FAQ
BOOKING QUESTIONS
- How do I book my tours? »
- Can I book by phone? »
- How do I pay for my tours? »
- How do I book a private tour for our group? »
- When can I book a tour? »
- How do I receive confirmation of my booking? »
- Why haven't I received my confirmation email?»
- I keep getting a credit card error, what do I do? »
- I don't have or own a credit card, how do I book? »
- I'm getting errors when booking, what is the problem? »
- I cannot print my Confirmation Email, do I need it? »
- I don't have access to my emails. How do I receive the confirmation? »
- How do I correct information in my booking? »
- Can I book Hotels, B&B, Restaurants through Key Rome? »
TOUR QUESTIONS
- What days and time does this tour operate? »
- How long are the tours? »
- Can I join more than one tour? »
- How many members are in your tour groups? »
- What does the tour include? »
- What languages are available for this tour? »
- Can you skip the lines? »
- Is there a dress code at the Vatican? »
- I have trouble walking. What awaits me? »
- Do I have to pay for my children? »
- Are there discounts for booking more than one tour? »
- What is your cancellation policy? »
- What do I do if I am delayed for my tour? »
- What happens if I do not show up? »
- What happens if when I get there, and the tour is not running? »
- How do I change my tour or the date of my tour? »
TRANSPORT QUESTIONS
- Does Key Rome provide transport services?»
- Do you pick-up at the hotel?»
- How to get from Fiumicino Airport (FCO) to Rome and viceversa.»
- How to get from Ciampino Airport (CIA) to Rome and viceversa.»
- Is it difficult to use Rome's public transport?»
- Do I need to tip the taxi driver or the waiter?»
- How can I find schedules and prices for trains in Italy?»
OTHER QUESTIONS
- Can we get to see the Pope?»
- What is the best area for shopping in Rome?»
- What is the best way to change currency in Rome?»
- Is crime really a problem in Rome?»
In three simple Steps:
1 - BROWSE
Once the order has been processed by PayPal you will receive their confirmation by e.mail. When we receive the PayPal confirmation we will issue your printable tour confirmation and details by e.mail.Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
1 - BROWSE
- The Virtual Tour Postcards on our Home Page.
or - TOURS in our top menu bar.
- Complete our BOOK YOUR TOUR Form
or - Click BOOK NOW on our tour pages .
or - choose BOOKING PAGE from the TOURS menu for more flexible booking.
- Check your order and accept our “Terms & Conditions.”
- Click “Pay Now” to complete your purchase with PayPal.
No Account is needed!
Once the order has been processed by PayPal you will receive their confirmation by e.mail. When we receive the PayPal confirmation we will issue your printable tour confirmation and details by e.mail.Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
Key Rome offers a complete online booking service for all tours and is not equipped to handle your orders by phone, however, we reply to your e.mail inquiries within 24 hours. -
Answers to general booking questions can be found in this FAQ section. Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
You may pay securely online with PayPal who accept the following cards:
You may also pay cash before your tour, but your place cannot be reserved without a full upfront payment and you risk not having a spot on the tour! Payment is in Euros, please exchange other currency before your tour.
Tours are limited in size and can sell out quickly! To avoid disappointment we highly recommend booking well ahead of your trip if possible.Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
- Visa / Delta / Electron, Mastercard / Eurocard, PayPal Credit Card, PayPal Top Up Card, Switch/Maestro, Solo, American Express.
- Debit cards (also known as echeque cards or bank cards) are accepted if they have a Visa or MasterCard logo.
You may also pay cash before your tour, but your place cannot be reserved without a full upfront payment and you risk not having a spot on the tour! Payment is in Euros, please exchange other currency before your tour.
Tours are limited in size and can sell out quickly! To avoid disappointment we highly recommend booking well ahead of your trip if possible.Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
We have experience with all group sizes and handle customer requests ranging from a whirlwind tour for two of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, to extended corporate events that stretch several days and involve scores of visitors, venues twists and turns.
Details on Key Rome’s Private Tours offerings is available in three ways:
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Details on Key Rome’s Private Tours offerings is available in three ways:
- Selecting the PRIVATES postcard in the center of our Home Page.
- Selecting PRIVATES in the top menu item TOURS.
- Selecting the PRIVATE TOURS box to the right of all pages.
