Best time to visit Rome
- Florian
- May 20
- 18 min read
Here you will find everything you need to know for your perfect vacation in Rome.
Also, be sure to check out my videos from Spain! You can find them at the very bottom of this post, or on my YouTube channel!
Table of Contents:
Sun-Drenched or a Mild Breeze? The Ultimate Weather Check for Your Trip to Rome
Rome, the Eternal City, holds an irresistible appeal at any time of year. However, truly experiencing its full potential and enjoying its countless wonders—without extreme weather tantrums or crushing crowds—requires thoughtful planning. Choosing the best time to visit Rome is crucial to transforming a simple visit into an unforgettable journey where Rome’s art, history, and dolce vita blend in perfect harmony. It is all about finding those magical moments when the soft light kisses ancient ruins, the piazzas come alive without overflowing, and Roman cuisine can be savored to the fullest without you having to seek refuge from a scorching sun or relentless rain.
The Awakening of the Gianicolo Gardens: Rome in Spring
When spring arrives, Rome transforms into a picturesque sea of blossoms, offering a near-perfect backdrop for exploring the city. From April to early June, the city reveals its mildest and most charming side. Temperatures are pleasantly warm but rarely hot, making it ideal for long strolls through the Roman Forum or across the expansive grounds of the Palatine Hill, where a fresh breeze promises a welcome cooling effect.
Gardens like the Villa Borghese or the Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci) on the Aventine Hill bloom in magnificent colors, and the air is filled with the scent of citrus blossoms and jasmine. The days are long enough to admire the colonnades of St. Peter's Square in the golden light of the late afternoon and to enjoy the sunset over the Tiber River without being exhausted by excessive heat. The crowds also remain manageable since the major summer holidays have not yet begun, allowing for a much more relaxed visit to the Vatican Museums or the Galleria Borghese.
The Glow of the South along the Lungotevere: Rome's Summer
The Roman summer, particularly during the months of July and August, unleashes an intense heat that perfectly reflects the true temperament of the South, though it can present a real challenge for many visitors. Temperatures often soar well above 30°C (86°F), and the dry heat can turn exploring the sprawling archaeological sites or strolling through the narrow alleys of Trastevere into a sweat-inducing endeavor. Many Romans leave the city during these months to escape to the coast or cooler mountain regions, which means some shops and restaurants close down.
Yet, the Roman summer possesses its very own charm: the evenings are long and balmy, absolutely perfect for the Italian ritual of a stroll—the passeggiata—along the bustling Lungotevere, or for a late dinner alfresco, accompanied by the chirping of crickets. And while the lines at the main attractions are often very long, the summer season offers unique opportunities for night tours of the Colosseum, casting a truly special and unforgettable light on ancient history.
🍷 Grape Harvest in the Castelli Romani: Rome's Autumn
With the arrival of autumn in September and October, a wonderful mildness returns to Rome, giving the city an almost magical atmosphere. The scorching summer heat gives way to pleasant temperatures that are ideal for sightseeing. The crowds of tourists noticeably thin out, allowing for much more relaxed visits to the Vatican Museums or the Colosseum. The parks and gardens dress themselves in warm tones of red and gold, and the air is often crisp and fresh.
This is also the season of the grape harvest (vendemmia) in the nearby Castelli Romani, which offers fantastic opportunities for picturesque day trips and wine tastings. Roman autumn strikes a perfect balance between pleasant weather, manageable crowds, and the chance to fully experience Rome's culinary delights without being hindered by extreme weather conditions. Occasional rain showers are possible, but they are usually short and refreshing.
🏛️ The Fog Over Castel Sant'Angelo: Rome's Winter
The Roman winter, running from November to March, is often mild and rainy, but by no means lacks its own unique charm. Temperatures rarely drop below freezing, and the city wraps itself in a quieter, often fog-shrouded atmosphere that lends a distinct, almost melancholic beauty to the ancient ruins.
Why it's worth it: Tourist crowds are at their lowest during this time, making access to the most popular sights significantly easier and allowing for a much more intimate exploration.
The Christmas season brings festive illuminations and markets that add a special glow to the city, particularly around St. Peter's Square. Even though the days are shorter and rain is more frequent, the winter months offer a one-of-a-kind opportunity to experience the real Rome far away from the tourist hustle and bustle.
