23 Mistakes to Avoid in Rome (2025 Guide)
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Rome is a city rich in history, culture, and art, offering a unique blend of the old and the new. However, many visitors make common mistakes that can diminish their experience in this magnificent city. To ensure you have the best time in Rome, here’s an extensive guide on 23 mistakes to avoid while visiting Rome.
Rome, Vatican City- breathtaking aerial view showcasing St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican’s iconic landmarks/Depositphotos
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1. Choosing Uncomfortable Footwear Rome: the city is built for walking, especially with its cobbled streets and ancient pathways. The city is full of important monuments and attractions, such as the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and Vatican Museums, which require long hours of exploration on foot. Don't make the mistake of wearing shoes that will make your feet ache after just a short walk. Stick to supportive, comfortable shoes such as sneakers or sandals with arch support to avoid discomfort.
Rome – majestic façade of St. Peter’s Basilica, the crown jewel of Vatican City/Depositphotos
2. Thinking Rome Is Small and Walkable: though the city might appear small on maps, it’s much larger than it seems. Major landmarks like the Colosseum, the Vatican, and the Pantheon are scattered across different neighborhoods. Many first-time visitors make the mistake of trying to walk from one site to another without realizing how far apart they are. Instead, use public transportation such as buses, trams, or the metro to cover more ground and avoid wasting time walking long distances.
Rome, lush Vatican Gardens nestled beside historic architecture in Vatican City/Depositphotos
3. Failing to Book Tickets in Advance: top attractions like the Vatican Museums, the Colosseum, and the Roman Forum often have long queues, especially during the tourist high season. Waiting for hours can waste valuable time. To avoid this, ensure you book your tickets in advance. Many attractions also offer “skip-the-line” options, allowing you to bypass crowds and make the most of your day in Rome.
Rome, expansive interior view of the Colosseum bathed in sunlight/Depositphotos
4. Sticking Only to Major Attractions: while landmarks such as the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and the Spanish Steps are certainly iconic, they can also be very crowded. Visitors often make the mistake of spending too much time at these tourist-heavy spots and miss out on the quieter, more peaceful corners of Rome. Consider visiting these attractions early in the morning or late in the evening to enjoy them with fewer crowds and to experience the true essence of Rome.
Rome, ancient ruins of the Roman Forum, echoing the grandeur of imperial history/Depositphotos
5. Disregarding Dress Codes at Religious: sites Rome is home to numerous churches and religious sites, and each has a specific dress code. In places like St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums, visitors are required to cover their shoulders and knees. If you want to access these sacred areas, be sure to dress appropriately. Wearing a scarf or a jacket to cover your shoulders and knees is always a good idea, as many sites strictly enforce this dress code.
Rome, ornate interior of the Vatican Museums, showcasing timeless art& grandeur/Depositphotos
6. Ignoring Local Customs: it’s important to remember that Italian culture places a high value on politeness and good manners. When entering a shop or restaurant in Rome, greet the staff with a friendly “Buongiorno” (Good morning) or “Ciao” (Hello). While many Romans speak English, using a few simple Italian phrases will earn you respect and a warmer reception. Be sure to follow local etiquette and be polite—this will improve your experience and help you build a connection with the locals.
Rome, scenic cityscape with terracotta rooftops and lush green trees/Depositphotos
7. Relying Too Much on Public Transportation: while Rome’s metro and bus systems are convenient, they’re often subject to delays, particularly during rush hours or strikes. Additionally, many of the city’s most famous sights are best explored by foot. You might be tempted to rely heavily on buses and trains, but walking between attractions often allows you to enjoy the city's charm in a more leisurely, fulfilling way. For longer distances, consider using taxis or the tram system, which are more reliable.
8. Forgetting to Carry Cash: while credit cards are widely accepted in major establishments, smaller restaurants, shops, and markets often prefer cash. It’s common practice to pay in cash, especially for tips, small purchases, and at street vendors. Make sure to carry enough euros with you. If necessary, you can find ATMs throughout the city, but be mindful of the transaction fees that can sometimes be quite high.
9. Eating Near Major Tourist Sites: restaurants located near famous landmarks, such as the Colosseum or the Trevi Fountain, tend to cater to tourists and can be quite expensive. Often, the quality of food does not match the price. To enjoy authentic Italian food, venture away from the crowds and explore areas like Trastevere, Monti, or Testaccio. These neighborhoods offer more reasonably priced, local eateries serving up delicious traditional Roman dishes.
Rome, illuminated night view of the Colosseum glowing against the dark sky/Depositphotos
10. Not Sampling Traditional Roman Cuisine: Rome boasts a unique and rich culinary tradition, but many visitors stick to basic dishes and miss out on the full range of Italian flavors. Traditional Roman dishes such as Cacio e Pepe (cheese and pepper pasta), Carbonara (pasta with eggs, cheese, and pancetta), and Amatriciana (pasta with tomato and guanciale) are must-tries. Don’t forget to try Supplì, crispy fried rice balls stuffed with mozzarella. Make sure to explore the authentic street food and local delicacies to truly immerse yourself in Roman food culture.
A summer evening, traditional Italian dinner served at a charming outdoor trattoria/Depositphotos
11. Not Checking Opening Hours: Rome’s attractions, museums, and churches often have irregular hours, especially during holidays or special events. Visitors frequently miss out on sites because they didn’t check the opening hours. Some attractions are closed on Mondays, and others may have special hours on certain days. To avoid disappointments, always verify the hours in advance or ask your hotel concierge to confirm.
