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[Go to the content](https://www.timeout.com/rome/things-to-do/rome-travel-tips#main-container)[Go to the footer](https://www.timeout.com/rome/things-to-do/rome-travel-tips#site-footer) No thanks Subscribe 🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed\! Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon\! The best of Time Out straight to your inbox We help you navigate a myriad of possibilities. Sign up for our newsletter for the best of the city. By entering your email address you agree to our [Terms of Use](https://www.timeout.com/terms-of-use) and [Privacy Policy](https://www.timeout.com/privacy-notice) and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions. No thanks Awesome, you're subscribed\! Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon\! Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another? 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Rome - [Explore Cities](https://www.timeout.com/) - [Time Out Markets](https://www.timeout.com/time-out-market) [Subscribe]() - [Things to Do](https://www.timeout.com/rome/things-to-do "Things to Do") - [Restaurants](https://www.timeout.com/rome/restaurants "Restaurants") - [Nightlife](https://www.timeout.com/rome/nightlife "Nightlife") - [Hotels](https://www.timeout.com/rome/hotels "Hotels") Language: English[Español](https://www.timeout.com/es/roma) #### Choose a Time Out City - [London](https://www.timeout.com/london) - [New York](https://www.timeout.com/newyork) - [Paris](https://www.timeout.com/paris/en) - [Chicago](https://www.timeout.com/chicago) - [Los Angeles](https://www.timeout.com/los-angeles) - [Lisboa](https://www.timeout.com/lisbon) - [Hong Kong](https://www.timeout.com/hong-kong) - [Sydney](https://www.timeout.com/sydney) - [Melbourne](https://www.timeout.com/melbourne) - [Porto](https://www.timeout.com/porto) - [Singapore](https://www.timeout.com/singapore) - [Barcelona](https://www.timeout.com/barcelona) - [Madrid](https://www.timeout.com/madrid) - [Montréal](https://www.timeout.com/montreal) - [Boston](https://www.timeout.com/boston) - [Miami](https://www.timeout.com/miami) - [Worldwide](https://www.timeout.com/) #### Choose a Time Out Market - [Barcelona](https://www.timeout.com/time-out-market-barcelona) - [Boston](https://www.timeout.com/time-out-market-boston) - [Lisboa](https://www.timeout.com/time-out-market-lisboa) - [Montréal](https://www.timeout.com/time-out-market-montreal) - [New York Brooklyn](https://www.timeout.com/time-out-market-new-york) - [Porto](https://www.timeout.com/time-out-market-porto) - [Dubai](https://www.timeout.com/time-out-market-dubai) - [Bahrain](https://www.timeout.com/time-out-market-bahrain) - [Cape Town](https://www.timeout.com/time-out-market-cape-town) - [Osaka](https://www.timeout.com/time-out-market-osaka) - [Budapest](https://www.timeout.com/time-out-market-budapest) - [New York Union Square](https://www.timeout.com/time-out-market-union-square) - [Vancouver](https://www.timeout.com/time-out-market-vancouver) - [All Markets](https://www.timeout.com/time-out-market) [Rome](https://www.timeout.com/rome) - [Explore Cities](https://www.timeout.com/) - [Time Out Markets](https://www.timeout.com/time-out-market) - [Explore Cities](https://www.timeout.com/) - [Time Out Markets](https://www.timeout.com/time-out-market) - [Things to Do](https://www.timeout.com/rome/things-to-do) - [Restaurants](https://www.timeout.com/rome/restaurants) - [Nightlife](https://www.timeout.com/rome/nightlife) - [Hotels](https://www.timeout.com/rome/hotels) - [Newsletter](https://www.timeout.com/london/newsletter)  Photograph: Shutterstock Photograph: Shutterstock # 20 travel tips every first-time Rome visitor should follow Whether you are a Roman novice or expert, these travel trips for Rome should be followed at all times Thursday 18 January 2024 Share Copy Link [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https://www.timeout.com/rome/things-to-do/rome-travel-tips) [Twitter](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet/?text=20%20travel%20tips%20every%20first-time%20Rome%20visitor%20should%20follow&url=https://www.timeout.com/rome/things-to-do/rome-travel-tips) [Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.co.uk/pin/create/button/?url=https://www.timeout.com/rome/things-to-do/rome-travel-tips) [Email](<mailto:?subject=20%20travel%20tips%20every%20first-time%20Rome%20visitor%20should%20follow&body=20%20travel%20tips%20every%20first-time%20Rome%20visitor%20should%20follow https://www.timeout.com/rome/things-to-do/rome-travel-tips.