are there any areas in an around rome that single women should avoid.. and in what areas can you expect to find reasonable room rates. thanks

Posted By bits barnes on March 14, 2009, 7:08 PM

I'm looking for an apartment or flat or condo to rent while in Rome. What is the best resource for this type of accomodation.

Posted By sharon page on March 14, 2009, 9:29 PM

1. there is a train station at St Peters (not the metro), which trains go to this station

2. who offers walking tours of rome?

Posted By lee on March 15, 2009, 12:48 AM

1. Are there any local tour guides we could hire while there for a day or two? I'm talking about someone who would basically travel with us, where we want to go, and take us around & speak the language with us and for us? I'm not talking local tour guides where we go on their itinerary. I want someone on ours. Thanks!

2. Where do the locals eat? What do locals do on weekends? Where do the Italians go to relax on the weekends? Places to hang out for families?

Posted By Dorie on March 15, 2009, 11:32 AM

Where can you meet locals in their 20s, 30s? Like a cafe or wine bar that isn't too touristy, but within 5 miles of the city center?

Posted By Debbie M. on March 15, 2009, 1:09 PM

How family friendly is Rome? We are considering taking our sons age 12 and 8.

Posted By Ann P. on March 16, 2009, 10:14 AM

There is supposed to be a fantastic view from one of the hills that overlooks the city. It's through a cemetary gate. I'd love to see a picture. I was there 2 summers ago and ran out of time.

Posted By Linda on March 16, 2009, 10:20 AM

I want to shoestring it! From leaving the airport - transportaion to the city and around. We needa really cheap place to stay (instead of walking around all night or sleeping in a park. I need help with this. My 21 year old son and I want to do a couple of weeks - we are on a tight budget, and do not mind barebones....

Posted By Mel Bevan on March 16, 2009, 10:26 AM

Can you recomend any companies that offer day trips from Rome and offer tours within Rome (Vatican Tours, Ancient Tours, Etc). I know there are a bunch, so I am looking for the best and I dont want to be scammed. Im also looking for a key area to stay in while in Rome.

Posted By Lauren on March 16, 2009, 10:55 AM

My daughter and I are spending 9 days in Rome in late May.
1. Are there any specific areas that we should stay away from since we are 2 women traveling alone?
2. A good place to relax and share some wine on an afternoon.
3. Best shopping spot for dishes!

Thanks! And I hope you enjoy your trip!

Posted By Rhonda on March 16, 2009, 11:08 AM

In Trastevere there is a wonderful small restaurant frequented by locals - D'Augusto. It is in a small piazza used more for parking than anything else. When it is closed you won't notice it. It is a short walk from Villa di Oglio( a small hotel within a larger building, very nice - entrance next to a great Chinese restaurant) in Piazza Santa Maria which is lively at night with unexpected performances.

Posted By Peggy on March 16, 2009, 11:28 AM

I was in Rome for 10 days last November a 76 yr young woman traveling alone by choice, no tour, I found Ostea Antica a fabulous site if you are the least bit interested in Archaeological sites, easy to get to by Metro-line B to Piramide stop , exit & go upstairs & to your Right follow overhead signs for Ingresso(entrance) Roma-Lido train, get off at Ostea Antica. Leaving the station cross the road via the blue sky-bridge & walk straight down Via della stazione di Ostia Antica, continue straight to th parking lot, the entrance is on the left. within an hour center of Rome. In fact as interesting or if not more so than Pompei. Takes just one Metro Ticket each way for Metro/train combo, Just remember to hang on to your ticket.
Ciao Betty

Posted By Betty & Ken on March 16, 2009, 11:58 AM

I will also be in Rome next month and was wondering: 1) where can I rent a Vespa to get around for the week and 2) May 1st is a holiday and I was hoping to take a daytrip. What do you suggest?

Posted By Kimberly Minarovich on March 16, 2009, 12:23 PM

Hi, we are going to Rome for 5 days in July, would like to know where the best places to shop for fabrics. How is the best way to get to the tourist spots.

Posted By Dorothy on March 16, 2009, 12:30 PM

How much 2 days of visiting Rome will cost - ie tours, hotel, food, souvenirs, ect.

