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Rome in your Pocket: Best apps for foreigners in Rome

Rome’s Must-Have Apps

When it comes to navigating the city like a local, Rome is such a popular destination that it can be a challenge to wade through the sea of books, blogs, websites, and magazines to truly find the best advice. But what could be easier than pulling out your phone? With these 16 apps , you can explore the city’s food culture, brush up on your history, learn Italian, find a doctor and more. It’s like having an expert on all the best things to do in Rome right in your pocket.!

BEST APPS TO LEARN ITALIAN

Starting with minimal to no Italian knowledge I downloaded Babbel hoping to start the learning process. Babbel is a very non-intimidating app. When you first download the app, it asks you how much time realistically you will spend on it per day, your preexisting Italian knowledge, and if you want to be reminded to practice. You can set weekly goals as well to keep yourself on track. I found that this was an approachable way for me to begin to learn because it is structured around my comfort level and allocates realistic amounts of time I intend to devote. Upon using the app, you will be given simple quizzes initially to familiarize yourself with common Italian words and phrases. It shows real time spelling and pronunciation as you take the quizzes so you can learn multiple ways at once. The app will advance your basic language understanding quickly, but the free trial only gives access to one lesson, after that it is subscription based.

CLICK HERE TO TRY BABBEL APP

Language doesn’t have to be a barrier , and when in Italy it most definitely shouldn’t be. Food, drink and destinations should be at the top of your Italian language list. Duolingo is the ultimate app to start learning some basic Italian before and during your trip to Italy. Each mini-lesson takes you through a language or grammar skill using pictures, short translations, listening activities and more to help you brush up on your Italian basics or solidify key language concepts all in a fun and easy to use format. Armed with the basics, you’ll have a lot of fun testing out your skills with the locals. Brava!

There are some words in Italian you simply don’t want to botch, whether it’s in spelling, meaning, or pronunciation. Like penne . Take our word for it. Enter iTranslate. This leading dictionary and translation app allows you to start voice-to-voice conversations in over 90 languages. The app also provides verb conjugations in different tenses, and can detect different dialects. You are bound to impress yourself when using this app abroad. They offer a 7-day free trial and then charge you € 4,99 monthly or € 59,99 / year.

INSPIRATION Best apps to learn italian

BEST APPS ON THE GO

If you can brave the public transportation system in Rome, power to you. But do it right. CityMapper provides users with the fastest routes, latest updated times, real-time locations, and the distances from metro/bus stops. The app also features the carsharing capability which enables users to check out available cars, scooters, and also cabs nearby.  The “issues” section lets you know of any problems occurring on your route in real time, like traffic, strikes, a closed metro station. CityMapper can also remember your recent and frequent trips so you don’t have to!

Your closest bet to an Uber experience is this trending app. FREE NOW, formerly My Taxi, has been around since 2015 and is arguably the most efficient way to get around using Rome’s competitive taxi services. Order your taxi in two taps, track your driver in real time, pay cashless, and take advantage of this app when continuing to move around Europe. It also allows you to pre-order service up to 4 days in advance. You can save your favorite drivers (pick up on that last in-depth convo) and…Heading to the airport at the end of the week? Try their pick-up and drop-off service on demand.

Urbi is the best solution to the multitude of car sharing, scooter sharing, bike sharing, and cab opportunities in Rome. They work with Enjoy, ShareNow, Lime, eCooltra, Helbiz, Acciona, and more companies. By allowing the app to see your location, Urbi shows you all the available vehicles nearby that you can reserve at any given moment. Say goodbye to opening a dozen different apps to check what is closest or cheapest, Urbi takes care of that for you! You do need to have an account for the apps that you want to reserve a vehicle with, but Urbi merges everything into one map which allows you to take faster decisions!

When in Rome, you’re likely going to use public transport, hopping from bus to tram to train regularly. Sometimes buying tickets can be a hassle, especially if you are getting single tickets for each ride or if you run out of time and need a ticket asap. MyCicero is Rome’s latest modern approach to traveling by public transport. With MyCicero, you can buy and store your tickets directly on the app. When needed, simply open up and validate your ticket in the app in seconds. You can buy a variety of tickets: 90min, 24hr, 48hr, 72hr or even a month pass. You can even pay for parking or buy Trenitalia train tickets and lots more. You need an internet connection for this app, but if you’ve got one, do yourself a favour and get MyCicero. You’ll save yourself precious time.

This app is your uber for scooters. Getting around in Rome is a lot less intimidating when you’re a passenger. But what better way to uncover the city than like a local, where scootering is first class transportation for Romans. Enter Scooterino, your best bet for adventure, so you can keep your impromptu itinerary but with a peace of mind. This app allows you to pick your driver, check prices before booking, request a ride from around the city within minutes, and even pay by card! Available in both English and Italian.

ESSENTIAL APPS

MEDINACTION

When you’re traveling or living abroad, the last thing you want to worry about is tracking down an English-speaking doctor when you’re sick. MedInAction is a medical service that will deliver a qualified doctor right to your doorstep 24 hours a day. Choose where and when you want the doctor to come. You can also book a video consultation with a a doctor. This app revives the tradition of Italian doctors making house calls, except it’s faster, more modern, customized, and all right at your fingertips!

TIME TRAVEL ROME

History and archeology lovers, this one’s for you. If you’re looking for Roman works in Europe, the Middle East, or North Africa you might no longer need a tour guide. TimeTravelRome app offers original content for >5000 ancient sites and monuments, 300 ancient texts and 10.000 photos. In addition to that, the new version displays on the map all ancient Roman roads, traced by academics from the AWMC and Mercator-E research centers – these new functions are free to all users. TimeTravelRome’s rich content and its unique features, which include 300 ancient texts and Roman roads maps, make it the ultimate ancient history app dedicated to the Ancient Roman Empire.

One of Rome’s greatest gifts is it’s 2500 free and safe water fountains spread out across the city. A very clever feature the ancient Romans were kind enough to leave behind for us to enjoy. The WeTap App is exclusive to Rome, helping you locate water fountains near you. When in Rome, you’re likely going to walk a lot, and along the way, you’re bound to get thirsty. Don’t waste money buying mineral water, just fill up your reusable bottle at the nearest fountain and never go thirsty again. And… at the same time you’re saving the environment.

BEST APPS FOR FOOD LOVERS

Obviously if you could eat out in Rome every night, not only would the Italian economy embrace you, but your palette would be redefined. However, it’s not practical. Eating in is the new way to dine with Deliveroo: enjoy premium cuisine on demand in the comfort of your Roman abode. This trendy startup has mastered the mobile kitchen, foodie locales, and great offers. Zip code friendly and diet approved, enjoy the perks of takeaway with this easy-to-use app.

TOO GOOD TO GO

So much food goes to waste every day because of over-production. Too Good To Go alerts you of any food shops, cafes, or restaurants nearby that have a surplus of produce they can no longer sell the next day. You can reserve a box full of goodies for a very discounted price, usually around €5. All you have to do is go pick it up at the time the app tells you. You are helping the environment by helping consuming extra food that would be otherwise thrown in the trash, and also eating full meals for unimaginable prices. Be a part of the change!

It can be overwhelming looking for somewhere to eat in Rome, because the options are limitless. Forget all that time wasted looking for recommendations online, and start using TheFork. What’s great about this App is that it recommends places to eat with photos taken by other people who’ve enjoyed the food themselves. Yes, please! This is a fantastic new approach that makes a foodie hunt fun, visual and full of discovery. The app also provides menus for every restaurant, lets you reserve a table, and also enjoy great discounts on the bill! The more you reserve, the more Yums points you gain, the more discounts you get. Now you can find great food quickly and pay less, what are you waiting for?

BEST ALL AROUND

Why we love it? All content, navigation and reviews are available offline. Score. There’s an effective way to get lost on a side street in Rome so you can explore the off-the-beaten-path with confidence. Triposo is super customized mapping your trip based on your favorite places worldwide. It also offers information on where to eat, drink, shop, find a hotel, and sightsee and even allows you to book reservations. These features are all available offline so you don’t have to worry about racking up roaming charges. Organize your trip, save your favorite places, discover nearby spots and hidden gems like a pro. Leave your Lonely Planet at home? Maybe.

For all those social butterflies coming to Rome, especially the solo travelers, this app is for you. Meetup is all about bringing people together. With this app, you can discover groups in the city that are doing things you love to do, and join in on the fun! After signing up and selecting your interests, you will see a huge selection of activities happening in the city to choose from. Think weekend adventures, social dinners, photography workshops, walking the dogs, wine and food tasting, you name it! If you want to meet like-minded people while in the city, this is your go-to app.

Check out the best travel apps for Europe .

AUTHORS: SIAN LLOYD –  LAUREN MOUAT  – MARGARET FLENNER – ANGELA GLEASON

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Really amazing apps. Thanks for sharing information

Thanks for sharing this app information

Coming very soon: Lookals – find your Italy experience! Starting from Rome 😉

Don’t forget my app Rome for Expats! available for both iPhone and android.

Thanks so much for the feature! Don’t foget to download the Triposo world app to use us all over the globe! Happy travels.

This website is amazing. I will tell about it to my friends and anybody that could be interested in this subject. Great work guys!

a great app for cultural tourist is Nolli App. It offers the famous great plan by Giambattista Nolli from 1748 as modern tool for experiencing the roots of Rome. An app to loose your way and find it back, an app for who enjoys exploring this magnificient city from the inside by strolling around. http://nolli-app.com

FYI Katie Parla’s app needs to be updated so it works on the new iOS platform.

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Must-Have Apps for Tourists in Rome

Written by: Kate Zusmann

If you want to navigate Rome like a local, here is a list of the must-have apps for tourists to make your Roman experience more convenient and exciting.  Using your phone will allow you to have all the answers to your questions right in your pocket.

All these apps are available both for iOS and Android

City Tour of Rome: Audio Guide App

Inside Rome Audio Guide App , you can explore over 130 attractions in Rome on this self-guided sightseeing tour, all in a cool new mobile app! Get full audio commentary, offline digital maps, walking routes, suggested bus and tram routes…even tips for the best photo spots! The price is only 9,5 euros, so why not try it?

That app is also included in The Vatican City Pass or Rome Tourist card package, which you can order online:

Roma Meteo – is the best weather app that shows an accurate forecast for Rome. The application is designed specifically for the Romans, but it will also be helpful for tourists to plan their holidays.

The application has a unique feature in the Premium version – a forecast for any day of the year based on historical data. Moreover, a monthly subscription costs only 2 euros/dollars, equivalent to one cup of coffee.

Download for free:

The Fork is the leading online restaurant discovery & reservation platform in Europe.  It allows you to find a restaurant quickly based on your preferences, check availability in real-time, book a table in a few seconds, and instantly confirm 24 hours a day. Customer choice is guided by reviews left by other community members and filters on items such as area, cuisine or restaurant type, or average price.

MedinAction

MedinAction is revolutionizing health care in Rome: you can access English-speaking medical services 24/7 from your smartphone. You can book a visit to a doctor or chat for free with a doctor about your symptoms through the app.  Moreover, MedinAction collaborates with many hospitals, clinics, and insurance companies. This is one of the essential apps for tourists in Rome!

• Read about pharmacies and first aid in Rome

JUMP – by Uber

Fix price transfer from the Fiumicino Airport to Rome

JUMP – by Uber makes renting a bike or scooter easy and affordable.  Their dockless system makes it easy to find a ride, unlock it, and go. You have to open the JUMP app and create an account or log in with your Uber password if you have an Uber account. JUMP bikes feature an electric motor that boosts riders and helps make biking more enjoyable for people of multiple skill levels.

Yes, Duolingo is one of the most famous apps in the world. Why?  Because it allows you to learn at least the basic language level, trust me, in Italy, it is mandatory.  Many Italians do not speak English, and they all appreciate it when foreigners speak their language. Thus, Duolingo can help you a lot during your stay in Italy. My advice is to learn the basics of the beautiful Italian language before moving to Italy.

• Moreover, it would help to read a couple of books about Rome before traveling to this historically rich city. You will feel much more comfortable and confident with at least basic knowledge of history.

Moovit offers a real-time journey planner mobile and web app to navigate public transit networks with GPS navigation across transit modes, including buses, ferries, rapid transit (metro/subway/underground, etc.), trains, trams, trolleybuses, ride-hailing, shared bicycle, car sharing, and scooters.  Users can access a live map, view nearby stops and stations based on their current GPS location, and plan trips across transportation modes based on real-time data.

Probus Rome: Live Bus & Routes

Public transport is one of the biggest mysteries of the Eternal City . Unfortunately, it is an infrequent occasion that buses come on time.  However, Probus Rome helps a lot since this app shows you real-time information on public transport.  Moreover, you’ll be able to find the best routes to your destination’s respective waiting times.

• Read about the cost of living in Rome

Free Now is the most convenient app to book a taxi .  There are many taxi stands in Rome, but the price will not be much different by ordering via this app. Moreover, Free Now often gives discounts and offers various promotions. Therefore, this app will be helpful if you stay in Rome for a long time. However, do not book Uber since prices are much higher than the Free Now app.