Highlights of Winter in Rome:
Empty Museums: Museen and galleries are less crowded, allowing you to take your time and admire the art treasures in peace.
Cozy Culinary Escapes: A hot espresso in a cozy Roman café or a hearty, comforting meal in a traditional trattoria is the perfect way to warm your heart on chilly days.
Best Time to Visit Rome - The Verdict
In conclusion, while Rome has its charm in every season, spring (April to early June) and autumn (September to October) are undoubtedly the optimal times to experience the city in all its glory and with the greatest comfort. During these months, temperatures are ideal, nature is at its most beautiful, and while tourist crowds are present, they are not overwhelming.
Those who love intense heat and prefer long summer evenings will find what they are looking for in July and August, but must be prepared for crowded piazzas and high temperatures. Winter, on the other hand, offers the chance to experience a quieter, more authentic Rome, albeit with shorter days and a higher chance of rain.
Summary: Ultimately, the "best" time to visit Rome depends on your personal preferences. However, spring and autumn offer the most harmonious combination of weather, crowd levels, and sightseeing opportunities to fully enjoy the Eternal City in all its facets.
Climate Table Rome
Rome features a classic Mediterranean climate. This brings mild, somewhat rainy winters and intensely hot, dry summers.
Because of its proximity to the Tyrrhenian Sea, the city stays relatively temperate compared to northern Europe, though summer heat waves can push temperatures well past 35°C (95°F). Rainfall peaks during the autumn months, particularly in November and December, while July is the driest month of the year.
Month | Avg High (°C / °F) | Avg Low (°C / °F) | Rainfall (mm / inches) |
January | 12°C / 54°F | 4°C / 39°F | 67 mm / 2.6" |
February | 13°C / 55°F | 4°C / 39°F | 73 mm / 2.9" |
March | 15°C / 59°F | 6°C / 43°F | 58 mm / 2.3" |
April | 18°C / 64°F | 8°C / 46°F | 80 mm / 3.1" |
May | 23°C / 73°F | 12°C / 54°F | 53 mm / 2.1" |
June | 27°C / 81°F | 16°C / 61°F | 34 mm / 1.3" |
July | 31°C / 88°F | 18°C / 64°F | 19 mm / 0.7" |
August | 31°C / 88°F | 18°C / 64°F | 37 mm / 1.5" |
September | 27°C / 81°F | 15°C / 59°F | 73 mm / 2.9" |
October | 22°C / 72°F | 11°C / 52°F | 113 mm / 4.4" |
November | 16°C / 61°F | 8°C / 46°F | 115 mm / 4.5" |
December | 13°C / 55°F | 5°C / 41°F | 81 mm / 3.2" |
💡 Summer Travel Tip: If you visit Rome in August, keep in mind that the local holiday Ferragosto (August 15th) prompts many Romans to leave the city for the coast. While major historic sites remain open, many family-run restaurants, bakeries, and small neighborhood shops will close for a week or two.
Why Travel to Rome?
Rome is not just a city, but a living open-air museum that offers visitors an unparalleled journey through more than two millennia of human history. As you stroll through its narrow alleys, you encounter stone witnesses of antiquity at every turn, seamlessly blending into the modern cityscape. The impressive Colosseum, the majestic Pantheon, and the sprawling Roman Forum provide a tangible sense of the former might of the Roman Empire, while the Vatican—with St. Peter's Basilica and its countless art treasures—embodies the spiritual and artistic brilliance of the Renaissance. This concentration of historical monuments is unique in the world, ensuring that you can never see enough of Rome, as a new secret or a hidden palace waits behind every single facade.
Vibrant Lifestyle and Culinary Temptations
Beyond its history-steeped ruins, the Italian capital captivates with an incomparable way of life, often described as "La Dolce Vita," which instantly rubs off on every traveler. The vibrant life on magnificent squares like the Piazza Navona or by the Spanish Steps invites you to slow down and savor the moment with a first-class espresso or an artisanal gelato.
Culinary-wise, Rome sets the benchmark by delighting the senses with seemingly simple yet perfected dishes like Pasta Carbonara or Cacio e Pepe. The cozy trattorias in the Trastevere neighborhood, in particular, exude a magical atmosphere in the evening. It is this masterful blend of pride in a glorious past and the warm, chaotic, yet thoroughly enjoyable everyday Italian culture that makes a trip to Rome a profound experience for both mind and soul.