Posted By siera shelley on March 16, 2009, 1:32 PM

we will be going on a cruise in Oct need to find out the best & lest expensive way to get to Civitavecchia from Rome to get on the cruise

Posted By Al Emond on March 16, 2009, 1:48 PM

Who offers the best Subterranean Tours?
Is there a place where travelers can access a subterranean site without a guide?

Posted By Richard Harbin on March 16, 2009, 1:57 PM

Is there a good Italian seafood restaurant that isn't touristy? Where do you find the best local guides? What is the best way to get from central Rome to Civitavecchia andhow long does it take on a Sunday morning?

Posted By Dania Turner on March 16, 2009, 2:06 PM

How do you protect yourself from pickpockets in Rome?

Posted By BEB on March 16, 2009, 2:54 PM

I'd love info on some day trips out of Rome. My mom and I went last year for a week and had the best trip of our lives. One of my favorite days was our trip to Ostia Antiqua, it gave us a chance to see some antiquities without the massive tourist crowds. Info on other spots like that, both in and around the city would be great. Also Rome has so many churches. A list of which are skipable, and which are unmissable (other than the Vatican of course) would be super helpful. Thanks, have a great trip and don't forget to throw a coin in the Trevi!

Posted By Kate on March 16, 2009, 3:20 PM

We keep on hearing that visiting Rome in the summer is not the way to go. Some hotels are not AC'ed, weather is too hot and humid and a lot of people are out of town... So it is recommended to avoid the summer months? And is late June the latest to go then Sept?

What other sites should be visited outside of the "normal" sites that everyone knows about?

Posted By Dave L on March 16, 2009, 3:38 PM

It'd be great to know the best/ easiest ways/ places to buy tickets for the popular sites, like the Colosseum, without waiting in crazy long lines. Would love particulars for better guidance.

Posted By Beth Clark on March 16, 2009, 3:38 PM

Where do we need to make reservations (Vatican Gardens, Borghese, where else)?

Budget hotel reviews always welcome (I know, again, but still....)

Day by day for ~4 days.

Posted By Peggy on March 16, 2009, 4:20 PM

Could you use an assistant or fresh set of eyes? I'm unemployed and my passport is ready to go!

Posted By Irma N on March 16, 2009, 4:21 PM

There is a wonderful little restaurant about a block from the Pantheon called La Maddalena.

Posted By Babe on March 16, 2009, 5:02 PM

I'm a poor college student traveling to rome this summer and would like to know where I can find affordable and unique souvenirs to give to my family and friends as Christmas presents. Also, where I can find those Catholic charms that go on rosaries? And lastly, where is a cheap place to stay with like a kitchenette? I have found the only way to save money traveling for me is to eat meals at the condo, cause I will buy things either way.

Posted By KP on March 16, 2009, 5:08 PM

I will be in Rome in June. What is the best way to buy tickets to the Vatican Museum? We'd like to go on a Monday.
Thanks!

Posted By Terri on March 16, 2009, 5:09 PM

i'd like to do a cooking tour of italy; any suggestions?

Posted By audrey alfordwolfe on March 16, 2009, 5:30 PM

Are there any decent places to stay run by nuns near the Vatican. Stayed with some many years ago and would like to do it again.

Posted By cfj52 on March 16, 2009, 5:32 PM

Whats the best way to eat some local pizza? and whats the locals favorite?

Posted By Marie on March 16, 2009, 5:36 PM

For those of us who rent apartments, where are the grocery stores (like Billa in Venice). Where are the laundramats?

Posted By Lyn on March 16, 2009, 6:08 PM

I've heard that traveling by taxi in Rome can be dangerous and that drivers will overcharge and cheat you. What is a safe way to travel within the city, by taxi or otherwise?

Posted By Nikki on March 16, 2009, 7:02 PM

Not really any questions since I just went there in January. Thought I'd recommend trying the restaurant Cul De Sac in the Piazza di Pasquino. That was the best meal we had and not at all touristy. It has a great selection of wine (it's an enotca), charcuterie, and pate, and the food was very good. The very narrow restaurant was packed but they were able to squeeze us in (alongside another couple) without reservations. For cannoli, chocolate, torrone, and other sweets, also go to Pasticceria Valzani in Travestere. We found it mentioned at at http://kimgallina.blogspot.com/2007/10/best-of-rome.html and description of the cannoli and the old woman running the place were spot on.

