Roman Vacations

Top 5 Pubs In Rome

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 12:54:05 GMT

Food, Football, and your Favourite Brew

Travelling is great, it may even be the BEST thing a person can do, however, there are some things that can be lacking when you are overloaded with new cultural experiences and that is the sense of normality. Sometimes you want to sit down, enjoy a pint of a familiar brew, and watch your favourite footy team play.

Well there is nothing to fear, here is a list of the top spots in Rome to serve as your home away from home on your holidays.

In the heart of the trendy neighbourhood of Monti, Finnegan is a classic Irish Pub. Just a short walk from the Colosseum, they have 12 different beers on tap and an array of simple drinks on the back bar. Finnegan is a warm expat hangout where you can have a game of darts and play off on the pool table while watching your favourite games. It is also the official home of the Glasgow Celtics in Rome. They host a pub quiz each week and pour a delicious pint of Guinness. Finnegan is the perfect place for a local pub vibe.

1. Finnegan Irish Pub

2. Shamrock Pub Roma

The Shamrock, located just a few steps from the Colosseum is a football pub that provides everything you need from beers, to food, and football. The owners of the Shamrock Pub are Romans and they know the city inside out; so when you visit the Shamrock you can enjoy a pint and some pub grub and feel like a local in a true local hangout.

The Fiddler’s Elbow was the first Irish Pub in Rome. Opened in 1967, Fiddler’s is known for live Irish music. Located only minutes from the central train station of Roma Termini, it is a great spot to kick back with a beer and sing along to some classic Irish tunes.

3. The Fiddler's Elbow

Scholars is the home of international sport and entertainment in Rome. With over 20 televisions in the bar, you will never search for a screen that is showing your game of choice. From American Football, to European Football Championships, the Six Nations Rugby, Aussie Rules, Grand Slam Tennis, Golf World Titles, and everything in between, Scholars is the place to see it. You will also find on 6 nights a week they have entertainment like live music and karaoke. They also have an extensively stocked bar so you can sample from a choice of hundreds of spirits along with tens of beers and cocktails as well.

4. Scholars Lounge Rome

5. The Abbey Theatre

Located right by Piazza Navona, the Abbey takes its name from the world renowned Irish National Theatre. This pub is great for Irish pub food: Guinness and beef, Irish stew, Irish breakfast and fish and chips. The Abbey Theatre is a stunning spot in the center of the city where you can take a moment to relax and satisfy your cravings from back home.

Honorable Mention

It’s also worth mentioning the Drunken Ship in Campo de’ Fiori. If you’re after a student hot-spot this is it! American owned and known for its lively atmosphere, Drunken Ship is a fun spot to show off your beer pong skills.

All of these venues are great in their own ways, so pick your vibe and make yourself at home. I’ll have a pint of Guinness, Thanks!

I realize that these are all Irish Pubs (and I’m not even Irish) but they really are great spots to hang with locals and travelers alike. If you are keen for more of an Italian experience check out our Best Aperitivo Bars blog here.

The Catholic Jubilee

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 16:14:16 GMT

Centuries Of Tradition: What To Expect At The Catholic Jubilee

Rome is gearing up for a historic year in 2025 as it prepares to host the Catholic Jubilee. This event, steeped in history and spiritual significance, promises to transform the Eternal City into a hub of faith, culture, and celebration. Whether you’re a pilgrim seeking spiritual renewal or a traveler curious about this grand event, we’re here to explain a little bit about the celebration and what you can expect in Rome for the Catholic Jubilee next year.

The original idea behind a Jubilee year originates in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Leviticus. Every fifty years, the Israelites were commanded to observe a year of Jubilee, a time when debts were forgiven, slaves were freed, and land that had been sold was returned to its original owners. This year was intended to restore social balance and ensure no family would be perpetually impoverished.