When to Visit Rome?
The ideal time to travel to the Eternal City is undoubtedly during the shoulder seasons, with spring from April to June and early autumn in September and October considered the golden months. During these windows, Rome presents itself with mild temperatures between 20°C and 25°C (68°F to 77°F), making extensive walking tours through the Roman Forum or the alleys of Trastevere truly enjoyable. While the blooming splendor of parks like the Villa Borghese bathes the city in a special light during spring, autumn offers a pleasant warmth that brings a noticeable sense of relaxation after the often oppressively hot and crowded midsummer. Choosing these months allows you to bypass the extreme heat of August, when the thermometer frequently breaks the 30°C (86°F) mark and many locals leave the city, which can result in smaller shops being closed.
Budget Advantages and Authentic Flair in the Low Season
For travelers wishing to experience the monumental treasures of the Vatican or the Colosseum without the typical tourist congestion, a visit during the low season between November and March is highly recommended. Aside from the bustling Christmas season and Easter, visitor numbers drop drastically during the winter months. This leads not only to significantly shorter lines but also to more attractive prices for accommodations and flights.
Although you have to expect occasional rain showers and cooler temperatures around 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F) during this time, the authentic Roman life in the cafés and trattorias easily compensates for the changeable weather. A trip in January or February allows you to absorb the city's architectural grandeur in an almost meditative tranquility that is hard to find during the busy peak season.
Official tourism websites of Rome
Navigating Rome involves filtering out thousands of years of history to find what is open, where to eat without falling into tourist traps, and how to book high-demand tickets.
A mix of official civic platforms and specialized insider blogs will give you a clear roadmap for the Eternal City.
Official Tourism Websites
For verified opening hours, transport maps, seasonal events, and official city passes, rely on these municipal portals:
This is the official tourism portal for the city (Roma Capitale). It is incredibly comprehensive, providing real-time schedules for cultural exhibitions, seasonal concerts, sporting events, and city-wide festivals. It also features pre-mapped itineraries and clear logistical breakdowns for using public city buses, trams, and the metro.
Managed by the city, this site is dedicated entirely to Rome's official tourist card. It details exactly which archeological sites and museums are included, how to use the pass for free unlimited public transit, and—crucially—how to pre-book your entry time slot for high-demand locations like the Colosseum using the card.
Highly Useful Independent Travel Blogs
Because Rome experiences heavy mass tourism, reading local experts who live in the city is essential for finding authentic Roman neighborhoods, avoiding ticket scams, and tracking the local culinary scene.
The Vibe: Relatable, hyper-local, and highly practical.
Why it's useful: Written by an expat who has lived in Rome for over a decade. This blog is an absolute goldmine for neighborhood-level exploration. If you want to escape the crowds around the Trevi Fountain and explore authentic districts like Garbatella or Testaccio, she provides excellent self-guided walks, transit tips, and notes on contemporary life in Italy.
The Vibe: Encyclopedic, answering every micro-question you could have.
Why it's useful: Run by an American expat who co-managed a boutique hotel in the city center for years. Her blog excels at answering specific, stressful travel questions, such as: What should I pack for Rome in November? How do I skip the lines at the Vatican? Is the water from the street fountains safe to drink? (Yes, it is!).
The Vibe: High-end, deeply researched culinary expertise.
Why it's useful: Katie is a world-renowned food journalist, author, and culinary guide based in Rome. If you want to avoid terrible, microwaved tourist food and instead find the absolute best Cacio e Pepe, authentic Roman-style thin-crust pizza, or artisanal gelato, her curated neighborhood restaurant guides are non-negotiable reading.
The Vibe: Trendy, magazine-style, and event-focused.
Why it's useful: Operating as an English-language culture magazine for both travelers and expats, this blog is fantastic for finding out what is happening right now. It highlights temporary art gallery openings, pop-up food markets, flea markets, and trendy rooftop cocktail bars that standard guidebooks completely miss.
💡 A Quick Tip on Booking Ahead: Almost every blog and official site will remind you of this rule: Book your Colosseum and Vatican Museum tickets weeks (or even months) in advance. Showing up to buy them at the gate is no longer viable and can result in missing out on Rome's top sites entirely.
