If you’re embarking on a pilgrimage for the Jubilee in Rome, here you’ll find essential information on emergencies, healthcare, accessibility, local regulations, and much more.
Prepare your trip wisely to fully enjoy this unique experience.
Emergencies
& Healtcare
Emergencies, Safety, and Healthcare info in Rome
Rome is generally a safe city, but like any major metropolis, it’s important to be prepared for any unexpected situations.
⚠️ Common Risks
While Rome is safe, pickpockets are common in tourist areas and public transport.
Always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places like metro stations, main squares, and popular tourist sites.
In case of trouble, remain calm and ask for help from the police or locals.
Emergency contact numbers
Save the essential emergency contact numbers and safety tips below, and always carry a form of ID with you in case of emergencies.
Healthcare System in Rome
The healthcare system in Rome offers both public and private services to meet various medical needs. Foreign visitors from countries with reciprocal health agreements with Italy can access public healthcare for essential treatments, such as emergencies or acute illness, though coverage is typically limited.
For faster and more professional care, private healthcare in Rome is available, but it’s not free. It’s highly recommended to arrange travel insurance that covers medical services during your stay.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies are readily available throughout the city, with many open 24/7. You can find information on pharmacies operating 24 hours a day on Federfarma Roma.
Hospitals in Rome
Rome has several top-quality hospitals, both public and private.
- The Policlinico Umberto I and Gemelli Hospital are well-known public hospitals, offering high-level care and easy access from the city center.
- Private hospitals, like San Raffaele and Ospedale Bambino Gesù, provide faster service but require payment or insurance.
Vaccinations
Italy does not require mandatory vaccinations for tourists, as it is considered low-risk for health concerns. The WHO recommends standard travel vaccinations, with no specific requirements for Italy.
Don’t forget to bring your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to receive healthcare services during your stay.
Accessibility
Rome is continually improving its accessibility, but not all metro stations are accessible. Many buses are equipped for disabled passengers, and major monuments and religious sites have dedicated entrances for people with mobility challenges.
For detailed information about public transport and accessibility, check the ATAC website.
Public Holidays
Public Holidays in Rome and Italy
Rome is a vibrant city with numerous festivals and celebrations, but during public holidays, some places may be closed or have reduced hours.
It’s important to plan your visit around these dates.
| 🗓️ Day | Holiday | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
January 1 |
🎉 New Year’s Day |
Celebrates the beginning of the new year. |
|
January 6 |
👑 Epiphany |
Commemorates the visit of the Magi to the baby Jesus. Often marks the end of the Christmas season. |
|
Easter Sunday |
✝️ Easter (Pasqua) |
Celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. |
|
Easter Monday |
🐣 Easter Monday (Pasquetta) |
The day after Easter, often a public holiday for relaxation and family gatherings. |
|
April 25 |
✊ Liberation Day |
Marks the anniversary of the liberation of Italy from Nazi occupation in 1945. |
|
May 1 |
👷♂️ Labour Day |
A day dedicated to workers and their rights. |
|
June 2 |
🏛️ Republic Day |
National holiday that commemorates the day in 1946 when Italy became a republic. |
|
June 29 |
⛪ Saint Peter and Paul’s Day |
The feast of the two patron saints of Rome. |
|
June 29 |
🌞 Ferragosto |
A major Italian holiday celebrating the Assumption of Mary. Many Italians go on vacation. |
|
November 1 |
🕯️ All Saints’ Day |
Honors all saints and martyrs. |
|
December 8 |
👼 Immaculate Conception |
Celebrates the belief in the Virgin Mary’s freedom from original sin. |
|
December 25 |
🎅 Christmas |
Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. Christmas masses and family gatherings are common. |
|
December 26 |
🎄 Saint Stephen’s Day |
Celebrates Saint Stephen, the first Christian martyr. |
Local Customs
Local Customs in Rome and Essential info
Greetings and Common Phrases
Here are some essential Italian phrases that will help you communicate during your stay in Rome:
| Category | Phrase in Italian | English Translation |
|---|---|---|
|
Salutations |
Ciao |
Hello/Hi |
|
|
Buongiorno |
Good morning |
|
|
Arrivederci |
Goodbye |
|
Excuses |
Permesso |
Excuse me (to get attention) |
|
|
Scusa |
Excuse me |
|
Polite Requests |
Per favore |
Please |
|
|
Grazie |
Thank you |
Many Romans speak Romanesco, the local dialect with colorful expressions. While not essential to understand, learning a few common greetings, like "Aò!" instead of "Ciao", can enhance your experience and help you connect with locals.
Electricity
Italian outlets are of types C, F, and L, with a voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz. If your devices have different plugs, be sure to bring an adapter.
Drinking Water
In Rome, tap water is safe to drink, and there are many public drinking fountains (called nasoni) throughout the city. Feel free to refill your bottle at these fountains to stay hydrated during your visit.
Dress Code for Religious Sites
When visiting churches or sacred places, remember to dress modestly. Cover your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect, especially during religious ceremonies.
General Behavior
- Tipping: It’s not mandatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip is a kind gesture, particularly for service staff.
- Respect for Monuments: Avoid eating or drinking on the steps of monuments or in areas where it’s prohibited.
- Queues: Italians value orderly queues, so try to respect the line, even though it may not always be strictly followed.
Luggage Storage
Leave your bags in a luggage storage in Rome
If you need to leave your luggage for a few hours or days, Rome offers several luggage storage services.
This can be useful if you want to explore the city without carrying your bags around.
Where to Find Luggage Storage
- Train stations: Major train stations like Roma Termini, Roma Tiburtina, and Roma Ostiense provide luggage storage services.
- Airports: Both Fiumicino and Ciampino airports have luggage storage areas.
- Private services: Some hotels and specialized shops offer luggage storage as well.
Hours and Costs
Luggage storage fees range from 5 to 10 euros per day, depending on the size of your bag.
Recommended Luggage Storage Services
For added convenience, you can use online platforms or specialized stores in the central area of the city to safely store your luggage.
Several reliable services are available in Rome for luggage storage. Here are some of the most popular ones:
- LuggageHero: Also pay-per-hour pricing, ideal for short-term storage.
- Radical Storage: Offering convenient and secure daily storage.
- Stasher: Flat-rate pricing, great for longer-term luggage storage.
Always check the opening hours to avoid any inconvenience, especially if you have limited time to store your luggage.