20 Travel to Rome Tips Every Messy Parent Needs for an Unforgettable Family Adventure
Rome is calling your name, and we’re here to make sure you have the absolute best time exploring the eternal city! Whether it’s your first time visitors or you’re a seasoned Rome traveler, having some insider tips can make all the difference between a good trip and an unforgettable adventure.
We’ve gathered 20 amazing Rome travel tips and tours that will help you navigate the city like a pro. From figuring out the best times to visit popular spots to discovering hidden gems where locals actually hang out, these tips come from our own messy travel mishaps and victories.
Trust us, we’ve made the mistakes so you don’t have to!
1) Wear comfy sneakers for the cobblestone runway!
Rome’s gorgeous cobblestone streets are a total vibe, but they can be brutal on your feet, especially for kids ! We’ve learned from experience that using common sense and wearing comfortable sneakers are a must-have for navigating those ancient pathways.
Brands like New Balance and Skechers with memory foam are our go-to choices.
We’ve seen too many vacation blister emergencies among visitors to count!
Those stylish Romans rock Gucci + Adidas combos or neutral sneakers for a reason. Trust us, leave those cute heels at the hotel for dinner only!
We’ve witnessed travelers taking tumbles on those uneven stones. Not the Instagram moment you’re hoping for!
2) Keep snacks handy; gelato isn’t a meal (sadly)
Listen, we all dream of eating gelato for every meal in Rome, but our bodies might disagree, and we can’t forget about coffee ! While that creamy Italian treat is absolutely divine, it doesn’t quite provide the fuel you need for a day of sightseeing.
We learned the hard way that Rome’s meal times are different from what we’re used to back home.
Restaurants often close between lunch and dinner, leaving us hangry when exploring.
Pack some nuts, granola bars, or fruit in your day bag.
Trust us, you’ll thank yourself when you’re standing in a long line at the Colosseum and your stomach starts rumbling!
Of course, we’re not saying skip the gelato – just don’t make it your only food group! Save room for all the amazing pasta too, seasoned with black pepper .
3) Lower those pizza expectations; hit up the pasta.
We hate to break it to you, but Roman pizza and restaurants might not blow your mind like you’re expecting. Many travelers feel disappointed with Italian pizza, which is totally normal!
Instead of those round pies, try the local “pizza al taglio” – rectangular slices sold during the day that Romans actually eat. They’re super yummy and more authentic!
But honestly, pasta is where Rome really shines! Skip the so-so pizza and dive into classics like carbonara or cacio e pepe.
We found the pasta dishes far more memorable than the pizza when we visited.
Don’t stress if your expectations aren’t met – it’s all part of the adventure!
4) Avoid the street vendors’ knickknack traps!
Walking through Rome, with its historic charm e’ve all been tempted by those charming little trinkets street vendors wave in our faces. But beware! These are classic tourist traps that can empty your wallet faster than you can say “Colosseum.”
Pushy street vendors are something we always try to steer clear of in Rome, especially when they hover near front doors . They might seem friendly at first, but they can be super insistent and before you know it, you’re paying way too much for a tiny plastic gladiator!
We’ve learned to keep walking when approached and avoid eye contact with overly friendly locals trying to sell stuff.
Trust us, the best souvenirs that capture la dolce vita come from the cute little shops away from major attractions.
Stay vigilant but keep smiling! That’s our motto when dealing with these situations in the Eternal City.
5) Hold your purse tight or try a money belt!
Let’s be real, pickpockets in Rome are no joke! We’ve all heard those scary stories about tourists getting their valuables snatched while admiring the Colosseum.
A money belt is a super smart option for keeping your important stuff safe.
It’s worn under your clothes, not as a fashion accessory! Remember, it’s meant to be your secret stash for passports and extra cash.
If you prefer a purse, keep it zipped and in front of you.
We love crossbody bags that you can keep a hand on while navigating those crowded tourist spots!
Don’t stress too much though! Just be smart about how you carry your purse and you’ll be fine.
6) Rise with the sun to outsmart touristy crowds.
OMG friends, we’ve discovered the ultimate Rome hack for your return trip ! Getting up early is seriously life-changing when you’re visiting the Eternal City.
