ROME INSIDER TIPS

These Rome Insider Tips have been carefully curated through years of firsthand experience exploring Rome, with the goal of helping our guests enjoy the very best the historical city has to offer.

Our dedicated team is always available to assist!

Rome, Italy

FAQS:

  • Rome is located in central Italy in the Lazio region and serves as the country’s capital city. It is one of the most historically significant cities in the world and home to ancient ruins, Renaissance art, Vatican City, and vibrant modern Italian life.

  • Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (Fiumicino/FCO) — the primary international airport

  • Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) are ideal for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

    Summer is lively and energetic but can be extremely hot, especially in July and August. Winter offers a quieter, more local feel with shorter museum lines and festive holiday markets.

  • Visas may be required starting in 2026 to enter Europe. The visa is called an ETIAS visa. Additional details can be found on their website here. You will also require a passport. Please be sure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned date of departure.

  • You can absolutely exchange money before you arrive in Italy if that is your preference. However, withdrawing cash from local ATMs is also a convenient and widely used option. Just be sure to notify your bank before your departure. Many businesses also accept credit cards.

  • You will need to arrange a special international plan for texting and phone service before arriving in Italy. We strongly encourage you to bring a smartphone with an active international plan in the event of an emergency or an unforeseen delay in your arrival to Rome.

  • Italy operates on a 220-volt electrical system. You will need simple plug adapters for items such as laptops, cameras, and phone chargers.

    For higher-powered items like hair dryers, curling or straightening irons, and electric shavers, you will need a voltage converter or transformer to convert the electrical current safely. You can purchase adapters HERE on Amazon.

  • In Rome, as in many towns throughout Italy, a local tourist tax (imposta di soggiorno) is charged to overnight visitors. This municipal tax is set by the town and is collected per person, per night, for a limited number of nights. The funds support local tourism services, including the maintenance of historic sites, public spaces, and visitor infrastructure. The tax is separate from your accommodation cost and is typically paid directly at check-in or check-out in cash.

  • Tipping in Italy is not required in the same way it is in the United States, as service charges are often included. That said, Italians are accustomed to American travelers tipping, and gratuities are always welcomed and appreciated for good service. A 15–20% tip is considered generous and appropriate when you choose to leave one.

    Services where tipping is commonly given include:
    • Restaurants
    • Taxis
    • Tour guides
    • Chefs leading cooking classes
    • Hotel concierge services and bellhops
    • Cleaning services in private residences (Rome) and hotels

    Ultimately, tipping is at your discretion and should reflect the level of service you receive.

NEIGHBORHOODS TO EXPLORE

  • TRASTEVERE

    One of Rome’s most beloved neighborhoods, Trastevere is known for ivy-covered buildings, cobblestone streets, buzzing piazzas, and excellent restaurants. It’s especially magical in the evening when locals gather outdoors for aperitivo and dinner.

  • MONTI

    Located near the Colosseum, Monti blends historic Rome with a creative, local energy. You’ll find artisan boutiques, wine bars, vintage shops, and quieter streets just beyond the tourist crowds.

  • TESTACCIO

    A more local and food-focused neighborhood known for traditional Roman cuisine and authentic markets. This is one of the best areas in Rome to try classic Roman pasta dishes away from the heaviest tourist areas.

LANDMARKS & SITES

  • THE COLOSSEUM

    Rome’s most iconic ancient landmark and an essential first stop. We highly recommend booking tickets well in advance and choosing an early morning or evening entry time when possible.

  • THE ROMAN FORUM & PALATINE HILL

    Walking through the Forum gives an incredible sense of ancient Rome’s scale and history.

    Enter through the Palatine Hill side when possible for a slightly calmer experience and stunning panoramic views.

  • THE PANTHEON

    One of the most astonishing architectural achievements in the ancient world, remarkably preserved after nearly 2,000 years.

  • TREVI FOUNTAIN

    An iconic Roman landmark that’s especially magical early in the morning or late at night after the crowds thin.

    Go before 8 AM for the quietest experience and best photos.

  • PIAZZA NAVONA

    One of Rome's most beautiful squares, filled with fountains, street artists, and outdoor cafés.

  • SPANISH STEPS

    A popular gathering place and excellent starting point for exploring Rome's elegant shopping district.

RESTAURANTS

  • Two cafe workers, a woman and a man, behind a counter with sandwiches, wine, and glasses. The woman holds a sandwich, while the man is opening a bottle of wine. Both are wearing black berets, and the background shows a cozy kitchen with shelves and hanging copper pots.

    LA DISPENSA

    Via Guelfa, 5-7, 52044 Cortona

    La Dispensa offers traditional Tuscan cooking with a rustic, welcoming feel in the heart of Cortona.

