Roaming in Rome: A Memorable Vacation Experience
βRome is not like any other city. Itβs a majestic museum, a living room to tiptoe through.β
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
πΈΒ Cost: ~$140 CAD/night per person (4 ppl dorm)
ποΈΒ Room Type: 4-bed dorm, shared bath with one other dorm
β Β Pros: Most affordable, good location
β οΈΒ Cons: Hostel style; 2 shared bathrooms for 8 women
πΆββοΈΒ Walk Times: Trevi β 32 min | Colosseum β 38 min
βΒ Google Review: 4.7

The Rome Hello Hostel
πΈ Cost: ~$175 CAD/night per person (4 ppl dorm)
ποΈ Room Type: 4-bed dorm, 1 private bathroom
β Pros: Breakfast included, 8 min walk to train, nightly events
β οΈ Cons: Hostel vibe; 1 bath per 4
πΆββοΈ Walk Times: Trevi β 17 min | Colosseum β 26 min
β Google Review: 4.8

Monti49 Hotel
πΈ Cost: ~$162 CAD/night per person (2 ppl room)
ποΈ Room Type: 1 king + 1 single bed
β Pros: Apartment-style, local vibe
β οΈ Cons: Older building, fewer amenities
πΆββοΈ Walk Times: Trevi β 14 min | Colosseum β 19 min
β Google Review: 4.6

Guardian Hotel
πΈ Cost: ~$225 CAD/night per person (2 ppl room)
ποΈ Room Type: 2 twin beds
β Pros: Newer hotel, modern vibe
β οΈ Cons: Longer walk to main sites
πΆββοΈ Walk Times: Trevi β 29 min | Colosseum β 36 min
β Google Review: 4.5

Hotel Portoghesi
πΈ Cost: ~$317 CAD/night per person (private room)
ποΈ Room Type: One double bed room per guest
β Pros: 5 min to Piazza Navona, rooftop garden, own room!
β οΈ Cons: Early booking needed for good deals
πΆββοΈ Walk Times: Trevi β 12 min | Colosseum β 30 min
β Google Review: 4.6

($$$) Trevi Ab Eterno
πΈ Cost: ~$725 CAD/night per person (shared beds)
ποΈ Room Type: 1 bedroom + pullout sofa + single mattress
β Pros: Direct Trevi view π
β οΈ Cons: Pricey, only sleeps 3-4 comfortably
πΆββοΈ Walk Times: Trevi β 30 seconds | Colosseum β 20 min
β 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:
- Hop-off/on on Big Bus for 24 or 48 hour pass
- Metro Rome 48 hour pass
- 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!
| Aspect | Information |
|---|---|
| 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: β¬3. |
| – Sundays and public holidays 6am-10pm: β¬5. | |
| – 10pm-6am: β¬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.