• Use a taxi calculator to know the price for your trip

Maps.me is also one of the most famous apps globally.  It is convenient and allows using the map of Rome offline.  Even though most Roman main points of interest are located not far from each other, sometimes you will need to use maps.

• Here you can find the best route to visit the 30 main attractions of Rome

Rome Metro Map

Rome Metro Map works offline and allows you to choose the best route to quickly reach a destination you need.  Moreover, it has a convenient and straightforward interface. If you live nearby the metro station during your stay in Rome, this app will be helpful for you.

The plan in Rome is to extend Line C to  Piazza Venezia  and  the Colosseum . Unfortunately, nowadays, the Roman subway misses much of the city center and has limited coverage. Therefore, although using the Metro is a fast way to reach the point you need, it is not the most convenient type of public transportation in Rome, especially if your main aim is the historical center of the Eternal City.

The Underground system is frequently crowded, but still it is one of the cheapest and fastest ways to reach most points of the city

Google Translate

Google Translate is one of the most used and useful apps on my smartphone and one of the must-have apps for tourists in Rome.  If you find any words in Italian that you need to translate, this app manages the task brilliantly most of the time.  Moreover, it is getting better from year to year to use the Google Translate app for translations from any language.

MyCicero does not have the most developed interface, but it is quite a helpful app for tourists in Rome. When you are in the Eternal City, you will need tickets to use public transport.  In MyCicero, you can buy and store your tickets directly on the app.  Then, when needed, open it up and validate your ticket. There are several types of tickets: 90 min, 24 hours, 72 hours, and a month pass. Of course, you need to have an Internet connection to use this app.

Deliveroo provides the delivery service as well as marketing and order taking, allowing it to provide food from restaurants that do not typically offer a delivery service. As a result, the  variety of restaurants is impressive, delivery prices are low, and food quality is always at the highest level.

Author: Kate Zusmann

I have lived in the Eternal City for the past 12 years. They say every angle of Rome has its history, and I'm here to tell you about the most intriguing historical facts and city legends. :)

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13 Essential Apps for Travellers Visiting Rome in 2023

Imagine exploring the eternal city of Rome with the best apps for visiting Rome at your fingertips, making your trip seamless, enjoyable, and budget-friendly. This blog post will guide you through the must-have apps for every aspect of your Roman adventure, from navigating the city to savouring authentic Italian cuisine. Get ready to make the most of your Roman holiday with these essential tools!

Best apps for Rome in 2023

1. Urbs Travel

2. Google Maps

3. Duolingo

4. Street Art Cities

7. Free Now

8. Too Good To Go

9. The Fork

10. Deliveroo

11. Roma Meteo

12. MedinAction

13. Maps.me

Essential Free Phone Apps for Rome Travelers

Rome is a city rich in history , art, and culture, but even the most seasoned travellers can benefit from a little digital assistance during their trip to Rome. Our list of the 13 best free phone apps for Rome travellers, which includes essential free phone apps, will help you navigate the city, learn the local language, and discover hidden gems like Rome’s vibrant street art scene.

1. Urbs Travel for GPS city routes with expert audio guides

Urbs Travel is a fantastic app for tourists visiting Rome, offering GPS city routes with expert audio guides, bespoke routes, and essential travel knowledge. Designed by cultural experts and local writers, this app provides unique content that gives you an immersive and personalized experience while exploring Rome’s historic sites.

Unlike other navigation apps like Google Maps, Urbs Travel focuses on the city’s attractions and creates a more engaging sightseeing experience. The expert audio guides offer fascinating insights into Rome’s history and culture, enriching your visit and allowing you to appreciate the city’s treasures fully.

Download Urb's for self-guided audio tours of Rome !

2. Navigate the City with Google Maps

While Urbs Travel is great for exploring specific attractions, Google Maps is a reliable app for navigating Rome’s streets and finding points of interest. It provides detailed maps of the city, turn-by-turn navigation, and real-time traffic updates to help you steer clear of congested areas.

Before heading out, check the map to plan your route and avoid getting lost in Rome’s maze of ancient streets. With Google Maps, you can easily locate points of interest like restaurants, museums, and other attractions, making it an indispensable tool for any traveller in the eternal city.

Download from Google Play or Apple App Store .

3. Learn Italian with Duolingo

While many Romans speak English, learning some Italian before and during your trip can enhance your experience and help you connect with locals. Duolingo is a popular language-learning app that offers a fun and engaging way to learn Italian, the local language of Rome. The gamified approach of Duolingo makes it enjoyable to learn new vocabulary and practice grammar, while the app’s lessons, multimedia, peer feedback, and live tutoring can help you learn Italian quickly and effectively.

With Duolingo, you’ll be ordering your morning cappuccino like a true Roman in no time!

4. Uncover Global Street Art with Street Art Cities

Beyond the ancient ruins and Renaissance art, Rome is part of a global network of vibrant street art, a network you can explore with the Street Art Cities app. This app not only covers Rome but also cities around the world, offering a fresh perspective on their creative landscapes.

Street Art Cities provides an overview of artworks on a map, allows you to like artworks, and view pieces by specific artists. It also offers walking and bicycling routes for easy exploration. The app is a hub for a global community of street art 'hunters' who ensure the quality of artworks and collect background information.

With Street Art Cities, you can connect with this global community and discover the stories behind the art.

Must-Have Apps for Public and Private Mobility

Navigating Rome’s public and private transportation can be challenging, especially for first-time visitors. Fortunately, there are several must-have apps to help you get around the city with ease.

Whether you prefer public transportation or exploring Rome on a bike, scooter, or in a car, these apps will ensure you travel efficiently and comfortably throughout the city.

5. Moovit for Real-Time Public Transport Info

Moovit is a popular app for real-time public transportation information, making navigating Rome’s buses, trams, and metro system easy. With Moovit, you can plan your trips, stay up-to-date with public transportation schedules, and find the most efficient routes to get around Rome's city centre.

The app also provides real-time traffic updates, so you can avoid busy areas and make the most of your valuable sightseeing time. With Moovit at your fingertips, exploring Rome’s public transportation has never been easier.

6. Urbi for Car, Scooter, and Bike Sharing

Urbi is a one-stop app for car, scooter, and bike-sharing services in Rome, partnering with companies like Enjoy, ShareNow, Lime, eCooltra, Helbiz, and Acciona. Urbi simplifies the process of finding and booking shared vehicles by consolidating multiple services in one user-friendly platform.

To get started, download the Urbi app and create an account. Once logged in, you can explore the available car, scooter, and bike-sharing services in Rome, and easily book a ride based on your preferences and location. With Urbi, navigating Rome’s streets has never been more convenient and eco-friendly.

7. Free Now for Booking Taxis

While public transportation and shared rides are popular options in Rome, sometimes you may prefer the comfort and convenience of a taxi. Free Now is an app that allows tourists to easily book taxis in Rome, providing an alternative to traditional taxi queues.

With Free Now, you can enter your destination, select your preferred vehicle type, and see the estimated fare and ETA before confirming your booking. You can also choose your preferred payment method, including major credit and debit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, or even cash. Booking taxis in Rome has never been more hassle-free.

Foodie-Friendly Apps to Savor Rome's Cuisine

Italian cuisine is world-renowned, and Rome is no exception. From traditional trattorias to modern fusion restaurants, the city offers a diverse culinary landscape for food lovers to explore.

To help you savour Rome’s cuisine, we have handpicked a selection of foodie-friendly apps that will enhance your dining experience, from discounted meals to restaurant reservations and food delivery.

8. Too Good To Go for Discounted Leftover Food

Too Good To Be True. Go is an innovative app that helps you find discounted leftover food from nearby cafes and restaurants, reducing food waste and saving you money. By connecting users with local establishments that have unsold food at the end of the day, you can purchase delicious meals at a fraction of the original price and do your part in reducing food waste.

Simply download the app, create an account, and search for participating restaurants and cafes near you offering discounted leftover food. Once you find a location you like, purchase the food and pick it up at the designated time. It’s a win-win situation for both your wallet and the environment.

9. The Fork for Restaurant Reservations

The Fork is a restaurant booking platform and app that allows you to find and book restaurants in Rome based on your preferences and real-time availability. The app also features special offers at partner restaurants, giving you the opportunity to enjoy a great meal at a discounted price.

To use The Fork, simply download the app, create an account, and search for restaurants in Rome based on your desired criteria. Once you find a restaurant you like, you can book a table directly through the app and enjoy a seamless dining experience in the eternal city.

10. Deliveroo for Food Delivery

When you prefer to enjoy Rome’s delicious cuisine from the comfort of your accommodation, Deliveroo is the app for you. Deliveroo offers food delivery from various Rome’s restaurants, allowing you to indulge in local dishes without stepping outside.

The app is user-friendly and offers various payment options, making it convenient for tourists to order meals from their favourite restaurants. So whether you’re craving a classic Roman pasta dish or a delectable dessert, Deliveroo brings Rome’s culinary delights right to your doorstep.

Stay Connected and Informed with Essential Utilities

While exploring Rome, staying connected and informed is important to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. This section will cover essential utility apps that will help you stay updated with accurate weather information, access medical assistance, and navigate the city without an internet connection.

11. Roma Meteo for Weather Updates

Roma Meteo is a reliable weather app that provides accurate and up-to-date weather information for Rome, helping you plan your activities accordingly. Knowing the weather forecast is crucial for making the most of your trip, whether it’s deciding when to visit outdoor attractions or packing the right clothing.

Simply download the app and check the current weather conditions and the forecast for the upcoming days. With Roma Meteo, you can stay prepared for Rome’s ever-changing weather and enjoy your visit to the fullest.

12. MedinAction for Medical Assistance

While we all hope to stay healthy during our travels, it’s important to be prepared in case of any medical issues. MedinAction is an app that connects tourists with English-speaking medical professionals in Rome, offering 24/7 assistance through visits or free chats with doctors.

Whether you need a prescription, a diagnosis, or advice on a medical issue, MedinAction provides easy access to qualified doctors, ensuring you receive the care you need during your visit to Rome. With this app, you can know that medical assistance is just a few taps away.

Download from Apple App Store .

13. Maps.me for Offline Navigation

Navigating Rome can be challenging, especially when you don’t have access to the internet. Maps.me is a popular offline navigation tool for Rome, ensuring tourists can find their way around the city without internet access.

To use Maps.me, simply download the app and the map of Rome. Once downloaded, you can access the map offline and use it to explore the city. With its detailed maps and user-friendly interface, Maps.me is an essential app for staying on track while discovering the beauty of Rome.

In conclusion, these must-have apps will help you make the most of your Roman adventure by enhancing your sightseeing experience, navigating public and private transportation, savouring Rome’s cuisine, and staying connected and informed. By incorporating these essential tools into your trip, you can ensure a seamless, enjoyable, and budget-friendly visit to the eternal city.

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There may be affiliate links on this page! That just means if you click on a link, find a ticket you like and buy it, we might make some cash. Don’t worry, you won’t pay any extra – sometimes you might even get a tasty discount. It’s a win for us and a win for you too!

Download the app and start exploring

So, what are you waiting for? Download the Urbs app today and bring your travel dreams to life.

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10 essential free phone apps for a visit to Rome

Our 10 essential apps for visiting rome will help have an even more pleasant vacation!

Sort out everything from taxis to public transport to toilets with the best free phone apps to help you get the most out of a trip to Rome with 10 essential free phone apps for a visit to Rome.

Lengthy guidebooks and enormous maps not only take up more than their fair share of your baggage allowance. They often contain out-of-date or confusing information – and they don’t exactly help you blend in with the locals.

Luckily, these days you can have all the information you’d ever need in your pocket, allowing you to pack more into both your suitcase and your trip.

STREETART ROMA  

If you want your visit to go beyond the tourist staples of the Colosseum, Roman Forum and the Pantheon, download  this free guide  to Rome’s street art. With descriptions and information about more than 100 artworks dotted around the city. This app will help anyone seeking an alternative taste of Roman culture, far from the masterpieces you’ll find in the museums.

WC Rome          

Rome is sadly not known for its provision of public toilets, so getting caught short can be stressful.  WC Rome  shows you the nearest public loos, with addresses, opening hours and navigation to over 120 toilets in the city. This means you no longer have to waste valuable sightseeing time hunting for a café with a clean toilet and sympathetic owner. You can update the map to ensure it helps even more users.\

FOUNTAINS IN ITALY

Rome’s many fountains aren’t just beautiful to look at, they can also save tourists money in the often scorching heat. But that doesn’t mean you can dip your water bottle into the Trevi Fountain for a quick refill. Use this guide to locate the city’s drinking fountains, called  nasoni  (‘big noses’ – due to the shape of the spout).

The water is perfectly clean and safe – in fact, it’s the same stuff that comes out of Rome’s taps.

ROME TRAVEL GUIDE

There are plenty of travel guide apps for the eternal city, but  Ulmon’s  is on top of the list. It includes offline maps, information on thousands of attractions, restaurants and hotels plus insider tips from tourists and locals alike. GPS services and all of the content are available offline after the initial download. You won’t have to shell out for pricey roaming charges.