>) [WhatsApp](https://web.whatsapp.com/send?text=$text$%20$url$) [](https://www.timeout.com/profile/livia-hengel) Written by [Livia Hengel](https://www.timeout.com/profile/livia-hengel) Local expert, Rome Advertising Don’t get us wrong, [Rome](https://www.timeout.com/rome) is a very friendly place. But it’s not always the easiest to navigate. And unless you want to find yourself waiting for a coffee for three hours or queueing for the Vatican for three hours, there are some things you should know before you go. And don’t panic. Our local writer Livia Hengel has the inside scoop on every rule, custom and hack for the big city. If you want to absolutely smash a weekend in Rome, read this list (and read it *before* you go. Trust us). Here is every travel tip you’ll need to do Rome as the Romans do. **RECOMMENDED:** **📍 The best** [**things to do in Rome**](https://www.timeout.com/rome/things-to-do/best-things-to-do-in-rome) **🍝 The best** [**restaurants in Rome**](https://www.timeout.com/rome/restaurants/best-restaurants-in-rome) **🏛️ Unmissable** [**attractions in Rome**](https://www.timeout.com/rome/things-to-do/best-attractions-in-rome) **🛍️ Where to go** [**shopping in Rome**](https://www.timeout.com/rome/things-to-do/best-shopping-in-rome) **🏨 The best** [**hotels in Rome**](https://www.timeout.com/rome/hotels/best-hotels-in-rome) [*Livia Hengel*](https://www.timeout.com/profile/livia-hengel) *is a writer based in Rome.* *At Time Out, all of our* [*travel guides*](https://www.timeout.com/travel/travel-guides) *are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our* [*editorial guidelines*](https://www.timeout.com/about/editorial-guidelines)*.* Been there, done that? Think again, my friend. Sign up to our newsletter to enjoy Time Out without spending a thing (as well as options when you're feeling flush). By entering your email address you agree to our [Terms of Use](https://www.timeout.com/terms-of-use) and [Privacy Policy](https://www.timeout.com/privacy-notice) and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions. 🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed\! Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon\! ## Travel tips for visiting Rome ### 1\. Don’t order a cappuccino after noon   Photograph: Shutterstock You may or may not have seen this one crop up on TikTok from time to time. But basically, don’t you dare order a cappuccino after noon. Cappuccinos are thought of as heavy drinks more suitable for breakfast, and paired with a cornetto. If you’re craving one in the afternoon, order a caffè macchiato instead. Been there, done that? Think again, my friend. Sign up to our newsletter to enjoy Time Out without spending a thing (as well as options when you're feeling flush). By entering your email address you agree to our [Terms of Use](https://www.timeout.com/terms-of-use) and [Privacy Policy](https://www.timeout.com/privacy-notice) and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions. 🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed\! Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon\! ### 2\. …But gelato is acceptable any time, any season   Photograph: Courtesy CC/Flickr/[Derek Key](https://www.flickr.com/photos/derekskey/9536474645/) Great news for gelato lovers. You can order one of these bad boys anywhere, anytime. Before lunch, after lunch, whatever you desire. The gelato world is your oyster in Rome, and their flavours change seasonally, so you’ll never get bored. Think *ciccolato fondente* (dark chocolate), pistacchio and *mandorla* (almonds). Delicious. Advertising ### 3\. Buy Vatican tickets online to skip the line   Photograph: Shutterstock Housing one of the world’s greatest collections, the Vatican Museums are one of Italy’s most popular attractions, visited by over 5 million people annually. Though you’ll inevitably face a crowd, you can skip the long lines by purchasing your museum tickets on the Vatican website. The extra Euros for booking online are well worth the time you’ll save by not waiting in line. [Buy now](https://activities.timeout.com/vatican-city-l524/) ### 4\. Free museums on first Sundays   Photograph: Courtesy CC/Flickr/[David Blackwell](https://www.flickr.com/photos/mobilestreetlife/6925545700) Rome’s state-owned museums, galleries, archaeological sites, parks and gardens are free on the first Sunday of each month, so be sure to drop by and soak in some art if you’re in town these days. Lines quickly form outside the main attractions, so plan to show up early or visit a lesser-known destination (warning: you’ll still need to pay a fee to browse through special exhibitions). Advertising ### 5\. Note museum closures   Many of Rome’s city and state-owned museums, like Galleria Borghese and Palazzo Barberini, are closed on Mondays, so plan your schedule accordingly. The Vatican Museums are closed on Sundays instead, so they’re very crowded on Saturdays and