Don’t book your accommodation near Termini Station. Even though you are thinking “that’s good location” or “hostels are so cheap”, it wouldn’t be worth it.
Why? Because of its popularity the area around Termini has became dangerous and not really tourist friendly, meaning “you really won’t wanna walk back to your hostel after dark.”
Do get an AirBnb around Piazza Navona. For a little bit more money you can get a nice room, that is giving you the “living like a local” vibe, with a great location within walking distance to plenty tourist spots that you would wanna visit. This is a great alternative especially if you are travelling with a friend, in that case it may even end up cheaper than a hostel.
Do book in advance. Best spots are taken months before the time of stay..
Don’t always go for a pizza or pasta. Yes, you are in Italy but listen to me and don’t think that all restaurants serve good quality and taste Italian deliciousness. Especially the ones that offer 10Euro Pizza and a drink deals. Or the ones right next to any major tourist attraction.
Panini with a view it's a great lunch option.
Although I know you want a picture like mine..
And you definitely can have one accompanied with delicious pasta carbonara and a glass of wine. Keep in mind that it won’t be one of the cheap meals you’ve had in Italy but I think it’s definitely worth the experience, because how often do you dine with a view like this one?!
Do go to Momart Café, where you pay 11 Euros for all-you-can-eat buffet and one drink!
Don’t visit Rome during Easter, or probably any big Christian holidays. There are so many people that you won’t be able to figure out which city you are in. And if you are like me (not like my mom, who likes crowded places and love when many many people are walking around), you won’t enjoy it.
P. S This time I’m going in off season, so it shouldn’t be that busy and I’m just hoping for good weather.
Do, If you already waited on the line to enter St. Peter’s Basilica you should definitely pay the extra 8 Euros to go up the dome.
This is the view from the top after you climb 551 steps.
Don’t buy any gelato! There is a gelato store on every corner in Rome, but it happens to be the same as with the pizza, not every place gives you the real stuff. My experience was that you need to stay away from the stores that have more than six flavors or the gelato has too bright colors. Also you may look for a shop that keeps its gelato in buckets, so even that you can’t see what you are ordering, believe me you won’t regret it. Especially if you go to GROM!
This is how the real gelato looks like! This was really good too but more like ice cream..
Don’t buy Made in China souvenirs.
Do head to this cute little shop that combines innovative and traditional techniques and choose a freshly made magnet of real Italian marble or customize your own. It’s located right outside Piazza Navona.