The modern Christian tradition of the Jubilee was inaugurated by Pope Boniface VIII in 1300AD. He declared that every hundred years, there would be a year of Jubilee, offering pilgrims the opportunity to visit Rome and receive a plenary indulgence. That first Jubilee year drew an estimated 200,000 pilgrims to Rome, an enormous number for that time.

Over time, the interval between Jubilees was reduced. By the 15th century, Pope Paul II established the tradition of celebrating the Jubilee every 25 years. Special Jubilees, or Extraordinary Jubilees, can also be proclaimed for significant occasions, such as the Great Jubilee in 2000 and the Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy in 2015-2016 initiated by Pope Francis.

Historical Origins

What to Expect in Rome for the Catholic Jubilee Next Year

One of the main elements of the Jubilee is the pilgrimage to Rome’s four major basilicas: St. Peter’s, St. John Lateran, St. Mary Major, and St. Paul Outside the Walls. These basilicas will open their Holy Doors, an act that occurs only during a Jubilee year. Passing through these doors symbolizes a journey into a time of grace and spiritual renewal. We’ll be expecting large crowds of pilgrims from all over the world to make their way to these sacred sites.

1. Spiritual Pilgrimages to the Holy Doors

The Jubilee year will host special liturgies and masses throughout the year. The opening ceremony, led by the Pope, will kick off the celebrations with a solemn and moving liturgical service on the 25th of December, 2024. There will be celebrations of feast days and holy days featuring grand masses, many of which will be held at St. Peter’s Basilica. A full list of these events can be found on the official Vatican website.

2. Special Liturgical Celebrations

A cornerstone of the Jubilee is the emphasis on mercy and charity. Throughout the year, the Vatican and local churches organize charitable activities, like feeding the homeless, visiting the sick, and supporting various social initiatives. As a visitor, you can join these efforts of volunteering by contacting local volunteer groups or donating to many charitable causes across the city and the world.

3. Acts of Mercy and Charity

Rome’s rich cultural heritage will be on full display during the Jubilee year. Expect a plethora of exhibitions, concerts, and artistic events celebrating the intersection of faith and culture. Many museums and galleries have already announced special exhibits showcasing religious art, historical artifacts, and documents related to previous Jubilees. We are expecting many more as time goes on. The Vatican Museums, in particular, will be a focal point for these cultural events.

4. Cultural Events and Exhibitions

Here are some practical tips to make your visit smoother:

Accommodation

Book early and consider staying in areas slightly away from the central tourist spots for better availability and prices.

5. A Surge in Tourism

The Jubilee will undoubtedly attract millions of visitors to Rome. This will lead to a surge in tourism and often large crowds. This influx means that accommodation, tours, activities, and dining options will be in high demand. We highly recommend you book your tours and accommodation well in advance and be prepared for crowded public spaces and busy streets.

Transportation

Use public transport, such as buses and the metro, to navigate the city. Be patient with the increased number of travelers, and be sure to calculate increased travel time to your calculations when planning your days.

Follow local health guidelines and be prepared for security checks, especially at major religious sites and events.

Health and Safety

Plan Ahead

To avoid crowds, it’s always important to plan and make sure you time entrances and book tours in advance to skip past unnecessary lines (though be prepared to deal with occasionally entering busy sites). You can always contact us at Roman Vacations for advice on where sites are and how best to enjoy your time.

Catholic Jubilees are not just periods of spiritual renewal but also times of historical significance and cultural enrichment. They leave a lasting impact on Rome’s infrastructure, art, and the collective memory of the Church. Whether it’s through massive pilgrimages, significant religious events, or improvements in the city, each Jubilee brings unique stories and legacies that continue to inspire and fascinate.

We can’t wait to see you all when you join us to celebrate next year.

Gardens And Parks In Rome

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 13:51:18 GMT

From Gardens And Parks To Grottos And Villas, Explore Rome's Most Stunning Green Spaces

Rome is a city that can be explored for a lifetime and you still won’t be able to see everything. This is not meant to intimidate, it’s just the truth. Of course, at Roman Vacations we would always recommend booking a tour to get the most history, excitement, and fun out of your time in Rome. But at the same time, we also encourage exploring the city on your own.