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A general rule is to book your tours at the same time you are booking your flight and accommodations. To ensure optimum service, we close our online reservations three days before each tour date. For any last-minute bookings, please send us a detailed request with tour names, dates, members of your group to help us serve you better. Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
Once your reservation has been placed, you will receive an emails that confirm payment and our acceptance of your request that will include departure time, meeting point, etc.Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
We are sorry that this happens on rare occasion. If you did not receive this email, the problem is usually one of two:
- The email address entered on your order may have been incorrect. Please check the email address you entered matches yours.
- Your ISP (Internet Service Provider) or email service like yahoo, hotmail, gmail etc. have marked Key Rome’s general booking confirmation as undesired spam. Please check your spam filter settings to see if it is set on the highest rating, which may send such mail sent directly to the spam or trash folder.
The payment process with PayPal is usually straight forward, but we recognize that issues do pop up that seem out of our hands. If your credit card is generating an error, verify that your card has not expired and check the entered details of the booking and try again. If unsuccessful, you might try checking with your bank or card issuer to confirm your monthly spending limit has not been exceeded. Otherwise, we recommend you complete the booking using a different credit card. - For further assistance contact us at tours@keyrome.com. Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
We use PayPal to process all types of payment methods, debit cards and electronic bank transfers would be your other choices. Alternately you can pay cash before your tour in Rome, but please consider the risk of not having a reserved spot. Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
Errors can sometimes happen if pages are “cached” imperfectly. We recommend you “clear the cache” of your browser (I.E., Firefox, Safari etc.) and then “refresh” or “reload” the page and try again. If that doesn’t help, quit and restart your browser or switch to another browser or computer. - If you are still experiencing difficulty, please contact us. Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
Yes you do! Perhaps try forwarding our confirmation e.mail to a friend or family member that has a printer. Otherwise access your e.mail account in an internet cafe or public library with printing services. - As a last resort, sometime your hotel in Rome can be of help.Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
Contact us by phone or Skype. Please note this option is only available for confirmations very close to departure date. Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
If you have made a mistake while entering essential information into our Booking Form, please immediately send an email to Key Rome. We will help resolve the problem and correct the information with any new data you provide. Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
While we know our way around Rome, we cannot act as an agency on your behalf of these services. To see a sampling of our recommendations please browse the links on the ROME ESSENTIALS page on our website. Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
The days and time tours operates can be found below each tour’s “Virtual Postcard” on the Home page. Alternately, more detailed information on all tours can be found on its dedicated page in the TOURS menu at the top of all our web pages. Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
Tour times are shown on each tour’s “Virtual Postcard” on the Home page. Alternately, more detailed information on all tours can also be found on it’s dedicated page available in the TOURS menu item at the top of all our web pages. Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
Yes! In fact, each tour you take means greater savings on your overall tour budget in Rome.
Your Key Rome Membership gives you the opportunity to take our tours at exceptionally reduced prices not available to the general public. With your €30 membership fee you pay only €20 per group tour (which is often half or less that of our commercial competition for the same venues).
Each tour you take lowers your per tour average cost, making your trip rich with experience but affordable at the same time. Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
Your Key Rome Membership gives you the opportunity to take our tours at exceptionally reduced prices not available to the general public. With your €30 membership fee you pay only €20 per group tour (which is often half or less that of our commercial competition for the same venues).
Each tour you take lowers your per tour average cost, making your trip rich with experience but affordable at the same time. Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
Group sizes can vary depending on the season, but we cap them to 15 for the Vatican and 35 for our open-air tours, using headsets when necessary.
If you wish to have fewer people in your group, please consider a private tour. Affordable private itineraries can be customized specifically for your family or group. Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
If you wish to have fewer people in your group, please consider a private tour. Affordable private itineraries can be customized specifically for your family or group. Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
A complete description of each tour including meeting point, departure time, date and itinerary is provided in the TOURS pages on our website. Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
Our group tours are available in English only. Private, custom, corporate and other special tours can be organized in other languages. - Please contact us with specific requests to check availability for your dates. Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
We work long and hard and avoid lines whenever possible and we do skip lines. Our tours are in fact in part designed around this particular need, beating the crowds. While we cannot guarantee no waiting at all busy venues we make sure it doesn’t hamper your tour and never calculate any waiting time as tour time. Plus, our guides don’t stop pouring out the wisdom, so in fact, at tour end, you get more than you paid for. Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
YES! The Vatican, including St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, require “respectful” clothing and behaviour. Ladies, please cover at least from shoulders to below knees. Gentlemen, please wear long pants. There is nothing as frustrating as having to turn back at the doors of these long dreamed of venues. Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
While we give tours for all types, Rome, for all it’s built in charm, has not build in great accessibility.
