What Should You Pack for Rome?
Rome has a Mediterranean climate, so you’ll need to pack a variety of clothes depending on the season. Summers are hot, so light, breathable fabrics are ideal—think shorts, tank tops, and dresses for those long walks through the city. Spring and fall can be warm during the day but cooler in the evenings, so pack layers like sweaters or light jackets. Winters are mild but rainy, so bring a rain jacket or umbrella. Don’t forget comfortable walking shoes since you’ll be exploring Rome’s historic cobblestone streets!
Make sure you’re prepared for: Visiting the Colosseum, exploring Vatican City, strolling through the Roman Forum, tossing a coin in the Trevi Fountain, and enjoying Roman cuisine at local trattorias.
Dress Code
Rome is a stylish city, so you’ll want to pack smart-casual outfits for exploring and dining out. During the day, comfortable but chic clothes like linen pants, skirts, and light tops work well. If you’re visiting religious sites like St. Peter’s Basilica, dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees. For evenings, pack a dress or nice slacks for dining at a traditional Roman restaurant or enjoying the vibrant nightlife. Comfortable shoes are essential for walking through Rome’s historical streets and plazas.
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Spring
55 – 70°F
(13 – 21°C
)
Summer
70 – 90°F
(21 – 32°C
)
Fall
60 – 75°F
(16 – 24°C
)
Winter
40 – 55°F
(4 – 13°C
)
Spring: Warm and sunny with occasional rain
Summer: Hot, sunny, and dry
Fall: Mild and pleasant, with occasional rain
Winter: Cool and rainy, with mild days
Spring
2.3 inches of rain
Summer
1.1 inches of rain
Fall
2.5 inches of rain
Winter
2.8 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Perfect for sunny days while walking around Rome’s famous landmarks like the Colosseum—I loved having these for the hot afternoons!
2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Ideal for cooler mornings spent at the Vatican Museums or the Roman Forum.
3. Sweaters: Great for layering in the evenings, especially during spring or fall.
4. Casual Jacket: Useful for cooler nights dining outdoors at a trattoria.
5. Rain Jacket: Essential for rainy days while visiting outdoor sites.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Pants: Comfortable and stylish, perfect for sightseeing or dining out—I loved wearing these while exploring Rome’s historic center!
2. Leggings: Great for casual outings or for layering during cooler days.
3. Shorts: Ideal for hot summer days when you’re walking through the Roman Forum or Villa Borghese Gardens.
4. Dresses: Perfect for both daytime sightseeing and evenings out at Roman cafés and restaurants.
5. Skirt: A great option for a chic but comfortable look while touring Rome.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes are essential for Rome’s cobblestone streets and historic sites—I loved mine for long days of sightseeing!
2. Flats: A stylish option for evenings out in Rome’s piazzas and restaurants.
3. Sandals: Perfect for summer days spent at outdoor cafés or walking along the Tiber River.
4. Hat: Essential for sun protection when visiting outdoor sites like the Colosseum or Roman Forum.
5. Sunglasses: Necessary for bright, sunny days while strolling through Rome’s beautiful streets.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Ideal for short trips or keeping essentials close while flying into Rome—I loved mine for a quick getaway!
2. Daypack: Perfect for carrying water and essentials while exploring sites like the Colosseum or Vatican City.
3. Purse: A stylish yet practical purse for keeping personal items secure while enjoying Rome’s shops and trattorias.
4. Tote Bag: Great for carrying souvenirs or extra layers when wandering through Rome’s local markets.
Travel Essentials
- Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
- Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
- Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
- Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
- Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
- White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
- Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
- Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
- Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
- Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
- Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
- Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
- Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
- Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
- E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
- Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
- Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
- Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
- GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
- Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
- Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
- Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
- Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
- Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
- Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
- Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
- Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
- Floss: Any floss will do.
- Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
- Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
- Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
- Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
- Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
- Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
- Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
- Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
- Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
- Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
- After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
- Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
- Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
- Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
- Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
- Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
- Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
- Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
- Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
- Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
- Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
- Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
- Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
- Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
- Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
- Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
- Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
- Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
- Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
- Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
- Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
- Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
- Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
- Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
- Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
- Passport
- Travel Visas (if needed)
- Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
- Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
- Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
- Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
- Credit / Debit Cards
- Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.
What to Know Before You Pack
- Light fabrics: In the summer, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen are perfect for Rome’s hot climate.
