Italy is a must-visit country and is one of the most-traveled destinations in Europe. There are so many highlights in this beautiful country, from the canals of Venice to the Tuscan wine lands to the cobblestone streets of Rome to the Arno river running through Florence and beyond.

Rome is one of the most iconic and most traveled cities in Europe and you could spend days getting lost in this magnificent destination.

Best Time To Visit

The cheapest time of year to visit Italy is in the winter. From December to March, the cold weather keeps most travelers at bay, and you can explore the country’s incredible museums and galleries to your heart’s content. You’ll also be in time for all the Christmas Markets and have an easier time finding cheap flights to Italy. Another affordable period is between April and May. The summer crowds have yet to arrive, and the countryside is covered in a blanket of blossoming flowers ! However, there really is no place like Italy in the summer. Even if it’s crowded, it’s amazing !

What To Expect

Language: The main language spoken in Italy is Italian.

Currency: The currency in Italy is the Euro. 1 GBP is equivalent to about 1.12 EUR.

Plugs: The plugs in Italy are Type C, F, and L. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50Hz.

Safety: While Italy is generally a safe destination for solo travelers, the one thing you need to watch out for is pickpockets. Always keep your eyes on your belongings and invest in an anti-theft backpack to ensure you don’t lose any of your valuables.

Getting Around: I loved traveling through Italy by coach and train, you can sit back and relax as you cross the beautiful countryside.

1. Rome

Rome is one of the most iconic and most traveled cities in Europe, with a long history to match. With a mixture of cultures from around the world, Rome has it all. Wander the cobblestone street, spend some time taking in all of the stunning architecture the city has to offer. Rome is also a foodie’s heaven, from the world-class cuisine, to casual trattorias, to takeaway pizzas.

What to Expect in Rome

Rome is a big city with a great transportation system and friendly locals. I would recommend knowing a few key phrases in Italian but you will find many English speakers around in case you need assistance.

Resting just off the Mediterranean Sea, Rome enjoys warm and temperate weather with averages of 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Expect much more rainfall during the winter and hot and sunny days in the summer.

Getting Around in Rome

Getting to Rome : Dozens of airlines fly to and from Fiumicino Airport daily, so you can pick and choose based on your point of origin. You can also wheel into Rome by train, most lines run into Roma Termini, Rome’s central train station.

Car: Driving in Rome isn’t advisable, the traffic is chaotic in the best of terms and drivers are insane.

Taxis: Taxis are an option but tend to be more expensive.

Public Transport: Opt for wandering around by foot, the most romantic way to discover the hidden corners of the city, or use the impressive public system of buses, trams, metro, and light railways.

If you’re in town for at least 72 hours, try the Roma Pass, just 38 euros will get you full access to public transportation, admission to two museums, and discounts on performance and exhibition tickets.

Uber: Uber is available in Rome, so if you’re going further distances around the city, it is definitely an option !

Where To Stay

Hotel Golden : Located on the edge of the Borghese Gardens, and close to the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain, this family-owned hotel offers personalized service and is in the perfect location to explore.

Hotel Artemide : With a delicious complimentary breakfast, comfortable beds, and a super helpful staff, this 4-star hotel is a winner in Rome’s city centre. Plus, it is only about a 15-minute walk to Termini, Colosseum, Trevi, and Spanish Steps.

Boutique Hotel Campo De Fiori : Featuring a rooftop garden terrace, this boutique hotel is a dream. The property is centrally located and the over-the-top decor will make it a true Italian experience. They also offer apartment-style accommodations for long-term stays.

The Place In Rome : This hostel-style bed and breakfast is top-rated in Rome, and is located near the train, subway and bus station that gives you the convenience to explore the city ! Includes Free breakfast !

La Controra Hostel Rome : If you’re looking for a backpacker hostel, this should be your go-to. Less than 10 minutes walking from Termini Station, La Controra is also walking distance from city centre and a 10-15 minute walk far from the Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Villa Borghese, and a metro stop.

Agnes Roma B&B : Located a short distance from downtown in the elegant and quiet Trieste neighborhood, this family-run B&B offers to its guests three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a nice living room.

Where To Eat

Baguetteria del Fico : Friendly service, delicious sandwiches and an extensive beer list, what else could you want ? Stop by for a satisfying and affordable lunch !

Mercato Testaccio : A lively food market that sells both raw ingredients, baked goods, fresh produce and takeaway food every day of the week except Sundays.

Da Cesare al Casaletto : Da Cesare al Casaletto is by far the best trattoria in town. You can’t go wrong here, and the wine list is very affordable.

Otaleg : A must-stop for gelato in Rome! Located in the Portuense district, Otaleg uses all-natural ingredients to make their rich and creamy gelato. You won’t regret it.

Supplizio : This casual street-food-inspired spot on the ground floor of a Renaissance building in the city centre brings fried specialities and signature finger foods to the masses.

Flavio al Velavevodetto : Popular with locals and visitors alike, Flavio al Velavevodetto is an elegant yet cozy place to take friends and family with dishes that are 100% traditional. Be sure to try the local specialities and carbonara !

Trapizzino : If you’re traveling on a budget, you have to try the triangular shaped, popular tramezzino sandwich here (for about 4 euros). Delicious sandwiches filled with goodies like oxtail simmered with tomato and celery, chicken with bell peppers.

What To Do

Visit The Vatican : The Vatican is closely tied with Rome’s heritage, and there is a wealth of art and history to explore in its Vatican Museums. Start early to beat the crowds.

The Pantheon : If you have only a few hours in Rome, you should absolutely visit the Pantheon. It’s the only ancient Roman temple that survived virtually intact.

Trek up to Gianicolo Hill : Rome is best explored on foot through all the winding streets and hillslopes. You can find a fun and free walk on Via di Gianicolo, which runs from the Piazza Della Rovere up to one of the tallest hills in Rome. The panoramic view of the city from the top is one of the best, and though the steep hike is a bit challenging, there are several benches and cafés along the way so you can take a breather.

Villa Borghese : The beautiful Villa and grounds were built in the sixteenth century as a “party villa” for Cardinal Scipione Borghese. It now houses the impressive Galleria Borghese and the villa’s gardens.

Trevi Fountain : Throw a coin in the iconic Trevi and legend has it that one day you’ll return to Rome. The fountain was designed by Nicola Salvi in 1732 and depicts the sea god Oceanus with his seahorses. It was also featured in Fellini’s La Dolce Vita and is still popular with the crowds who make the pilgrimage to admire it.

The Spanish Steps : The Spanish Steps, a lively staircase of 135 steps, were made famous by Audrey Hepburn’s 1953 film Roman Holiday. They are a great place to people watch and start your window shopping.

Roman Forum + Colosseum : On your list should definitely be the Roman Forum, which houses Trajan’s market, the relatively intact ancient Via Biberatica, and, of course, the iconic Colosseum.

Food and Pizza-Making Tour : You get to explore the streets of the city all while trying delicious food. You’ll stop by a bakery, a market, a coffee shop, and a traditional pizzeria where you get to make your very own pizza.

Join a Take Walks Tour : Take Walks offers so many different tours around Rome and I would highly recommend booking one with them, from food to history !