Being on vacation is a healthy balance of planned activities and free time to explore and soak it all in. While European travel tends to involve a lot of monuments and historical sites, we believe in getting back to nature, even when you’re in an urban city.

Public parks in Rome are plentiful and wherever you are in the Eternal City. Chances are you are less than 20-minutes away from sprawling green spaces and beautiful little corners of the city. Grab a picnic blanket or your walking shoes, get your camera or smartphone ready and get ready to explore some green spaces in Rome.

1. Villa Borghese

2. Villa Doria Pamphili

The large and sprawling Villa Pamphili is worth the hike up the hill above Trastevere. On your way up, you will be rewarded with stunning views over Rome as you approach entry at Porta San Pancrazio. Once inside the park, imagine the sprawling grounds as your own private estate. Join the locals as they participate in exercise classes, run, eat picnics, and generally enjoy time in nature.

The stunning Casino del Bel Respiro was built in the 17th century and has gorgeous gardens. Unfortunately, visitors must observe them from above rather than walking around the perfectly manicured plants. The park has an impressive collection of umbrella pines, a few lakes and is a fantastic place to people-watch on a sunny day. We recommend the park for exercise and relaxation. It’s a perfect place to catch up with your fellow travelers and reminisce on the tours and experiences you have had in Rome.

3. Villa Torlonia

This small but fascinating park was the residence of Mussolini, the former Italian dictator, from 1925-1943. A little off-the-beaten-path, this is another fantastic example of unique landscape architecture and a former private estate turned public. The small park is frequented mainly by locals to the area. Watch a riveting game of bocci ball, grab a coffee or quick lunch with some locals or even visit Mussolini’s former bunker (open to the public by reservation). The park also has lovely art-deco architecture and a small looping collection of walking paths.

4. Giardino Degli Aranci (The Orange Garden)

Come for the view of Rome and St. Peter’s Basilica and stay for the people-watching and the sunset. This small park is located on the Aventine hill, just up the street from the Circus Maximus. The park features an array of orange trees which smell heavenly in the spring as they blossom. Walk to the back of the park for the most perfect view over Rome and enjoy a cold beverage from the ledge that overlooks the city. Just down the hill from the orange garden is Rome’s municipal rose gardens. A small but impressive collection of rose varietals that opens to the public in the spring as the roses begin to bloom. This park is small and mostly gravel but the views and the flora make it a must-visit.

5. Villa Celiomontana

Tucked away just around the corner from the Colosseum, this park is just secluded enough that it provides a respite from the crowded square of the Colosseum and around the Palatine Hill. The sprawling grounds have ample trees and shady spots perfect for taking a break in nature. In the summer they hold jazz concerts and other live events in the evenings. We recommend grabbing a small picnic from a supermarket or a sandwich shop and enjoying a midday stroll here after your Colosseum Tour. The park also features a small obelisk compiled of various obelisks that has hieroglyphs of Ramesses the Great.

If You Enjoyed This Blog, We Think You Will Love These Tours

Navigating A Roman Menu

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 13:23:07 GMT

The What, When, And How Of Ordering From A Roman Menu

We believe that discovering things on your own when you’re on vacation can be half the fun, but we also like to give you tips on how to make your experience more enjoyable. One of the most common questions that we get asked is about a Roman menu. How do I order? What do I order? Do people eat an antipasti and a primi and a secondi? What about vegetables? What are all these foods?

So, without further ado, the menu at a typical Roman Trattoria, explained.

A Roman menu will almost always be broken into sections. The most common menus will have: antipasti, primi, secondi, contorno, dolce. Sometimes you’ll see an extra section for pizza, or different types of starters (cold starters, warm starters, fried starters), but the basics are as listed above.