Posted By Rachel on March 16, 2009, 7:15 PM

Besides Berninni's St. Teresa, and Caravaggio's paintings, and the usual "must sees" what other hidden treasures would you recommend?

Posted By Bob on March 16, 2009, 7:36 PM

Question in the same style as other commenters about family friendliness: I'm taking my son (14) to Rome and would like to know about family friendliness/safety. Having lived and worked in Naples in the past, and having had a lot of business trips to Rome, I have had many unseemly encounters (muggings, petty robbery). None of it was violent, more in the manner of scary to be robbed by a 6-year-old at knifepoint. (Should I give him my money, should I laugh? Of course, what I wanted to do was find his parents instead of the grimy scugnizzi he was surrounded by.) At any rate, I've avoided Rome for years despite my passion for parts of it (Pantheon, historic center, Campo de Fiori, much etc.) In your opinion, is it any safer now than it has been in the past? I had heard that it had gotten somewhat better, then had deteriorated. Would be very interested in your overall feeling about it...

Posted By Melissa Intintolo on March 16, 2009, 7:42 PM

Hi, My husband and I are first flying to Rome for 5 days, then we are boarding a cruise ship. What is the best and least expensive way to get from the airport to the hotel (located 2 blocks from the train station), and how should we get to the port to board the ship? After the cruise, we have to get back to city Rome for 1 more night, then get to the airport. We are in our early 60's, and have no problem walking, however, we are not young either. Also, do you recommend us to purchase tickets to the vatican before we get to rome. We want a tour of the vatican. Any other suggestions would be very helpful.

Posted By Linda on March 16, 2009, 7:56 PM

Where is the best place to stay and live like locals if we're going to rent an apt., for about a month, in October? Centrally located for mostly walking, groceries, laundromat, etc.

Posted By Wynne on March 16, 2009, 7:59 PM

I've read there is an English speaking tour of Galleria Borghese at 9:10 a.m. for 5 euros. Does this operate everyday and does one just show up or is a special reservation required for this in addition to the regular reservation for the Galleria Borghese?

Posted By Shawn on March 16, 2009, 8:37 PM

Just a tip....

If you are looking for an amazing restaurant off the beaten path where you will only find locals enjoying a meal - visit Trattoria Pizzeria "Il Cantinone" di Lorenzo Pieretti - Piazza Testaccio 31-32, 00153 Roma - Phone number - 06 5746253

We accidentally found this restaurant on our way back to our hotel. We were walking to our hotel from La Bocca della Verità (in English, "the Mouth of Truth")

We were the only American's in the restaurant. Lots of Italian families sitting at big long tables and enjoying a family dinner with lots of vino. We had a margarita pizza and the most amazing Gnocchi I have ever had in my entire life.

If you get a chance to visit, you will love it!

Posted By Victoria Albrecht on March 16, 2009, 8:41 PM

Are you going to take a side trip to Ostia Antica? And if not, why not?

Posted By Joe Gawel on March 16, 2009, 9:04 PM

We will be in Italy in July visiting our son who is in the military in northern Italy. We want to visit Rome with him. What do you suggest we see and do if we had only 4 or 5 days to spend in Rome?

Posted By Charlie Peppler on March 16, 2009, 9:05 PM

Thanks! Yes indeed, I could use some information. This is my first trip to Rome. I will be taking the train from Paris to Rome and would like to know what is the best place for a hotel room. By best, I mean neat and inexpensive, nothing elaborate by any means. Maybe something near a metro stop. I don't need a large space or a place full of amenities I will not use.

Posted By Dave on March 16, 2009, 9:12 PM

I would like to know ways of getting into the vatican museums after hours....or without waiting in the usual long line.

Posted By Kate on March 16, 2009, 9:19 PM

Love to visit Rome! Avoid pickpockets by not wearing a fanny pack and put your wallet inside a coat or jacket. They are very experienced in taking your money from pants pockets. The train system is cheap and one ticket is for all day (or was the last time I was there). Occasionally, McDonald's is less expensive and no charge for sitting at a table or using restrooms. Don't pay asking price for goods - bargain!

