Local Customs & Etiquette in Rome, Italy

1. Piazza Navona Dress Code

Dress modestly to respect local culture and blend in while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of this iconic Rome square.

Cultural Sensitivity: Respecting local cultural norms and values.
Comfort: Comfortable clothing for walking around the city during the day.
Flexibility: Be prepared to adjust your attire as night falls and temperatures drop.

Dress modestly to enter this historic Rome church, with covered shoulders and knees required for both men and women.

Respect: Showing reverence for the sacred site and its religious significance.
Preparation: Bring a lightweight scarf or shawl to cover up if needed.
Accessibility: Ensure entry into the basilica is not hindered by inappropriate attire.

Toss a coin over your shoulder into the Trevi Fountain to ensure a return trip to Rome. Be mindful of fellow visitors.

Tradition: Participating in an iconic Roman tradition.
Courtesy: Sharing the opportunity with others who wish to participate.
Sustainability: Tossing coins made from recycled materials to minimize environmental impact.

Relax and enjoy your meal at a Roman trattoria, sipping wine from the communal jug (fiasco) and asking for the daily specials.

Experience: Immersing yourself in authentic Roman culinary culture.
Flexibility: Adapting to the slow, leisurely pace of traditional Italian dining.
Engagement: Asking questions and engaging with your server for recommendations.

Navigate the Vatican Museums at a steady pace to appreciate the art and avoid fatigue.

Appreciation: Taking time to truly admire each piece in the vast collection.
Endurance: Pacing yourself to avoid exhaustion during your visit.
Organization: Utilizing a map or guidebook to plan your route through the museums.

Bargain politely and respectfully with vendors at this bustling Rome market.

Negotiation: Skillfully negotiating prices without offending the vendor.
Courtesy: Maintaining a friendly and respectful demeanor during negotiations.
Patience: Waiting your turn to make a purchase when there is a crowd.

Stay patient and follow signage while waiting in line at the Colosseum to enter this ancient symbol of Rome.

Historical Appreciation: Taking a moment to reflect on the significance of this iconic landmark.
Patience: Being prepared for potential line wait times.
Guidance: Following signage and staff instructions to navigate the queue efficiently.

Savor a delicious gelato cone while strolling the streets of Rome, taking time to enjoy each bite.

Experience the strong, bold flavor of Roman coffee by ordering a caffè at a local bar. Stand at the counter and enjoy your espresso quickly.

Intensity: Appreciating the potent flavors of traditional Italian espresso.
Speed: Enjoying your coffee quickly as it's meant to be consumed on-the-go.
Cultural Immersion: Participating in a daily ritual that defines Roman culture.

Navigate the crowded Forum Romanum with respect for the ancient ruins and fellow visitors.

Historical Respect: Treating the ancient ruins with reverence.
Awareness: Staying alert to avoid tripping or causing damage to the site.
Courtesy: Yielding the path to others when necessary and sharing the space with fellow visitors.

Respect the beauty of the Spanish Steps by enjoying the view from a distance and not picnicking on the steps.

Cultural Sensitivity: Showing respect for this iconic Rome landmark.
Environmental Consideration: Avoiding damage to the steps and surrounding gardens.
Photography Opportunity: Capturing stunning photos of the Spanish Steps and Rome skyline from a distance.

Navigate the Roman Metro with ease by standing to the right when there's room to walk and giving up your seat for those in need.

Efficiency: Navigating the metro system quickly and smoothly.
Consideration: Giving up your seat for elderly, pregnant women, or those with disabilities.
Awareness: Staying aware of fellow passengers and Metro announcements.

Admire the beautiful flowers adorning the Spanish Steps and purchase some as a souvenir.

Beauty: Appreciating the vibrant colors and fragrances of the flowers.
Memento: Purchasing a souvenir to remind you of your Rome visit.
Photography Opportunity: Capturing stunning photos of the flowers and Spanish Steps.

Respect the local street art by admiring it from a distance without touching or defacing it.

Cultural Sensitivity: Showing respect for local artists and their work.
Appreciation: Admiring the creativity and talent of the street art.
Photography Opportunity: Capturing stunning photos of the unique street art.

Experience a Rome night out by bar hopping, striking up conversations with locals, and savoring unique drinks.

Socialization: Engaging in friendly conversation with fellow patrons and locals.
Taste Adventure: Indulging in local drinks and cocktails.
Flexibility: Adapting to the slow, leisurely pace of traditional Italian evening socializing.