Rome: Travel guide, prices and free housing · 2026

Public drinking fountains known as nasoni supply running water across the city. The flow originates from underground springs and is safe to drink. People can fill empty bottles at any active street spout. Blocking the lower outlet forces fresh water upward through the smaller opening at the top.

Italian cafes apply different pricing models depending on where coffee is consumed. Standing at the counter adheres to traditional standard rates. Sitting down at an outdoor table incurs additional service charges for seating and table service. Patrons who drink while standing at the bar counter avoid these extra expenses.

Driving through central districts presents major obstacles due to heavy congestion and scarce parking. Historic neighborhoods fall under restricted traffic zones monitored by cameras that penalize unauthorized vehicles. Navigating local traffic requires intense caution behind the wheel. Public transit and metro lines provide a more practical way to travel across the city.

Petty theft remains frequent around major transit hubs, crowded plazas, and metro train cars. Thieves often operate in coordinated groups to distract targets or slice purse straps in transit. Visitors should secure valuables in concealed pouches beneath clothing rather than in exterior pockets or daypacks. Reporting stolen items at a police station is required to support travel insurance claims.

Pizza al taglio is prepared in large rectangular baking trays and sold by weight rather than as whole round pies. Customers indicate their preferred portion size, which the server cuts and places on a scale. The shop warms the slice before wrapping it for takeaway. Patrons typically eat these portions folded together like a sandwich.