Is there someone we can contact to organize tours? To help make the most of our stay in Rome?
Yes, please reach out to [email protected].
What about making reservations?
For ItaliaTours and ItaliaRail, feel free to book directly on the websites or contact a Traveler Experience Specialist using the email above. If this is regarding restaurant reservations, most restaurants don't need to be booked in advance but you can always check before hand just to make sure (most of the restaurants that have a website will state on their website if they require reservations, and if they do, most of them will allow you to book directly online.)
If I have already booked a private tour, can I still receive the $100 discount?
Yes, if the private tour you booked was with ItaliaTours, and you decide to purchase an ItaliaPass Primo, you can receive the $100 discount. For more information comparing the Viva and Primo, visit the ItaliaPass website.
If we booked ItaliaRail tickets through you can we still get discounts for what you offer?
You can get discounts based on the ItaliaRail fare that you chose, or you can upgrade after your purchase. Have a look at the Viva and Primo options on the website, and if you already purchased with ItaliaRail, email [email protected] to see how much it will cost to upgrade.
Should we buy a temporary SIM card?
It's not strictly necessary because nowadays a lot of people have smartphones that accept eSIMs and these are easy and convenient. One company we hear travelers praise a lot is Airalo.
What about WiFi?
Wifi isn't always available in all coffee bars or restaurants because Italy doesn't really have a "third place" concept — most Italians go to coffee bars to stand at the bar and drink and espresso, not to bring their laptop. However you can be sure that you'll find Wifi at McDonald's if you're in a pinch. Also if you find restaurants that cater to tourists and offer brunch, these types of places often have wifi for their customers and don't mind if you stay and work.
What about walking tours?
ItaliaTours has a wide range of different walking tours, you can view them all at the ItaliaTours website and view by your destination.
What about taxi apps?
The most popular taxi apps in Rome are itTaxi and Freenow. Uber also works in Rome.
What things do we have to pay in cash?
You don't really need cash because nowadays even coffee bars are required to take card payments. However you might pay with cash if you buy something small from a food truck or a street vendor.
What's the best map or app to use to map out metro or bus use?
I use Google Maps, just click on the bus icon next to the car when you're getting directions, and it will walk you through the journey. Another app is Moovit.
What is the temperature today?
Today it's cooler than it has been recently, it's about 77°F (25°C). In recent days the temperature has been around 30-31°C (87°F). It's quite humid and I recommend that you avoid walking intensely during the hottest hours of the day, from about 11 am to 3 pm.
Are there any strikes (train, subway or buses) that are planned for the month of June?
One is actually scheduled for tonight, that could interrupt transport tomorrow, Friday, June 12. Here's more information on that.