It is certainly possible to see much, even in a wheelchair or on crutches, however, people with serious physical limitations should consider the possibility of a private tour, to be able to take breaks and routes routes as needed, and avoid a more rigid group tour itinerary.
The Vatican is wheelchair accessible, but in order to partake in the group tour clients must be able to walk or be assisted up a few staircases. Private tours can take different routes where elevators are available.
Our Ancient Glory Tour is not wheelchair accessible. Roads and ancient walkways can be rocky, bumpy and muddy when it rains, so crutches too can be hazardous.
Our Heart of Rome tour is doable by wheelchair if you bring a person to help you along the cobbled roads and up a church ramp or two. Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
It is certainly possible to see much, even in a wheelchair or on crutches, however, people with serious physical limitations should consider the possibility of a private tour, to be able to take breaks and routes routes as needed, and avoid a more rigid group tour itinerary.
The Vatican is wheelchair accessible, but in order to partake in the group tour clients must be able to walk or be assisted up a few staircases. Private tours can take different routes where elevators are available.
Our Ancient Glory Tour is not wheelchair accessible. Roads and ancient walkways can be rocky, bumpy and muddy when it rains, so crutches too can be hazardous.
Our Heart of Rome tour is doable by wheelchair if you bring a person to help you along the cobbled roads and up a church ramp or two. Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
They certainly think so! But, children under 6 join our tours for free. Remember, however, that the venues we visit have their own rules, so please see individual Tour pages for entry fees and regulations for the young ones. Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
Yes, that’s the point of Key Rome which is a cultural association (much like an exclusive club) designed to give its members certain advantages.
We consider those who take just one tour with us as “Guests” who pay full price. When instead, you become our member for a yearly fee of €30, each group tour you take is discounted, making your average tour cost ever lower with each tour you take. As we add more tours to our roster, savings become even greater when you join them. FYI: Your membership expires at the end of the calendar year.
Perhaps you are renting a Villa in Tuscany, Umbria or on the Amalfi coast. Come to Rome several times and join our group tours or create your private itinerary whenever you like (booking ahead of time please). Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
We consider those who take just one tour with us as “Guests” who pay full price. When instead, you become our member for a yearly fee of €30, each group tour you take is discounted, making your average tour cost ever lower with each tour you take. As we add more tours to our roster, savings become even greater when you join them. FYI: Your membership expires at the end of the calendar year.
Perhaps you are renting a Villa in Tuscany, Umbria or on the Amalfi coast. Come to Rome several times and join our group tours or create your private itinerary whenever you like (booking ahead of time please). Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
Bookings can be canceled up to 4 days before your tour date for a per person charge of €5. Key Rome will not give refunds on any tour or event for which it receives a cancellation request after that moment.
This of course means no refund for no-shows or arrivals past our 15 minute grace period. Please refer to our Terms and Conditions page for other related information. Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
This of course means no refund for no-shows or arrivals past our 15 minute grace period. Please refer to our Terms and Conditions page for other related information. Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
Please allow enough time to reach our tour meeting point in time for the tour you have booked. Always carry a printout of our official Key Rome Confirmation e.mail which includes emergency numbers to contact us on our mobile and office numbers if need be.
While cancellations must be received no less than 4 days in advance, we understand what traveling abroad can bring with it. If you are lost or the like, call us a.s.a.p. to tell us your whereabouts so we can help get you to the meeting spot in time or to a secondary meeting point to have you catch up. A cab ride is a cheap and fast way to avoid loosing out on your tour. If that doesn’t work, please assume that you have missed your tour and are not entitled to any refund. Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
While cancellations must be received no less than 4 days in advance, we understand what traveling abroad can bring with it. If you are lost or the like, call us a.s.a.p. to tell us your whereabouts so we can help get you to the meeting spot in time or to a secondary meeting point to have you catch up. A cab ride is a cheap and fast way to avoid loosing out on your tour. If that doesn’t work, please assume that you have missed your tour and are not entitled to any refund. Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
There are no refunds for no shows, but out of courtesy for waiting guides and other customers we would appreciate a call so they can get going themselves. Emergency contact numbers are on your confirmation email. Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
Our tours run “Rain or Shine”! Unless a venue closes for extreme and unforeseen circumstances (e.g. death of the Pope) we always run our tours and events. If we are unable to give you a service due to our fault or neglect, we will give you the opportunity to take the same or comparable tour another time or refund you should our next available tour be after your scheduled departure from Rome. Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
Just send us your specific request by email.