Mondays; if you can, try to visit Tuesday through Friday. ### 6\. Order coffee at the bar   Photograph: Shutterstock Have you guessed the Italians are quite particular about their coffee yet? Coffee etiquette actually makes up a fair few of the biggest culinary crimes you can commit in the capital. You might notice people in Rome tend to order an espresso and drink it standing up, before even leaving the bar. That’s the way things are done. Italians don’t order coffee from the table and have it brought to them, and in fact, that’ll likely slap you with service charge and almost double your bill. Do as the Romans do, and neck that espresso before you go anywhere. Advertising ### 7\. Buy bus tickets ahead of time   Photograph: Courtesy CC/Flickr/[linssimato](https://www.flickr.com/photos/fonsen/4893565526) Rome’s public transportation leaves much to be desired, but if you need to take a bus in the city centre, stock up on bus tickets ahead of time because you can’t buy them on the bus. You can buy tickets at any *tabaccheria* in the city, little convenient shops that are designated with a large T. Tickets are €1.50 each, or opt for a 24-hour, 48-hour or weekly ticket for a discounted price. Tickets are valid for all forms of public transportation in Rome (bus, metro, tram and local train). ### 8\. Take your bus ticket straight to the beach   Photograph: Courtesy CC/Wikimedia Commons/[Arnaud 25](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Beach_Ostia_Lido_di_Roma_0013.JPG) Speaking of public transportation, your €1.50 ticket is also valid on the local commuter trains in Rome, including a line that goes straight to the beach. You can catch a train at the Piramide Metro Station that will take you directly to Ostia Lido, Rome’s local beach. Although it’s not the most glamorous beach near Rome, Ostia is perfect for an inexpensive day trip, with some sunshine and fresh seafood. Advertising ### 9\. Dress modestly in church   Photograph: Shutterstock Rome has over 900 churches that house some of the city’s most beautiful works of art, so don’t miss stepping inside to marvel at their treasures, whether you’re devout or not. Just be sure to dress appropriately to enter these holy spaces: women’s shoulders should be covered, and skirts should hit at or below the knee, while men should wear pants or shorts that extend to the knees. Linen pants are a great option for the summer, and a scarf is a perfect last-minute cover-up if you’re wearing a tank top. ### 10\. Watch your bags   Photograph: Shutterstock Always be mindful of your bags on public transportation and around key tourist attractions. The city is safe, but petty crime is rampant, especially on crowded buses and metros. Thieves in Rome are stealthy, so always keep your bags zipped and held in front of you; wallets should ideally be tucked in your inner jacket pockets. Some thieves also snatch bags, so keep them in close reach at all times. ### 11\. Always carry cash   Photograph: Courtesy CC/Flickr/[Images Money](https://www.flickr.com/photos/59937401@N07/5856649637) Italy still largely functions on a cash economy, so be sure to carry cash with you during your time in Rome. Coins, or *spicci*, are especially welcome at cafés small shops so hold on to your Euros – they’re a precious commodity here. Most stores and large restaurants will process cards, but restaurants don’t traditionally split the bill so cash is always useful to have, especially if you’re travelling with a group. The pandemic has brought about a bit of a change on this front, but cash is always handy. ### 12\. Tipping is not obligatory, but it’s appreciated   Photograph: Courtesy CC/Flickr/[Paul Rysz](https://www.flickr.com/photos/paulrysz/9488842693/) Tipping has not traditionally been part of the Italian culture, as service charge is generally included in the bill as the *coperto* (cover) or breadbasket, but leaving a few extra coins at the table is often appreciated. Depending on the final price of your meal, the level of service you received and the number of people in your party, you can leave anywhere from 5-10% on the table. Advertising ### 13\. Dinner starts late   Photograph: Shutterstock Drinking and dining are important rituals in Italy, and meals start later than normal (and last longer) than in other countries. In the evenings, Italians usually meet friends or colleagues for an *aperitivo* around 7pm, which consists of a drink and some light snacks, before going to dinner around 8-9pm. On the weekends, it’s not uncommon to arrive at a restaurant around 10pm. ### 14\. Relish the simplicity of Italian cooking   Photograph: Shutterstock Italian food is beloved throughout the world for its simple, nutritious and delicious ingredients, but you may feel like something is missing. There are no fancy condiments at the table, no complicated sauces and few foreign ingredients. In Italy, simplicity reigns supreme, so enjoy your meal the way it was meant to be tasted: without asking for alterations or extra ingredients. ***Check out the [best restaurants in Rome](https://www.timeout.com/rome/restaurants/best-restaurants-in-rome).