What should I not do absolutely when visiting Rome?

The City of Rome

Rome Visiting Traveler Should Avoid Some Important Things

Do not try to bathe in a fountain. In movies, they do it all the time, but in real life, you can receive a large fine for that.

Do not show that you have a lot of cash, and be careful with pickpockets, especially in the subway or on crowded tourist buses such as 64.

Do not eat in places where an external person invites you to choose them, or some kind of "tourist menu". It may not always be bad frozen food, but it usually is. Visit Tripadvisor or The Fork instead, choose places away from the tourist areas where locals go. There is no one outside; they simply do not need to attract people. Customers usually call to reserve the best places.

Don't forget that the price of a coffee in a bar can be different at the counter and at the table.

Do not order pasta and a cappuccino together.

Don't forget to see hidden, less crowded and still beautiful places, such as Piramide, Cimitero Acattolico, the Centrale Montemartini museum and the San Paolo church kiosk, to say something in an area that can be done in half a day.

This is personal, some people may disagree, but I will say it anyway: don't stand in line for the Bocca della Verità and don't pay to take a picture with her. It is totally overrated.

Don’t go against the dress code when you’re visiting churches. Baring your shoulders and wearing shorts are not allowed.

Don’t forget a pair of binoculars to marvel more closely at the intricacies and awe-inspiring details of the churches and basilicas. Many of their roofs and ceilings are truly magnificent.

Don’t be late for the Pope’s public hearings at the Vatican, which happen every Wednesday. Even if you have a ticket, seating is sparse, so you should be there around 5 a.m.

Don’t miss out on a stunning sunset on the hill of the Trastevere district. It’s breathtaking!

Don’t plan to visit museums on a Monday, since all the public ones are closed. Craft your itinerary accordingly and visit other attractions on that day instead.

Don't miss Gelateria dei Gracchi; the ice cream there is very good.

Do not judge if the things you see are different from what you are used to, just accept the Roman experience, and you will not be disappointed.

Any Traveler Should Avoid Some Important Things

To ensure a safe, enjoyable, and respectful trip, every traveler should avoid specific common mistakes. Here is a categorized list of important things to avoid:

1. Cultural & Social Etiquette

• Avoid disrespecting local dress codes: In many countries, shoulders and knees must be covered, especially when visiting religious sites (temples, churches, mosques). Research the norms before you pack.

• Avoid assuming everyone speaks your language: Don't start a conversation in your native tongue expecting an immediate answer. Learn basic phrases like "Hello," "Please," and "Thank you" in the local language; it shows respect.

• Avoid taking photos of people without permission: In many cultures, taking a photo of a stranger (especially children) is considered intrusive, rude, or even bad luck. Always ask first.

• Avoid public displays of affection (PDA): While normal in some Western countries, kissing or hugging in public is offensive or illegal in parts of the Middle East and Asia.

2. Safety & Security

• Avoid posting your location in real-time: Do not post Instagram stories or Facebook updates tagged with your exact location while you are still there. It lets thieves know where you are (and that your hotel room or home is empty). Post on a delay.

• Avoid flashing wealth: Wearing expensive jewelry, watches, or carrying distinct designer bags makes you a target for pickpockets and scammers. Dress to blend in, not to stand out.

• Avoid keeping all your money in one place: Never carry all your cash and credit cards in a single wallet. If that wallet is stolen, you are stranded. Keep a stash in your hotel safe and a separate stash in a hidden pocket or money belt.

• Avoid ground-floor hotel rooms (if possible): Ground-floor rooms are the easiest for intruders to access. Ask for a room on the second floor or higher.

3. Money & Logistics

• Avoid exchanging money at the airport: Airport currency exchange booths almost always offer the worst exchange rates and highest fees. Use an ATM in the city or a reputable bank instead.

• Avoid using public Wi-Fi for banking: Public Wi-Fi in cafes and airports is often unsecured. Hackers can easily steal your passwords. Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) if you must access sensitive data.

• Avoid overpacking: Heavy luggage makes you less mobile and more vulnerable to theft (because you can't move quickly). If you can't carry your bag up two flights of stairs comfortably, you have packed too much.

• Avoid relying solely on digital documents: Phones die, break, or get stolen. Always carry physical photocopies of your passport and travel insurance, and keep them separate from the originals.

4. Food & Health

• Avoid drinking tap water (unless verified safe): In many parts of the world, tap water contains bacteria your body isn't used to. Use sealed bottled water, even for brushing your teeth, to avoid "Traveler’s Tummy."

• Avoid eating at empty restaurants: A restaurant with no customers usually means the food is either bad or not fresh. Follow the locals; a long line usually indicates high turnover and safe, delicious food.

5. Mindset

• Avoid comparing everything to "home": Constant complaints that "the coffee isn't like back home" or "the service is too slow" ruins the experience. Embrace the differences; that is the point of travel.

• Avoid over-scheduling: If you plan every minute of your day, one delay will ruin your itinerary. Leave room for spontaneity and rest.

6. The "Scams" to Avoid

• Avoid the "Friendly Stranger" taking you to a specific shop: If a friendly local insists on taking you to a specific jewelry store, rug shop, or tea house, they are likely getting a commission, and you will be overcharged.

• Avoid unmetered taxis: Always insist on using the meter. If the driver refuses, get out and find another cab, or agree on a price before the car starts moving. Apps like Uber/Grab/Bolt are often safer alternatives.