We will get back to you within 24 hours to give you your new tour details or alternates if your preferred tours or dates are unavailable.
To avoid a per person service fee of €5, we must receive your request in writing at tours@keyrome.com at least 7 days prior to your booked tour date. Please include the names of all members of your group as well as your email confirmation number.
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We will get back to you within 24 hours to give you your new tour details or alternates if your preferred tours or dates are unavailable.
To avoid a per person service fee of €5, we must receive your request in writing at tours@keyrome.com at least 7 days prior to your booked tour date. Please include the names of all members of your group as well as your email confirmation number.
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Not directly, but we have selected reliable local car and driver services standing by for you. All of Italy is easily covered. - Please e.mail us with any specific requests. Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
For private tours, we can meet you at your hotel, if it is in the historic center. For group tours, we have arranged meeting places reachable by taxi, public transport or on foot. - If you prefer a Car & Driver we can arrange this for you. Please contact us for rates and other information.Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
There are many ways depending on your budget.
By train: You can buy tickets at the Fiumicino Airport Train Station before departure. Trains leave frequently so there is usually no more than a 15 min. wait.
Leonardo Express train operates from Fiumicino Airport to Termini Station, in the center of Rome. It leaves every 30 minutes and travel time is 31 minutes, with no stops in between. Cost is 11 Euro. For more information visit the national train service website: www.trenitalia.com.
There are other trains available that take just a little longer as they stop several times before Termini Station.
From the Fiumicino Airport trains operate from 6:37 am until 11:37 pm.
From Termini Station trains operate from 5:52 am until 10:52 pm.
Validate your ticket before getting on a train, the machines are at the entrance to the individual platforms.
By taxi:
Please use only authorized white taxis that have the “Comune di Roma” and i.d. number on them. As per City Law, taxis must charge €40 for the trip to or from fiumicino airport. Unfortunetly, this fixed rate is sometimes hidden from visitors.
If you agree to be taken on a “quick” tour past the Colosseum etc., this will give the driver the freedom to legally interpret your fare differently and the price can be closer to €80-100 (You might leave the touring to English speaking pros, would you!?).
Be aware that some drivers take advantage of your lack of Italian life experience and will sock you with obviously inflated amounts.
NEVER, did we say NEVER get out of your taxi without a proper receipt with the taxi’s official number written on it (by hand is fine).
A good hint that you are being had is if the driver does not give you a proper receipt or will not drop you directly in front of the hotel (to avoid honest hotel staff revealing their scam).
For the official City of Rome version (in English) of the above, as well as other transport information, please go visit their website.
These are the official Taxi rates as of summer 2009:
Fixed departure amount (weekdays/weekend)
(Time period: 7.00 – 22.00)
Euro 2,80/4,00
Fixed departure amount (night rate)
(Time period: 22,00 – 7.00)
Euro 5,80
Fixed rate euro/h (applied at traffic speeds below 20 Km/h)
Euro 23,70
Kilo-metric rate euro/Km for urban transfer (within the city’s ring road) for speeds above 20 Km/h
Euro 0,92
Kilo-metric rate euro/Km for out of city trips beyond the City ring road (G.R.A.) for speeds above 20 Km/h
Euro 1,52
Amount of single meter unit
Euro 0,10
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By train: You can buy tickets at the Fiumicino Airport Train Station before departure. Trains leave frequently so there is usually no more than a 15 min. wait.
Leonardo Express train operates from Fiumicino Airport to Termini Station, in the center of Rome. It leaves every 30 minutes and travel time is 31 minutes, with no stops in between. Cost is 11 Euro. For more information visit the national train service website: www.trenitalia.com.
There are other trains available that take just a little longer as they stop several times before Termini Station.
From the Fiumicino Airport trains operate from 6:37 am until 11:37 pm.
From Termini Station trains operate from 5:52 am until 10:52 pm.
Validate your ticket before getting on a train, the machines are at the entrance to the individual platforms.
By taxi:
Please use only authorized white taxis that have the “Comune di Roma” and i.d. number on them. As per City Law, taxis must charge €40 for the trip to or from fiumicino airport. Unfortunetly, this fixed rate is sometimes hidden from visitors.
If you agree to be taken on a “quick” tour past the Colosseum etc., this will give the driver the freedom to legally interpret your fare differently and the price can be closer to €80-100 (You might leave the touring to English speaking pros, would you!?).
Be aware that some drivers take advantage of your lack of Italian life experience and will sock you with obviously inflated amounts.