Posted By Joan Scales, RN on March 16, 2009, 9:31 PM

Want too stay (pre-transatlantic cruise) in the fall and spend 3-4 dys seeing Rome. Best tour company, private guides,moderate hotel, best area to stay in , how to get tickets, restaurants off tourist track, getting to cruise port (cost etc.)???In other words, how best to use the time in Rome??

Posted By Louise on March 16, 2009, 9:39 PM

I'm interested in knowing where to stay in Rome that is centrally located to walk the city sites.

Thank you for any assistance.

Posted By Sandie Clarkson on March 16, 2009, 9:41 PM

I have been going to Rome for 2 weeks each year for about 8 years now. and still have not really seen everything I want to see! Have a great trip! Pat

Posted By Pat on March 16, 2009, 10:32 PM

Suggestion: Post info on booking a schiavi tour of the archeological areas below St Peter's. We did this in 2005 and it was an unforgettable experience. I believe they must be booked before leaving the U.S. They are by appointment only and are limited to no more than 10 people in a tour. Wonderful experience!

Posted By J Adams on March 16, 2009, 10:59 PM

Just answer the questions already asked and that will do fine for us.

Posted By Ron on March 16, 2009, 11:00 PM

Have visited the major sites in Rome before. What are some of the tucked away spots that reveal more of the mysterious character of the city?

Posted By Soph on March 16, 2009, 11:28 PM

When/where are the best clothing sales on for normal sizes (North American 12-14)?

Posted By Dawn Wilmot on March 17, 2009, 12:24 AM

Thank you for offering to find out things for members of this "club". My question is: How not to get mugged in Rome? I know several people who visited Rome and either successfuly was mugged or there was an unsuccessful attempt to mug a person.

Thank you,
Talma

Posted By Talma Rose on March 17, 2009, 1:01 AM

We wil be there from 3/27 - 4/1 when we head north to Florence. Want to see a soccer game Advice, hints, tips. Also, one MUST do that isnt the obvious e.g. Vatican etc.

Thanks

Posted By Jaye on March 17, 2009, 1:47 AM

Please check out my favorite , The Old Bear,Via dei Gigli d'Oro. Why has it become so popular all of a sudden? Thanks Dave

Posted By Dave Moulaison on March 17, 2009, 1:49 AM

I, too, will be a single woman going to Rome in August'09; I want to know about safe, economical areas to stay in Rome, and economical way(s) to take a day trip to Pompeii (more, on how to get to Pompeii from Rome economically, or if there are economical excursions from Rome for the day). I appreciate anything you can find out. I'm not looking for luxury -- just safety and economy. Thank you!

Posted By Susyn on March 17, 2009, 7:47 AM

I'll be in Rome in June with my family--which includes two young children. Can you recommend some family-friendly restaurants and hotels that won't break the bank and are conveniently located? Thanks!

Posted By Angela on March 17, 2009, 8:45 AM

Remind readers that the majority of restaurants include the gratuity in the final bill. If in doubt, ask the waiter. Basilica Maria is one of the most beautiful churches I have ever seen. It's also free.

Posted By Auro Marquez on March 17, 2009, 9:48 AM

hello, I'm interested in staying in convents in Rome. I stayed in one about 10 yrs ago near the Spanish Steps. At that time, it was very difficult to reach the convents (before widespread email/internet) and the nuns spoke virtually no English.
An update on the convents (as an inexpensive and culturally rewarding place to stay) would be valuable. thank you.

Posted By joanne on March 17, 2009, 10:14 AM

I plan on spending a full day at the Vatican Museum next month while visiting Rome. I remember many years ago when I visited the museum, I was unable to leave the building and re-enter with the same ticket on the same day. Is that policy still in effect or can I leave and then return to the museum in the afternoon? If not, is there a restaurant/cafe in the museum available? Would welcome any information you can obtain on this, please! Thank you!

Posted By Lucy Rivera on March 17, 2009, 11:00 AM

Can you recommend a nice non-touristy dinner spot near Piazza del Popolo in Rome or near the Vatican?

Posted By CQ on March 17, 2009, 11:17 AM

I was wondering what was the best way to get to the rest of Italy from Rome? How far is Tuscany and what's the fastest way to get there from Rome? How close is Venice?

My hubby and I are planning a trip to Rome in the fall and we'd like to take a couple days to explore the rest of Italy. We're not sure how far apart everything is or what the fastest mode of transportation is.

Thanks!