Entry requirements for Rome
To enter Rome via any Italian international airport, citizens of both the United States and the United Kingdom must present a standard tourist passport. Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen Area, though a full six months of validity is universally recommended to avoid any complications with commercial airlines. Additionally, the passport must have been issued within the last ten years from your date of arrival in Europe. It is also required that your passport contains at least two completely blank pages to accommodate potential physical stamps and official processing. The document must be in pristine physical condition, as Italian border police maintain the legal authority to deny entry to anyone carrying a passport with noticeable water damage, ripped pages, or an altered cover.
Visa-Free Short Stays and the Ninety-Day Rule
United States and United Kingdom passport holders traveling strictly for tourism, family visits, or short-term business meetings do not require a traditional visa to enter Italy. Instead, you are granted visa-free entry for short-term stays under the standard Schengen Area framework. This framework permits a maximum stay of ninety days within any rolling one-hundred-and-eighty-day period. The ninety-day limitation applies to your total time accumulated across all participating European nations collectively, meaning your days spent traveling through France, Spain, or Germany will count toward the same cumulative limit as your days spent in Rome. Overstaying this allowance can result in heavy financial penalties, a formal overstay record, and a multi-year ban from re-entering the entire European Union.
Biometric Border Inspections via the Entry and Exit System
The European Union utilizes a digital border platform known as the Entry and Exit System to monitor non-European Union travelers entering and leaving the region. Upon landing at Rome-Fiumicino or Rome-Ciampino airports, all citizens of the United States and the United Kingdom must pass through this automated digital checkpoint. During your very first entry under this system, border authorities will capture your biometric data, which includes a facial image scan and a set of digital fingerprints. This biometric profile is stored securely in a central database for three years, eliminating the traditional reliance on physical ink passport stamps and automatically tracking your compliance with the short-stay ninety-day limit. Because first-time registration requires a one-off biometric capture, travelers should expect slightly longer wait times at Rome’s immigration lanes and should plan their ongoing transit windows accordingly.
Upcoming Electronic Travel Authorizations
While short-term tourist travel remains entirely visa-free, the European Union is introducing a mandatory digital pre-screening system called the European Travel Information and Authorization System. Citizens of the United States and the United Kingdom will be required to apply for this electronic travel authorization prior to boarding any flight bound for Rome. The application process is handled completely online through an official European Union portal, requiring you to input personal biographical information, passport data, basic travel itineraries, and brief background security answers along with a small application fee. Once approved, the authorization is electronically linked directly to your passport and remains valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever happens first. Travelers are strongly advised to secure this digital approval before booking any non-refundable flights or hotel accommodations.
Supporting Border Documentation and Inspection Realities
Possessing a valid passport and the necessary pre-travel authorization does not provide an absolute guarantee of entry, as final admission remains at the sole discretion of the Italian border police. When arriving at immigration control in Rome, travelers must be prepared to present a collection of supporting documents if requested by an inspecting officer. You may be asked to show clear proof of onward or return travel, such as a confirmed return airline ticket back to the United States or the United Kingdom. Immigration guards can also request official evidence of your local accommodation, which can include a stamped hotel booking, a verified vacation rental reservation, or a formal letter of invitation written by a resident host in Rome. Furthermore, you must be capable of demonstrating sufficient financial means to sustain yourself for the duration of your stay, which can be verified by presenting recent bank statements, international credit cards, or physical cash.
Official Sources and Government Agencies
To ensure your travel plans are based on the most reliable information, you should always consult official government channels. These agencies provide the most current data on entry rules, safety advisories, and health requirements.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs Italy (Official Visa & Entry Info): esteri.it
U.S. State Department Travel Advisory: travel.state.gov/italy
U.S. Embassy in Italy: it.usembassy.gov
FCDO Travel Advice (UK): gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/italy
TravelHealthPro (Health Specifics): travelhealthpro.org.uk/country/111/italy
Payment and Mobility in Rome
Rome strikes a satisfying balance between ancient charm and efficient modern infrastructure. Managing your payments and transit is highly digitized, allowing you to breeze through the city with minimal stress as long as you know the local ground rules.
💶 Currency & Credit Cards: Seamlessly Digital
Italy uses the Euro (€). While it was once heavily reliant on paper currency, Rome has fully embraced electronic payments.