Antipasti (Starters)

All good meals open with antipasti, and these are typically ordered to be shared at a Roman trattoria. You might get a combination of salumi e formaggi with an assortment of local cured meats and cheeses. Expect prosciutto crudo, a few hard sheep cheeses and much more. To try mozzarella di bufala we recommend it with melon or in a caprese salad. Rome also has many famous fried starters. We can’t get enough fiori di zucca with creamy mozzarella and a dollop of anchovy stuffed inside a fresh zucchini flower and then batter fried. Suppli is another popular choice, fried risotto with cheese inside that melts as you devour the crispy Roman specialty.

Primi (First Course)

A primi literally just means a first course. The typical primi selection will include the four typical Roman pastas and an assortment of other pasta specialties. Expect to find ravioli stuffed with spinach and fresh ricotta or a plate of spaghetti alle vongole, spaghetti dressed with delicious fresh clams and a sprinkle of parsley. There will often be a risotto and occasionally a soup. The four most famous Roman pasta dishes are as follows: spaghetti alla carbonara, amatriciana, cacio e pepe and alla gricia. If you are two people enjoying a meal together, you might consider sharing a pasta dish and a secondo to try as many specialties as possible.

Secondi (Main Course)

The Roman menu will continue with a selection of main courses or secondi. These are typically dishes that contain meat and fish, although you often can find a vegetarian-friendly eggplant parmesan or a cheese and vegetable dish. Rome is famous for its offal, meals made up of the typically discarded organs- called the quinto quarto in Rome, or the fifth-quarter. Expect the menu to feature trippa (tripe) as well as coda alla vaccinara (stewed oxtail). If you’re feeling a little less than adventurous you can try the famous pollo alla cacciatora (chicken cooked with onions, tomatoes, bell peppers and spices) or order a good old-fashioned serving of meatballs.

Don’t expect to find spaghetti and meatballs on an Italian menu! The dishes are served separately and the combination is only famous outside of Italy. If you’re craving some veggies you can refer to the separate contorni menu, which is where you’ll find sides. Expect delicious roasted potatoes, Roman cicoria (a bitter green served either stir-fried with hot pepper or boiled with squeeze of lemon), spinach and roasted veggies, among other options.

As you can see, unlike in many North American restaurants, you are not likely to find a plate that features vegetables, meat and a starch. Once you understand the basics, you’ll be able to order like a pro.

Dolce (Dessert)

We trust that you’ll be able to figure out the dessert menu! You can’t go wrong with a classic tiramisu, but the other options can always tempt us to decide to get a few extra desserts when we’re out to eat. If you drink, consider getting a limoncello or a grappa to cleanse your palate after your meal. The Italians are big proponents of a digestive drink after a big meal, and who are we to argue with their rules?

Of course, not all Roman menus are the same, but if you want an authentic Roman experience, we recommend printing this handy guide and taking it with you on your first night out at a classic Roman restaurant. Buon appetito!

If You Enjoyed This Blog, We Think You Will Love These Tours

Ferragosto: What Is It All About?

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 12:52:33 GMT

Ferragosto is Italy’s favourite day in August and here is everything you need to know about it.

What is Ferragosto?

The 15th of August each year is a public holiday in Italy called ferragosto, meaning August holiday.

It is common for Italians all over the country to pack a day bag and head to the beach on the seaside, or into the mountains. I mean, the weather is great so why not leave the city behind and enjoy the great outdoors for the day. It also happens to fall in the middle of the summer holiday period.

Pro tip for travellers: If you are planning to travel to Italy in August, be prepared for many businesses to be closed for lengthy periods of time. (Anything from a couple of days around ferragosto, to the whole month of August.)

The tradition dates all the way back to the year 18 BCE. The Emperor Augustus (the guy that August is named after, and the first emperor of Ancient Rome) introduced a festival on the 1st of August called Feriae Augusti. It allowed the Roman people to enjoy a day of rest after weeks of hard work in the agriculture sector.

