9 Top Tips to Help You Enjoy Your Trip to Rome

Millions come each year to see the Coliseum, the ancient amphitheater in the center of Rome.

By John Roberts
Rome is packed with so much ancient history that it will make your head spin as you try to sort out how to best see all the sites. The sprawling capital of Italy features awesome slices of history at every turn, with ruins, structures and artifacts on display right in the middle of the city.

So how can you make best use of your time when checking out the Coliseum, Pantheon, Forum, Palatine Hill and any of the dozens of other places that transport you back to an era of gladiators and emperors? I've put together a list of practical tips to help you navigate the bustling scene that is Rome.

The Pantheon is an impressive attraction in Rome

Late Summer is Best -- Book a trip in late August when the weather is still fantastic and the crowds are beginning to die down (Italians start their summer vacation season after August 15 and will vacate the city, so crowds and even hotel prices may be lower). However, you'll always be among large gatherings of tourists -- especially at the most popular spots -- in Rome, but you can find thinning throngs as the end of summer draws near.

Put Your Best Feet Forward -- Rome is very walkable, but you'd better have on a comfy pair of shoes that will keep your feet happy all day long. No high heels or wedges! Many of the areas around the historic attractions feature cobblestone roadways, streets and alleys. You need to be in good shoes to keep your feet fresh and avoid twisting an ankle.

This is the scene at Trevi Fountain throughout the year -- crowds, crowds, crowds.

Temper Expectations -- I know you want to get that perfect shot of you in front of the gorgeous Trevi Fountain or at the Spanish Steps. Just know that there will be a bunch of people, all with the same idea, converging on these places. Embrace the suck and get the best shot you can. Or try something more creative and from a different angle just off the edge of the most crowded spaces that still can give you a unique impression of the site.

The Coliseum is a top site. You can visit the area for free.

What's Free? Most of the spots that you will want to see are free to enter and wander around, like the Pantheon, Forum, Trevi Fountain, Palatine Hill, Spanish Steps, cathedrals or dozens of others. The massive oval Coliseum is imposing and a wonderful photo opp from almost any angle as you circle the structure (but entering requires a ticket and wait in line).

People gather to grab the best perches offering good views of the sunset at the Coliseum.

Grab a Spot for the Sunset -- Arrive at the Coliseum about an hour before sunset. Walk up the steps that are just across the street that leads to the metro station and grab a perch on the hill looking right at the broad face of the ancient stadium. You'll be in the front row to watch the light fade on another day, as it peeks through the openings in the Coliseum. You could also snag a seat on the pedestrian bridge just a few strides farther back. Pack a few drinks and snacks and relax while enjoying nature's show.

In a Hurry? Ha! -- Meals proceed at a slower pace than you probably are used to in the U.S. Don't expect a quick lunch when eating at a sit-down restaurant. It will take at least an hour, and you might have to prompt the waiters to come by when you are ready to order or want to pay the check. It's a more relaxed atmosphere, for sure. I suggest that you check out a menu to see whether the place has what you are in the mood for -- pasta, pizza and seafood are always winners in Rome. Plan to grab an outdoor seat and a cold beer. Then, sit back, enjoy a little people-watching and consider how nice it is to be visiting such a vibrant place in the world.

Take a Train -- You can easily use the train to get to and from Rome at a fraction of the cost of a taxi, bus shuttle or even Uber ride. The trains go to the cruise port in Civitavecchia, airport in Fiumicino, Florence and other points of interest for as little as 5 euros (book online to save time).

Rome is Wanderful -- You can have a general direction plotted, but take a few detours down side streets and alleys if they look interesting. These spots can take you away from the crowds, and you just might find the perfect quaint eatery for a meal, coffee or beer -- or the most charming bookstore.

Keep it Casual -- If you don't have any specific plans in place for your visit to Rome, you can roll up to any of the dozens of tourist kiosks around Rome and check out what kinds of tours are being offered. They are open till 7 p.m., so you could even plan you next day's activities after wandering the city on your own for a day. Rome Hop-On, Hop-Off bus tours also can be a flexible option to see a lot.

Thanks for reading.
Travel happy!
Ciao,
JR