PROBUS ROME

Many tourists remain mystified by Rome’s buses and fail to take advantage of them. Which is a shame because they cover much more of the city than the metro system. They’re particularly useful in the summer as a rare source of air conditioning!

This app  simplifies the system, helping you to locate your nearest stop, get real time updates and plan your connections.

Rome Pocket Guide

This audio guide  is GPS-activated, meaning you can learn about the history behind Rome’s many monuments and attractions without having to stop to leaf through chunky guidebooks. It will also alert you to nearby curiosities you might otherwise easily have missed.

It covers a wide range of attractions. From the obvious sights to more quirky things and little-known facts, as well as local tips on places to eat and drink. You can choose tours on a variety of themes. Either listening to them for free online (but bear in mind roaming costs) or paying to download them. Perhaps the most exciting part is that you can later download a personalized 3D video of the sights you passed on your walk.

BABY OUT ROME KIDS FAMILY GUIDE

This handy app  takes at least some of the stress out of travelling with children. As well as information about attractions and events in Rome and the Lazio region. You will find a big range from parks to zoos and museums. You can also get information about which restaurants and hotels are most family-friendly. And just in case of emergency, it can also direct you to the nearest shops for baby or child items, the pharmacy, or children’s hospital.

LEARN ITALIAN

This free app  has 30 lessons which are focussed on teaching short sentences applicable to real-life scenarios. There’s an abundance of language-learning apps out there. For free version which is geared towards tourists, this is one of the best. Using a combination of audio and text, you’ll be able to read menus and directions. Also you will be able to ask simple questions before your holiday’s over.

Until recently, Uber was not available in Italy. Until even more recently, once introduced in 2021 in only Rome and Milan, it could only be used to book luxury transfers with NCC (Noleggio Con Conducente – “Rental with Private Driver”) companies.

Since July 2022 however, after intense negotations with Italy’s heavily-regulated taxi sector, followig many angry protests from taxi drivers to proposals to end the regulation and allow Uber to operate as we know it in many other countries, a compromise was reached, whereupon the app can now be used to book taxis, but only licenced taxi drivers can register on the app. 

This means that, while Uber is not the same service as you may know in your country, it remains the best app for booking a taxi service, and of avoiding the handful of notorious taxi drivers who try to rip off unsuspecting tourists! 

it Taxi  allows you to book and pay for cabs. Formerly known as 3570.it (3570 is the local number for the official white cab services provided by the City of Rome), the service finds you nearby drivers, meaning you avoid taxi queues, and checking prices in advance helps you avoid tourist rip-offs. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can also use  Wetaxi ,  appTaxi , or  Uber Rome .

AEROPORTI DI ROMA

This app  proves useful before you’ve even arrived in the Italian capital, offering up-to-date flight tracking for both Fiumicino and Ciampino airports. You can also find information about your destination and options for contacting your airline.

These 10 essential free phone apps for a visit to Rome will make your life easier and will help you to have even more pleasant vacation!

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The Best Apps for Your Trip To Italy in 2024

Sean Finelli Last Updated: January 8, 2024

Whether you’re planning a short or extended trip to Italy, here are the best apps for your trip to Italy to install before you go. There’s no need to feel like you’re living in ancient Roman times. Traveling around Italy will be super simple with these tools.

Pro Tip: Planning your trip to Italy? It’s easier to organize your trip when you have all your resources in one place. Bookmark this post along with our Italy Guide for more info and inspiration, plus our top-rated Italy tours .

The Must-Have Apps for Your Trip To Italy

In the age of smartphones, we all have a powerhouse in our pockets. And it’s particularly useful when you’re traveling. As you prepare for your trip to Italy, there are a few apps to download that’ll make life that much easier for you whether you’re looking for a place to eat or a way to get home after too many drinks during aperitivo and dinner.

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  Italy Guide for more info and inspiration.

Preparing For Your Trip To Italy

These tools will help you plan and get ready for your trip to Italy. Here are a few of our recommended apps for finding flights, staying in touch with loved ones, and brushing up on the local language.

Get Online with a Local Sim Card

If you’re traveling and want to use the apps in this article, some of them require cell service or internet to work. You have a few options when it comes to accessing mobile internet abroad. In a nutshell, you can use roaming or get a local sim card.

Find out how to get a sim card in Italy .

Stay in Touch with WhatsApp

The best way to stay in touch with your family and friends back home for free is with WhatsApp. All you need is mobile or Wi-Fi internet for it to work, making it the best way to make calls in Italy.

Download WhatsApp

Find Cheap Flights with Skyscanner

Skyscanner is exactly what it sounds like. It’s an app that scans the internet for flights. Find and compare cheap flights from any location for major savings. The app also retrieves and compares the cheapest hotels and car rentals for your trip if you need them. Skyscanner is used by 60 million people per month!

Download Skyscanner

Learn the Local Language with Duolingo

Lots of people speak English in Italy, so even if you don’t know any Italian, you’ll get by. However, we highly recommend learning a few greetings and phrases before you go. Not only will you feel better equipped once you land, but you’ll also show the locals you care about their culture. Saying, “Buongiorno!” is sure to make Italians smile.

Duolingo covers languages from Spanish to Swahili and is, by far, the most popular language-learning platform. Learn by reading, writing, and speaking. Set goals and get daily emails to stay on track. It’s the perfect way to brush up on your basic Italian phrases.

Download Duolingo

Getting Around Italy

Once you’ve arrived in Italy, you’ll need to be able to locate places and navigate to them. To get around, you’ll also need to book taxis and buy train tickets. Here are our top picks for apps to help you find your way around Italy.

Find Your Way with Google Maps

You likely already have Google Maps on your phone and it is indispensable. Not only can you find out where pretty much everything is located, but it will also navigate you there. It will give you directions via public transportation, by car, on foot, and by bike depending on which tab you select.

Another very useful feature of Google Maps is the in-app public transport information and schedules.The Google Maps community also leave very helpful reviews, so you can find great restaurants and places to visit. I’m sure you already know this app is a travel must.

Pro Tip: Google Maps Did you know you can connect to google maps while on Wi-Fi even on airplane mode? Yep! Download your map, search for directions, and leave Wi-Fi on airplane mode. Your GPS will still work. It won’t reroute you if you go off the route, but the GPS will still show you where you are on the map.

Schedule or Hail a Taxi with Free Now

If you struggle to book a taxi on Uber or similar apps, try Free Now. It’s a reliable alternative and you may even be able to book eScooters and eBikes, depending on where you are.

This is especially good for Rome, but the service also operates in Milan, Turin, Naples, Palermo, Catania, and Cagliari according to their website. For more information, check out our post on Uber in Italy .

Download Free Now

Buy Cheap Italy-Based Train Tickets with TrenItalia

Whether you’re traveling between cities or need to get from the airport to the city center, Italy’s rail system is the best way to travel. TrenItalia is the country’s national rail company. On the app, you’ll be able to search train schedules and buy your tickets. Easy peasy!

Download TrenItalia

Buy Tickets on Major European Trains With Trainline

Trainline is a fantastic third-party app that will let you search and buy tickets for almost all available train and coach companies in Italy. TrenItalia isn’t the only train company in Italy. So, it’s a good idea to have the Trainline app to check the easiest way to get where you’re going across Italy and Europe. You’ll be able to easily buy tickets on the TrenItalia, Eurostar, and Italo lines through the app, plus many more!

Download Trainline

Figure Out How To Get There with Rome2Rio

Rome2Rio is a great app to use when you’re not sure of the best route or the best mode of transport to get somewhere. All you need is a starting point and a final destination. It’ll then show all the possible ways to get from A to B with schedules, prices, and links. It’s also a great way to discover which transport companies operate in certain areas.

Download Rome2Rio

Popular Rome Tours

Best-Selling Tour

Rome in a Day Tour with Colosseum and Vatican Museums

Our “in a day” tour is best way to get your bearings all in one day. Visit the Sistine Chapel, Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and more with a licensed, fun English-speaking tour guide. They’ll add tons of insights and make the entire experience so much more memorable. Also, you’ll get a feel for the city, so it’s a great option on one of your first days in Rome. Bring your walking shoes and water bottle!

Best Price!

Skip the Line Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel

One of our most popular Vatican tours since it is such an amazing value. Skip the line to get inside with a super-knowledgeable, English-speaking guide who will bring the museum to life with stories of the artists, popes, conspiracy, love, and even tragedy! This tour has start times throughout the day so you can choose when to visit based on your schedule!

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  best Rome tours to take and why .

Finding Food and Drinks in Italy

If you’re looking for great places to eat in Italy, all you have to do is check out our various city guides. Our local experts have pooled all their favorite restaurants into our Best Restaurants article series.

Discover the best restaurants in Rome , Venice , Florence , Milan , and the Amalfi Coast . Want to eat close to a particular attraction? No problem, we have dedicated articles on where to eat near many top sites. Explore our Italy City Guides .

Stay Hydrated with WeTap

WeTap helps you locate water fountains, stay hydrated, and save the planet and money at the same time. It’s especially useful in Rome, which is home to 2,500 water fountains.

There’s no need to buy single-use plastic water bottles in the Eternal City. The water from Rome’s original aqueduct fountains is fresh, cold, and free. All you need is a bottle to fill up. WeTap is only available for Apple users, so a good alternative for Android users is the Fountains of Italy app.

Download WeTap

Restaurant Reservations Made Easy

In case you didn’t get a European SIM or have an international phone plan, you’ll need a way to easily book a restaurant reservation. Many restaurants don’t have online booking on their websites, so a great alternative is The Fork.

It’s a highly rated app that makes it easy to secure your spot at that exclusive, non-touristy spot with a view. I love that they include discounts that are automatically applied for you. Plus it works on Apple and Android phones!

Download The Fork

Find Vegan Restaurants with Happy Cow

Finding great vegan and vegetarian options in a new city can be a challenge. Download the Happy Cow and find great restaurants near you or across the city. It’s powered by the largest vegan community and has a helpful food map.

Download HappyCow

Food Delivered to Your Door with Deliveroo

If you’re traveling in Italy, we highly recommend going out to eat. Food is a huge part of Italian culture and you won’t want to miss out on it. If, for whatever reason, you need to have food delivered, go with Deliveroo.

It’s the Grub Hub or Doordash of Italy. I often travel for work and find myself exhausted at the end of the day, so I’ll order Deliveroo to my room. It’s a really convenient service.

Download Deliveroo

Discovering Awesome Things To Do in Italy

This is what we do best! We love guiding you on tours of Italy’s top attractions. We secure exclusive access tickets, hunt down the best activities, and build interesting itineraries with passionate local guides, so you can have meaningful and exciting travel experiences in Italy and beyond.

The Tour Guy’s Italy City Guides

Start with our Italy City Guides. Select the Italian city you plan to visit and explore our articles on the top things to do, how to visit specific attractions, and what to see there.

See our Italy Guide

The Tour Guy’s Italy Tours

To make your trip even easier, we’ve developed special itineraries and activities to help you see the very best of Italy. If you’re short on time, check out our tours that hit the top sites in a day—it’s the best way to see as much as possible in just one day. If you want to see more than one top attraction or megamonument at the best possible price, see our combo tours. Foodies will love our local food tours in various Italian cities!

See all our Italy tours

Learn From Pros with Most Traveled People

This is an interesting app recommended by my good friend and travel journalist Angel Castellanos . Basically, the app ranks the most avid travelers based on the countries they’ve visited. According to Angel, you can scroll through the map to find UNESCO World Heritage sites, world-famous beaches, and iconic hotel properties. You can even sign up yourself and start tracking your travels!

Download MTP

Find Outdoor Trails with AllTrails

If you love heading off into nature, this app is for you. All Trails has a huge database of trails around the world. It’s easy to use and details trails with tons of useful information and the ability to track your own times.

Download AllTrails

Where To Stay in Rome

Rome has a rich cultural history and many iconic landmarks to explore. Plan where to stay in the magnificent Eternal City in the best neighborhoods.

Reader Interactions

Comments (8).

May 7, 2017

There are a lot of bad apps for travel, These are definitely worth the download though

May 8, 2017

Cool! Already have most of them on my phone already 🙂

Nice checklist, i’ll try them all on my next trip to Italy

May 9, 2017

Thanks for this! Smartphone made traveling much easier, less easy it’s find the best apps for tourists

May 11, 2017

I’ll definitely try Duolingo to catch some Italian before my trip to Rome!

July 23, 2018

Thank you for sharing. All great apps and I look forward to using them on my trip to Italy in May.

February 21, 2019

Hi to every single one, it’s actually a nice for me to visit this web site, it consists of valuable Information.

Ciao Sunny! Happy to hear that you dig our website. We’re always looking to provide the best content possible for our readers!

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Essential Apps to Download Before a Trip to Rome

Knowledge is power, and the right piece of information at the right time can have a big impact – as anyone who’s ever been lost in a new city or baffled by a foreign language while on holiday can attest to. Thanks to mobile apps, travelers now have a wealth of information at their fingertips to help them get the most out of a trip. With these apps in your pocket, you’ll be able to navigate Rome like a local, deal with a temperamental public transport system, find an English-speaking doctor, and more.

