10 Hot Tips for Visiting Rome

Rome is one of Europe's top tourist destinations and with over 3.8 million residents, there are a few things that you should know before arriving. Follow these tips for a fun and safe visit to the busiest city in Italy.

Tip 1
There are two airports that service Rome. The major one is Leonardo da Vinci, also commonly known as Fiumicino. The secondary airport is the one most commonly serviced by charter flights and the average discount flight that many airlines offer from various European cities. Ciampino is the secondary airport and though it's less serviced by major transit, it's easy to take a CORTAL bus to the Metropolitana station which connects with a train that ends at Stazione Termini. This train leaves from Fiumicino every hour. The station is located in the heart of old Rome and is the main hub for all trains, subways, and buses in Rome. It's also surrounded by the cheapest hotels in the city.

Tip 2
The quickest and cheapest way to get around Rome is by bus. ATAC is the main bus company servicing Rome, and two routes go directly through the historical district and the cultural center of Rome. The 64 is by far more popular, while the 40 has fewer stops but is an express and less crowded. Whenever possible, choose to ride the 40 as the 64 is famous for the professional pickpockets and shady characters constantly on board. This bus houses professional looking businessmen with suit jackets on their arms, which they use to cover their roaming hands and relieve you of your money, wallets, and anything else that might be within their reach. The 40 has fewer people and fewer tourists. Because the 64 is well-known as a popular route for visitors, it's an easy target. Avoid the dangers of the 64 completely and take the 40 into the historic center of Rome.