Useful tips before traveling to Rome

Planning a trip is a great job, especially if we are traveling with children. A good destination to go as a family is Rome, a city full of history and fun for young and old in which you will enjoy these tips. So that you do not suffer setbacks here are some tips and useful information for your trip

So that you do not suffer setbacks here are some tips and useful information for your trip to Rome. We recommend the best time to travel, the clothes you will need or the emergency numbers.

Before traveling to Rome with children

Climate

The climate in Rome is typical of the Mediterranean area, with hot summers and rainy winters, while spring and autumn have average temperatures around 20 ° C.

Rain, although more common in certain months (March and April, and October and November) can surprise us at any time, so it is advisable to wear rain gear and umbrellas, and waterproof boots for children.

At any time of the year there is a lot of environmental humidity, a factor that should also be taken into account when packing.

What clothes to wear in Rome

Given the climate we find in Rome, which is quite variable in spring and autumn, and in anticipation of long walks, the best option is to wear comfortable and light clothes for the whole family, and wear several thin layers of clothing.

In winter you will need warm clothes, but at any time you should bring something warm, you can refresh, especially at night.

For summer, on the other hand, do not forget breathable and fresh clothes, and a good hat to protect children from the sun.

Footwear in Rome is especially important, as we will often walk to visit its monuments, and in the case of children is essential to not get too tired to be comfortable.

To prevent rains do not forget to always be equipped with umbrellas and raincoats.

Business hours

Most of the stores share the usual time in Europe, which can be longer in tourist areas to attract more customers.

Generally, stores open from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. or 2:00 p.m., and from 3:30 p.m. or 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., with Saturday morning hours only, and closed on Sundays.

The banks have a schedule from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., although most do not open on Saturdays and many close in the afternoon, ending the day at 1:30 p.m. or 2:00 p.m.

The museums close on Mondays, the rest of the week their hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., with some exceptions, so it is advisable to consult them before going.

The churches, one of the main attractions in Rome, open from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and from 3:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. You have to be careful because at certain hours, especially on Sundays, Masses are celebrated and you are not allowed to visit them.

Currency

Since the establishment of the euro (€) as European currency, this is the country's official one.

The coins are: 1 cent, 2 cents, 5 cents, 10 cents, 20 cents, 50 cents, 1 euro and 2 euros.

Tickets: 5 euros, 10 euros, 20 euros, 50 euros, 100 euros, 200 euros, 500 euros.

Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard ...) are accepted at most establishments.

Normally foreign currencies can be exchanged in establishments of the main European countries, as well as in banks in the city. However, it is cheaper to do it before traveling, since commissions are usually established around 5%.

Plugs and electricity

Electricity in Rome is 220 volts, 50 Hz, and round plug plugs are used. Before connecting any device, make sure that the voltage and the shape of the plug are correct.

Otherwise you can use a voltage adapter or transformer, usually offered in hotels or hardware stores.

Medical assistance and police

Medical assistance in Rome can be received by presenting the DNI or, in the case of European citizens, the European Health Card. In case of not being residents, only medical emergencies are attended.

The emergency medical telephones are 118 and 5510, for ambulances of the Red Cross.

The police, the carabinieri, are on the telephone 113, and the roadside assistance telephone number is 116.

Passport and visa

The citizens of the European Union do not need any type of visa for their stay, it is enough with the passport valid identity the passport.

For the residents of Argentina, Mexico and the United States, a passport is also sufficient.

Tourists from other countries need, in addition to the passport, a special visa that is valid for 90 days. For higher stays you have to apply for a special visa.

The identification documentation must always be carried over at all times, as it may be required by the authorities.

Holidays

Italy's national holidays are as follows:

January 1 (New Year)

January 6 (Epiphany)

First Monday after Easter (in 2012, April 9)

May 1 (Labor Day) work)

June 2 (Anniversary of the Republic of Italy)

June 24 (Saint Peter's Day)

August 15 (Assumption Day)

November 1 (Feast of All Saints)

November 7 ( Victory of World War I)