MooneyGo (Previously MyCicero)

ATAC, who run most of Rome’s public transport services, have recently made it possible to use the metro by tapping a credit or debit card at the barrier – so much more convenient than buying single paper tickets. The system is not yet rolled out across buses and trams, however, so we recommend using MooneyGo to purchase digital tickets to get where you need to go. With MooneyGo you can purchase ATAC tickets to use on the bus, subway, trams, and local trains, which you validate in the app. You can also buy Trenitalia train tickets, private bus company tickets (Itabus), and even pay for parking. The app is quick, easy, and convenient, and you’ll never need to look for an open ticket office or tabaccheria to buy paper tickets again.

There are lots of map apps available that give you access to pretty much the same information. The reason we like Citymapper is because of its super user-friendly interface and the way it presents a lot of data in a smart way. Type in where you want to go and Citymapper gives you a list of transport options all on one screen, so you can easily assess which route is quickest, cheaper, or easiest. As well as buses, metro, and trains, it also includes short-term rental options like Cooltra (mopeds) and Lime (electric scooters and bikes). We also love the option to pre-program commonly used locations for transport options in one tap.

Moovit has similar functionality to Citymapper, though its interface is a bit less user-friendly and the ads make the display cluttered. However, the feature to track buses in real-time seems slightly more reliable than on Citymapper. When trying to navigate a city with such a temperamental transport system, it’s probably worth having more than one app to stay informed as best you can. Even the digital displays at physical bus stops are not always accurate in their timings.

If all other public transport options fail, or you simply want to get from A to B the easiest way possible, take a taxi. You could hail a cab in the street or look for a taxi rank in person, but availability can be spotty in Rome. With FREE NOW , you can request a ride and get an estimated journey cost in the app. Choose to pay through the app or in person at the end of your journey.

Yes, we think back wistfully to the days when Duolingo was ad-free but this app is still the best all-rounder for language learning. With the help of the wise green owl (called Duo, don’t you know?), users practice vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation, and listening skills in manageable bite-sized lessons. You’ll be conversing about la dolce vita before you know it!

MedinAction

Though many travelers organize short-term health insurance before going on vacation, the reality of finding medical care during a trip can be tricky, especially if you require an English-speaking doctor or healthcare professional. With MedinAction you can book a home visit from a doctor, schedule a video call, or simply chat via the app for free. If you need further assistance, they can recommend exactly where to go to book a test, fill a prescription, or get a specialized consultation. MedinAction can also bill selected insurance companies directly.

Downloaded the best Rome apps and looking for more practical travel info? Read How to Travel Sustainability in Rome .

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Rome - Activities & Things to Do

10 Most Useful Apps for a Trip to Rome

A number of useful apps can help you make the most of your stay in Rome! Image by Clem Onojeghuo, sourced from Unsplash

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Apps for navigation.

Maps.me lets you use the GPS navigation while offline, image by StockSnap sourced from Pixabay

Free of charge. Available for IOS or ANDROID .

Apps for public transport, moovit /citymapper.

Citymapper and Moovit are among Rome’s most downloaded public transport apps, image by Jeshoots-com sourced from Pixabay

Both apps are free of charge.

Moovit on ios , android, citymapper on ios , android, apps for living in rome, flush /toilet finder.

Looking for a public toilet? Let your smartphone help you! Image by Franck V sourced from Unsplash

Flush for IOS , ANDROID

Toilet finder for ios , android, too good to go.

Too Good To Go is becoming increasingly popular in Rome, image sourced from Too Good To Go

Free of charge. Available for iOS or ANDROID .

The Fork app at launch, image sourced from The Fork

MedinAction

Free of charge. available for ios ., apps for tourism, street art roma.

This work by famed street artist Blu is available in the app, image by Andrea De Angelis sourced from Pixabay

Planning a trip to Paris ? Get ready !

These are  Amazon’s best-selling  travel products that you may need for coming to Paris.

• The best travel book : Rick Steves – Paris 2023 –  Learn more here
• Fodor’s Paris 2024 –  Learn more here

Travel Gear

• Venture Pal Lightweight Backpack –  Learn more here
• Samsonite Winfield 2 28″ Luggage –  Learn more here
• Swig Savvy’s Stainless Steel Insulated Water Bottle –  Learn more here

Check Amazon’s best-seller list for the most popular travel accessories. We sometimes read this list just to find out what new travel products people are buying.

A journalist by trade and a linguist by inclination (her favourite Roman expression is “a ufo” - ask her about it), Chiara has been living in Rome for most of her adult life. In the city, she loves to ride on remote bus lines, be on the lookout for new and authentic eateries and take pictures of empty landmarks (a tough one!).

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Travel Apps for Italy: Tools to Make Your Trip Easier

Italy, the land of delicious food, beautiful landscapes, opulent history, and remarkable cities is a dream destination for many travelers. However, navigating through the country isn’t always a breeze, especially for those visiting for the first time. Requests for directions can be muddled by language barriers, finding an authentic restaurant can become a quest, and identifying the public transport schedule can turn into a mini-nightmare. But don’t worry, we live in a digital age, where all kinds of guidance can be held in your hand within your smartphone. Here are some essential travel apps that will ensure an easier and smoother Italian trip.

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Language and Communication Apps

Understanding the local language sets the foundation for any great travel experience. Communicating with the locals, interpreting signs or menus becomes smoother. Here are two apps to assist you in overcoming the language barrier in Italy.

Google Translate

iOS | Android

This undoubtedly deserves the top spot when it comes to travel apps. Whether you want to order a pizza in Naples or understand what ‘Caldo Affogato’ is in Milan, Google Translate will become your real-time interpreter. The app can translate words, phrases, and even whole conversations in multiple languages. The real-time conversation feature is quite impressive and extremely useful when interacting with locals.

While Google Translate is wonderful for on-the-spot translations, learning a bit of Italian before your trip can enhance your experience. Duolingo is a renowned, interactive, and user-friendly app for learning languages. It uses game-like lessons to teach you the basics and beyond. Pick up some Italian phrases, greetings, and questions before your trip, and impress the locals with your skills!

Navigation Apps

Navigating through the picturesque yet sometimes confusing streets of Italy can be a challenge. But fear not, because these travel apps can help you reach your destination without any bothersome detours.

Google Maps

Any list of travel apps would be incomplete without mentioning Google Maps. From iconic tourist destinations to hidden local spots, Google Maps has you covered. The app can guide you through streets of Rome or trails in Cinque Terre, all while giving you the estimated travel time, alternative routes, and traffic updates. It’s hard to get lost if you have Google Maps on your disposal.

Rome2Rio simplifies the logistics of traveling from point A to point B in your journey. It gathers information about all possible modes of transport – starting from walking or biking to buses or flights, providing you all alternatives with the costs. Whether you’re trying to navigate from Rome’s Termini Station to the Colosseum, or planning a day-trip from Florence to Pisa, Rome2rio will lay out the quickest and cheapest travel options for you. 

Restaurant and Food-related Apps

Italian cuisine needs no introduction. But finding the perfect restaurant or trattoria amidst the countless options can be daunting. Fear not, foodie travelers, these apps will guide you to the authentic flavors of Italy.

Hungry in Milan and want to find a local Osteria (a place serving wine and simple food)? TheFork, owned by TripAdvisor, can be your guide. The app includes thousands of restaurant listings in major cities, complete with genuine reviews, photos, and bookings. It’s a reliable way to find quality eating places and avoid tourist traps.

Whether it’s a quick ride to your accommodation or an easy transport option after a long day of sightseeing, taxi apps can be a savior. Here are four taxi apps that offer ease of travel and comfort across various Italian cities.

Free Now (Previously MyTaxi)

Free Now is one of Europe’s best taxi apps and works splendidly in Italy. This app allows you to book a taxi instantly or schedule a pickup in advance. This app also provides an estimated fare calculation, so you have an idea of how much the ride will cost. 

IT Taxi is an app used mainly by local Italians. Apart from booking a taxi, you can track your journey, pay through the app, and even receive an email receipt. It operates in many Italian cities, including Rome, Florence, and Milan. One of its main advantages is the ability to book a taxi even in less touristy areas.

Depending on the city, Uber can be quite handy in Italy. While it may not be as common as other places in the world, Uber is operational in major cities like Rome and Milan. It provides you with the fare upfront and offers three different services: UberBlack (luxury cars), UberVan (for large groups), and UberX (the most economical option).

Welcome Pickups

Not exactly a traditional taxi app, Welcome Pickups offers private airport transfers to and from the main airports in Italy. What sets this app apart is that you’ll be greeted at the airport by a Welcome Pickups driver who will provide you with a city guide and local tips for your stay – it’s like having a personal concierge.

Delivery Apps

Sometimes the comforts of your hotel room or holiday rental may be too enticing to leave. For those times when you fancy a quiet evening in or when you need personal essentials, here are some delivery apps to cater to your needs.

Operational in several Italian cities, Deliveroo is known for its quick delivery time and offering food from upmarket restaurants. Whether it is typical Italian pasta from a renowned local restaurant or a burger from international food chains, you can get them all delivered at your doorstep.

With extensive coverage across Italy, Just Eat allows you to order from a range of restaurants and cafes. From breakfast pastries to late-night pizza cravings, this app has you covered. Also, Just Eat includes certain grocery and everyday essentials stores, making it a versatile app.

Besides food delivery from restaurants, Glovo is your go-to app for all kinds of deliveries in Italy. Need medication from the pharmacy but don’t want to go out? Want to send a document across the town? Or simply craving gelato? Glovo is at your service.

Finance Apps

Managing your finances while traveling is crucial. From budgeting your expenses to exchanging currency – these apps will keep you financially savvy and prevent any unpleasant surprises on your Italian trip.

Revolut is a digital bank offering fantastic travel-friendly features. You can hold and exchange multiple currencies, including Euro, at competitive rates. Other benefits include budgeting tools, instant payment notifications, and even travel insurance options. As it works globally, you can use Revolut to keep track of your travel expenses in real-time. 

TransferWise

Now known as Wise, this platform allows you to send, receive and spend money internationally at lower costs than most traditional banks. If you’re planning a longer stay in Italy or need to regularly send or receive funds between different currencies, this app can simplify the process significantly and save you some money on conversions. 

Getting Around Apps

Exploring a new city often involves navigating through unfamiliar public transport systems or finding the best routes on foot or bike. Here are some apps that can guide you throughout your Italian journey, whatever your preferred method of getting around.

ATAC Mobile

For those visiting Rome, ATAC mobile can be a valuable app. It is the official app of Rome’s principal public transportation company and provides information about routes, schedules, bus stops, and much more.

Offering more than just car rentals, Enjoy also provides scooter rentals in cities like Rome, Milan, and Florence. This app eliminates the need for car park scouting and is perfect for a quick ride around Italian cities.

Italy’s train system is extensive, affordable, and offers some breathtaking views. However, understanding the train schedule, fare, and booking tickets might be an uphill task, especially if you’re not familiar with Italian. TrenItalia tackles this issue efficiently. It’s an all-in-one app with timetables, fare information, and an online booking feature.

Moovit is a terrific public transit app that provides detailed information about routes, schedules, and fares from over 100 cities across Italy. It gives step-by-step directions for travel by bus, tram, metro, and more. It also provides real-time updates, so you know if your bus is delayed or your train is running early.

If you are not in a hurry and want to save money, BlaBlaCar is a great option for intercity travels in Italy. This carpooling service connects drivers and riders who are heading in the same direction. It’s an inexpensive, green, and sociable way to travel.

In the contemporary digital age, traveling through a diverse and historically rich country like Italy has never been more accessible. From language barriers to navigating the intricate streets, from finding that hidden gastronomical gem to managing finances on the go, the myriad apps available today have revolutionized the travel experience. This comprehensive list encapsulates the must-have apps for a smooth, efficient, and enriching Italian journey. So, as you pack your bags and set forth on your Italian adventure, remember to equip your smartphone with these tools, ensuring that Italy’s charm, culture, and cuisine are at your fingertips. Buon viaggio!

Explore our walking maps of Rome:

Rome in a day.

📌 Allotted Time: 1 day 🐾 Walking time: 3-4 hours

Panoramic Views in Rome

📌 Allotted Time: 1 day 🐾 Walking time: Flexible

Fountains of Rome

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13 apps you need before you jet off to Rome

From the Colosseum and the Pantheon to St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums, Rome has some of the world’s most beautiful architectural structures. To complement these historic wonders, Rome’s bustling streets are filled with cafes, artisanal shops and delightful restaurants.

With so much to discover and enjoy, here’s a list of specially curated mobile apps that will help you cover everything from travel and navigation to food and sightseeing.  Felice Viaggio!

Roam around Rome

Navigating a new city can be daunting but these novel apps are sure to come in handy. All of them are free, user-friendly and approved by locals.

Maps.me : Available even without an internet connection, this app makes navigation a piece of cake. You can download the routes you want and Maps.me will help you find your way quickly and hassle free. No more do you have to ask locals for directions in your broken Italian for all your maps are now on your mobile.  Available on Android, iOS.  Website .

