. Therefore, we have put together a list of tips for solo traveling in Rome:
Study up on local customs and etiquette.
Rome is a city with a lot of history, so it’s important to respect the local customs and etiquette. For example, there are some things you should do if you’re visiting during the summer months:
- Dress appropriately. If you’re planning on visiting some churches or other holy sites (such as the Vatican), dress modestly and leave your shorts at home.
- Be respectful of local customs wherever you go; this includes not smoking inside buildings or restaurants (this applies even if they don’t have signs posted).
Book a walking tour on your first or second day.
Book a walking tour on your first or second day. This way you could get to see the city and your tour guide’s recommendations will make it easier for you to decide where you would like to go.
You will have a chance to meet other travelers or people who are interested in learning about Rome.
Use public transportation. It is a lot of fun, it’s safe and it is also cheap.
The best way to travel around Rome is by public transport. You can buy tickets at any of the train stations, and they are available in all major languages. Moreso, you can also buy a ticket for a single journey or a ticket that allows you to use the public transport system within Rome as many times as you want (a day or two).
Also, you should avoid rush hour: from 8am until 9am and then again between 4pm and 7pm. If you think your journey will be longer than 30 minutes, it’s better to leave early or try another route. On weekends, there are often free buses that travel around Rome. These buses run from 5pm until midnight on Thursdays and Fridays, from 2pm until midnight on Saturdays, from 11am until 9pm on Sundays and from 8am until 10pm during bank holidays! If you’re lost, ask for help – if no one speaks English, just point at where you want to go! The chances of someone nearby who does speak English will increase if their family members work in tourism, so don’t worry about looking silly by asking directions!
Don’t do too many things in one day.
Rome is a city that has so much to see, it’s impossible to see everything in one day. Don’t do too many things in one day, take it easy and go with the flow. Rome has so much to see, so there is no need rush.
It’s also worth noting that while you’re visiting Rome you should try to have at least one meal per day at an authentic restaurant or trattoria. That way you’ll get a taste of everyday Italian food which will help make your trip more personal and memorable.
Go people watching at one of Rome’s many outdoor cafes.
People watching is a great way to learn about a city’s culture. In Rome, you can learn so much just by looking at the people on the streets and in cafes. You can learn about their culture by how they dress, what they eat and drink, or sometimes even what language they speak!
If you find yourself in Rome without an itinerary and want to do something that will give you some insight into this ancient city, I recommend going people watching at one of Rome’s many outdoor cafes. You’ll be able to see all walks of life walking past while sipping on your cappuccino or enjoying an espresso with friends over lunch break.
Be flexible and open-minded when Solo Traveling in Rome
Be flexible and open-minded with what you want to do, simply because unexpected things happen when traveling. That’s when surprises come along.
Always be prepared for the unexpected with a few key things:
- A couple of different currencies
- A valid passport that has at least 6 months before it expires (or more)
- An updated visa/residence permit if needed (if not from the EU country)
Take rest when needed when Solo Traveling in Rome
Rome is a city of eternal beauty and excitement that you can explore for days, weeks, or even months. However, it’s important to remember that Rome is also a city of high heat in the summer months. In fact, temperatures can reach up to 40C (104F) on average during this time!
To make sure you stay healthy while traveling through Rome and enjoying its many attractions and activities, here are some tips on how to take rest when needed:
- You can always take a nap in the shade. There are plenty of shady areas throughout the city where you can find shelter from the harsh midday sun. A park bench or an outdoor cafe table will do just fine!
- You can always take a break in a cafe or restaurant if needed—just ask someone who works there if they have space available for customers like yourself who aren’t eating meals just yet but would still like somewhere cool enough to sit down comfortably.
Rome is best explored at your own pace in order to enjoy it fully.
Rome is best explored at your own pace in order to enjoy it fully. Don’t try to do too much in one day, and don’t try to see everything in one day. Rome has so much history and culture to absorb, so take it easy and go with the flow. You’ll be doing yourself a favor by exploring Rome at your own pace.
Conclusion
Rome is one of the most amazing places in Europe and it is a city that everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. It’s impossible not to fall in love with this beautiful city. If you are planning on going there soon, check out our guide on how best to enjoy solo traveling in Rome!