    Insider tip: If it’s on the menu, order the pici al tartufo; it’s one of our favorite Cortona dishes, featuring a light, creamy sauce that lets the truffle shine.

  • A plate of spaghetti with tomato sauce, topped with shredded cheese and garnished with fresh basil leaves, with additional sauce and black pepper around the dish.

    CORTONA BISTROT

    Via S. Margherita, 13, 52044 Cortona

    Off the main tourist path, Cortona Bistrot is a true hidden gem, offering inventive Tuscan cuisine, a cozy vintage vibe, and a terrace overlooking the valley.

    Insider tip: Gluten-free options are available, and the desserts are not to be missed!

  • Person grating chocolate over a plated dish with stuffed rolls topped with sauce and herbs.

    QUANTO BASTA

    Via Nazionale 78, 52044 Cortona

    Restaurant located in Piazza Garibaldi, offering a blend of tradition and innovation in its menu. The dishes feature Calabrian influences and highlight local products and national excellence. With a panoramic view of the Valdichiana from the Cortona Belvedere, it provides a relaxing atmosphere for visitors.

  • An outdoor dining table set with wine glasses, water glasses, and napkins, with rustic buildings in the background.

    LA LOGGETTA

    Piazza Pescheria, 3, 52044 Cortona

    Enjoy classic Tuscan cuisine on the beautiful terrace overlooking Cortona’s main piazza and clock tower. Don’t miss the pici—a beloved Cortona staple.

    Insider tip: The terrace was recently featured as a filming location in HBO’s Succession.

  • Vintage black-and-white photo of a restaurant interior with tables covered in checkered tablecloths, a bar with shelves filled with bottles, two waitstaff standing behind the bar, and decorative items including a bird sculpture, a plant, a globe, and framed pictures.

    TRATTORIA DARDANO

    Via Dardano, 24, 52044 Cortona

    Built in the 1980’s, Dardano is a typical Tuscan trattoria that preserves the culinary traditions of the region. Warm, casual, and friendly, this restaurant is a fantastic lunch or dinner spot for both locals and visitors alike.

    Insider tip: Don’t miss Cortona’s signature Orecchiette al Fumo—tomato cream sauce with smoked pancetta and rosemary.

  • Interior of a historic restaurant with arched ceilings, decorative frescoes, a large window, and tables set for dining.

    OSTERIA DEL TEATRO

    Via Giuseppe Maffei, 2, 52044 Cortona

    Enjoy refined Tuscan cuisine with a creative touch at Osteria del Teatro, tucked along a charming street near Cortona’s historic center.

    Insider tip: This is a favorite for a more intimate, elevated dining experience, perfect for a relaxed, lingering meal.

  • A white plate with a black geometric pattern around the rim, containing cooked lamb chops, garnished with redcurrants, green herbs, and sauce drizzles.

    PRELUDIO

    Via Guelfa, 11, 52044 Cortona

    Preludio offers modern Tuscan cuisine in a stylish, intimate setting just steps from Cortona’s historic center.

    Insider tip: Try the Cortonese dish, pici al ragù di cinghiale, hand-rolled pici pasta served with rich wild boar sauce. It’s a true local classic and widely loved in Cortona.

  • The storefront of La Saletta bar with a yellow awning and large wooden sign, displaying potted plants and a small shelf outside the entrance.

    BAR CAFFÉ LA SALETTA

    Via Nazionale, 26, 52044 Cortona

    Caffè Saletta is a no-frills local favorite on Via Nazionale, perfect for coffee or a quick snack. With cozy leather benches and dark tables, it feels like stepping into another era—and it’s also a great spot to settle in and work on your laptop outside the house.

    Insider tip: The fresh-squeezed orange juice is not to be missed!

  • A plate of pasta with sauce and a side salad with lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and carrots on a table at a restaurant.

    BIRRIFICIO CORTONESE

    Via Guelfa, 16, 52044 Cortona

    One of our favorite spots for wonderful pizza and home cooking, great for a casual lunch or dinner over handcrafted beers. There are outdoor tables on Via Guelfa, great for people watching and enjoying the fresh air.

    Insider Tip: The Ragout is one of our favorites in town!

MARKETS

  • Display of various fruits at a market stand, including peaches, grapes, oranges, and bananas, with price tags and a storefront window behind.

    FRUTTE E VERDURA

    Piazza della Repubblica 24, Cortona AR

    Located just next to Molesini Market, this produce shop sells excellent fresh fruits and vegetables year-round. Be sure to mention to the owners Robbi and Nunzi that you know Stacey and Rob. Insider tip: Don’t touch the produce yourself, ask one of them to handle it for you!

