Rome can feel like a lot — ancient ruins around every corner, incredible food at every turn, and crowds pretty much everywhere. But with a few savvy choices, you can skip the rookie mistakes and experience the Eternal City the way locals do. Below is your 10-point guide on what not to do— and what to do instead. And if you're looking for a broader list of things to do in Rome, we've got you covered there too.
1. Skip Termini Station
The area around Termini (Rome's main train station) is convenient but chaotic — and not the safest after dark.
Better idea: Choose a neighborhood that's central but full of character. Try Trastevere for its bohemian vibe, Monti for cool cafés and cobbled streets, Prati for Vatican access, or Testaccio for its unbeatable food scene. You'll sleep better, eat better, and feel more connected to local life.
2. Don't Just Visit the Famous Spots
Yes, the Colosseum and Vatican are iconic, and you should absolutely go. But don't stop there.
Instead: Add lesser-known sites like Palazzo Colonna (a living palace), Centrale Montemartini (where ancient statues meet industrial design), or the Capuchin Crypt (macabre but fascinating). They're quieter, often more affordable, and just as memorable.
3. Don't Pay Full Price Without Checking
Museum fees can add up quickly.
Smart move: Take advantage of free entry days. Many museums waive admission on the first Sunday of each month, and the Vatican Museums are free on the last Sunday (until 2 PM). Plan ahead and use those savings on something delicious.
4. Don't Waste Money on Bottled Water
Plastic bottles are unnecessary in Rome.
What locals do: Refill your bottle at one of the 2,000+ ‘nasoni' fountains scattered throughout the city. The water is cold, clean, and completely free.
5. Don't Just Eat Pasta
Sure, you'll want to eat pasta. But don't stop there.
Branch out: Snack like a Roman with supplì (fried rice balls), trapizzino (a pizza-meets-sandwich creation), and maritozzo (a sweet bun filled with whipped cream). These bites are full of flavor — and culture.
6. Don't Buy Souvenir Junk
Those plastic Colosseums and fridge magnets? Not worth your euros.
Instead: Hunt for something meaningful and beautifully made. Try handcrafted leather from Sufir Roma in Monti, vintage prints at the Mercato delle Stampe, niche perfumes at Eau d'Italie, or quirky timepieces at Polvere di Tempo in Trastevere. The best souvenirs tell a story.
7. Don't Limit Yourself to the City
Rome is amazing, but the surrounding region is full of surprises.
Go exploring: Within an hour, you can visit the fountains of Villa d'Este in Tivoli, the ruins of Ancient Ostia, or the lakeside retreat of Castel Gandolfo. With more time, head to Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast, or the hilltop village of Civita di Bagnoregio.
8. Don't Order Cappuccino After Noon
In Italy, cappuccino is for breakfast, not lunch.
When in Rome: Enjoy your milky coffee early, paired with a sweet pastry like a cornetto. After that, switch to espresso or macchiato if you need a caffeine fix. Locals do not break this rule.
9. Don't Sit on the Spanish Steps
It may look like the perfect place to rest, but sitting (or eating) on the Spanish Steps is illegal—and expensive.
Stay aware: Fines can reach €400, so check posted signs and follow local guidelines. Rome is serious about preserving its historic sites.
10. Don't Rush It
Rome isn't a checklist, and trying to see everything will only wear you out.
Do it right: Slow down. Sip your espresso slowly. Wander aimlessly. Let yourself get lost in back streets. Toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain — not just for the photo, but for the promise: you'll be back.
Final Thought
Rome rewards curiosity, patience, and an appetite — for both culture and carbs. Skip the tourist traps, trust your feet, and give yourself time to fall in love with the layers of history and everyday beauty. Buon viaggio!