When we visited the Trevi Fountain at 7 AM, we practically had the place to ourselves!
Compare that to the shoulder-to-shoulder crowds during peak hours and you’ll see why we’re morning converts now.
The best landmarks are way less crowded if you visit first thing in the morning. Plus, that gorgeous golden morning light makes your photos absolutely dreamy!
We know waking up early on vacation sounds painful (trust us, we love our sleep too!), but you’ll thank yourself when you get those magical people-free shots of the Colosseum.
7) Book those tickets in advance—procrastination who?
Let’s be real, we’ve all been there—waiting in a two-hour line at the Colosseum with cranky kids and no snacks. Not fun!
Rome’s main attractions can get super crowded, especially during peak season.
Pre-booking tickets for the Colosseum and Vatican Museums is basically essential if you want to avoid meltdowns (yours and the kids’).
Trust us, nothing feels better than strolling past those massive lines with your pre-booked tickets. You’ll feel like a total travel queen!
For the best experience at churches , we recommend buying directly from the official venue websites when possible. No middleman markup!
8) Hooray! Free museum days every month, take note!
Who doesn’t love free stuff? We were thrilled to discover that Rome offers free entry to state-owned museums, galleries, and archaeological sites on the first Sunday of each month!
It’s like the city is giving us a big cultural hug! This awesome perk includes many of Rome’s most famous attractions. Talk about budget-friendly sightseeing!
Just keep in mind that these free days can get super crowded.
We’ve found that arriving early is your best bet to avoid the longest lines. Some travelers even plan their entire Rome vacation around these free Sundays!
Not sure which sites participate? Many Italian state museums, including the capitoline museums, are included in this amazing offer. What a perfect way to experience Rome’s incredible history without breaking the bank!
9) Mondays are for chillin’; sights are typically closed.
Heads up, mamas! If you’re planning your Rome itinerary, Monday might throw you for a loop.
Many museums and state-owned attractions in Rome are closed on Mondays, including the gorgeous Galleria Borghese and Palazzo Barberini.
But don’t worry! We’ve got you covered.
This is actually the perfect day to slow down and soak in the piazza vibes in Rome without rushing.
Grab a gelato, people-watch at piazza navona, or just wander the charming streets.
If you’re still itching for some sightseeing, you’ve got options!
The Vatican Museums, Colosseum, and Roman Forum are usually open on Mondays. Or use this day for a cute day trip outside the city!
10) Buy bus tix beforehand for stress-free rides
We can’t stress this enough, friends – using public transportation and buying your bus tickets before you need them in Rome is a total game-changer!
Most buses in Rome don’t accept cash payments, so grabbing tickets ahead of time at tobacco shops or newsstands saves major headaches.
No one wants to be that confused tourist struggling to board!
For hop-on/hop-off tour buses and public transportation , you might wonder if pre-purchasing tickets is worth it.
We say YES! Having those tickets ready means one less thing to worry about during your amazing Roman adventure.
Remember though, for local regional trains, the price stays the same, so no need to buy those super early!
11) Tap water is da bomb—bring that reusable bottle!
Girls, we’ve got a money-saving tip that’ll rock your Rome trip! The tap water in Italy is good, so don’t waste your euros on bottled water!
Pack that cute reusable bottle you’ve got collecting dust in your cabinet.
Trust us, it’s one of those things travelers will thank yourself for later!
Those Instagram-worthy fountains throughout Rome aren’t just pretty—they’re super practical!
We love that you can refill at public fountains all over the city.
It’s not just wallet-friendly but also helps us be more sustainable travelers!
Plus, staying hydrated while exploring those cobblestone streets is absolutely essential!
12) WiFi can be sketchy, so channel your teen self!
Rome’s WiFi situation can be a bit unpredictable, friends! Most hotels offer it, but the connection might make you want to throw your phone across the room (don’t do that though!).
Both Rome and Naples airports have great free WiFi, but once you’re exploring the city, it gets trickier.
We recommend downloading offline maps, saving restaurant addresses, and taking screenshots of important info before heading out for the day.
Remember how we survived as teens without constant internet? Embrace that energy!