Moovit : Widely used around the world, this is a reliable app and co-owned by Intel. It offers real-time journey plans to navigate public transit networks with GPS navigation including buses, ferries, metros and subways. It also includes ride-hailing, car sharing, and scooter services. Users can access a live map, and view nearby shops and stations based on their current location, as well as plan trips based on real time data. Moovit is popular even amongst Romans..  Available on Android, iOS.  Website .

Viaggia con Atac by Atac : Developed by the Mobility Services of Rome, this app allows you to get real time information on public and private transport services in Rome. Users will be able to find the best routes to their destinations, metro and bus lines and respective waiting times. Updated transport news of the city will also be available.  Available on Android, iOS.

URBI : Urbi is a one-stop solution for all car sharing, scooter sharing, bike sharing, and cab facilities in Rome. A favourite amongst the locals, Urbi eliminates the tedious process of downloading multiple apps and merges everything in one. They work with Enjoy, ShareNow, Lime, eCooltra, Helbiz, Acciona, and other reliable companies to cater to its customers. Using GPS, Urbi shows the user all available vehicles nearby that the user can reserve at any given moment.  Available on Android, iOS.  Website .

JUMP by Uber : A city as beautiful as Rome is truly enjoyed on two wheels. Cycling on cobblestoned streets as the Eternal City whizzes past you is a must have experience. JUMP by Uber offers electric bikes that come with pedal assistance and a smartphone holder so you can navigate seamlessly.  Available on Android, iOS.  Website .

Noleggiare (Car rentals) : This is an exclusive car hire service that caters to over 45 locations all over Italy. The app allows you to opt for short or long-term rentals. At nominal prices this site is affordable, reliable and user-friendly.  Website .  

Where to eat in Rome?

Trusted food delivery, recommendation and restaurant reservation apps.  Buon Appetito

Just Eat ITA Cibo a Domicilio : With ample choice and fast delivery, this is a popular food ordering app. Download it before you travel so that you never have to worry about your next meal in Rome.  Available on Android, iOS.

Too good to go : For the discerning traveller who is mindful of their budget and passionate about sustainable living, this app is designed to locate nearby businesses that are committed to reducing food waste by repurposing their surplus inventory. For a nominal fee, you can order a yummy "Mystery Box" that contains a carefully curated selection of their specialties, from scrumptious pizza to delectable sandwiches and even heavenly doughnuts for breakfast.Not only do you get to savour the flavours of local cuisine, but you also contribute to the greater good by minimising food waste.  Available on Android, iOS.   Website

Eat Italy : An app by author and food connoisseur, Elizabeth Minchilli, it will guide tourists to lesser-known and quaint cafes, restaurants and eateries that will truly make their vacation memorable. By using the paid feature on this app, Elizabeth will also create a custom eating itinerary for users.  Available on Android, iOS.   Website

What to do in Rome?

Time travel Rome : This app is custom made for all history buffs. If you’re looking for Roman works in Europe, the Middle East, or North Africa, you no longer need a tour guide. This app offers original content for more than 5,000 ancient sites and monuments, 300 ancient texts and 10,000 photos! In addition to that, the new version displays on the map all ancient Roman roads, traced by academics from the Ancient World Mapping Center and Mercator-E research centres – these new functions are free to all users.  Available on Android, iOS.   Website .

MedinAction : When one is in need of medical attention in a foreign country, navigating the system can often be a daunting task. MedinAction, a web-based private medical care service, provides immediate in-home medical care for tourists and travellers who face the challenge of unexpectedly falling ill. Through the provision of comprehensive medical services, including but not limited to general check-ups, blood tests, prescription and medical consultations, MedinAction's qualified medical professionals offer high-quality care within the comfort and privacy of your own rental. Moreover, their prompt response time ensures that a doctor will arrive at your doorstep within an hour of your request.  Available on Android, iOS.

WC Rome : A public washroom finder that will save you in any and every emergency!  Available on Android, iOS.

Civitatis Rome : This holistic app covers everything you need- from safe accommodation, navigation, food and drink options to shopping suggestions and travel itineraries. Download this app for a stress-free vacation!  Available on Android, iOS.   Website .

Must-Have Apps for Tourists in Rome

Technology keeps evolving, it goes wherever we go and we cannot possibly do without our smart-phones. We travel around the cities of the world, visiting, taking photos and of course, sharing as we go. In this article you’ll find the best Apps to visit Rome, all free to download, in English or more languages and even used by the locals to get around the city.

WiFi°Italia°it by Infratel Italia

If I come from abroad and don’t have an Italian SIM how do I freely connect to make the most of my Apps? Well, this recently developed App in particular, partly solves the problem. It’ll in fact allow you to connect to the Hotspots of all the Italian free WiFi networks who have joined the nationwide project. By downloading the App and registering in no more than a minute, you’ll be able to automatically connect as soon as your smart-phone will pick-up the nearby presence of a HotSpot belonging to an affiliated network to wifi.italia.it

Viaggia con Atac by Atac

Many Romans cannot go without it, developped by the Mobility Services of Rome it’ll allow you to get real time information on public and private mobility. You’ll be able to find the best routes to your destinations, Metro and Bus lines and their respective waiting times. Updated transport news in the City will also be at your fingertips.

MAPS.ME by My.com

This is reportedly the best tourist guide for smart-phones. Detailed offline maps, in depth travel content, popular places and the quickest ways of reaching them will allow you to explore the Eternal City freely and independently. The fact that the contents have been selected by locals differentiates this App from the others of its kind.

MiC Roma Musei by Zétema

This App will allow all users to consult real time official info in both Italian and English regarding activities, exhibitions and didactics of the 20 museums belonging to the Rome Borough Museums network. A single App serving  the entire museum network linking 6 macro areas: museums, exhibitions, events, didactics, gallery (with photos of the works of art too be seen in the museums) and maps.

Ville di Roma by Omnitech s.r.l.

Using just one App you will access all historical, scientific and naturalistic information regarding 26 Villas of historical value in Rome . The App in both in Italian and English and may be consulted using a personalised route or by directly indicating on the map itself the points of interest one wishes to visualise. All items have a descriptive and photographic chart complemented by audio guides for animal representations.

Street Art Roma by Artribune

This is a guide for mobile techs to find the various Murales strewn around the Capital. It will indicate the nearest one to you and will calculate the distance to be covered as well as allowing the user to plot his own route. It is in both Italian and English and covers some 150 works in the urban area to be found using a tablet or smart-phone. The App. goes with a map to be downloaded together with a section on turismoroma.it which will supply constant updating of the works as well as mapping on Google Cultural Institute. Only for IOS systems.

I Nasoni di Roma (Rome’s Big Noses)

This is a treat of an App allowing the user to find the so-called “nasoni” (big noses), those characteristic drinking water fountains which Rome is full of. The App will also lead the user to the nearest monuments and artistic fountains giving a brief historical description. Only available from the Apple Store.

Should you be looking for a fast effective and fun vehicle to visit Rome, you cannot miss our Buzz and Vespa rental service. Our vehicles are equipped with audio-guides and pre-set GPS navigator  to self-drive yourself to the dicovery of the marvels of Rome. Contact us for more info or just…

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The Best Travel Apps to Use in Italy

• Planning your trip

June 21, 2024

Traveling to Italy and enjoying its gems has never been easier… thanks to your smartphone! With our list of best travel apps, you’ll avoid getting lost, find restaurants where the locals eat and learn key words and phrases right at your fingertips. Many of the apps are available on all platforms (Apple iOS, Google Play, Android) and don’t need an internet connection to function, so you can forget about expensive roaming costs while traveling abroad.

Frecciarossa train

Getting Around 1. Italy Travel Guide by Triposo: One stop for your complete mobile guide to Italy! The free travel app provides offline maps and useful information on landmarks and restaurants in over 100 cities. We also recommend TripAdvisor City Guides and Ulmon Travel Guide and Offline Maps interactive apps for larger cities.

2. ProntoTreno :  Exploring Italy by train? Download Trenitalia’s official app (free!) that lets you buy tickets in a few clicks and check the status of your trip in English. 

3. Museum Guides:  Let the apps guide you as you discover Italy’s artistic masterpieces and archeological sites. Most museums have official and unofficial apps to help you understand the museums and the works that make them beautiful, complete with insider information. Two of our favorites are the iMiBACT free app ( here for iPhone or here for Android) with maps and descriptions of over 40 of the countries museums and landmarks, and the Uffizi Art History Guide ($3.99)

Communicating with the locals 4. LingoLook :  Looking for a crash course in Italian? This offline app helps you prepare for your trip, with quick lessons on basic words and phrases, along with their pronunciation. Once you’re in Italy, you can search by situation – for example, explaining food allergies or asking directions – and communicate with ease.

5. Word Reference :   We love this free app when looking for a precise translation of specific words – from Italian to English or vice versa – which is especially helpful for scenarios like reading a menu with no translation ( check out our helpful on navigating menus here !). We also suggest using Google Translate to understand the general gist of phrases.

Looking for pizza in Naples? There’s an app for that!

Dining like a local 6.  Cibando :  What sets this free food guide app apart from others is its delicious photographs of dishes from local restaurants, giving non-Italian speakers an idea of the various specialties served. Be sure to check out the convenient map feature which allows you to circle the area you’d like to dine in and preview its restaurants!

7. Foodies by Gambero Rosso:  As one of the more costly apps on our list ($4.99), we’ve chosen this app from the acclaimed Italian food and wine guide for true foodies who love to try anything from elegant restaurants to street food.

8. Eat Rome, Eat Florence and Eat Venice :  Heading to Rome, Florence or Venice? You’re in luck! Check out these city-dedicated apps for expert picks from a foodie living in Italy. You can find these apps from $2.99 to $3.99 and an upcoming comprehensive Eat Italy app is in the works.

9. TripAdvisor :  Before choosing a restaurant, take a look on the famous free travel app for to see what travelers from all over the world  really  have to say about it. Use the “Near Me” function to find what’s in your area and even browse reviews on famous landmarks and hotels.

Travel planning & inspiration

10. Wanderboat : The ultimate AI-based travel companion site, start here for inspiration on where to go, what to do, and how to build your itinerary. Its recommendations are highly tailored and customizable to your preferences, and it will provide in-depth explanations, images and video to visualize everything you want to include on your trip.

Which helpful travel apps do you use when traveling in Italy? Tell us about them in the comments!

by Elena Ciprietti

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Rome2Rio: Trip Planner 4+

Discover how to get anywhere, rome2rio pty ltd, designed for ipad.

• 4.7 • 889 Ratings

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Description.

Find YOUR way with Rome2Rio, the global trip planning app that saves you time and money by suggesting different routes and transport options. It's 100% free. Used by millions of travel planners every day, Rome2Rio is a super handy trip planning tool that makes finding your way around simple and stress-free. Use Rome2Rio to quickly research, compare, and coordinate your transport options for train, ferry, bus, plane, and car travel in over 240 countries and territories around the world. With so many possibilities, you’re sure to find the right trip that suits your needs. Simply enter any two addresses, towns, landmarks, attractions, or cities anywhere in the world, and Rome2Rio will instantly show you the possible ways to travel between them. With detailed maps, price estimates, travel times, and distances, it’s easy to compare different ways to reach your destination. Plus, Rome2Rio also suggests nearby hotels and accommodations that can be booked via trusted partners. Download the Rome2Rio app now to see how easy travel planning can be! PLAN TRIPS ACROSS COUNTRIES, OCEANS & CONTINENTS With schedules and route connections from local train, bus, and ferry companies across 240+ countries and territories, including big names like Amtrak, VIA Rail, UK Rail, Eurostar, Renfe, Trenitalia, Italo, SBB, Indian Railways, FlixBus, National Express, Greyhound Australia, P&O Ferries, Jadrolinija, Stena Line, and most major airlines, Rome2Rio has got you covered. SAVE TIME AND MONEY Rome2Rio can show you many different ways to get to your destination. Choose the route that best suits your budget and schedule. CONSIDER DIFFERENT TRANSPORT OPTIONS Unlike other travel planning apps, Rome2Rio offers a wide range of transport. Compare trains, buses, ferries, flights, driving routes and combinations together in one app. Try less typical types of travel; like water taxis, gondolas, hovercrafts, or helicopters, where available. SEE YOUR ENTIRE JOURNEY ON DETAILED MAPS Detailed maps show you exactly where each route will take you. Great for those wanting to add stops or sightsee along the way! EASILY COMPARE TRAVEL TIMES, DISTANCES & COST ESTIMATES Rome2Rio shows total trip durations, distances and estimated prices – making trip planning and budgeting quicker and easier than ever. TOP FEATURES - Unlimited FREE route searches - See your whole trip from start to finish with expandable, detailed maps - Easily book transport and accommodation through trusted partners - Multi-language support (English, German, Spanish, Italian, French, Portuguese with more coming soon) - 24/7 customer assistance Join the millions already on board, it’s time to plan your next great adventure! Download the Rome2Rio app today to travel YOUR way. Website: www.rome2rio.com Got feedback? We’d love to hear it. Contact us: [email protected] MORE ABOUT ROME2RIO Thrifty Traveler: ‘Rome2rio Will Help You Choose: Plane, Train, or Automobile?’ “Rome2Rio makes the process of figuring out how to get from point A to point B much easier. We love this search tool and know you will, too!” UK PC Mag: ‘Tired of airplanes and cars? Download these apps for bus and train travel’ “Rome2Rio is best when you need to compare not only the prices but also the total time for getting from point A to B via different modes of travel. Enter your starting point and destination, and Rome2Rio lists the estimated travel time and cost for going by air, bus, train, car, or sometimes a combination.” Wired: ‘10 Apps That Make Traveling Solo Easier—and Fun’ “Rome2Rio was an asset… I arrived unfrazzled thanks to this user-friendly trip planner. It provides options, routes, and fares for flights, trains, subways, buses, ferries, rideshares and more worldwide. Unlike some other travel apps, Rome2Rio is great at connecting multiple transit options into a single itinerary you can look at and stay on top of.”

