The Rome IndexCommon mistakes in Rome
The things that catch first-time visitors out — and how to avoid them.
Not booking ahead
The Colosseum, Vatican Museums and Galleria Borghese all sell out on popular dates. Arriving without a booking means either missing them or losing two hours queuing. Book as soon as you have confirmed dates.
Overloading the itinerary
The Colosseum-Forum and the Vatican are each a half-day minimum. First-timers routinely try to do both in one day and end up exhausted and under-impressed by both. Space them.
Eating in the wrong places
Any restaurant with a photograph menu, a tout standing outside, or a name like "Trattoria Roma" on the main tourist route is almost certainly a poor deal. Walk two streets back from any major sight to find something better at half the price.
Ignoring the dress code
Being turned away from St Peter's Basilica after walking across the city because of bare shoulders or shorts is a frustrating but entirely avoidable way to lose an hour.