Or if you absolutely need connectivity, consider grabbing a local SIM card to avoid those scary roaming charges.
13) Speak like a local: ‘Scusi’—it’s handy!
Let’s be real—nothing makes you feel more like a tourist than standing in the middle of Rome with zero Italian words! Learning just a few basic phrases can make such a difference in your trip experience.
“Mi scusi” (excuse me) is probably the handiest phrase you’ll use.
We’ve definitely bumped into plenty of people in crowded markets!
Unlike what some travelers mistakenly say, it’s not “scusa” when speaking politely to strangers—that’s a common mistake Americans make.
Other super useful phrases include “grazie” (thank you), “prego” (you’re welcome), and “ciao” (hello/goodbye).
Learning these basic Italian phrases helps locals appreciate your effort and often leads to warmer interactions!
14) Skip the tourist traps
Let’s be real – we all want authentic Italian food when we’re in Rome, not overpriced tourist menus, especially near top attractions ! Those picture-perfect restaurants near major attractions? Total tourist traps that’ll drain your wallet faster than you can say “pasta.”
We’ve learned that genuine Italian restaurants open for dinner no earlier than 7 PM, while tourist spots stay open all day. Red flag alert!
Instead of the Colosseum-adjacent eateries, we recommend exploring side streets for those adorable family-run trattorias.
You know, the ones with handwritten menus and nonna cooking in the back!
Skip those overpriced restaurants and try local markets instead. Trust us, your taste buds and wallet will thank you!
15) Tour savvy with a small group for best deets.
Let’s face it, folks – Rome is PACKED with history, and there’s nothing worse than being lost in a crowd of 50 tourists straining to hear your guide! We’ve learned that small group tours are totally the way to go.
Companies like Context and The Roman Guy offer amazing small-group experiences where you’ll actually learn stuff!
We love that these intimate tours let you ask questions and get those juicy details that large groups miss.
Some special tours even limit to just 8 passengers, which is perfect for getting that personalized attention. Trust us, the few extra euros are SO worth it for the rich experience!
16) Get a guide for the twisty streets of history
Rome’s ancient streets can be super confusing to navigate on your own! We’ve learned this the hard way after getting lost multiple times.
When exploring historical areas, we highly recommend hiring a local guide.
They’ll take you through those twisting streets and share fascinating stories you’d never find in guidebooks.
A good guide will bring Rome’s rich history to life!
We were blown away by how much more we appreciated the ruins and monuments when we understood their significance.
Trust us, it’s worth every euro to have someone who knows where they’re going and can help you skip those crazy-long lines!
17) Small greetings go a long way in cute cafes!
When we visit Rome’s adorable cafes, saying a simple “Buongiorno!” (good morning) or “Grazie!” (thank you) can make a huge difference in how we’re treated! Italians appreciate these basic phrases when tourists make an effort.
We’ve noticed that cafe staff often light up when we attempt even the simplest Italian words. It’s like magic – suddenly we’re not just another tourist, we’re someone trying to respect their culture!
Even in touristy areas where many Italians speak English, those little phrases show we care enough to try. Trust us, it might score you better service or even tips on where the locals actually eat!
18) Pace yourself; this ain’t the Amazing Race!
Rome wasn’t built in a day, and you shouldn’t try to see it all in one either! We’ve all been tempted to rush from the Colosseum to scenic Italy landmarks checking everything off our list.
But trust us, that’s the fastest way to burn out and miss the magic! Unlike contestants on The Amazing Race, we don’t need to sprint through the Eternal City with our backpacks bouncing wildly.
Instead, we recommend picking just 2-3 major sights per day. This gives you time to actually enjoy them!
Between attractions, grab a gelato and people-watch at a piazza—these unplanned moments often become our favorite memories.
19) The Pantheon’s dome will steal your breath; trust!
The Pantheon’s dome is absolutely jaw-dropping, girl! We still can’t get over how massive and beautiful it is. When you walk in and look up, you’ll literally gasp – we’re not even exaggerating!
Built almost 2,000 years ago, this enormous dome remains the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome. Like, how did they even do that without modern technology?!