Credit and Debit Cards
Widespread Acceptance: Visa and Mastercard are accepted nearly everywhere, from high-end clothing boutiques to tiny espresso bars and fruit stands. You can easily complete a trip using your phone's mobile wallet (Apple Pay or Google Pay).
No Extra Fees: Under European Union law, merchants are strictly prohibited from charging an extra fee or surcharge for paying with a credit card. If a vendor tries to add a fee for using plastic, they are breaking the law.
The Cash Exception: It is still smart to carry a small amount of physical cash (€20 or €50 in total) in small denominations (€5 and €10 bills). A few traditional family-run bakeries or remote market vendors might occasionally experience "technical issues" with their card readers.
ATMs & Withdrawing Cash
When using an ATM (Bancomat), always choose one physically located inside a reputable bank branch (like Intesa Sanpaolo or UniCredit). Avoid standalone tourist ATMs (like Euronet) found on street corners, as they impose terrible exchange rates and heavy transaction fees.
🚌 Public Transportation: The "Tap & Go" Revolution
Rome’s public transit system (managed by ATAC) includes the Metro (subway), city buses, and street-level trams.
Tap & Go (Contactless)
No Paper Tickets Needed: You no longer need to hunt down a tobacco shop (Tabaccheria) to buy a paper ticket. You can simply tap your physical contactless credit/debit card, smartphone, or smartwatch directly on the readers at Metro turnstiles and on all buses and trams.
The 100-Minute Rule: A single tap costs €1.50 and functions as an Integrated Time Ticket (BIT). It is valid for 100 minutes. Within those 100 minutes, you can transfer to as many buses or trams as you like, or take a single Metro journey.
Always Tap Your Transfers: When you switch from a Metro line to a bus, tap the card reader again on the bus. As long as you are within your initial 100 minutes, the system recognizes your card and will not charge you a second time.
⚠️ The Golden Rule of Tap & Go: You must use the exact same device or card for your entire journey. If you tap into the Metro with your physical credit card, do not tap onto the connecting bus using Apple Pay on your phone—even if it is linked to the same bank account. The system treats them as two completely separate tickets and will fine you if an inspector checks your device.
🚗 Mobility: Taxis & The Rental Car Trap
Taxis and Ride-Hailing
Uber in Rome: Standard Uber Black (luxury vehicles) and Uber Taxi (which hails traditional city cabs) operate legally via the app. It is a fantastic option because it locks in your price and routes transparently.
Official Taxis: White, licensed city taxis sit at designated Parcheggio Taxi (taxi ranks) outside major tourist hubs. Ensure the driver activates the taxímetro (meter) when you pull away. Do not accept flat-rate offers unless you are traveling on the fixed, legally mandated routes to/from Fiumicino Airport (~€50) or Ciampino Airport (~€31).
Rental Cars
Avoid the City Core: Do not rent a car if you are only staying within Rome's central core. Traffic is highly chaotic, parking is virtually non-existent, and the historic center is heavily protected by ZTL zones (Zona a Traffico Limitato). If you accidentally drive past a ZTL camera without a resident permit, automated camera systems will track your rental plate and mail you a massive fine months later.
When to Rent: A car is only ideal if you are leaving Rome to explore the hill towns of Umbria or the vineyards of Tuscany.
Requirements: To rent a vehicle, you need your passport, a major credit card for the deposit, your domestic driver’s license, and an International Driving Permit (IDP), which is a legal requirement for US and UK license holders driving in Italy.
🌐 Internet & Connectivity: Yesim eSIM
To navigate Rome’s winding cobblestone alleys and look up restaurant reviews on the fly, a reliable data connection is essential.
Why Use Yesim in Rome?
Using a travel eSIM provider like Yesim lets you download a digital profile to your phone before you fly, allowing you to connect to local Italian cellular infrastructure the moment your plane touches down at Fiumicino Airport. It bypasses expensive carrier roaming fees completely.
Performance & Networks
Yesim partners with Italy's premier domestic networks (typically TIM or Vodafone), ensuring you get blazing-fast 4G LTE and widespread 5G coverage throughout Rome's ancient monuments.