*** Advertising ### 15\. If you need vegetables, look for ‘contorni’   Photograph: Courtesy CC/Wikimedia Commons/[C. Shen](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Carciofi_alla_Romana.jpg) With pizza, pasta and pastries around every corner, Italy is a veritable carb-lover’s paradise. But, sometimes, you need a break from starchy foods. Italians are masters at preparing vegetables, too, so get your fix of sautéed greens and braised Roman artichokes under the *contorni* (or side dish) portion of the menu, which is usually listed in the back. Although large mixed salads haven’t caught on in the city, you can order a few side dishes at once if you’re trying to eat healthily. ### 16\. Order house wine   Photograph: Courtesy CC/Flickr/[Jing](https://www.flickr.com/photos/jing-a-ling/6457591837/) Local house wine is one of the greatest things about dining out in Rome and across Italy. Not only is it extremely affordable, but it’s also usually quite decent. House wine is available in red or white, and you can usually order a quarter, a half or full litre of wine for under €10. ***Check out the [best bars in Rome](https://www.timeout.com/rome/bars/best-bars-in-rome)*** Advertising ### 17\. Greet owners in small shops   Photograph: Shutterstock There are many family-run artisan workshops and small boutiques in Rome, and you’ll often find the owner manning the cashier as you peruse the store. In Italy, it’s customary to greet the owner when you enter and leave the shop. When you enter, you can say *“Buongiorno”* until lunchtime and *“Buona sera”* in the afternoon and evening; when you leave, you should say *“arrivederci.”* ### 18\. Wear comfortable shoes   Photograph: Courtesy CC/Flickr/[Cameron Photo](https://www.flickr.com/photos/97559079@N05/34915093606/) One of the most charming aspects of Rome’s urban typography is its cobblestone streets, but uneven stones can take a toll on your feet. Pack a couple of pairs of comfortable walking shoes so you can avoid pain or injury. If you bring heels, skip the stilettos, which can get caught between the cobblestone grooves. Advertising ### 19\. Don’t count on WiFi   Photograph: Shutterstock The internet is spotty around Rome, and even hotels, cafés and restaurants that advertise free WiFi can’t always guarantee coverage. Consider signing up for an international plan while in the city or bringing a portable hotspot with you if you need it to get around or for work. This is changing, but progress is slow. ### 20\. Enjoy free-flowing water   Photograph: Courtesy CC/Flickr/[Bud Ellison](https://www.flickr.com/photos/budellison/26659342675) Rome may be famous for its monumental fountains like the Trevi Fountain and the Fountain of the Four Rivers, but the city is also filled with drinking fountains everywhere you look. These small fountains are affectionately called “nasoni,” or little noses, because of their curved shape. They deliver free-flowing water, gratis, so save your empty water bottles and fill them up all around town. Been there, done that? Think again, my friend. 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 Photograph: Shutterstock Photograph: Shutterstock ## 20 travel tips every first-time Rome visitor should follow Whether you are a Roman novice or expert, these travel trips for Rome should be followed at all times Thursday 18 January 2024 Share [](https://www.timeout.com/profile/livia-hengel) Don’t get us wrong, [Rome](https://www.timeout.com/rome) is a very friendly place. But it’s not always the easiest to navigate. And unless you want to find yourself waiting for a coffee for three hours or queueing for the Vatican for three hours, there are some things you should know before you go. And don’t panic. Our local writer Livia Hengel has the inside scoop on every rule, custom and hack for the big city. If you want to absolutely smash a weekend in Rome, read this list (and read it *before* you go. Trust us). Here is every travel tip you’ll need to do Rome as the Romans do. **RECOMMENDED:** **📍 The best** [**things to do in Rome**](https://www.timeout.com/rome/things-to-do/best-things-to-do-in-rome) **🍝 The best** [**restaurants in Rome**](https://www.timeout.com/rome/restaurants/best-restaurants-in-rome) **🏛️ Unmissable** [**attractions in Rome**](https://www.timeout.com/rome/things-to-do/best-attractions-in-rome) **🛍️ Where to go** [**shopping in Rome**](https://www.timeout.com/rome/things-to-do/best-shopping-in-rome) **🏨 The best** [**hotels in Rome**](https://www.timeout.com/rome/hotels/best-hotels-in-rome) [*Livia Hengel*](https://www.timeout.com/profile/livia-hengel) *is a writer based in Rome.