Version 8.4.0

Stability and performance improvements

Ratings and Reviews

889 Ratings

Helped me so much

The first time i needed to use this app was when my sister was born. I got out of work early and everyone in my family was at the hospital waiting to see my sister for the first time. I had no car and nobody could pick me up, and I had never navigated the subways or buses on my own before. Somehow I found this app and was able to make a two and half hour trip through different methods of public transportation to get from my work in NY to the hospital in NJ where my sister was born. I surprised everyone when I got there, and would not have been able to see my sister for the first time with everyone else if it wasn’t for this app. It’s been 3 years since then, and I still use this app religiously. It’s the fastest and most reliable way to find ways to use public transportation to get where I need to be, whether its a job or class or a friend’s apartment. I wish everyone knew about this app who needs it. It’s so helpful.

This is my first ever app review, but I felt it my civic duty to sing its praises: I’d be lost in Europe begging on some corner with a crumpled up map in my hands and tears running down my face if it weren’t for this app. I live to travel, but I consider myself “directionally challenged,” and the idea of doing a bunch of research on the best way to get from point A to point B would be unimaginably frustrating. Rome2rio takes the stress out of traveling, and I recommend this app to people ALL the time! Yes, it helps you find the best route to get from country to country or city to city, but you can also narrow it down and put in an address or attraction. I can finally travel solo confidently with this app. It hasn’t let me down yet! I’d follow it to the ends of the earth and back. How this app isn’t more widely known or reviewed is beyond me, every traveler should have it.

Better than any travel site

I always wanted a way to see options for travel beyond flights. Maybe a train takes longer, but maybe you don't care and it's cheaper. Maybe a mountain bus ride in an economically developing country is scary and you'd like to experience it anyway. This app lays out great options for travel based on price. You don't have to search endlessly for different forms of travel that are independent of one another all the while trying to find linking times and places. This app saves you time, money, and shows you how you can be adventurous without a travel guide. I've had this idea for an app or website before, but they have done it so much better than I imagined!!

App Privacy

The developer, Rome2rio Pty Ltd , indicated that the app’s privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer’s privacy policy .

Data Not Linked to You

The following data may be collected but it is not linked to your identity:

• Search History
• Identifiers
• Diagnostics

Privacy practices may vary, for example, based on the features you use or your age. Learn More

Information

English, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish

• Developer Website
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Rome Public Transport

Rome’s public transportation system consists of buses , trams , metro , and train lines conveniently connecting every corner of Rome.

Although Rome is a very walkable city, sometimes you need to rest your feet up or travel a little further afield. Public transport is a great, cost-effective way to get around the Eternal City – here’s what you need to know.

Types of Public Transport in Rome

For an ancient city, Rome has excellent modern public transportation. 

Receive the Rome Travel Card at home

You can now receive your 72-hour Rome Travel Card (+ audioguide) via mail at home. Read more on the website of Mobizz

The metro is an efficient and cost-effective way to get around Rome, even if it isn’t the most extensive system. Rome’s metro is the smallest in Europe, but almost a million people use it daily. 

There are three lines, A (orange/red), B (blue), and the smallest, C (green), but only the former two are likely to be used by visitors. You can get to the Vatican , Spanish Steps , and Colosseum easily via the metro, but it doesn’t connect to areas in the southwest of the center, making it slightly limited.

A train will arrive approximately every 5-10 minutes, from 5:30 am until 11.30 pm.

Buses are the most widespread means of public transportation in Rome, with 338 bus lines and over 8000 stops. They’re frequent, but I wouldn’t expect them to always come on time. You can reach practically every corner of the city via bus, so if you’re venturing out of the historic center, it’s likely you’ll become familiar with the system. 

Hop-on hop-off buses are not part of the public transport system, so don’t expect your ticket to be usable on them.

Trams aren’t as widespread in Rome, but there is a small network consisting of 6 lines and 192 stations. It’s a smooth and quick way to travel, perhaps the most comfortable of the four types.

Both buses and trams run from 5:30 am until midnight every day, but there is a scaled-back night bus service available after these hours.

There are urban trains in Rome, besides the inter-city lines stopping at Termini. The overground trains aren’t going to be used by people wanting to travel around the historic center, but are great for reaching outer boroughs or the cruise port of Rome, Civitavecchia.

How to Use Public Transport in Rome

How to buy tickets.

Buying tickets for buses and trams in Rome is a little different to most cities in Europe and, in many ways, a bit outdated. You don’t normally purchase tickets on the bus, for example – and there’s no contactless card system as of yet – but buy them beforehand from places such as:

• Newsagents (tabaccai or bar tabacchi) 
• Newspaper kiosks
• Ticket machines are located next to main bus stops and at metro stations
• Atac booths in metro stations

The Atac booths in the following metro stations sell the weekly CIS ticket and others:

• Line A: Anagnina, Battistini, Lepanto, Ottaviano/San Pietro, Piazza di Spagna , Termini.
• Line B: Laurentina, Eur Fermi, Ponte Mammolo,Porta San Paolo, Termini.

Buying tickets for the metro is very straightforward; the ticket machines are at each station, and you have to pass through a gate to enter, which immediately validates the ticket. There’s also a contactless system in place, meaning you can just tap your card when you enter and exit to pay.

For the buses and trams, however, it’s important to buy your ticket in advance from one of the places mentioned previously – you don’t want to be caught out rushing to catch a bus only to realize you forgot to buy a ticket. Many people will buy multiple single-use tickets at once for this reason (if they’re not buying a pass with a longer duration).

How to Plan Routes

It’s easier than ever to plan your route around the Eternal City. Gone are the days of staring at maps and asking for help in broken Italian – if you have a phone, you’re good to go.

Google Maps is a simple choice, as many of us already have it installed on our phones or can easily access it. You can get around Rome easily just by using Google Maps, as it will show you the quickest way to reach your destination through public transport, whether that involves a single journey on the metro or catching a bus, tram, and metro all in one trip.

It isn’t the best choice available, however, as it doesn’t give real-time updates on times and delays to the same degree of accuracy as some other apps.

Moovit is a great alternative to Google Maps, which helps you to plan your route while staying updated with any delays, while Probus Rome is another useful app for keeping an eye on time.

When on the metro, you may find it useful to have a downloaded version of the metro map. This will help you keep an eye on the number of stops left until you get off after you inevitably lose your connection to the internet.

How to Navigate the City

Using an app is the easiest way to navigate the city, but it’s important to remember just how walkable Rome is. 

It’s probably not worth jumping on the metro for one or two stops, and if you’re going from the Pantheon to the Trevi Fountain or another central site, it is far quicker to walk. Public transport in the city is great whenever you need it, and it’s easy to find your way around – but don’t rely on it completely and utterly.

Rome’s Public Transport Passes and Fares

Public transport fares are very reasonable in Rome – it’s one of the cheapest ways to travel around the city.

Types of Tickets and Fares

Besides finding a place to purchase your ticket (and later validating it), you’ll find that the ticket system in Rome is actually quite straightforward. You can buy a ticket that allows you to use the bus, metro, trams, and some urban trains, rather than having to buy a separate ticket for each.

Ticket Options Available in Rome

• Single-use (BIT) ticket : usable on buses, trams, and metro lines for up to 100 minutes from the first time it is stamped.
• 24-hour ticket: unlimited use of buses, trams, and metro lines, as well as some urban train lines for ticket duration; valid from the first time it is stamped for the next 24 hours.
• 48-hour ticket: same as above, except for a validity of 48 hours.
• 72-hour ticket: useful if you want to make the most of public transport for a long weekend.

the three-day option has an alternative worth considering: the Roma Pass. Also valid for three days of unlimited travel in the city, it additionally offers entry to two sites and reduced prices on many sights, museums , theatres , and cinemas. There’s also a 42-hour Roma Pass available.

Week Pass (CIS)

Starting on any weekday, usable on buses and metro lines from the first day, it is stamped until 24:00 of the seventh day.

For a next-level tourist pass, look to the Omnia Card . It’s expensive but includes access to several popular tourist sites , as well as unlimited use of public transport for 72 hours.

Ticket Validation

Always remember to validate your ticket. There are hefty fines if you’re found to be without a validated ticket – just having an unvalidated ticket on your person often isn’t enough.

On the metro, this isn’t a concern, as you will validate your ticket by simply passing through the turnstiles. The only thing worth noting with the metro is that if you’ve bought a single-use ticket, you can swap lines, but once you have exited through a turnstile, you won’t be able to get back in on the same ticket.

For buses and trams, you will have to remember to stamp the ticket in the machine onboard to validate it. The validity will depend on your ticket type, but a standard single-use ticket lasts for 100 minutes (and you can swap buses within that timeframe). Transportation to the airport isn’t included in the travel passes.

Navigating Popular Tourist Sites Using Public Transport

Getting to major tourist sites like the Colosseum, the Vatican, and the Pantheon is simple using public transport. Remember that downloading an app like Moovit will help you plan.

You can catch a bus that will take you either right outside or very close to practically every popular tourist site in Rome, while the metro also leads to a handful of the most notable spots.

The Colosseum has a metro station, Colosseo, which is on Line B, as well as a tram stop (lines 3 or 8) and several buses that arrive just outside (including 38, 75, 175, and 271). This is also the best way to get to the Roman Forum and Monti neighborhood.

To get to the Vatican, you can catch metro Line A to Ottaviano or, again, several buses, including 62, 64, and 81. There is also an overground train that stops at the nearby train station, St Pietro, but this would be more useful for people traveling in from Civitavecchia.

Many of the other sites in Rome are very close to one another – the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and even the Spanish Steps are within easy walking distance of each other. You can catch metro Line A to Spagna station for the steps and walk down to the others from there. A few buses that stop near the Pantheon are 51, 60, and 62, but you should check an app for the best option.

Keep an eye out for the bus 40 Express, which is a special bus for tourists going through most of the famous sights:

• Vatican area and St.Peter’s Basilica – stop Borgo Sant’Angelo (beginning/end of the line)
• City center (Pantheon, Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona , Trevi Fountain) – stop Piazza Argentina
• Colosseum (Imperial and Roman Forum) – stop Piazza Venezia
• Termini Train Station (beginning/end of line)

Sometimes it’s better to walk if places are close to one another. Equally, if you’re hoping to avoid crowds – for example, if you’re going from the Colosseum to the Spanish Steps – public transport will allow you to skip the busy streets.

Best Times to Use Public Transport in Rome

Everyone knows that rush hour is a less-than-ideal time to travel, wherever you are. Rome is no different, so the mornings and evenings around the typical working day will see buses, trains, and all public transport rammed full of commuters.

An app like Moovit can give you updates on how crowded a train or bus is, making it a useful tool for avoiding the busiest periods. Generally, though, any time outside of these commuter hours is fine to use public transport – except perhaps in mid-afternoon in the height of summer, when these buses and trains tend to get very hot.

Accessibility and Inclusivity

Public transport in Rome is relatively accessible, though some modes of transport are better than others. The buses are the best option for disabled passengers, with 98% of the fleet equipped with a boarding platform and wheelchair area. Newer buses are also equipped with next-stop announcements to aid the visually impaired.

Trams and the metro are a bit more mixed in terms of accessibility. Line B is accessible, but Line A is less so: stops Spagna, Barberini, Repubblica, Vittorio Emanuele, and San Giovanni all do not have lifts or stair lifts connecting with the platforms. 70% of trams have a platform-level floor to ease boarding, but many have steps instead.

The trains of the Termini-Centocelle line are also not accessible to passengers with reduced mobility, though there are some buses that run the same route.

Parents with strollers will also want to avoid the metro where possible or use a sling to carry small children as it can get quite crowded. Buses are a better alternative.

Benefits of Using Public Transport in Rome

While not always the most luxurious way to travel, there are some great benefits to using public transport in Rome:

• Cost-effectiveness – besides walking, this is by far the cheapest way to travel around the city. 
• Convenience – you can get pretty much anywhere in Rome with public transport, as you’re never too far from a bus stop or station.
• A time-saver – the metro comes regularly and skips all the traffic on the roads. The same trip in a taxi would take much longer.
• The environmentally -friendly way to travel – public transport is more eco-friendly, making it the greener choice.

Buses , trams , the metro (a subway system), and trains are all available in Rome.