- Rain gear: Pack a rain jacket or umbrella for unexpected rain showers, especially in winter and spring.
- Comfortable shoes: Rome’s cobblestone streets require sturdy, comfortable walking shoes.
- Modest clothing: Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites like Vatican City or churches around Rome.
Rome Travel FAQs
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT ROME?
May is the best month to visit Rome. May’s also great because the weather is warm but not too hot, perfect for sightseeing without the summer crowds. It’s also a great time for festivals and outdoor events in the city’s piazzas.
WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN ROME?
Rome’s Birthday (April 21): A city-wide celebration with parades, historical reenactments, and fireworks—great for solo travelers and families.
Estate Romana (June-August): A summer festival featuring outdoor concerts, films, and performances, perfect for couples and friends.
Rome Film Fest (October): An international film festival that draws movie lovers and celebrities—ideal for solo travelers or groups.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN ROME?
Rome is packed with iconic landmarks and hidden gems. Start with the Colosseum and Roman Forum for a taste of ancient history. One of my favorite spots is Vatican City, where you can visit St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums. Don’t miss tossing a coin in the Trevi Fountain, or strolling through Piazza Navona for its lively atmosphere. For art lovers, the Galleria Borghese offers a stunning collection of Renaissance masterpieces.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT ROME?
Ideally, spend 4-5 days in Rome to see the major attractions and explore its many neighborhoods. A weekend can cover the highlights.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: On day one, visit the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill, then enjoy dinner in Trastevere. On day two, explore Vatican City, visit St. Peter’s Basilica, and toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain.
5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary and add: On day three, visit the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and Galleria Borghese. On day four, explore the Spanish Steps and Villa Borghese Gardens. On day five, take a day trip to Ostia Antica or Tivoli Gardens.
1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary and add: On day six, visit the Capitoline Museums and enjoy a sunset walk along the Tiber River. On day seven, explore Rome’s hidden gems like Campo de’ Fiori or take a food tour in Testaccio.
10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary and add: On day eight, visit the Catacombs of San Callisto and Villa Adriana. Spend day nine at Appian Way Regional Park, and on day ten, enjoy a wine-tasting tour in the nearby Frascati region.
2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary and add: On day eleven, explore the coastal town of Anzio for a beach day. Spend days twelve to fourteen visiting other nearby towns like Orvieto, Assisi, or the Amalfi Coast.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN ROME?
2 Days
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 1 Dress
- 2 Pairs of Socks
- 2 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Daypack
5 Days
- 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 2 Dresses
- 5 Pairs of Socks
- 5 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Daypack
1 Week
- 5 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 2 Dresses
- 6 Pairs of Socks
- 6 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Daypack
10 Days
- 6 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Pairs of Pants
- 3 Dresses
- 7 Pairs of Socks
- 7 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Daypack
2 Weeks
- 7 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 4 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 4 Pairs of Pants
- 4 Dresses
- 9 Pairs of Socks
- 9 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Daypack
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR ROME?
High heels: Rome’s cobblestone streets are uneven and hard to walk in with heels.
Heavy winter coat: Even in winter, layers and a medium jacket will suffice for Rome’s mild winters.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO ROME ?
Airfare: $400-$1,200 depending on your departure city and season, with higher prices in summer.
Accommodation: $100-$300 per night depending on location, with higher prices near the city center.
Transportation: $20-$50 for public transit and taxis; Rome’s metro system is affordable and convenient.
Meals: $30-$80 per day depending on whether you dine at local trattorias or more upscale restaurants.
Activities: $30-$100 per day depending on museum tickets, tours, or free attractions like parks and piazzas.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN ROME? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in Rome. In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving a 5-10% tip is common. For taxis, rounding up the fare is typical.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT ROME BEFORE I VISIT?
- Dress modestly: Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites like the Vatican or churches.
- Skip the line: Book tickets in advance for major attractions like the Colosseum or Vatican Museums to avoid long lines.
- Bring cash: Some small restaurants and shops prefer cash payments, so it’s a good idea to carry some euros.
- Stay hydrated: Rome’s summers can be hot, so refill your water bottle at the public fountains found throughout the city.