Any effort to speak Italian will be greatly appreciated. Do not attempt to use Spanish, however. This is the classic faux pas of the ugly American in Italy. In many places, people speak English, but not all, so a good phrase book will come in handy.
Bring your walking shoes
Public transportation in Rome can be confusing and unreliable. The best way to get to know the city is to walk its picturesque, winding streets.
How to Taxi
If you get tired, you cannot hail a taxi as in New York. Go to a taxi stand (located all around town) or else call one, though the meter starts running as soon as the taxi leaves to get you.
The Conto countdown
When eating out, asking for the bill does not mean it will come. You need to ask for “Il conto!” early and often. Many restaurants in Italy do not have cash registers or even calculators, so this process can take a while.
Save time at the Colosseum
Do yourself a favor and skip the long lines here. Instead go to the much shorter lines at the Palatine Hill and buy a combined ticket for the Colosseum and the ruins of the Palatine, which is also worth seeing.
Italy is not the place for a diet
The food is much too good for anyone to be worrying about Weight Watchers Points. Indulge in a creamy gelato, a rich cappuccino (but never after lunch – that’s considered weird here), or a plate of spinach ravioli in a butter-sage sauce.
Visit Churches
In Rome, you’ve got plenty to choose from, and chances are whichever one you come across will have something cool inside. They’re also free. Remember that churches tend to close at lunchtime for a siesta! One of the best is San Luigi dei Francesi; near Piazza Navona; 5 Piazza San Luigi dei Francesi