NEVER, did we say NEVER get out of your taxi without a proper receipt with the taxi’s official number written on it (by hand is fine).
A good hint that you are being had is if the driver does not give you a proper receipt or will not drop you directly in front of the hotel (to avoid honest hotel staff revealing their scam).
For the official City of Rome version (in English) of the above, as well as other transport information, please go visit their website.
These are the official Taxi rates as of summer 2009:
Fixed departure amount (weekdays/weekend)
(Time period: 7.00 – 22.00)
Euro 2,80/4,00
Fixed departure amount (night rate)
(Time period: 22,00 – 7.00)
Euro 5,80
Fixed rate euro/h (applied at traffic speeds below 20 Km/h)
Euro 23,70
Kilo-metric rate euro/Km for urban transfer (within the city’s ring road) for speeds above 20 Km/h
Euro 0,92
Kilo-metric rate euro/Km for out of city trips beyond the City ring road (G.R.A.) for speeds above 20 Km/h
Euro 1,52
Amount of single meter unit
Euro 0,10
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There are many ways depending on your budget and how much time you want to spend on your trip.
By train:
A commuter train connects Ciampino’s suburban railway station to Rome’s Termini railway station with an average travel time of 15 minutes. To get to and from the station use COTRAL buses which depart every 30 minutes. The traveling time is about 5 minutes. Transfer tickets are sold on the bus and/or at the departure point, cost 1 euro.
By Bus:
Connections between the airport and Rome’s Termini station are run by ATRAL, COTRAL and SIT. The buses are parked in dedicated bus bays opposite International Departures.
For information about bus times, routes and fares please go to their websites (Sorry, translations are spotty at best):
www.altral-lazio.com
www.sitbusshuttle.it
By taxi:
Please use only authorized white taxis that have the “Comune di Roma” logo and I.D. number on them. As per city law, taxis must charge €30 for the trip to or from Ciampino Airport. Unfortunately, printed fare rules are sometimes hidden from visitors.
If you agree to be taken on a “quick” tour past the Colosseum etc., this will give the driver the freedom to legally interpret your fare differently and the price can be closer to €80-100 to get to a central location. (You might leave the touring to English speaking pros, would you!?)
Be aware that some drivers take advantage of your lack of Italian life experience and will sock you with obviously inflated amounts.
NEVER, did we say NEVER get out of your taxi without a proper receipt with the taxi’s official number written on it (by hand is fine).
A good hint that you are being had is that the driver does not give you a proper receipt or will not drop you directly in front of the hotel (to avoid honest hotel staff revealing their scam).
For the official City of Rome version (in English) of the above, as well as other transport information, please go visit their website.Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
By train:
A commuter train connects Ciampino’s suburban railway station to Rome’s Termini railway station with an average travel time of 15 minutes. To get to and from the station use COTRAL buses which depart every 30 minutes. The traveling time is about 5 minutes. Transfer tickets are sold on the bus and/or at the departure point, cost 1 euro.
By Bus:
Connections between the airport and Rome’s Termini station are run by ATRAL, COTRAL and SIT. The buses are parked in dedicated bus bays opposite International Departures.
For information about bus times, routes and fares please go to their websites (Sorry, translations are spotty at best):
www.altral-lazio.com
www.sitbusshuttle.it
By taxi:
Please use only authorized white taxis that have the “Comune di Roma” logo and I.D. number on them. As per city law, taxis must charge €30 for the trip to or from Ciampino Airport. Unfortunately, printed fare rules are sometimes hidden from visitors.
If you agree to be taken on a “quick” tour past the Colosseum etc., this will give the driver the freedom to legally interpret your fare differently and the price can be closer to €80-100 to get to a central location. (You might leave the touring to English speaking pros, would you!?)
Be aware that some drivers take advantage of your lack of Italian life experience and will sock you with obviously inflated amounts.
NEVER, did we say NEVER get out of your taxi without a proper receipt with the taxi’s official number written on it (by hand is fine).
A good hint that you are being had is that the driver does not give you a proper receipt or will not drop you directly in front of the hotel (to avoid honest hotel staff revealing their scam).
For the official City of Rome version (in English) of the above, as well as other transport information, please go visit their website.Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
There are only 2 metro lines in Rome: the Linea A (red line) and the Linea B (blue line). You can change from one line to the other at Termini, the main train station.
The red, A line runs from Battistini to Anagnina and includes stops near the Vatican/St. Peter’s (Ottaviano), the Spanish Steps (Piazza di Spagna), via Veneto & Trevi Fountain (Barberini).