The oculus (that cool circular opening at the top) lets in the most magical beam of light. We recommend taking time to sit and just soak it all in rather than rushing through. So many visitors just snap quick pics and bounce!
20) Homemade carbonara deserves a standing ovation.
Let’s be real, friends – when in Rome, we absolutely MUST try our hand at making authentic carbonara! This iconic pasta dish is surprisingly simple but oh-so-magical when done right.
The real deal uses just a few ingredients: pasta, egg yolks, pecorino romano cheese, guanciale, and black pepper. No cream! That’s right, the creamy sauce comes from those gorgeous egg yolks.
We’ve watched videos of Rome’s “Carbonara King” Chef Monosilio and honestly, it’s like pasta poetry! When you nail this dish in your Airbnb kitchen, your travel buddies will think you’re a culinary genius.
The satisfaction of creating this Roman classic yourself is worth every bit of effort. Kitchen dance party, anyone?
Getting Around Like A Pro
Navigating Rome, especially if you plan a day trip, doesn’t have to be intimidating! We’ve figured out the best ways to zip around the Eternal City without losing your mind (or your wallet).
Public Transport: Your New BFF
Let’s be real – Rome’s public transport isn’t perfect, but it’s definitely your budget-friendly bestie!
The metro is super simple with just three lines (A, B, and C), making it pretty hard to get lost. Pro tip: grab a 24, 48, or 72-hour travel card if you’re planning to hop on and off a lot.
Buses can be a bit chaotic (we’re not gonna lie), but they reach places the metro doesn’t. Download the Moovit app – it’s been our lifesaver for real-time bus arrivals!
Watch out for pickpockets on crowded buses and metros. We always keep our bags zipped and in front of us. Oh, and don’t forget to validate your ticket when you board – those €50 fines are no joke!
Strolling Through Rome On Foot
Walking Rome is honestly our favorite way to experience the city! The historic center is super walkable, and you’ll stumble upon the most amazing little gems that aren’t in any guidebook.
Comfy shoes are absolutely NON-NEGOTIABLE. Those cobblestone streets are gorgeous but brutal on your feet. We always pack:
Broken-in walking shoes
Moleskin for surprise blisters
A water bottle (you can refill at the countless fountains)
Many of Rome’s major sights, including palatine hill, are within walking distance of each other. The Spanish Steps to the Trevi Fountain is just a 10-minute stroll!
When walking, try to navigate like a local – be assertive but not aggressive. And ladies, if you’re wearing heels, you might want to stick to the sidewalks instead of those tricky cobblestones!
Embracing the Local Vibe
To truly experience Rome, we need to go beyond the tourist spots. Getting to know the local culture will make our trip so much more special and authentic!
Mastering Basic Italian Phrases
Let’s face it – speaking even a little Italian will make our Roman holiday way more fun! Locals really appreciate when we make an effort. Start with simple greetings like “Buongiorno” (good morning) and “Grazie” (thank you).
When ordering at restaurants, try phrases like “Un tavolo per due, per favore” (a table for two, please) or “Il conto, per favore” (the bill, please). Romans will often smile and might even help us practice more!
Don’t stress about perfect pronunciation – seriously, just try! We’ve found that locals are more welcoming when we attempt their language rather than expecting everyone to speak English.
Pro tip: Download an Italian phrase app before your trip and practice while waiting in those long lines at the Colosseum!
Understanding Roman Etiquette
Romans have some unique social customs that are super important to know, especially when the roads lead to unexpected interactions !
First, dress appropriately – especially when visiting churches. Shoulders and knees should be covered. Yes, even when it’s hot… and it gets HOT.
Mealtimes in Rome are different from what we might be used to. Lunch usually happens between 1-3 pm, and dinner rarely starts before 8 pm.
If you’re eating earlier, you might be surrounded only by tourists!
When ordering coffee, remember that cappuccinos are considered a morning drink only. If you order one after lunch, you’ll immediately signal “tourist alert!”
Instead, try an espresso (called “un caffè”) after meals like the locals do.
And please never, ever rush through a meal!
Romans take their food seriously, and dining is a social experience to be savored. Put the phone down and enjoy every bite!
