Rome

Step onto Rome's cobblestone streets and you're hit with an incredible wave of history. It's a city that feels like a living museum, where ancient ruins casually sit next to bustling cafes. The vibe is a beautiful, chaotic mix of past and present, and it's completely intoxicating.

Rome is a city you have to experience at least once. Its history is mind-blowing; you can literally walk through thousands of years of it in a single afternoon, from the Colosseum to the Roman Forum. But it's not just about the old stuff. The food scene is a huge reason to visit. This isn't just about pasta; it's about the tradition behind dishes like cacio e pepe and carbonara, made with simple, high-quality ingredients. Plus, there's a magic to wandering through neighborhoods like Trastevere, getting lost in its ivy-covered lanes, and stumbling upon a hidden piazza. It’s a city that invites you to slow down and soak it all in.

Romans are a lively and expressive bunch, passionate about their city, their food, and their history. While Italian is the main language, most people in tourist-heavy areas speak some English. Don't be shy about trying a few Italian phrases, though; a simple "buongiorno" (good day) or "grazie" (thank you) is always appreciated. They can seem a bit direct at times, which might come across as abrupt, but it's part of the local culture and not meant to be rude.

The food in Rome is, without a doubt, a highlight. The cuisine is all about simple, high-quality ingredients. You absolutely have to try the classic Roman pasta dishes: cacio e pepe, amatriciana, and carbonara. For a quick and delicious bite, look for pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice). Supplì, fried rice balls with a gooey mozzarella center, are also a must-try. A meal at a traditional trattoria will usually set you back a moderate amount, and it's worth every penny.

Rome's infrastructure can be a bit of a mixed bag. The city is ancient, and sometimes it shows. While you'll find modern amenities like A/C in most hotels, public transport can feel a bit dated and often unreliable. The metro is useful for getting between major sites but doesn't cover the entire historic center. Internet is widely available in hotels and cafes, though speeds can vary. Power is stable, so you don't have to worry about that. Just set your expectations for a city that prioritizes preserving its history over hyper-modern efficiency.

Most international travelers will fly into Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO). From there, the easiest and fastest way to get to the city center is the Leonardo Express train, which takes you directly to Termini Station in about 32 minutes. It costs €14 per person, runs frequently, and is a reliable choice. Children under 4 travel free, and one child aged 4-11 travels free with a paying adult . Alternatively, several shuttle bus services are more budget-friendly but can take longer depending on traffic. Taxis are also available; make sure to take an official white city taxi to get the fixed fare of €55 to the city center (within the Aurelian Walls) .

Rome's historic center is surprisingly walkable, and exploring on foot as much as possible is highly recommended. For longer distances, the metro is a good option, with three main lines (A, B, and C) that intersect at Termini Station . You can buy tickets at metro stations or from "tabacchi" (tobacco shops). Buses are also extensive, but they can be less intuitive to navigate and are often unreliable . Ride-hailing apps like Uber are available, but typically only offer premium services (Uber Black, Uber Lux) which are more expensive than local taxis, or can be used to hail a regular taxi through an integration with itTaxi . Lyft does not operate in Rome .

Overall, Rome is safe, but like any major city, you need to be smart. The main thing to be aware of is petty crime, especially pickpocketing in crowded areas like the Trevi Fountain, Colosseum, and on public transport (particularly bus 64). Using a crossbody bag kept in front is advisable . Be cautious around Termini Station at night; it's not necessarily dangerous, but it can feel a bit seedy. Be wary of aggressive street hawkers trying to give you "gifts" like bracelets or roses, and then demanding payment . Just stay aware of your surroundings, and you'll be fine.