It wasn’t until the late Renaissance period when the Catholic Church changed the date of the holiday to the 15th of August to coincide with the feast of the Assumption of Mary.

Mussolini used ferragosto to give lower class citizens an opportunity to visit culturally significant cities as well as enjoy the seaside. He introduced extremely low cost trains called ‘holiday trains’ to take people across the countryside for either a 1-day or 3-day visit around the 15th of August.

Food and lodging were not subsidised as part of Mussolini’s scheme and so it was customary for people to pack sandwiches and food to barbeque. This summer tradition continues to this day.

Where Does Ferragosto Come From?

What Can I Do on Ferragosto in Rome?

With many Romans making a mass exodus from the city in search of the fresh waters to dip in at the seaside or to breath the crisp air in the Apennine mountains, Rome is yours to enjoy at your leisure.

Keep in mind that many businesses – bars, restaurants, shops, and all public offices – are closed for ferragosto. If you’re looking to make dinner reservations be sure to call ahead!

On the other hand museums – with the exception of the Vatican Museums – remain open and operating within their ‘holiday hours’.

So, you can take advantage of the reduced traffic (both foot and car) and go for a walk downtown or by the river.

Or, you can join the masses at the beach and soak up the sun, sea, and sand…after all that is exactly what summer is all about!

If you’re looking for a fun way to fill your ferragosto in Rome, check out our walking tours here !

If You Enjoyed This Blog, We Think You Will Love These Tours

Everything You Need To Know Before You Visit Rome

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 17:25:27 GMT

Have you ever been on a holiday and by the time you got home you had a list of things a mile long that you wish you could have done differently? Well, let me tell you everything you need to know before you visit Rome.

Part of the beauty of travel is that you have to be adaptable and it is a learning experience. Not everything will go to plan, and that is part of the fun! However, sometimes you wish someone had given you a heads up on what to expect from a destination before you jet-set off into the sunset. That’s where I’m here to help! These are all real accounts from people that have been on vacation in Rome and what they wish they knew before they left.

What you need to know: WHEN to Visit Rome

“I didn’t realise how hot and crowded Rome would be in the Summer. In hindsight, I would have preferred a Spring or Autumn holiday instead.”

Rome gets very warm in the Summer! With temperatures averaging well into the 30+°C (86+°F) range, the long days of touring and exploring can be punishing if you aren’t prepared for it. Here are a few ways to beat the heat!

Bring a water bottle! There are over 2500 drinking fountains around Rome with cool, refreshing water that runs 24/7 where you can fill up and stay hydrated.

Visit museums and churches in the hottest parts of the day. Churches are often cool places to hang out and take in amazing art and architecture. Don’t forget that you must be dressed appropriately to get in (shoulders and knees covered).

Grab a refreshing aperitivo from a local bar. Sit in the shade and enjoy the Italian happy hour to cool off from the heat of the day.

A Guidebook of DOs, DON’Ts and Other Hacks for Your Roman Vacation.

“Many shops and restaurants were closed for the month of August. We had hoped to go to a restaurant a friend had recommended but they were gone for the Summer break.”

Yes, August in Italy means many city dwellers close up shop and head to the beach. It is an amazing phenomenon where almost the entire nation takes a holiday at the same time. Unfortunately, it means many venues close down for a few weeks. Luckily in Rome there are over 14,000 restaurants to choose from, so you are unlikely to be left without any options.

What you need to know: HOW LONG to Visit Rome

“3 days was not long enough! I left feeling overwhelmed by the amount of things we had tried to cram into a short period and like we had missed out on so much at the same time. I wish we had stayed for 5 days.”

While a 3-day Roman getaway is completely feasible, it does mean having to strictly pick and choose what you want to see and do. You could spend a lifetime in Rome and not see everything. It’s unrealistic to expect the full Roman experience in a long weekend.