Posted By Rae on March 17, 2009, 11:41 AM

We will be in Rome June 10-12. If you answer most of the excellent questions Budget Travel readers have already submitted, that will be very helpful for us. We were in Rome July 1997 on an escorted coach tour and saw the major sites. This time we will be on our own.
Is one able to walk to the Vatican from the Termini [Train] Station and, if so, about how much time should we allow? Our already-booked hotel is near the train station on Via Modena.
Thankyou
Barb T.

Posted By Barbara Thomson on March 17, 2009, 1:45 PM

It seems crazy to hope, but 20 years ago I found the most WONDERFUL ristorante, Taverna 5 (Cinque) just walking distance from the Coliseum. Maybe you could look... and if you can eat there, do it!!!

Posted By Lorraine on March 17, 2009, 1:46 PM

Where may I eat the best pasta all’amatriciana?

Posted By Sylvia on March 17, 2009, 3:53 PM

I'm going to Rome in May with 7 women. ANY INFO that you could provide would be appreciated re/what to see and restaurants. We were there in 2003, but with our husbands. So this will be interesting and wonderful, I hope, as I love Rome, the sights, and history! Thanks and enjoy!

Posted By Judy Filipponi on March 17, 2009, 4:14 PM

I'm planning a trip with my mother. Regarding affordable accommodations in or near Rome - are there convents or monasteries that rent rooms?

Posted By V. Hale on March 17, 2009, 4:52 PM

Hope you have a great time. We are going to Rome in Oct. and on for a cruise, if you answer most of the questions already asked we would be happy. Need to know about transportation from airport and to the port. Thankyou

Posted By Linda on March 17, 2009, 5:33 PM

How are you going to answer ALL these questions?! And when will you?? Please hurry...my plane leaves May 26 at 6pm!
Oh...I have one too: Any decent hotels near the airport with a shuttle? Even for early AM flights?
Thanks and ciao!

Posted By Ann Couillard on March 17, 2009, 8:27 PM

How about great places to eat not too far from transit stops. Also something inexpensive to moderate with traditional Italian music. A place that makes you feel like you're in another world - a Roman world or an Italian world.
Also Italian places to stay, not so Americanized. I stayed in a wonderful place in Montecasino with ancient rolling wood shutters on glass balcony doors, 12 ft high ceilings - but they were in the process of "modernizing" the place - much to my chagrin.
Thanks for asking!

Posted By dais on March 17, 2009, 9:37 PM

I stayed two years ago in hotel ISA near Piazza Cavour, my wife and I loved it.
I recomended very highly. Walking distance to the Vatican and many interesting places. I will be back in October for one week. See you!

Posted By Jose Tuozzo on March 17, 2009, 10:14 PM

The only advice I need is about the Maratona di Roma I will walk on 22 Marzo: is it really as hilly & cobblestoned as some people claim?
Now, some of the questions are so easiy answered by simply purchasing a travel book, or going online. I advise purchase or from your local public library either or both "Let's Go Italy" or "Lonely Planet Rome."
Muggings and pickpocketing happens in almost all major cities. Someone already advised & I concor that simply keep your cash, passport, & exposed film away from outside pockets. Don't let someone "spill" sauce on you or snatch your camera or purse while they zip by on their Vespa. Stay kilometers away from the Gypsy ("Roma") children their hands can get into the most remote pockets. Finally, dress like a Roman: wear a suit & not that wampup suit unless you're out for a workout.
Readers never seem to have heard of hostels. There is a ratty but acceptable hostel in Rome with over 300 beds for only 19,80 Euros, meager breakfast no longer included but available for 1,70 Euros. It is near the Foro Italica uptown no where near the major sites but only 3 km from the Vatican. You can reserve at: www.hiusa.org just go to reservations select Italy. Otherwise many "Domus" or religious housing are available. Find one on the internet. They are NOT cheap say 50 Euros & up to about 200 Euros. Many require may require an introduction from your paster of a RC church (yes it's discrimination for non Catholics) but most will accept anyone from any faith.
A helpful but overwelmed site is: www.santasusanna.org/ourChurch/ourChurch.html
Budget Travel has written about these in the past. Single or groups of women may want to stay at the YWCA right in the center of town. Men can stay there but only in single rooms & very few avaiable.
I don't see "Taverna 5 (Cinque)" on the internet, however, there are many fine eateries in Rome. I enjoyed "City of Gusto" in the south of Rome. othewise just go to any "Taverna Calda" which mean hot plate, or what we know as a cafeteria.
For info on the Vatican go to www.vatican.va & click on "Engish" will answer many of your questions on the Vatican the museum, & papal audiences.
The best way around Rome & the burbs is the F1 or any regional Trenitalia line. One can get from the port or the DaVinci airport (FCO) via train. Pompeii is said to be a disappointment but I plan to see Ostia Antica this time. Take the local rail for 1 Euro or use your pass to go south past EUR. Asfor Tuscany, I can say good enough things about Lucca - GO! Been there which is another disappointment.
Final advice: the Metro: it shuts down in stages starting at 9:30PM to 12:30A, depending on contruction of the day & the line A or B. Line C is years away from being completed. Night buses are awful about 1X an hour or less.