Typical Italy Data Plans
Yesim offers highly flexible, data-only prepaid structures:
1 GB (7 Days): ~$1.50 - $2.00 USD
5 GB (15 Days): ~$6.00 - $7.00 USD
10 GB (30 Days): ~$10.00 - $12.00 USD
Unlimited Data packages are also available if you intend to stream video or upload massive amounts of photos.
Verification Note
Before purchasing, make sure your smartphone is fully network-unlocked by your home carrier and supports eSIM technology (generally iPhone XR or newer, and Google Pixel 3 or newer). Turn on the Yesim profile as your secondary data line upon arrival, keep your home line active exclusively for SMS text alerts, and ensure "Data Roaming" is switched on for the Yesim profile.
Put an end to expensive roaming fees and enjoy Rome at full speed. 👉 Get Yesim for Rome now and go online instantly!*
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🏛️ Travel FAQ: Rome Essentials for US & UK Visitors
1. Do I need a visa to visit Rome?
No, for short stays. Both US and UK citizens can enter Italy (and the wider Schengen Area) for tourism without a visa for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure date from Europe.
2. What currency is used, and can I rely entirely on credit cards?
Italy uses the Euro (€).
Cards: Credit and debit cards (Visa and Mastercard) are incredibly widely accepted in Rome. By law, even the smallest cafes and taxi drivers must accept card payments. Tap-to-pay via Apple Pay or Google Pay is ubiquitous.
Cash: It is still smart to keep €20–€30 in cash on you for emergency public restrooms, tiny souvenir stalls, or if a card machine "suddenly breaks down." Avoid exchange booths at the airport or Termini Station; use a bank ATM (Bancomat) to get cash at the best rate.
3. Will my electronics work, or do I need an adapter?
You will need an adapter. Italy operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz.
Plugs: Italy uses Type C, L, and F plugs. Type C (two round prongs) is standard across Europe. Type L (three round prongs in a straight line) is common in older Italian buildings.
For US Visitors: Your flat plugs won't fit, and because the US runs on 110V, you must ensure high-powered items like hair dryers or straighteners are dual-voltage before plugging them in, or they will fry.
For UK Visitors: Your bulky three-prong Type G plugs will require a standard UK-to-EU adapter.
4. Is there a dress code for visiting churches and historical sites?
Yes, and it is strictly enforced. While historical sites like the Colosseum have no dress code, any religious site—most notably St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums—has a strict policy. Both men and women must cover their shoulders and knees.
Packing Tip: Tank tops, short skirts, and shorts above the knee will result in you being turned away at the door. Carry a lightweight scarf or sarong in your daypack to wrap around your shoulders or waist when stepping inside a church.
5. How far in advance do I need to book tickets for major attractions?
Months in advance. Gone are the days of just turning up to buy tickets for the Vatican Museums, the Colosseum, or the Borghese Gallery. Tickets sell out weeks or even months ahead, especially for peak season (April to October). If official tickets are sold out, your only alternative will be booking a more expensive guided tour through a third-party platform.
6. Can I drink the tap water in Rome?
Yes, absolutely! In fact, it's some of the best and coldest water in Europe. Rome is famous for its nasoni—over 2,500 continuous-flow public drinking fountains scattered across the city. The water comes straight from mountain springs. Bring a reusable water bottle and fill it up for free all day long; there is no need to constantly buy plastic water bottles.
7. What is the tipping etiquette in Roman restaurants?
Tipping is not a massive part of Italian culture.
You will often see a "Pane e Coperto" (bread and cover charge) on your bill, which is a standard flat fee per person (usually €2–€3) just for sitting down. This is not a tip for the waiter.
If the service was exceptional, leaving 5% to 10% in cash on the table is greatly appreciated, but not mandatory. Waiters in Italy are paid a fixed legal wage and do not rely on tips to survive like they do in the US.
8. How should I navigate the city? Is public transport safe?
Rome is a highly walkable open-air museum, and your own two feet are your best asset. For longer distances:
Metro & Buses: Rome has a simple underground system (Lines A and B). You can simply tap your contactless credit card or phone at the turnstiles to pay.
Safety: While violent crime is incredibly rare, Rome is notorious for pickpockets, especially on crowded public transit (like the infamous Bus 64 to the Vatican) and around Termini Station. Keep your bags zipped, never put your phone in your back pocket, and stay alert.
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