It all boils down to how you like to travel and what you want to see in Rome. Remember to book your tour tickets in advance to avoid waiting in line for hours at major sites.

What you need to know: WHAT to See and Do in Rome

“I wish we had done more planning. My husband doesn’t usually enjoy guided tours but even he admitted that in a place like Rome he wished we had invested in a professional guide. It would have also been good to have some advice on which sites to visit and how to prioritise our time.”

“I wish I had done a professional city walking tour when I arrived to help me get my bearings and give some context to the ‘free’ sites.”

There were several responses just like these! The thing about Rome is that there is SO MUCH to see. While it’s cool to take yourself to the Colosseum, the Pantheon, Saint Peter’s Basilica (…the list goes on), it’s not quite the same as going with someone who knows all about these sites. You’re only getting the tip of the proverbial, historical iceberg when you go it alone. Rome is an overwhelmingly historical city and it is one that begs for its story to be told. When you invest in a professional and licensed tour guide, you uncover much more of the iceberg. It is then that you can really appreciate what it is that you’re looking at.

A little bit of research and planning goes a long way. As I’ve said before, there is A LOT to see in Rome. When you are planning to visit Rome, have a look into what tours are available and which ones pique your interest the most. Try something a little different if you have the time. Explore the Catacombs and Crypts or the Jewish Ghetto – Rome’s history has many more layers than just the Colosseum and Vatican City.

What you need to know: WHERE and WHAT to Eat in Rome

“I felt like I didn’t know which neighbourhoods were good to dine in, or where the best place to stay was. So, I fell into touristy traps which felt inauthentic.”

“I wish I knew what food was traditional to the region. I found myself ordering ‘Italian food’ and finding out later that they were not typically Roman dishes which was disappointing.”

Neighbourhoods like Monti, Garbatella, and Trastevere (among others) are known for their dining precincts and bar life. Grab a bite to eat and a glass of wine with the locals to really round out your authentic Roman experience. Rome has some pretty famous traditional dishes including carbonara, cacio e pepe, amatriciana, and saltimbocca.

One of the best things about Italy is that each region, and sometimes from one province to the next, have their own typical cuisine. For example: the aforementioned dishes from Rome would be almost impossible to find in Bologna. In Florence, you will devour a Fiorentina steak but you’d struggle to get your hands on a risotto alla pescatora, for which you’d have to go all the way to Naples. If you want to sample traditional cuisine that is typical to the region but you’re unsure of what to order, the best thing to do is simply ask your waiter for advice!

What you need to know: Everything Else I Wish I Knew Before My Visit to Rome

“Pedestrian crossing etiquette. If I hadn’t have been with a friend who knew the city, I would have spent a lot of time waiting for the cars to stop for me.”

Roman drivers are notorious for being a little bit insane. A Roman friend once told me “The lights and lines are for decoration.” But don’t let that put you off! If there is no pedestrian light at a crossing you just need to wait for a small break in traffic and go for it. Be careful (obviously), and if you aren’t sure – find a local and follow their lead.

“I’m glad we left our hire car at the airport and got a shuttle into the city. It was very easy to get around by using public transport or walking.”

See above re: Roman drivers.

For info on how to get around on Rome’s Public Transport check out our How-To Guide .

“I wish I had planned my outfits better. I struggled getting into churches because I was wearing a sleeveless top in July.”

If you plan on going to Saint Peter’s Basilica or ANY OTHER church in Italy, you are likely to be turned away at the door if you have bare shoulders and knees. It’s worth keeping this in mind especially when in Rome because some of the most incredible art and architecture is hidden in churches and sacred spaces around the city.

“I wish we had done more at night!”

Rome is a great city to explore at night. There are loads of evening tours available as well as a bustling nightlife! Also see above for where to eat.

Now you know!

Now you are set and ready to go armed with everything you need to know to get the best out of your Roman Vacation when you visit Rome.