You purchase tickets from any Tabbachi shop (newsagents), newsstands, Atac booths in metro stations, and ticket machines, which can be found at metro stations and larger bus stations. The ticket in Italian is biglietto .

Yes, besides the 24, 48, and 72-hour passes, there is a weekly pass. Limitless use of public transport is often a feature of tourist passes , including the Roma pass .

Download an app like Moovit to help you plan your route, see live times, and know when transportation is crowded.

The peak times are similar to most countries: morning and evening when commuters are traveling to and from work. Avoid traveling between 8 and 9 am and 5 and 6 pm when possible; use an app to see live updates on passenger density.

The options aren’t fantastic, but the buses are generally accessible. 98% of buses are equipped for wheelchair users. Metro Line B is another option, but Line A should be avoided.

Like any major city, you should have your wits about you in Rome and on public transport, as there is always a slight risk of theft. Keep your valuables in a zipped cross-body bag to avoid pick-pockets.

• 10 Must Have Apps For...

10 Must-Have Apps for Living in Rome

With so much information available about what to see and do in Rome , as well as practical advice for navigating the city, it can be difficult to discern what is useful and up-to-date from what is irrelevant and outdated. Culture Trip has put together a tightly curated list of the 10 best apps for living and travelling in the Eternal City, from transportation hacks and tips from locals to on-demand medical services and a map of the city’s drinking fountains, these apps will ensure you make the most of your time in Rome.

Rome may be an enthralling city full of artistic and historical riches but anyone who has visited the Italian capital knows its public transportation leaves much to be desired. Rome’s ever dwindling fleet of buses are woefully unreliable and bus stops rarely have digital displays so the Roma Bus app is essential to track buses. The app only begins to track buses once they have left their capolinea , or end-of-the-line, so the bus may appear sooner than expected, even if it hasn’t shown up on your screen yet. Apart from some kinks, however, the app is the best way to track buses and trams in the city for a smoother journey through Rome.

Download: Roma Bus

A far quicker and more enjoyable way to get around Rome is by vespa, the locals’ preferred method of transportation. Thanks to ingenious scooter-sharing app Scooterino , passengers can hitch a ride with a savvy scooterista and live out their dolce vita fantasies – all while arriving to their destination in the most timely manner. With Scooterino you can request a ride on demand or request a ride in advance, increasing your chances that someone will accept your request. Scooterino functions similarly to BlaBlaCar, meaning it is not a taxi service but rather a way to share rides and split the cost of a journey between drivers and passengers. Prices are contained and payment is processed through the app. Driver’s are carefully vetted and users can leave reviews, helping to build trust in the Scooterino community.

Download: Scooterino

Spotted By Locals

Spotted By Locals is a wonderful resource that consolidates the advice of hundreds of hand-picked locals, active across 65+ global cities, into one place. With constantly updated information covering a slew of cities, Spotted by Locals is a must-have for intrepid travellers who are looking to experience off-the-beaten-path attractions and local favourites during their trip. The Rome app features over 100 entries by seven ‘Spotters’ covering a range of restaurants, bars, shops, hangouts and more: each entry includes a personal write-up and practical information so it feels like you’re getting recommendations from a friend. And with each spot pinned onto an offline map, using the app on the ground is extremely easy.

Download: Spotted By Locals

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Discover Rome

Popular Rome blogger Natalie Aldern, who writes about food and travel over at An American In Rome , has recently unveiled the Discover Rome app to help travellers navigate the Eternal City. Discover Rome provides recommendations for the best shops, restaurants, bars, museums and parks along with practical information on transportation, neighbourhoods and more. Suited for first-time travellers to Rome, as well as repeat visitors, it features 200 tried and tested suggestions on what to see, do and eat alongside great photography and easy-to-use offline maps. This stylish app that will ensure you get the most out of your time in the capital.

Download: Discover Rome

Locomotimes

If you’re planning on travelling in Italy by train, Locomotimes is an essential app to help you track your journey in realtime. The app draws information from Trenitalia and Italo for surprisingly accurate tracking, letting you know when a train has passed a stop and whether it is running behind schedule. By inserting your departure and arrival destinations, you’ll see available train options and by clicking into each option, a subsequent breakdown of each stop along the journey – constantly updated down to the minute once the train has started moving. Although you can’t purchase tickets in the app, it provides a useful overview of the different train options available to you so you don’t have to consult numerous websites to plan your journey.

Download: Locomotimes

With powerful taxi unions that protect Italy’s taxi drivers against the competition of chauffeur services like Uber, taxis remain a major presence in Rome’s urban landscape. The taxi services have, however, modernised their services by rolling out mobile applications, making taxi bookings easier than ever. You no longer have to look for a taxi stand or make a call to reserve a ride: with the FREE NOW app, you can request a ride through your phone, receive a fare estimate, and manage your booking through the interface. You can pay the taxi through the app or in person at the conclusion of your trip.

Download: FREE NOW

MedinAction

MedinAction is quickly revolutionising health care in Rome: the app allows you to access on-demand, English-speaking medical services 24/7 from the comfort of your phone, ensuring that you receive medical attention when you need it. Through the app you can book a visit from a licensed physician or chat for free with a doctor about your symptoms – and if you need more specialised attention, MedinAction has a reliable network of trusted clinics and hospitals that will provide further assistance in a timely manner. From house calls, health consultations and lab work to prescription refills, qualified physicians are available around the clock to assist you with all your medical needs. MedinAction works with numerous insurance companies so in many cases, it can bill your insurance directly.

Download: MedinAction

I Nasoni di Roma

Situated near the sea, surrounded by ancient aqueducts and famed for its numerous fountains, the Eternal City is well-known for enjoying copious amounts running water for much of its history. Its famous nasoni , or ‘big noses’ fountains, provide fresh drinking water for the pubic 24/7 and are a favourite way to hydrate during the hot summer months. The cheeky I Nasoni di Roma app has plotted hundreds of the fountains onto a handy map of Rome so you always locate the closest fountain to you as you make your way around the city.

Download: I Nasoni di Roma

Find out the latest events in Rome with Whazzo, an Italian-language app that covers film, sport, concerts, culture and more. Combing the functionality of Timeout, Ticketmaster and Facebook into one, users will be able to stay abreast on the latest happenings in the city, from current art exhibitions and festivals to upcoming clubbing nights and theatre performances. Many events in Rome stay under the radar due to limited marketing and outreach but thanks to Whazzo, you’ll be able to keep track of what’s going on in the Eternal City with just a few clicks.

Download: Whazzo

Culture Trip

With over thousands of local tips covered 300+ locations, Culture Trip always helps you stay inspired and informed with cultural stories and recommendations from around the world. Get insider recommendations about the best restaurants, attractions, bars and more while staying up to date with the latest news through the Culture Trip app. The app provides recommendations based on your interests and is tailored to your current location so you’ll always stay in-the-know, no matter where you are in the world.

Download: Culture Trip

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20 travel tips every first-time Rome visitor should follow

Whether you are a Roman novice or expert, these travel trips for Rome should be followed at all times

Photograph: Shutterstock

Don’t get us wrong, Rome is a very friendly place. But it’s not always the easiest to navigate. And unless you want to find yourself waiting for a coffee for three hours or queueing for the Vatican for three hours, there are some things you should know before you go.

And don’t panic. Our local writer Livia Hengel has the inside scoop on every rule, custom and hack for the big city. If you want to absolutely smash a weekend in Rome, read this list (and read it before you go. Trust us). Here is every travel tip you’ll need to do Rome as the Romans do. 

RECOMMENDED: 📍 The best things to do in Rome  🍝 The best restaurants in Rome 🏛️ Unmissable attractions in Rome 🛍️ Where to go shopping in Rome 🏨 The best hotels in Rome

Livia Hengel is a writer based in Rome. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines . 

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Travel tips for visiting Rome

1.  don’t order a cappuccino after noon.

You may or may not have seen this one crop up on TikTok from time to time. But basically, don’t you dare order a cappuccino after noon. Cappuccinos are thought of as heavy drinks more suitable for breakfast, and paired with a cornetto. If you’re craving one in the afternoon, order a caffè macchiato instead. 

2.  …But gelato is acceptable any time, any season

Great news for gelato lovers. You can order one of these bad boys anywhere, anytime. Before lunch, after lunch, whatever you desire. The gelato world is your oyster in Rome, and their flavours change seasonally, so you’ll never get bored. Think ciccolato fondente (dark chocolate), pistacchio and mandorla (almonds). Delicious. 

3.  Buy Vatican tickets online to skip the line

Housing one of the world’s greatest collections, the Vatican Museums are one of Italy’s most popular attractions, visited by over 5 million people annually. Though you’ll inevitably face a crowd, you can skip the long lines by purchasing your museum tickets on the Vatican website. The extra Euros for booking online are well worth the time you’ll save by not waiting in line.

4.  Free museums on first Sundays

Rome’s state-owned museums, galleries, archaeological sites, parks and gardens are free on the first Sunday of each month, so be sure to drop by and soak in some art if you’re in town these days. Lines quickly form outside the main attractions, so plan to show up early or visit a lesser-known destination (warning: you’ll still need to pay a fee to browse through special exhibitions).

5.  Note museum closures

Many of Rome’s city and state-owned museums, like Galleria Borghese and Palazzo Barberini, are closed on Mondays, so plan your schedule accordingly. The Vatican Museums are closed on Sundays instead, so they’re very crowded on Saturdays and Mondays; if you can, try to visit Tuesday through Friday.

6.  Order coffee at the bar

Have you guessed the Italians are quite particular about their coffee yet? Coffee etiquette actually makes up a fair few of the biggest culinary crimes you can commit in the capital.  You might notice people in Rome tend to order an espresso and drink it standing up, before even leaving the bar. That’s the way things are done. Italians don’t order coffee from the table and have it brought to them, and in fact, that’ll likely slap you with service charge and almost double your bill. Do as the Romans do, and neck that espresso before you go anywhere. 

7.  Buy bus tickets ahead of time

Rome’s public transportation leaves much to be desired, but if you need to take a bus in the city centre, stock up on bus tickets ahead of time because you can’t buy them on the bus. You can buy tickets at any  tabaccheria  in the city, little convenient shops that are designated with a large T. Tickets are €1.50 each, or opt for a 24-hour, 48-hour or weekly ticket for a discounted price. Tickets are valid for all forms of public transportation in Rome (bus, metro, tram and local train).

8.  Take your bus ticket straight to the beach

Speaking of public transportation, your €1.50 ticket is also valid on the local commuter trains in Rome, including a line that goes straight to the beach. You can catch a train at the Piramide Metro Station that will take you directly to Ostia Lido, Rome’s local beach. Although it’s not the most glamorous beach near Rome, Ostia is perfect for an inexpensive day trip, with some sunshine and fresh seafood.

9.  Dress modestly in church

Rome has over 900 churches that house some of the city’s most beautiful works of art, so don’t miss stepping inside to marvel at their treasures, whether you’re devout or not. Just be sure to dress appropriately to enter these holy spaces: women’s shoulders should be covered, and skirts should hit at or below the knee, while men should wear pants or shorts that extend to the knees. Linen pants are a great option for the summer, and a scarf is a perfect last-minute cover-up if you’re wearing a tank top.

10.  Watch your bags

Always be mindful of your bags on public transportation and around key tourist attractions. The city is safe, but petty crime is rampant, especially on crowded buses and metros. Thieves in Rome are stealthy, so always keep your bags zipped and held in front of you; wallets should ideally be tucked in your inner jacket pockets. Some thieves also snatch bags, so keep them in close reach at all times.

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Italy imposes beach rules and selfie stop lights as tourist numbers hit peak levels

D ream Roman Holidays may be more like a nightmare for anyone visiting Italy over the next few days. Such huge numbers are expected to descend on the country’s popular destinations around a major holiday that special measures are being put in place to keep tourists in check.

Italy’s Tourism Ministry says 13 million Italians will be traveling within the country around August 15 as the country jointly celebrates Ferragosto, an ancient holiday first instituted by Roman Empire founder Augustus to give workers a break, and the Catholic Feast of the Assumption of Mary.

Add those to the millions of tourists visiting from outside the country and it’s a recipe for the kind of mayhem, bad behavior and unfortunate accidents which regularly make headlines both in Italy and across the world.

Which is why many places are invoking new rules and technology to try to control the chaos.

From the island of Sardinia to the heel of Italy’s boot in Puglia, access to many popular beaches is now only being granted by booking on an app in an effort to control crowd sizes. Meanwhile, plastics, smoking and in some cases even towels and chairs have been banned from the sand during the coming days, according to Italian media reports.

Night swimming ban

Some beaches on the island of Sardinia, which has seen a record number of tourists this summer, have banned the use of rocks to anchor beach umbrellas. The communities of Santa Teresa di Gallura and Sant’Antioco say anyone failing to comply will be fined 500 euros ($550), according to local media reports.

Still in Sardinia, the mayor of northeastern Olbia has banned late-night swimming, beach camping, bonfires and even the use of chairs and towels overnight to try to curtail all-night revels – although a 5 a.m. music shut-off deadline might seem overly generous to some.

