Transportation

• Rome is a big city, but if you like walking then the historical centre can be completely done by foot. This is probably the best way to discover its wonderful treasures
• Be careful when taking taxis as often they try to overcharge. Watch the meter and read the tariff information leaflet that should be inside the taxi
• On the subway and buses be very careful of pickpockets. They are specialists in stealing without being noticed
• The shuttle train “Leonardo Express” from Termini railway station in the center of Rome is a good way to reach Fiumicino airport. It is a 31 minutes ride, operating everyday from 6.00 to 23.00, price 11 Euro per person, from platform 25
• Going to Fiumicino airport from the center of Rome by taxi takes about 45 minutes depending on traffic conditions. There is a flat rate of 40 Euro from the center

Social interactions

• Do not visit churches during religious functions
• Respect the dress code when visiting churches: shoulders and legs to the knee should be covered
• In restaurants the service charge is already included in the bill. However, an additional tip is very much appreciated and can range from a few Euros up to 10-15 Euros
• Learning some words in Italian will be of great help when interacting with locals. Be sure you master at least the basics: grazie (thank you), mi scusi (excuse me), prego (you’re welcome), buongiorno (good day), buonasera (good evening). And don’t worry of making mistakes, your efforts will always be regarded with great sympathy
• When entering a public place (bar, shop) always begin by greeting with buongiorno or buonasera
• If you need to use the toilet of a bar it is a good rule to buy something first (a coffee or pack of gums will be enough), otherwise it is likely that they will tell you that the restroom is out of order

Other useful tips

• You can drink the water and refill your bottles at the street fountains (called nasoni, big noses). The water is good, fresh and... free!
• Summer is hot. Remember a hat, sunscreen and sunglasses
• International dialing code for Italy is +39. Area code for Rome is 06. When calling from outside Italy you must dial +39 06 and the number. If you are calling a mobile phone it will be +39 and the mobile number beginning with three digits (first digit is 3, e.g. 348, 335, 329)
• If you are travelling with electric appliances remember to check if your home plugs are different from the Italian ones. For instance US and UK plugs are different and require an adaptor