Rome’s Public Transport

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 17:25:27 GMT

How To Get Around Rome Using Public Transportation

What kind of public transport is there in Rome?

Rome’s public transport system is a network of services including subway trains (metro), trams, busses, and light rail. All services are provided by one company called ATAC. This means that for one very cheap ticket you can access the whole public transport network.

How much does a ticket cost and what kind of ticket should I buy?

There are a few options you can choose from when buying a transport ticket in Rome. Those of you travelling with children may note that on Rome’s public transport children under 10 are free when accompanied by an adult.

Standard Single 100 min Ticket: This ticket costs just € 1,50 and allows you to travel for 100 minutes after it has been validated. You may make as many bus and tram connections as you like in that 100 mins, however, once you leave a metro station you may not enter another on the same ticket.
24 hour Ticket: We don’t recommend this ticket. It costs € 7,00 and expires at midnight on the day you purchased it (not 24 Hours later). To make the 24 hour ticket worth while, you would have to make 5 trips all more than 100 mins apart.
48 hour Ticket: Again we don’t recommend this ticket for the same reason as the 24 hour one. This ticket costs € 12,50
72 hour Ticket: At € 18,00 the 72 hour ticket gives the impression that it is good value for money. However, the ticket expires at midnight on the third day so if you purchased your ticket late on day 1, you lose most of that third day. At this point you might consider a RomaPass instead.
Weekly Ticket: Poor Value for € 24,00. You would have to travel more than twice a day to justify the cost. The same issue as the 72 hour ticket applies in that unless you purchased the ticket early on day 1, you are getting cheated out of half a day or more.
Monthly Ticket: If you are planning on staying in Rome for a while, this ticket is a good one to consider. At just € 35,00 this ticket is a bargain for regular public transport users. The only catch is that the ticket runs on a calendar month. Meaning, if you buy a monthly pass on the 18th it will expire on the last day of the month.
RomaPass: 2 or 3 days of unlimited public transport in Rome and free entry to two museums (with some exceptions) makes the RomaPass an option to consider. For more information check out the RomaPass website. (Disclaimer: unless you plan to fully utilize the access to museums and frequent public transport rides, this can also fall flat in value for the money)

Where can I buy tickets for Rome’s public transport?

Buying a ticket is simple. Every metro station is equipped with ticket machines. You may choose from several languages indicated on the screen by the corresponding flags. Select your preferred ticket from the options presented (Standard Single Ticket to Weekly Ticket).

Pay using CASH. Even though many of the machines are fitted with credit card slots, most of the time they will only accept cash. Note: The machines will never give more than € 6,00 change. For example; you want to buy one Standard Single Ticket for € 1,50 and you pay with a € 20,00 note, the machine will happily take the money and force you to buy € 14,00 worth of tickets before giving you the remaining € 6,00 change. Many machines now will not accept bills larger than € 10,00.

Keep an eye out for the unfortunately common “Out of Order” signs on the machine. They may still take your money.

Alternatively, you can buy tickets at a Tabacchi – tobacco shop – that are clearly indicated with a ‘T’ sign outside. Go to the counter and ask for un biglietto (oon bil-YET-oh) for a Standard Single Ticket.

There are also kiosks around the city in tourist hotspots where you may also purchase tickets for Rome’s public transport.

Validating your ticket:

Don’t forget to validate your ticket! Your Standard 100 min ticket must be validated on your first trip in the journey. At the metro stations it is easy, as you pass through the turnstiles your ticket is automatically validated by the gates. To check your expiry time, flip over your ticket and look at the printed scadenza.

On the bus or tram lines you must validate your own ticket using the machines onboard. They are usually located at the front and/or back of the vehicle. If your bus or tram is particularly crowded, you can wave your ticket in the direction of the machine and some friendly commuter will help you out.

If you don’t valid ate your ticket you may incur a hefty fine of up to € 150,00. Trust us, pleading the innocent and unaware tourist argument will NOT help you.

