Rome is a city that oozes history, culture, and delicious cuisine from every ancient cobblestone. Its historic charm and irresistible Italian vibe draw millions of tourists every year. But while the Eternal City welcomes visitors with open arms, there are certain habits that make local Romans roll their eyes, cringe, or even lose their patience. Some of these mistakes might seem small, but they can add up to create an impression that you’re not showing proper respect for the city, its people, or its long-standing traditions. After all, Rome isn’t just a place to visit; it’s a living, breathing metropolis that people call home.
If you want to fit in, show the locals you care, and get the most out of your Roman adventure, it’s worth avoiding the pitfalls that many travelers stumble into. Here are ten mistakes tourists make in Rome that locals secretly hate, along with tips for how to enjoy the city like a real insider.
1. Only Eating at Tourist Hotspots
One of the biggest blunders tourists make is sticking to the obvious restaurant choices right around major attractions. While there’s nothing necessarily wrong with these places, the quality can often be underwhelming and the prices inflated. For the locals, this is a telltale sign that you haven’t done your homework. Many Romans know that the best food in the city is often found in neighborhood trattorias and small osterias hidden away from the main drag.
How to avoid it: Try to explore off-the-beaten-path areas like Trastevere, Testaccio, or Monti—places that are full of authentic eateries where locals hang out. Don’t be afraid to wander a few blocks away from the main tourist route. If you spot a menu in multiple languages or with flashy pictures of the dishes, that might be your cue to keep moving. Instead, trust your nose and eyes: if a place is filled with Italians chatting away in Italian, you’ve probably found a genuine gem.
2. Dressing Inappropriately for Religious Sites
Rome is home to some of the most stunning churches in the world, including St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. One common slip-up is wearing attire that’s too revealing when visiting these sacred spaces. Locals (and the church staff) view this as a sign of disrespect because churches in Italy are still active places of worship, not just tourist attractions.
How to avoid it: Pack a light scarf or shawl if you prefer sleeveless tops, so you can cover your shoulders when needed. As a rule of thumb, avoid shorts or skirts that are too short if you plan on stepping into churches. Even if it’s sizzling hot outside, remember that modest clothing is a sign of respect for the religious significance of these sites. You’ll also avoid potentially being turned away at the door.
3. Throwing Coins Incorrectly in the Trevi Fountain
The tradition says that if you toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain with your right hand over your left shoulder, you’re guaranteed to return to Rome someday. But an absolute no-go is wading into the fountain, sitting on the ledges, or acting like it’s your own personal pool. Locals hate seeing disrespectful behavior at iconic places, and the local authorities take it seriously too. You could be fined for trying to dip your feet or—worse—climb in.
How to avoid it: Stick to the time-honored tradition: stand with your back to the fountain and gently toss the coin over your shoulder. Take your photo quickly and let other people have their turn. It might be crowded, but treat the fountain as a cherished historical site.
4. Ignoring the “Riposo” Tradition
In many parts of Italy, including Rome, there’s a concept similar to the Spanish siesta. It’s called “riposo,” and it typically happens in the early afternoon when businesses, restaurants, or shops might close for a few hours. Tourists often get frustrated when they find stores locked between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. without any explanation, and they label the city as “inconvenient” or “lazy.” But for locals, this downtime is sacred.
How to avoid it: Plan your sightseeing and meals with this schedule in mind. If you can’t grab lunch at 2 p.m. because your favorite trattoria is closed, know that it’s not personal—they’ll reopen later in the afternoon or evening. Embrace this slower rhythm of life. Use the downtime to explore a museum that stays open all day or take a leisurely stroll through a park.
5. Blocking Narrow Sidewalks and Walking Lanes
Rome’s ancient streets weren’t exactly designed for modern traffic, and sidewalks can be surprisingly tight. Tourists often stop in the middle of a busy lane to check their map, snap a photo, or have a group conversation. While you might be in vacation mode, locals are on their way to work or running errands.
How to avoid it: If you need to pause, step aside to make room for people to pass. You’ll avoid bottlenecks and also show respect to those who are simply trying to get from point A to point B. It’s a small gesture, but it makes a world of difference in keeping the city moving smoothly.