* *At Time Out, all of our* [*travel guides*](https://www.timeout.com/travel/travel-guides) *are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our* [*editorial guidelines*](https://www.timeout.com/about/editorial-guidelines)*.* ## Travel tips for visiting Rome 1\. Don’t order a cappuccino after noon You may or may not have seen this one crop up on TikTok from time to time. But basically, don’t you dare order a cappuccino after noon. Cappuccinos are thought of as heavy drinks more suitable for breakfast, and paired with a cornetto. If you’re craving one in the afternoon, order a caffè macchiato instead. 2\. …But gelato is acceptable any time, any season Great news for gelato lovers. You can order one of these bad boys anywhere, anytime. Before lunch, after lunch, whatever you desire. The gelato world is your oyster in Rome, and their flavours change seasonally, so you’ll never get bored. Think *ciccolato fondente* (dark chocolate), pistacchio and *mandorla* (almonds). Delicious. 3\. Buy Vatican tickets online to skip the line Housing one of the world’s greatest collections, the Vatican Museums are one of Italy’s most popular attractions, visited by over 5 million people annually. Though you’ll inevitably face a crowd, you can skip the long lines by purchasing your museum tickets on the Vatican website. The extra Euros for booking online are well worth the time you’ll save by not waiting in line. 4\. Free museums on first Sundays Rome’s state-owned museums, galleries, archaeological sites, parks and gardens are free on the first Sunday of each month, so be sure to drop by and soak in some art if you’re in town these days. Lines quickly form outside the main attractions, so plan to show up early or visit a lesser-known destination (warning: you’ll still need to pay a fee to browse through special exhibitions). 5\. Note museum closures Many of Rome’s city and state-owned museums, like Galleria Borghese and Palazzo Barberini, are closed on Mondays, so plan your schedule accordingly. The Vatican Museums are closed on Sundays instead, so they’re very crowded on Saturdays and Mondays; if you can, try to visit Tuesday through Friday. 6\. Order coffee at the bar Have you guessed the Italians are quite particular about their coffee yet? Coffee etiquette actually makes up a fair few of the biggest culinary crimes you can commit in the capital. You might notice people in Rome tend to order an espresso and drink it standing up, before even leaving the bar. That’s the way things are done. Italians don’t order coffee from the table and have it brought to them, and in fact, that’ll likely slap you with service charge and almost double your bill. Do as the Romans do, and neck that espresso before you go anywhere. 7\. Buy bus tickets ahead of time Rome’s public transportation leaves much to be desired, but if you need to take a bus in the city centre, stock up on bus tickets ahead of time because you can’t buy them on the bus. You can buy tickets at any *tabaccheria* in the city, little convenient shops that are designated with a large T. Tickets are €1.50 each, or opt for a 24-hour, 48-hour or weekly ticket for a discounted price. Tickets are valid for all forms of public transportation in Rome (bus, metro, tram and local train). 8\. Take your bus ticket straight to the beach Speaking of public transportation, your €1.50 ticket is also valid on the local commuter trains in Rome, including a line that goes straight to the beach. You can catch a train at the Piramide Metro Station that will take you directly to Ostia Lido, Rome’s local beach. Although it’s not the most glamorous beach near Rome, Ostia is perfect for an inexpensive day trip, with some sunshine and fresh seafood. 9\. Dress modestly in church Rome has over 900 churches that house some of the city’s most beautiful works of art, so don’t miss stepping inside to marvel at their treasures, whether you’re devout or not. Just be sure to dress appropriately to enter these holy spaces: women’s shoulders should be covered, and skirts should hit at or below the knee, while men should wear pants or shorts that extend to the knees. Linen pants are a great option for the summer, and a scarf is a perfect last-minute cover-up if you’re wearing a tank top. 10\. Watch your bags Always be mindful of your bags on public transportation and around key tourist attractions. The city is safe, but petty crime is rampant, especially on crowded buses and metros. Thieves in Rome are stealthy, so always keep your bags zipped and held in front of you; wallets should ideally be tucked in your inner jacket pockets. Some thieves also snatch bags, so keep them in close reach at all times. 