How do I plan my route?

The easiest way to plan your public transport route in Rome is by using the Moovit app. The app is regularly updated with any delays or changes to each line.

Important things to know about Rome’s public transport:

The running times vary on each service. The metro operating hours are 5:30am to 11:30pm on weekdays. On Fridays and Saturdays the last metro departs the end of the line in both directions at 1:30am. The bus and tram services run normally from 5:30am to midnight. There are a few night bus services that supplement the metro and other main lines that run from midnight to 5:00am.

Rome’s public transport is cheap and there are many lines to choose from. However, the public transport system is subject to regular delays and strikes. It is important to leave more than enough time to get to your destination if you are using the public transport system.

Is the public transport in Rome complicated?

No, not at all! The metro system is currently made up of 2 main lines (A Line and B Line) in the shape of an X that cross over at Roma Termini. The third metro line (C Line) intersects with the A Line at San Giovanni and connects the center of Rome to the eastern suburbs. The C Line is currently under construction; when it is complete it will cross through the center of the city.

There are 6 tram lines in Rome and they connect to areas of the city that are unreachable by metro. The tram lines connect Rome’s tourists and locals in several neighbourhoods like Gianicolense, Trastevere, Monti, Flaminio, and Prati.

There are plenty of busses in Rome. With tens of lines to choose from that carve through the city and out into the suburbs, the easiest way to decide which bus will serve you best is to jump on to the Moovit App.

Trying to find your way around a foreign city can be a fun but potentially overwhelming experience. Rest assured that with this cheat sheet, getting around with Rome’s public transport will be a breeze.

Roman Vacations

Top 5 Pubs In Rome

Food, Football, and your Favourite Brew

1. Finnegan Irish Pub ﻿

2. Shamrock Pub Roma ﻿

3. The Fiddler's Elbow

4. Scholars Lounge Rome

5. The Abbey Theatre

Honorable Mention

The Catholic Jubilee

Centuries Of Tradition: What To Expect At The Catholic Jubilee

Historical Origins

1. Spiritual Pilgrimages to the Holy Doors

2. Special Liturgical Celebrations

3. Acts of Mercy and Charity

4. Cultural Events and Exhibitions

Here are some practical tips to make your visit smoother:

Accommodation

5. A Surge in Tourism

Transportation

Health and Safety

Plan Ahead

Gardens And Parks In Rome

From Gardens And Parks To Grottos And Villas, Explore Rome's Most Stunning Green Spaces

1. Villa Borghese

2. Villa Doria Pamphili

3. Villa Torlonia

4. Giardino Degli Aranci (The Orange Garden)

5. Villa Celiomontana

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Navigating A Roman Menu

The What, When, And How Of Ordering From A Roman Menu

Antipasti (Starters)

Primi (First Course)

Secondi (Main Course)

Dolce (Dessert)

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Ferragosto: What Is It All About?

Ferragosto is Italy’s favourite day in August and here is everything you need to know about it.

What is Ferragosto?

Where Does Ferragosto Come From?

What Can I Do on Ferragosto in Rome?

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Everything You Need To Know Before You Visit Rome

What you need to know: WHEN to Visit Rome

A Guidebook of DOs, DON’Ts and Other Hacks for Your Roman Vacation.

What you need to know: HOW LONG to Visit Rome

What you need to know: WHAT to See and Do in Rome

What you need to know: WHERE and WHAT to Eat in Rome

What you need to know: Everything Else I Wish I Knew Before My Visit to Rome

Rome’s Public Transport

How To Get Around Rome Using Public Transportation

What kind of public transport is there in Rome?

How much does a ticket cost and what kind of ticket should I buy?

Where can I buy tickets for Rome’s public transport?

Validating your ticket:

How do I plan my route?

Important things to know about Rome’s public transport:

Is the public transport in Rome complicated?

1. Finnegan Irish Pub

2. Shamrock Pub Roma