Rome

Roaming in Rome: A Memorable Vacation Experience

β€œRome is not like any other city. It’s a majestic museum, a living room to tiptoe through.”

Alberto Sordi

Planning a trip to the Eternal City but unsure where to start? Focus on these top 3 items and then relax, and wander through the enchanting streets of Rome.

  • Where to stay? If on a budget, we recommend The RomeHello dorm and private rooms. See below for more options.
  • How to get around? Walk, metro, taxi and hop on/off bus are our top picks
  • What to see and do? Fountains, Colosseum, Italian cuisine, and more. Consider this 2 Day Rome Itinerary and a tour with CityWonders.

Where to Stay in Rome?

Looking for budget friendly accommodations? The options below are in great locations, walking distance to many sights, and recommended for groups including friends and families. They all score high on both Google and Tripadvisor. Prices listed below are estimates for month of May (2024) for a family or group of friends of 4. Click on the hotel names to be directed to more information on the hotel websites. Our top pick for a family or group of friends is the RomeHello as they are budget friendly, in a good location, have onsite snacks and dining, have common spaces for socializing between touring, and clean accommodations.

The Beehive Hostel

πŸ’ΈΒ Cost: ~$140 CAD/night per person (4 ppl dorm)

πŸ›οΈΒ Room Type: 4-bed dorm, shared bath with one other dorm

βœ…Β Pros: Most affordable, good location

⚠️ Cons: Hostel style; 2 shared bathrooms for 8 women

πŸšΆβ€β™€οΈΒ Walk Times: Trevi – 32 min | Colosseum – 38 min

⭐ Google Review: 4.7

The Rome Hello Hostel

πŸ’Έ Cost: ~$175 CAD/night per person (4 ppl dorm)

πŸ›οΈ Room Type: 4-bed dorm, 1 private bathroom

βœ… Pros: Breakfast included, 8 min walk to train, nightly events

⚠️ Cons: Hostel vibe; 1 bath per 4

πŸšΆβ€β™€οΈ Walk Times: Trevi – 17 min | Colosseum – 26 min

⭐ Google Review: 4.8

Monti49 Hotel

πŸ’Έ Cost: ~$162 CAD/night per person (2 ppl room)

πŸ›οΈ Room Type: 1 king + 1 single bed

βœ… Pros: Apartment-style, local vibe

⚠️ Cons: Older building, fewer amenities

πŸšΆβ€β™€οΈ Walk Times: Trevi – 14 min | Colosseum – 19 min

⭐ Google Review: 4.6

Guardian Hotel

πŸ’Έ Cost: ~$225 CAD/night per person (2 ppl room)

πŸ›οΈ Room Type: 2 twin beds

βœ… Pros: Newer hotel, modern vibe

⚠️ Cons: Longer walk to main sites

πŸšΆβ€β™€οΈ Walk Times: Trevi – 29 min | Colosseum – 36 min

⭐ Google Review: 4.5

Hotel Portoghesi

πŸ’Έ Cost: ~$317 CAD/night per person (private room)

πŸ›οΈ Room Type: One double bed room per guest

βœ… Pros: 5 min to Piazza Navona, rooftop garden, own room!

⚠️ Cons: Early booking needed for good deals

πŸšΆβ€β™€οΈ Walk Times: Trevi – 12 min | Colosseum – 30 min

⭐ Google Review: 4.6

($$$) Trevi Ab Eterno

πŸ’Έ Cost: ~$725 CAD/night per person (shared beds)

πŸ›οΈ Room Type: 1 bedroom + pullout sofa + single mattress

βœ… Pros: Direct Trevi view 😍

⚠️ Cons: Pricey, only sleeps 3-4 comfortably

πŸšΆβ€β™€οΈ Walk Times: Trevi – 30 seconds | Colosseum – 20 min

⭐ Airbnb Rating: 4.7

How to Get Around in Rome?

To and from the airport use: The Leonardo Express to Termini + Taxi to hotel

General touring:

  1. Hop-off/on on Big Bus for 24 or 48 hour pass
  2. Metro Rome 48 hour pass
  3. Taxis 

This table provides a clear overview of the essential information and tips for taking taxis in Rome, making it easier for travellers to navigate the city’s transportation options. To get from place to place quickly, taxis are often the best way to go!

AspectInformation
Cost Determination– All taxis have a meter.
– The fare includes the meter reading plus additional charges.
– Exceptions: Trips from airports to the center of Rome.
Fares Start at– Weekdays 6am-10pm: €3.
– Sundays and public holidays 6am-10pm: €5.
– 10pm-6am: €7.
Extra Charges– Each additional piece of luggage beyond the first: 1 euro.
– Each passenger beyond 4 passengers (in large taxis): 1 euro.
– Taxi call charge: 3.50 euro.
– Unaccompanied women get a 10% discount between 10pm and 6am.
Finding Taxis– Official taxis are white with a “taxi” sign on top.
– Hailing a taxi in the street is not common; look for a taxi stand marked by an orange sign.
– If no taxis are lined up, wait a few minutes; one will usually arrive.
– Central dispatch number: 063570 (use +39 if calling internationally).
– Apps like ITTaxi or FreeNow can also be used to call taxis.
Payment Options– All taxis have POS machines; payment by credit or debit card is usually accepted.
– It’s advisable to carry some cash as machines may occasionally be “out of order.”
Tipping– Not necessary, but rounding up to the next euro or leaving a few euros for helpful service is appreciated.
Termini Station– Has its own taxi rank; official taxis line up in front of the main entrance.
– Beware of scam artists leading to unlicensed taxis; head straight to the taxi rank.

What to See and Do in Rome?

Buon Viaggio!

Embarking on a journey to Rome is akin to stepping into a time capsule where ancient wonders coexist harmoniously with modern marvels. With its rich history, breathtaking architecture, delectable cuisine, and vibrant culture, Rome is a destination that captivates travelers from around the globe. Wishing you an unforgettable vacation in the Eternal City, where each cobblestone street whispers tales of antiquity, and every corner reveals a new treasure waiting to be discovered. From iconic landmarks like the Colosseum and Vatican City to hidden gems tucked away in quaint neighbourhoods, your journey will be a feast for the senses and a testament to the enduring allure of Rome.