The blue, B line runs from Rebibbia to Laurentina and includes stops near EUR, The Basilica of St. Paul’s Outside the Walls (Basilica di S. Paolo), Piramide (Ostiense train station to Ostia Beach), Circus Maximus (Circo Massimo), the Colosseum (Colosseo) and the Tiburtina train station.
Public buses are not as straightforward, but one can managed anyway. The general rule is to purchase tickets before you get on the bus as very few have ticket machines and drivers do not sell them. Tickets can be bought at metro stations, some bus stations and most tobacconists near many bus stops (these are licensed to sell on behalf of the state, so here you can often get postage and tax stamps also - they are marked with a black vertical sign with a white “T” on it).
Roma Pass is a € 20 ticket that allows you unlimited transport on Rome’s public system for three days, free access to two museums, and reductions for other museums and attractions. Details and more on where to purchase the Roma Pass is available in English on this website: For the official City of Rome version (in English) of the above, as well as other transport information, please go visit their website.Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
The red, A line runs from Battistini to Anagnina and includes stops near the Vatican/St. Peter’s (Ottaviano), the Spanish Steps (Piazza di Spagna), via Veneto & Trevi Fountain (Barberini).
The blue, B line runs from Rebibbia to Laurentina and includes stops near EUR, The Basilica of St. Paul’s Outside the Walls (Basilica di S. Paolo), Piramide (Ostiense train station to Ostia Beach), Circus Maximus (Circo Massimo), the Colosseum (Colosseo) and the Tiburtina train station.
Public buses are not as straightforward, but one can managed anyway. The general rule is to purchase tickets before you get on the bus as very few have ticket machines and drivers do not sell them. Tickets can be bought at metro stations, some bus stations and most tobacconists near many bus stops (these are licensed to sell on behalf of the state, so here you can often get postage and tax stamps also - they are marked with a black vertical sign with a white “T” on it).
Roma Pass is a € 20 ticket that allows you unlimited transport on Rome’s public system for three days, free access to two museums, and reductions for other museums and attractions. Details and more on where to purchase the Roma Pass is available in English on this website: For the official City of Rome version (in English) of the above, as well as other transport information, please go visit their website.Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
Taxi tips are around 10%. Please make sure the meter is not already running if you get in at a taxi stand and that at the end of the run there are no excessive baggage handling charges (unless you have excessive baggage that is).
Some restaurants and cafes add a service fee to your bill, others do not. If it’s in the 15-20% range there is no need to add anything. A tip of €1, €2, €3 per diner is common in normal restaurants, so a 10% is generally decent. Waiting staff is paid fair wages and health insurance in Europe, unlike the U.S. for instance where your tip pays their rent!Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
Some restaurants and cafes add a service fee to your bill, others do not. If it’s in the 15-20% range there is no need to add anything. A tip of €1, €2, €3 per diner is common in normal restaurants, so a 10% is generally decent. Waiting staff is paid fair wages and health insurance in Europe, unlike the U.S. for instance where your tip pays their rent!Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
The State Railway Service (Ferrovie dello Stato or FS) has it’s own efficient website for all your train related travel questions. Note that they are also known by their marketing name, Trenitalia:
www.trenitalia.com.
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Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
Of course! Just be sure to be here for his Wednesday (10:30 am) morning General Audience or his Sunday Angelus Blessing at noon (a.k.a. Urbi et Orbi) which both take place in St. Peter’s Square and are open to the public and free. His Holiness also celebrates masses throughout the year, visit vatican.va for his schedule and a plethora of other information.