12. Not Utilizing Free Water Fountains: one of the best things about Rome is its abundance of public drinking fountains, known as nasoni. These fountains provide fresh, clean water for free, and you can fill your water bottle throughout the day. Many visitors are unaware of these fountains and purchase bottled water unnecessarily. Avoid spending money on water when you can refill your bottle from any of the many nasoni scattered around the city.
Rome, ancient mossy overgrown lion stone in Borghese park/Depositphotos
13. Underestimating the Time Needed for the Vatican: the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel, are vast and require several hours to fully appreciate. Visitors who rush through these attractions often miss out on their significance and beauty. To explore the Vatican properly, allocate at least 3–4 hours to visit the museums and another hour for St. Peter’s Basilica. These world-renowned sites deserve more than a quick visit, so give them the time they deserve.
Rome, Vatican city, interiors and details of the Sistine Chapel/Depositphotos
14. Skipping Hidden Gems: while Rome’s most famous attractions are must-see, there are also many hidden gems that offer a more authentic experience. For example, the Basilica of San Clemente offers a fascinating multi-layered history, with an ancient Roman house and a Mithraic temple below the church. Similarly, Gianicolo Hill offers a spectacular view of Rome, away from the usual crowds. Don’t be afraid to step off the beaten path and explore lesser-known sites to gain a deeper understanding of Rome’s past.
Rome, intricate interior of the Basilica of San Clemente, a hidden gem layered with history/Depositphotos
15. Not Taking Advantage of Free Walking Tours: free walking tours provide a fantastic way to explore Rome. These tours, usually led by knowledgeable local guides, cover different aspects of the city, from its history to its hidden corners. While tips are appreciated, the tours themselves are free, making them an excellent way to discover more about the city without spending much. Be sure to book in advance, especially during high season, as these tours tend to fill up quickly.
Rome, vintage tram gliding through the historic city streets/Depositphotos
16. Rushing Through Trastevere: Trastevere is one of Rome’s most picturesque neighborhoods, with its narrow cobblestone streets, vibrant atmosphere, and excellent restaurants. Many tourists overlook this area in favor of the major attractions, but it’s definitely worth a visit. Take time to explore the charming streets, enjoy authentic Roman dishes in a local trattoria, and soak up the lively evening atmosphere. Trastevere is where you’ll find Roman life at its most relaxed and authentic.
Rome, charming cobbled street in Trastevere, lined with colorful facades and local cafés/Depositphotos
17. Underestimating the Summer Heat: Rome can be extremely hot, especially in the summer months. Temperatures often exceed 35°C (95°F), and the midday sun can be overwhelming. Visitors should make sure to wear light, breathable clothing and drink plenty of water. Avoid outdoor activities during the hottest hours of the day, typically between 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM. Instead, plan to visit indoor attractions or take breaks in shaded areas during these hours.
18. Not Checking for Strikes or Service Interruptions: Italy is known for frequent labor strikes, and Rome is no exception. Strikes can affect public transport services, including buses, metro lines, and trains. Be sure to check for any planned strikes or disruptions before you head out, as they could alter your travel plans. Your hotel or online sources can often provide up-to-date information about service changes.
19. Packing Your Schedule Too Tightly: while it’s tempting to see as much as possible in one trip, overloading your itinerary can leave you feeling exhausted and stressed. Rome is best enjoyed at a slower pace, allowing time for leisurely strolls and spontaneous discoveries. Don’t rush through every major sight; instead, focus on a few key landmarks each day and allow for some downtime to relax and absorb the atmosphere.
Rome, the Fountain of Neptune in Villa d'Este, Tivoli, Lazio/Depositphotos
20. Falling for Tourist Traps: like any major tourist city, Rome has its share of overpriced, mediocre attractions that cater to visitors. Whether it’s a restaurant with poor-quality food near a landmark or souvenir stalls selling overpriced trinkets, it’s important to be wary of these tourist traps. Research local reviews, ask for recommendations from locals, and avoid any overly aggressive sales tactics that are commonly seen near popular landmarks.
21. Not Learning the Basics of Italian: though many people in Rome speak English, it’s always appreciated when visitors make an effort to learn basic Italian phrases. Simple words and greetings like “Buongiorno” (Good Morning), “Grazie” (Thank you), and “Scusi” (Excuse me) can go a long way in making a good impression on locals. A little effort to speak the language will show respect for the culture and make your experience more rewarding.
22. Not Taking Time to Rest: Rome is a city that requires a lot of energy to explore. Between walking long distances and visiting major landmarks, it can become tiring. Be sure to rest periodically and recharge, especially during the hottest hours of the day. Taking a break in a café or sitting by a fountain allows you to enjoy the atmosphere and avoid burnout. Don't try to do everything in one day!
Rome, rows of parked motorcycles, a classic sight on the bustling city streets/Depositphotos
23. Skipping the Local Markets: Rome’s local markets are a great way to experience the city’s vibrant food culture. Markets like Campo de’ Fiori and Mercato Trionfale near the Vatican offer fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and local specialties. These markets are also excellent places to pick up authentic Roman ingredients or unique souvenirs. Be sure to spend some time exploring the bustling markets for an authentic Roman experience.
Rome, vibrant morning scene at Campo de’ Fiori with colorful stalls brim with fresh produce, flowers, and local delights/Depositphotos
Final Thoughts
Rome is a city that rewards the curious, the prepared, and the respectful traveler. By avoiding these 23 common mistakes, you'll not only save time and money but also unlock a richer, more authentic Roman experience. From skipping long lines at major attractions to embracing local dining customs and staying aware of cultural norms, every tip helps you travel smarter and enjoy more. Let Rome surprise you with its ancient magic, vibrant street life, and unforgettable flavors-minus the avoidable slip-ups. Buon viaggio!
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