Posted By Bruce Logan on March 17, 2009, 10:26 PM

Many of the comments here appear to be related to the same subject...how to find a good, local, licensed (yes, in italy all guides must be tested and licensed) guide. one who is flexible, specializes in small groups and tours. May I suggest you contact a guide company that I have used in the past and have recommended to others...walks inside rome (www.walksinsiderome.com).

In fact, i have been considering writing an article about using private or semi-private guides in both Paris and Rome.

Posted By dave on March 18, 2009, 7:36 AM

I've heard there are several onvents which offer meals and rooms. Any info appreciated-centrally located helpful.

thanks Bernie

Posted By bernie on March 18, 2009, 8:14 AM

Very interesting and useful questions which almost answer themselves. I especially found the restaurant and eateries suggestions valuable. I look forward to your answers. See you at I'l Popolo!

Posted By Paul on March 18, 2009, 9:21 PM

I'd love to go on a Catacombs tour when I'm in Rome this June. Can you give me any advice about where to go and how much I should expect to pay?
Thanks!!

Posted By Jenn on March 19, 2009, 3:32 PM

Buono viaggio,
Please bring back some great little cafes/trattorias/restaurants - especially if you find one on Trastevere. Also, suggestions for personal tour guides for a day to hit some of the highlights. Thanks, and Ciao, Lynn

Posted By Lynn on March 19, 2009, 4:25 PM

Hi everyone,

Thanks for all your comments and questions about Rome--I printed them out and will be taking them with me! I'm noticing some emerging themes, such as alternative lodgings (apartments, convents), advice for staying safe, and finding reliable tour guides. Because there's so much interest, I'll be investigating a few of these topics while in Rome, and I'm considering assigning stories on safety and alternative lodging separately. Finally, a special note to Lorraine, who asked us if we could verify the survival of a wonderful restaurant she ate at 20 years ago (Taverna Cinque). The story struck me--so if I can track it down, I'll be sure to let you know.

A presto,
Kate

Posted By Kate Appleton on March 23, 2009, 12:06 PM

Just got back from Roma...the Maratona di Roma was as difficult as I thought it would be. I went to great places to eat, 1) "Calcio e Pepe," near the Vatican, on Via G Avezzana (take the #19 tram), say ciao to the bello twin waiters Simone e Valerio. Had the Alfredo Cabanara e acqua for 9 Euros; 2) Franchi's also near the Vatican Via Cola di Rienzo, had 3 tapas for 11.70 Euros; & 3) Pizza e acuqa at San Calisto's near S Maria Tatevere for a mere 5.50 Euros.
Yes, Ostia Antica is great, & there is a little gem of a free musuem the Army & the Carabinieri @ Plz. Risorgimento open only in the AM. One can get discounted or free entry at the Museo Vaticano & the Ostia Antica.
Pope Benedict's staff had/has cancelled many of the We. Audiences, the one on 03/25 was one of them.

Posted By Bruce Edward Logan on March 27, 2009, 6:41 PM

There are trains from Rome's Central Station (Stazione Termini) To Civitavecchia where cruise ships and ferries arrive and depart. From Civitavecchia station it's about a 4 block walk to the port. There is a shuttle from the port entrance to the cruise ship terminal.
You can also take the train from Fiumicino airport to Civitavecchia.

Posted By Paul on April 8, 2009, 2:45 AM