Between studying in Rome and visiting a dozen times throughout my life, we’ve been there - and made a LOT of mistakes. Don’t be like those versions of me.

1. Tipping Too Much

Only tip a few Euros (5% in cash)
Look out for “Service Charges” and do not tip if there is on
You can NOT add the tip to your credit card payment, so have cash on hand for tips even in restaurants

2. Ordering Italian Coffee Like an Amateur

Bar = Coffee Shop
Pay at the Cash Register PRIOR to getting your coffee
Pay, grab the receipt, belly up to the bar & ask for your drink
Plan to drink your coffee standing up at the bar, as we don’t get it “TO GO”

3. Looking for Alfredo & Marinara on a Menu

The Italian Menus from home translate but with different dishes to try!
If you like Alfredo, try Carbonara. If you like Marinara, try Pomodoro.
If you’re me, get Amatriciana everywhere

4. Not Drinking the Fountain Water

Small Fountains are for refilling your water bottle! They’re safe to use, so take advantage
Often if you put your finger on the hole the water pours out of, there’s the option to make it more like a fountain to drink out of

5. Using Public Transportation & Accidentally Getting Fined

Make sure you VALIDATE YOUR TICKET when you see any signs regarding it
If you purchase a ticket and do NOT validate it, you run the risk of a hefty fine

6. Not Planning Your Meals

Lunch ends around 2pm & Dinner starts closer to 730pm
During the afternoon, you’ll be able to grab snacks or gelato - but don’t plan to sit down for a late afternoon meal
And consider reservations when at all possible, esp for the best spots

7. Not Affording Public Restrooms

When you’re in a museum or restaurant, use their toilets before departing
Public restooms typically cost a few euros - so carry some coins for those situations
Watch for “TOILET” signs for those bathrooms

8. Dressing Like a Tourist

Skip your athleisure and heels when you’re in Italy
Plan on wearing “cute” outfits and more stylish sneakers
Throw on some flats to wear out to dinner, as the heels on cobblestones don’t work for even the most skilled heel wearers

9. Accepting a Rose from a Street Vendor as a "Gift"

If you see roses being handed out at a restaurant or on the street, SAY NO
You’ll hear “this is a gift”; it isn’t
Say “no Grazie” and walk away

10. Not Reserving Museum Tickets

Some museums require timed entry
Some museums have options for timed entry or waiting in line
Some museums you can “walk in”
When possible, consider a guided tour or reserved tickets skip the line every chance you can
Make the most of your time

If you are ready to visit Rome, let me know right HERE

10 Rome Travel Mistakes