  • Small Italian pasta shop with a wooden sign reading "Bottega della Pasta Fresca" on top. The storefront has pictures of various pasta dishes and food items displayed on the sides.

    BOTTEGA DELLA PASTA FRESCA

    Via Dardano 29, Cortona AR

    A great local pasta shop serving delicious fresh pastas in many shapes and varieties.

  • Hanging cured sausages and meats in a butcher shop with workers preparing meat.

    MACELLERIA CIPOLLINI

    Via Benedetti 16, Cortona AR

    A trusted local butcher, Cipollini provides high quality meats from the local area.

BEYOND CORTONA

  • A historic castle on a small, forested island surrounded by a large body of water, with mountains and land visible in the background.

    LAKE TRASIMENO

    This spectacular lake is located just 15 minutes by car from Cortona. It has walking and biking trails as well as some wonderful villages to visit. Notable towns close to Cortona are Passignano sul Trasimeno, Tuoro sul Trasimeno, and Castiglione del Lago, where there are many restaurants and cafe options, as well as stunning lakeside promenades.

    At Tuoro sul Trasimeno, you can swim at the beach, rent paddle boats or take the ferry to the only populated island on the lake, Isola Maggiore, where there are several restaurants with outdoor dining and spectacular lake vistas.

    For more information about the famous Lake Trasimeno, visit www.trasimeno.ws/index.html.

  • An outdoor flea market in a European city square with vendors and shoppers browsing antique furniture, lamps, and decorative items against historic buildings.

    AREZZO ANTIQUE MARKET

    To shop like a local, come early on Saturday morning before the crowds arrive so you get first pick of unique pieces — from vintage jewelry and antique prints to furniture and curiosities — and locals often start setting up even before the official opening.

    Insider Tip: Don’t be shy about haggling politely (it’s expected), and bring cash for the best bargains. After a few hours of browsing, duck into a café in Piazza San Francesco for an espresso or lunch to recharge

  • Assorted ceramic dishware, including plates, bowls, and jars with lids, featuring blue, green, and yellow floral patterns.

    GIALLETTI - DERUTA POTTERY

    Via Tiberina Sud, 304 Deruta - Perugia

    Founded in 1959 by Virgilio and Giulio Gialletti, this ceramics studio has always based its production on the classic styles from Deruta, painted by their skilled workers capable of reviving the Deruta tradition of the artistic Renaissance majolica, without ever neglecting the search for new forms and patterns.

  • The ruins of an old stone church or cathedral with tall arched windows and columns, and a clear blue sky above.

    ABBEY OF SAN GALGANO

    Strada Comunale di S. Galgano, 167, 53012 Chiusdino SI, Italy

    A truly atmospheric stop in the Tuscan countryside, the Abbey of San Galgano is a roofless 13th-century Gothic monastery whose dramatic ruins are framed by rolling hills — perfect for photos and a moment of reflection. Plan to arrive early if you want striking light and fewer crowds, and wear comfortable shoes — most of the grounds are gravel and open air.

    Insider Tip: Don’t miss the nearby Montesiepi Chapel to see the legendary Sword in the Stone, tied to the story of Saint Galgano’s renunciation of knighthood. The site is best reached by car, with free parking nearby and a lovely farmhouse cafe close at hand.

  • Hand holding a taco wrapped in white paper in front of a building with wooden doors and two women sitting outside.

    LA TUA PIADINA

    Via Dè Cenci, 18, 52100 Arezzo AR, Italy

    Located in the town of Arezzo, the nearest large city to Cortona, La Tua Piadina is a local and family favorite. Known for their melt-in-your-mouth flatbread sandwiches stuffed with delicious local ingredients, La Tua Piadina is a must-visit quick lunch spot for all those passing through Arezzo.

  • A covered patio area overlooking a swimming pool and scenic landscape at sunset, with lounge chairs and umbrellas surrounding the pool.

    TERME SAN GIOVANNI

    Via Terme S. Giovanni, 52, 53040 Rapolano Terme SI, Italy

    Set in the gentle hills of the Crete Senesi near Siena, this classic Tuscan thermal spa is best enjoyed at a relaxed pace — plan to arrive early or mid-week to soak in the outdoor pools with fewer crowds and better views over the countryside. The natural sulfur-rich waters — ranging from warm to hot — are known for their soothing effect on muscles and skin, so linger longer in the hottest pool for maximum benefit. Pair your dip with a light lunch or aperitivo at the on-site Coffee Relax Bistro terrace overlooking the gardens, and don’t forget your own flip-flops and robe for comfort between pools. If you’re there at sunset, the warm glow over the hills makes for one of the most peaceful bathing experiences in Tuscany.