Hello,
How many euros do you need in Rome? What Gotchas should I be aware of?
Would you consider giving me a couple pointers?
Thank you very much.
Gratefully, Larry
Disclaimer: From a string of spam emails that I was gullible enough to answer I bring you what turns out to be some useful information
Hi Larry,
This is a hard question to answer without more detail. You can certainly spend 100s of Euros a day in Rome (or more) with no problem if you have it and want to or you can get by on 50 a day if you have to or want to. Rome can be expensive by way of accommodation. The last few times I’ve been there I’ve decided to stay just outside the 
city at a “campground” (its not really camping). This saved a lot of money but does require a bit of a train ride (20 min). I’ve written a review of the “campground” here .
Some things are getting more expensive in Rome such as the Forum now charging a fee to see but you can cut these costs with museum / transit passes. The Roma pass is a great way to save some money and get around the city (and too the campground) if your going to be there a few days.
Stay away from guided tours that promise to get you in the museums quicker. Just wait in line. They move quicker than you would expect when first laying eyes on them. We don’t currently have any audio tours for Rome yet but there are some really good and free ones at www.ricksteves.com . Of course if you make your way to Florence we have a few for the sights there .
If you’re just grabbing a quick bite to eat at a small cafe or pizza place eat it at the counter or get for take-away (eating a fresh slice of pizza near a Bernini fountain is a great place to people watch). Sitting at a table inside or out front can cost you more and not worth it when you can walk up the street and eat with a view of a centuries old church. Of course if you have money to spend, Rome is more than willing to take it. Avoiding areas around the big tourist destinations (Vatican, Colosseum, Pantheon, etc) for eating and shopping will get you more for your money and be much more “authentic” Italian. Of course there’s not much more “authentic” Italian than grabbing a inexpensive bottle of wine, making your way to the Spanish Steps at dusk and enjoying the sights and sounds of Rome for free.
Hope you enjoy your trip. I’d love to hear how it goes.
’till soon,
Chris.
