by Chance Clever

Created on: March 02, 2010

Rome is truly one of the most magical cities in the world. There is nothing quite like roaming the streets and stumbling upon one of the pieces of ancient architecture you read about in high school history class. Picture this: on your first afternoon you’re roaming the streets with no particular destination in mind, you round a corner and are face-to-face with a building that looks like little more than a circular, cement parking garage, when you realize that it’s the Pantheon and it has been in that exact spot since 126 A.D.. Equally majestic is viewing the Trevi Fountain at night, sipping cappuccino in the sun on the Spanish steps, and walking in Caesar's footsteps in the Forum. 

The magic of Rome is one of surprises and stolen moments. Rome is, of course, a thriving metropolis and has the crowds to prove it. It has one of the most crowded subway systems in Europe. It is common for subway doors to be unable to close due to passengers attempting to squeeze one more person into the already jam-packed car. Italians are also not known for their attention to deodorant and in the summer there is little less pleasant than an overcrowded Roman subway car. In short, avoid the subways, particularly during rush hour and early afternoon when schools let out. Most of Rome is easily accessible by foot and the subway is unnecessary.

Among the crowds it is possible to find stolen moments. The best advice is to set your schedule around less popular times. Eat lunch early, and dinner even earlier. Romans are notoriously late diners, between 8:00 and 10:00 are common times to start dinner. If you head to dinner between 5:00 and 6:00 you are likely to avoid long waits for tables, and overcrowded dining rooms. This is especially important as Roman restaurants generally offer daily specials on a first come, first serve basis. The earlier you eat, the better your chances of sampling some of Rome’s most delicious fare. 

The same holds true for sight seeing. The earlier the better. Tour guides are at their freshest during the morning. As you can imagine, repeating the same information about the Colosseum one hundred times a day can become a little stale. Do yourself a favor and head to the main attractions early when the guides are at their most fresh. 

The reverse, unfortunately is true for hotels. Many Roman hotels have late check ins (around 2:00). Because the hotel rooms are in such high demand, it is rare to be allowed to check in early. You would be wise to email your concierge if you are arriving on an early flight. 

While avoiding the crowds entirely is nearly impossible, it is easier to really get the Roman experience if you venture off the beaten path a ways. Restaurants in the piazzas are notoriously crowded and expensive. Meanwhile, cafes a mere two blocks away have equally impressive (sometimes better!) food and half the price tag. Truly one of the best parts of Rome is getting lost. 

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