11\. Always carry cash Italy still largely functions on a cash economy, so be sure to carry cash with you during your time in Rome. Coins, or *spicci*, are especially welcome at cafés small shops so hold on to your Euros – they’re a precious commodity here. Most stores and large restaurants will process cards, but restaurants don’t traditionally split the bill so cash is always useful to have, especially if you’re travelling with a group. The pandemic has brought about a bit of a change on this front, but cash is always handy. 12\. Tipping is not obligatory, but it’s appreciated Tipping has not traditionally been part of the Italian culture, as service charge is generally included in the bill as the *coperto* (cover) or breadbasket, but leaving a few extra coins at the table is often appreciated. Depending on the final price of your meal, the level of service you received and the number of people in your party, you can leave anywhere from 5-10% on the table. 13\. Dinner starts late Drinking and dining are important rituals in Italy, and meals start later than normal (and last longer) than in other countries. In the evenings, Italians usually meet friends or colleagues for an *aperitivo* around 7pm, which consists of a drink and some light snacks, before going to dinner around 8-9pm. On the weekends, it’s not uncommon to arrive at a restaurant around 10pm. 14\. Relish the simplicity of Italian cooking Italian food is beloved throughout the world for its simple, nutritious and delicious ingredients, but you may feel like something is missing. There are no fancy condiments at the table, no complicated sauces and few foreign ingredients. In Italy, simplicity reigns supreme, so enjoy your meal the way it was meant to be tasted: without asking for alterations or extra ingredients. ***Check out the [best restaurants in Rome](https://www.timeout.com/rome/restaurants/best-restaurants-in-rome).*** 15\. If you need vegetables, look for ‘contorni’ With pizza, pasta and pastries around every corner, Italy is a veritable carb-lover’s paradise. But, sometimes, you need a break from starchy foods. Italians are masters at preparing vegetables, too, so get your fix of sautéed greens and braised Roman artichokes under the *contorni* (or side dish) portion of the menu, which is usually listed in the back. Although large mixed salads haven’t caught on in the city, you can order a few side dishes at once if you’re trying to eat healthily. 16\. Order house wine Local house wine is one of the greatest things about dining out in Rome and across Italy. Not only is it extremely affordable, but it’s also usually quite decent. House wine is available in red or white, and you can usually order a quarter, a half or full litre of wine for under €10. ***Check out the [best bars in Rome](https://www.timeout.com/rome/bars/best-bars-in-rome)*** 17\. Greet owners in small shops There are many family-run artisan workshops and small boutiques in Rome, and you’ll often find the owner manning the cashier as you peruse the store. In Italy, it’s customary to greet the owner when you enter and leave the shop. When you enter, you can say *“Buongiorno”* until lunchtime and *“Buona sera”* in the afternoon and evening; when you leave, you should say *“arrivederci.”* 18\. Wear comfortable shoes One of the most charming aspects of Rome’s urban typography is its cobblestone streets, but uneven stones can take a toll on your feet. Pack a couple of pairs of comfortable walking shoes so you can avoid pain or injury. If you bring heels, skip the stilettos, which can get caught between the cobblestone grooves. 19\. Don’t count on WiFi The internet is spotty around Rome, and even hotels, cafés and restaurants that advertise free WiFi can’t always guarantee coverage. Consider signing up for an international plan while in the city or bringing a portable hotspot with you if you need it to get around or for work. This is changing, but progress is slow. 20\. Enjoy free-flowing water Rome may be famous for its monumental fountains like the Trevi Fountain and the Fountain of the Four Rivers, but the city is also filled with drinking fountains everywhere you look. These small fountains are affectionately called “nasoni,” or little noses, because of their curved shape. They deliver free-flowing water, gratis, so save your empty water bottles and fill them up all around town. Been there, done that? Think again, my friend. Sign up to our newsletter to enjoy Time Out without spending a thing (as well as options when you're feeling flush). 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