Get ready for your trip to Italy’s Eternal City! Here are some helpful tips on what you need to know before visiting Rome.
Rome, the Gladiator capital of the world and the home of the Pope (although his location is in the Vatican City). It’s a place that has been on my bucket list for many years. Most of Italy’s country has been, and that includes Venice, Florence, and Milan. Rome, however, has always intrigued me, and I was privileged to experience Rome in all its glory.
A few years ago Madison and I visited Rome and by now you would know that it was not my favorite Italian city. The city is beautiful, don’t get me wrong, but I did not enjoy it as I thought I would. But I do believe in giving everything a second chance (I gave my ex-husbands hundreds of chances to be a decent human being) so why shouldn’t I give Rome another?
I visited in the summer where the weather was unbelievably hot and the crowds were stupendous, and can let you know that if you plan on visiting Rome in the summer, visit as early summer or as late summer as you can when the weather is a bit milder. But spring, fall or even winter might be better time to visit. If you’ve never visited before, here are a few things to note before visiting Rome.
Geography
Known as Roma in Italian and Rome in Latin, This beautiful city is Italy’s capital city. Italy is a country in Europe that borders four countries; Switzerland, Slovenia, France, and Austria. It covers an area of approximately 1285 square kilometers. Rome is famous for many things. One of the most interesting facts is that within the city lies a country, Vatican City, which governs independently of Rome and is the only existing epitome of a nation inside a city! The official language is Italian, although you will find a considerable number of English speakers.
Climate
It experiences a Mediterranean climate. This means there are mild winters and warm to hot summers. The best time to go for a tour in this city is during fall, from September to October, or during spring which starts from April till June.
Transport
Using public transport while enjoying the picturesque view of this city is the cheapest and easiest way of getting around. Walking is also an option but taking the bus or the train is less expensive than taxis and cabs that charge high rates, especially if you are a tourist. The only fly in the ointment about public transport is getting on the wrong bus, but this can be quickly resolved by using road maps and asking for assistance from the locals who are very friendly and ready to help.
Hills!
Ever wondered what the phrase ‘a city on seven hills’ meant? Yes, I am here to confirm that Rome lives up to that title as it has seven hills. If you walk around Rome, it will be quite tasking as it involves walking downhill and uphill. You may want to love your toes and wear comfortable shoes; leave those hills for later, as you will walk uncountable flights of stairs, especially at the Cupola of St Peters Basilica and the Spanish Steps.
Museums
Most museums and galleries run throughout the week, especially on weekends. They, therefore, close on Mondays because that is their day of rest. Always crosscheck opening and closing hours to avoid disappointments. Rome has well-designed museums that are filled with history, culture, and art.
Traditions and Culture
When anyone wishes to enter sites considered Holy, one must cover their knees and shoulders, and for the men, they should remove any headgear they may be having on. If you do not comply, then, as a result, entry is denied, so you do as the Romans do! Ensure you carry a scarf or a light shawl.
You Cannot See It All
This is a unique city as it has a lot of historical sites and art galleries. If your stay is short, it is pretty impossible to tick everything on your checklist. To conquer this, make a list of places that would make your heart melt if you leave without visiting. Before you visit, thoroughly research and prioritize your options as there is just so much to see in this city.
Save
Italy opens its museums to the public free of charge every first Sunday of the month and is a great way to visit Rome on a budget. So, if you happen to be in the city around this time, you can take advantage of this offer and save as you visit the Palatine Hill, the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Galleria Borghese.
There is everything for everyone in this stunning city, and you will never have a dull moment here. Rome is the best place for art lovers and naturally curious people to pass their time beautifully!
So start planning your Rome trip and plan your itinerary today.