Elsewhere the rules are stricter. In Sassari, northwestern Sardinia, the music must stop at 2 a.m. In the resort enclaves of Platamona, Porto Ferro and Argentiera, the cutoff is 3 a.m., according to an ordinance published by the island’s mayors.

In Rome, Florence, and Venice, temporary stop lights have been installed as a crowd control measure in high pedestrian traffic areas to stop people from taking selfies and blocking the flow.

On the Amalfi Coast, authorities will be regulating the number of vehicles clogging the picturesque roads by alternatively limiting even and odd numbered license plates from entering certain smaller streets during busy times of the day, the local Campania tourist board says.

Trail closures

The island of Capri will be taking a cue from a tourism entrance fee introduced by Venice earlier this year. It’s charging double its usual landing fee for arrivals over the busy holiday weekend.

Some mountain destinations in northern Italy’s Trentino region are using monitors to track the flow of hikers and will be closing trails that get too busy, the regional government says.

Along the Mediterranean riviera coastline of northwestern Liguria, Augusto Sartori, the regional councilor for tourism, announced Wednesday that hotel occupancy was now at 99%, and the region was effectively sold out for Ferragosto.

Even escaping to sea isn’t really an option for those who haven’t booked ahead.

Italy’s cruise ship tourism sector estimates that there will be more than 65,000 passengers in Genoa, with six ships making 12 port calls during the two weeks before and after August 15. In Civitavecchia near Rome, around 59,000 cruise ship passengers are expected during the same period. In Naples, there will be 45,000 and in Bari some 25,000 passengers will disembark to join the mix.

Italy’s tourism minister, Daniele Santache called the issue of overtourism “blasphemy,” but insisted Italy was getting to grips with it as it braced for more major surges in visitor numbers in coming years.

“Overtourism is blasphemy for me, if anything the problem is managing and governing it as we have started to do since we have been in government,” she told the La Nazione newspaper in her Tuscany hometown.

“We are also preparing the ground for future challenges, from Milan-Cortina [2026 Winter Olympics] to the Jubilee [a 2025 religious festival in Rome] which will be an opportunity to make lesser-known realities known, build diversified tourist offers and enhance our wonderful villages.”

Italy, like many places around the world, is facing problems with overtourism during peak season, an issue that can adversely affect both the quality of life for people living in popular destinations and the quality of the vacation experienced by those visiting.

Which is probably not what Emperor Augustus imagined when he designated the midsummer holiday.

Correction: This story has been updated to correct that Sassari is in Sardinia.

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Jeff bezos, lauren sanchez kiss at rome's trevi fountain, make wish, jeff bezos, lauren sanchez kisses & wishes ... at rome's trevi fountain.

Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez have enough money to buy anything they could ever want, but they still made a wish like every other tourist at Rome's famous fountain ... tossing their coins into the water and kissing.

One of the richest people in the world and his fiancée's latest summer vacation stop is at the Trevi Fountain, known for millions of well-wishes and even more Instagram selfies.

Check out the pics ... Jeff and Lauren are smooching on the water's edge, and she winds up and tosses a coin into the water.

Kinda makes ya wonder ... what the hell are these two wishing for???

After doing the tourist and PDA thing at Trevi Fountain, the couple went for a romantic stroll through Rome and ended up having dinner together at Pierluigi restaurant.

Holding hands, laughing and drinking fine Italian wine ... a wish come true for just about everyone else. Just another Tuesday night for Sanchezos.

As they say ... that's Amóre!!!

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Where to find some of rome’s spectacular roof top bars.

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Sunset over the Roman Forum from a rooftop cafe, Rome. Italy.

Rome, the Eternal City, is renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. One of the best ways to experience the city’s timeless beauty is from its many rooftop bars. These elevated venues offer a refreshing drink and breathtaking panoramic views of Rome’s iconic landmarks, from the Colosseum to St. Peter’s Basilica to the Pantheon. Here’s a brief guide to some of Rome’s best rooftop bars and what makes them unique.

Many rooftop bars in Rome provide stunning views of historic sites, allowing patrons to enjoy their beverages while gazing upon the city’s ancient wonders. The rooftops offer unparalleled views of Rome’s skyline, with its mixture of ancient ruins, Renaissance domes, and modern architecture blending seamlessly into the city’s landscape.

Each rooftop bar has a unique ambiance, from chic and modern to classic and elegant. The atmosphere often complements the view, enhancing the overall experience. Watching the sunset over Rome or seeing the city lights come alive at night from a rooftop bar is an unforgettable experience.

Many rooftop bars also offer gourmet dining options. Patrons can enjoy a range of Italian delicacies, from traditional Roman dishes to contemporary culinary creations.

Here is a detailed description of Rome’s 20 most iconic rooftop bars, including their addresses, interesting background notes about their history, drinks menus, and signature drinks:

La Terrazza del Cesari, Via di Pietra, 89/A, 00186 Rome, Italy

La Terrazza, part of Hotel Cesari, dating back to 1787, offers stunning views over Rome, including landmarks like the Pantheon and the Trevi Fountain. The drinks menu features fine wines, classic and contemporary cocktails, and premium spirits. The signature drinks include Negroni, Aperol Spritz, and La Terrazza Special, a house cocktail with local ingredients.

Caffè Della Arti Rooftop Bar, Via Gramsci, 73, 00197 Rome, Italy

Located at the National Gallery of Modern Art, the bar offers panoramic views of the Borghese Gardens. The drinks menu features Italian wines, craft beers, and creative cocktails. Its signature drinks include an Artisanal Gin and Tonic made with local gin and artisanal tonics, a Bellini, and a Tartufo Martini made with truffle essence.

Terrazza Borromini, Via di Santa Maria dell’Anima, 30, 00186 Rome, Italy

The Terrazza is located in Palazzo Pamphili, overlooking Piazza Navona. It’s named after architect Francesco Borromini. The drinks menu features Italian and international wines, craft cocktails, and Champagne. Its signature drinks include Navona Breeze, Roman Sunset, and Signature Negroni.

The view over Piazza Navona from the rooftop bar at Terrazza Borromini.

Zuma Rome Rooftop, Palazzo Fendi, Via della Fontanella di Borghese, 48, 00186 Rome, Italy

Zuma is an Asian-inspired restaurant and bar at Palazzo Fendi with breathtaking city views. The drinks menu includes classic cocktails, Japanese whiskies, sake, and innovative cocktails. The signature drinks include Yuzu Mule, Rooftop Martini, and Kyuri Margarita.

Lanificio Rooftop, Via di Pietralata, 159/A, 00158 Rome, Italy

Lanificio is a multi-functional space with a restaurant, bar, cultural events, and panoramic views. The drinks menu includes craft beers, artisanal cocktails, and local wines. The signature drinks include an Herbal Spritz, Italian Mojito, and Citrus Gin Fizz.

The Rooftop at The First Hotel, Via del Vantaggio, 14, 00186 Rome, Italy

This boutique hotel has a modern rooftop bar offering stunning city views. The drinks menu features an extensive wine list, classic cocktails, and “modern mixology.” The signature drinks include a First Negroni, Rooftop Mojito, and Signature Martini.

Hotel Raphael Rooftop, Largo Febo, 2, 00186 Rome, Italy

Raphael is an eco-friendly luxury hotel with a rooftop offering views of the city and the Vatican. The drinks menu features organic wines, classic cocktails, and unique creations. Its signature drinks include Organic Spritz, Raphael’s Delight, and a Green Mojito.

Minerva Roof Garden, Piazza della Minerva, 69, 00186 Rome, Italy

The rooftop bar is in the Grand Hotel de la Minerve and offers panoramic views of Rome. The drinks menu features a wide range of wines, Champagnes, and classic and innovative cocktails. The signature drinks include a Minerva Martini, Sunset Spritz, and Eternal City.

Settimo Roman Cuisine & Terrace, Via Lombardia, 47, 00187 Rome, Italy

A modern rooftop bar in Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese with panoramic views. The drinks menu features classic and contemporary cocktails, fine wines, and Champagnes. The signature drinks include Settimo Spritz, Borghese Breeze, and Roman Sunset.

Les Étoiles Rooftop Cocktail Bar, Via dei Bastioni, 1, 00187 Rome, Italy

Located in the Atlante Star Hotel, it offers breathtaking views of St. Peter’s Basilica. The drinks menu features Italian wines and classic cocktails. Signature drinks include Les Étoiles Spritz, Vatican View, and St. Peter’s Martini.

Up Sunset Bar, Via Ludovisi, 49, 00187 Rome, Italy

Situated in the Westin Excelsior Rome, offering elegant ambiance and views. The drinks menu features an extensive selection of wines, Champagnes, and crafted cocktails. The signature drinks include Excelsior Spritz, Sunset Fizz, and Ludovisi Martini.

Aroma Restaurant at Palazzo Manfredi, Via Labicana, 125, 00184 Rome, Italy

Located in the historical Palazzo Manfredi, Aroma Restaurant offers a Michelin-starred dining experience with breathtaking views of the Colosseum. The building has a rich history, once serving as a gladiator training school. The drinks menu features an exclusive selection of fine wines, premium spirits, and signature cocktails. The signature drinks include the Colosseo Cocktail, Roman Mule, and Truffle Martini.

The rooftop American bar at the Hotel Forum looks out over the ancient Roman Forum.

Hotel Forum Rooftop, Via Tor de’ Conti, 25-30, 00184 Rome, Italy

Situated in the heart of ancient Rome, Hotel Forum’s rooftop bar offers panoramic views of the Roman Forum. The hotel is housed in a historic, 18th century, building. The drinks menu features a selection of Italian wines and classic and signature cocktails. The signature drinks feature a Forum Spritz, Roman Punch, and Imperial Negroni.

The Court Rooftop Bar, Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Rome, Italy

Located at Palazzo Manfredi, The Court is renowned for its proximity to the Colosseum, offering unparalleled views of the ancient monument. The bar features a sleek, modern design contrasting beautifully with its historic surroundings. The drinks menu features an extensive list of innovative cocktails, premium spirits, and fine wines. The signature drinks include Emperor’s Spritz, Colosseum Cooler, and Roman Nights.

Terrazza Monti, Via Panisperna, 101, 00184 Rome, Italy

This boutique hotel rooftop bar provides a relaxed ambiance with views of the Colosseum and the Monti district. It’s known for its friendly atmosphere and vibrant local crowd. The drinks menu includes Italian wines, craft cocktails, and local beers. The signature drinks include Monti Mule, Rooftop Spritz, Italian Summer.

47 Circus Roof Garden, Via Luigi Petroselli, 47, 00186 Rome, Italy

Located in the heart of Rome, 47 Circus Roof Garden provides views of the Roman Forum and the Temple of Vesta. The drinks menu features a variety of Italian wines, classic cocktails, and creative concoctions. The signature drinks include Temple Tonic, Ancient Spritz, and Roman Delight.

Hotel Colosseum Rooftop Bar, Via Sforza, 10, 00184 Rome, Italy

This charming hotel offers a rooftop bar with stunning views of the Colosseum. It is a favorite spot for locals and tourists looking to enjoy a drink while soaking in the historic ambiance. The drinks menu features Italian wines, local beers, and a variety of cocktails. The signature drinks include Colosseum Sunset, Roman Holiday, and Gladiator’s Punch.

Royal Art Cafe Rooftop Bar, Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Rome, Italy

Positioned directly opposite the Colosseum, the Royal Art Cafe offers an unbeatable view of the iconic monument. It’s a perfect spot for enjoying a cocktail while taking in one of the most famous sights in the world. The drinks menu features classic and modern cocktails, Italian wines, and beers. The signature drinks include Colosseum View, Royal Spritz, and Art Cafe Martini.

Il Gladiatore Rooftop Bar, Via Labicana, 144, 00184 Rome, Italy

Known for its cozy ambiance and proximity to the Colosseum, Il Gladiatore offers a charming setting for a relaxing evening drink. The drinks menu features a selection of wines, cocktails, and local spirits. The signature drinks include Gladiator Spritz, Roman Glory, and Ancient Punch.

Terrazza Monti Palace, Via Cavour, 185, 00184 Rome, Italy

Situated in the Monti Palace Hotel, this rooftop bar offers a chic setting with views of the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. The drinks menu features Italian wines, craft cocktails, and premium spirits. The signature drinks include Monti Palace Martini, Colosseum Cooler, and Palace Punch.

Rome’s rooftop bars provide an enchanting combination of scenic beauty, culinary delights, and historical ambiance. They are perfect spots for tourists and locals to unwind, enjoy a drink, and take in the timeless charm of the Eternal City. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening, a sophisticated night out, or a unique perspective of Rome, the city’s rooftop bars offer an experience like no other.

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• Continuous attempts to re-post comments that have been previously moderated/rejected
• Racist, sexist, homophobic or other discriminatory comments
• Attempts or tactics that put the site security at risk
• Actions that otherwise violate our site's  terms.

So, how can you be a power user?

• Stay on topic and share your insights
• Feel free to be clear and thoughtful to get your point across
• ‘Like’ or ‘Dislike’ to show your point of view.
• Protect your community.
• Use the report tool to alert us when someone breaks the rules.

Thanks for reading our community guidelines. Please read the full list of posting rules found in our site's  Terms of Service.