Tickets to the weekly papal audience are simple to obtain and are free. You can arrange tickets through several foreign churches and related institutions in Rome, here is a well organized one:
Papal Audience Tickets Tickets for Easter, Christmas, and other special masses can be obtained at the Bishops Office for U.S. Visitors Office to the Vatican, one block from the Trevi Fountain:
U.S. Bishop’s Visitor Office
Via dell’ Umilta’ 30
00187 Rome, Italy
Tel. 011-3906-6900-1821
FAX: 011/3906/679-1448
Email: nacvisoffrome@pnac.org
If you are a small group (2-8) and are in Rome already, you can also try with the Vatican directly. After passing the security check for St. Peter’s Basilica, ask the uniformed Swiss Guards at the famed Bronze Doors. (If they don’t have tickets left, at least you’ll have a great photo opportunity!)Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
Tickets to the weekly papal audience are simple to obtain and are free. You can arrange tickets through several foreign churches and related institutions in Rome, here is a well organized one:
Papal Audience Tickets Tickets for Easter, Christmas, and other special masses can be obtained at the Bishops Office for U.S. Visitors Office to the Vatican, one block from the Trevi Fountain:
U.S. Bishop’s Visitor Office
Via dell’ Umilta’ 30
00187 Rome, Italy
Tel. 011-3906-6900-1821
FAX: 011/3906/679-1448
Email: nacvisoffrome@pnac.org
If you are a small group (2-8) and are in Rome already, you can also try with the Vatican directly. After passing the security check for St. Peter’s Basilica, ask the uniformed Swiss Guards at the famed Bronze Doors. (If they don’t have tickets left, at least you’ll have a great photo opportunity!)Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
Clearly the best area for shopping is where you get what you want and pay no more than you want to spend…so we will break this one down into sections:
Internationally renowned designer shopping in Rome would be near the Spanish Steps where you find some flagship stores. Try Via Condotti, Via delle Carrozze, Via della Croce, Via del Babuino for Gucci, Prada, Versace, Bulgari, Missoni, and many, many more.
The main thoroughfare, Via del Corso, which runs between the “Wedding Cake Monument” on Piazza Venezia all the way to Piazza del Popolo, is full of shops that suit varying budgets. You will be amongst local and visiting shoppers alike, vying for trendy clothes, shoes, gadgets, linens, cosmetics, souvenirs, etc..
When you are near the Vatican, Via Cola di Rienzo and its side streets are a good bet for moderate prices and good variety. Via Marconi (Ostiense/Testaccio area on Metro line B) and Via Tuscolana (Southeast of center, along Metro line A) are also great areas for shopping on a somewhat lower budget and decidedly more Roman flavour.
For religious souvenirs and gifts for your Nun-Monk-Clergy-Priest-Bishop-Cardinal-Pope friends, the Borgo neighborhood to the immediate North East of St. Peter’s Basilica is a good place, but also try the area between the Pantheon and Largo Argentina Archaeological area. A safe and friendly place, run by nuns, is the Vatican’s own gift shop on the right side of St. Peter’s Basilica, immediately after leaving the Sistine Chapel on our Vatican tour. You can even get your Holy Water directly from them or purchase bottles to fill at the Holy Water Basin in the church.
If you want a taste of true local fare, try one of Rome’s many street markets or vendors. Here you can get stylish clothes at modest prices, made and designed in Italy and the rest of the fashion producing world, i.e. India, Asia etc..
Sales are state regulated events, in theory, so if you happen to be visiting during the months of July or January you will find prices slashed up to 50% on merchandise from the outgoing season. If you want that kind of discount or better on serious labels ANY TIME OF THE YEAR, try our personal favorite Discount Alta Moda on Via Gesù e Maria 16 near Piazza del Popolo and their other location on Via Depretis 87 close to Via Nazionale. Tell them Key Rome sent you for an additional discount….FOR US, when we shop there next time!!!
There are also two large outlet malls outside Rome: Castel Romano and Valmontone. Both have provided for many a happy shopping experience among Key Rome staffers :)
Much further afield, on your way to Florence, but a nice experience near were the goodies are made, try “The Mall”Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
Internationally renowned designer shopping in Rome would be near the Spanish Steps where you find some flagship stores. Try Via Condotti, Via delle Carrozze, Via della Croce, Via del Babuino for Gucci, Prada, Versace, Bulgari, Missoni, and many, many more.
The main thoroughfare, Via del Corso, which runs between the “Wedding Cake Monument” on Piazza Venezia all the way to Piazza del Popolo, is full of shops that suit varying budgets. You will be amongst local and visiting shoppers alike, vying for trendy clothes, shoes, gadgets, linens, cosmetics, souvenirs, etc..
When you are near the Vatican, Via Cola di Rienzo and its side streets are a good bet for moderate prices and good variety. Via Marconi (Ostiense/Testaccio area on Metro line B) and Via Tuscolana (Southeast of center, along Metro line A) are also great areas for shopping on a somewhat lower budget and decidedly more Roman flavour.
For religious souvenirs and gifts for your Nun-Monk-Clergy-Priest-Bishop-Cardinal-Pope friends, the Borgo neighborhood to the immediate North East of St. Peter’s Basilica is a good place, but also try the area between the Pantheon and Largo Argentina Archaeological area. A safe and friendly place, run by nuns, is the Vatican’s own gift shop on the right side of St. Peter’s Basilica, immediately after leaving the Sistine Chapel on our Vatican tour. You can even get your Holy Water directly from them or purchase bottles to fill at the Holy Water Basin in the church.
If you want a taste of true local fare, try one of Rome’s many street markets or vendors. Here you can get stylish clothes at modest prices, made and designed in Italy and the rest of the fashion producing world, i.e. India, Asia etc..
Sales are state regulated events, in theory, so if you happen to be visiting during the months of July or January you will find prices slashed up to 50% on merchandise from the outgoing season. If you want that kind of discount or better on serious labels ANY TIME OF THE YEAR, try our personal favorite Discount Alta Moda on Via Gesù e Maria 16 near Piazza del Popolo and their other location on Via Depretis 87 close to Via Nazionale. Tell them Key Rome sent you for an additional discount….FOR US, when we shop there next time!!!
There are also two large outlet malls outside Rome: Castel Romano and Valmontone. Both have provided for many a happy shopping experience among Key Rome staffers :)
Much further afield, on your way to Florence, but a nice experience near were the goodies are made, try “The Mall”Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
Like in the rest of the world and Europe, there are several options for changing money in Rome. As Italy is part of the European Economic Union, we use the Euro. also know by its symbol” €” .
To learn about current conversions rates with global currencies see www.xe.com
ATM withdrawal, using a debit or credit card is a safe and well regulated option for local and international visitors. A debit card that functions like a credit card is ideal and gives you access to your money at both ATMs and inside banks, without the finance charges that result when using a credit card. The Vatican has an ATM in the lobby, but it can be out of cash on busy days. Be sure to check with your local bank about any charges for international withdrawals. BRING BOTH YOUR ATM AND YOUR CREDIT CARD PIN, as they are usually different!
If you want, travelers checks are also an option, but only to exchange into cash when needed as many stores and services will not accept them. In Rome your best bet for cashing them in is the American Express offices near the Spanish steps, or major banks.
We do not recommend carrying large amounts of cash around, while Rome is not a place of frequent violent crime, petty theft and pick-pocketing are common, especially targeting tourists who don’t head common sense warnings!Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
To learn about current conversions rates with global currencies see www.xe.com
ATM withdrawal, using a debit or credit card is a safe and well regulated option for local and international visitors. A debit card that functions like a credit card is ideal and gives you access to your money at both ATMs and inside banks, without the finance charges that result when using a credit card. The Vatican has an ATM in the lobby, but it can be out of cash on busy days. Be sure to check with your local bank about any charges for international withdrawals. BRING BOTH YOUR ATM AND YOUR CREDIT CARD PIN, as they are usually different!
If you want, travelers checks are also an option, but only to exchange into cash when needed as many stores and services will not accept them. In Rome your best bet for cashing them in is the American Express offices near the Spanish steps, or major banks.
We do not recommend carrying large amounts of cash around, while Rome is not a place of frequent violent crime, petty theft and pick-pocketing are common, especially targeting tourists who don’t head common sense warnings!Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
We love Rome for its inherent “Dolce Vita” aspect, but as any big citiy it has its share of troubles. While violent crime is rather uncommon, pickpockets, especially on packed buses and metro trains, are a serious nuisance.
Here are some pointers to avoid useless hassles:
Leave your passport in your hotel safe, just bring a photocopy during your tour day.
Bring just the needed essentials with you. No bursting wallet, lot’s of cash or serious valuables. This keeps you light and a ‘poor’ target.
While enjoying Rome’s beauty, consider that someone might be attracted by the bag over your shoulder or napsack on your back. A good place for your bag is in front of you with your hand comfortable slung around it (But remember, it’s not a rugby match!).
In busy public places like trains and buses, just stand with your back to a wall. This gives you a better view of who is around you.
Relax, but don’t be distracted!Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
Here are some pointers to avoid useless hassles:
Leave your passport in your hotel safe, just bring a photocopy during your tour day.
Bring just the needed essentials with you. No bursting wallet, lot’s of cash or serious valuables. This keeps you light and a ‘poor’ target.
While enjoying Rome’s beauty, consider that someone might be attracted by the bag over your shoulder or napsack on your back. A good place for your bag is in front of you with your hand comfortable slung around it (But remember, it’s not a rugby match!).
In busy public places like trains and buses, just stand with your back to a wall. This gives you a better view of who is around you.
Relax, but don’t be distracted!Powered by Hackadelic Sliding Notes 1.6.3+
What could be a better beginning for our newest section than an article on great Food & Wine?