6. Haphazardly Using Public Transit
Rome’s buses and metro can be confusing for first-timers, especially when you see people jumping on and off seemingly without scanning a ticket. But don’t assume that means it’s free. The local transit authority does spot checks, and if you’re caught without a validated ticket, you’ll face a fine. Another irritation for locals is when tourists block the doorways or forget to give up seats for the elderly and pregnant women.
How to avoid it: Always buy a ticket from a newsstand, tobacco shop (marked by a “T” sign), or station machine before boarding. Then validate it in the small yellow or white machines on the bus or at the metro turnstile. If you’re standing in a crowded bus, move away from the doors to let people in and out. Show common courtesy and offer your seat to those who need it more.
7. Over-Reliance on English
While many Romans, especially in tourist-heavy areas, speak decent English, expecting everyone to speak English everywhere can come across as arrogant. Locals generally appreciate any effort to communicate in Italian, even if it’s just a few basic words or phrases.
How to avoid it: Learn some Italian basics before you arrive—hello (ciao or salve), please (per favore), thank you (grazie), excuse me (scusa or mi scusi), and “I’d like…” (vorrei…). Romans understand if you’re not fluent, but showing that you’re willing to try goes a long way. A friendly smile and a simple “buongiorno” (good day) can set a positive tone for any interaction.
8. Misjudging Meal Times
Tourists who are used to eating dinner at 6 p.m. sharp may find themselves alone in a Roman restaurant at that hour. Italians typically have dinner much later, often starting around 8 p.m. or even 9 p.m. And if you show up at a restaurant right before it closes in the early afternoon expecting lunch, you might be out of luck. This is especially true of smaller, family-run places.
How to avoid it: Adjust your schedule a bit to match local customs. Have an aperitivo—a pre-dinner drink and light snack—around 6 or 7 p.m. to tide you over, then enjoy dinner at a more local-friendly hour. Keep in mind that full-scale lunches also tend to happen later in the afternoon, generally after 1 p.m. Rather than see this as an inconvenience, look at it as part of the Italian lifestyle: take your time and enjoy each meal.
9. Treating Gelato Like a Theme Park Attraction
Gelato is practically a must-have treat in Rome, but not all gelato is created equal. Tourists flock to the giant, puffy mounds of colorful gelato displayed in some storefronts near major sites, assuming bigger and brighter means better. But often, those massive displays are filled with artificial colors and stabilizers. Locals also hate it when tourists block shop entrances trying to snag the perfect gelato selfie, especially if they haven’t even paid yet.
How to avoid it: Look for gelaterias that keep their gelato in covered, stainless steel containers—this is often a sign of freshness. Natural colors and flavors are more subtle and less flashy. Order and pay first if that’s the system (often posted on signs), and then snap a quick photo without hogging the counter. That way, you respect the flow of customers and show courtesy to the staff.
10. Forgetting Basic Etiquette at the Table
Italian dining culture has its own rhythm and etiquette. One misstep is expecting a speedy check (il conto) right after you finish eating. In Rome, the table is yours for as long as you want it—restaurants won’t rush you, so you have to signal when you’re ready to pay. Another no-no is dipping your bread in olive oil as a pre-meal ritual. While it’s common in some parts of the world, many Italians see it as something Americans do that’s not really “Italian.” And don’t forget: cappuccino is typically a morning drink. Ordering one after lunch or dinner can raise an eyebrow or two, as Italians believe milk-based drinks should be limited to breakfast or early in the day.
How to avoid it: When you’re done eating and ready for the check, politely catch your server’s attention and say “Il conto, per favore.” If you want bread with olive oil or balsamic, do it discreetly; or consider that many Italians prefer plain bread or some olive oil on their bruschetta—there’s a difference in context and preparation. And if you do want a coffee after your meal, consider an espresso (un caffè), which is the standard digestive choice in Italy.
Final Thoughts
Rome is an incredible city that effortlessly blends the ancient world with a bustling modern life. While there’s a lot to see and experience, part of truly living the Roman experience involves respecting the traditions and rhythms that define the local culture. Making small efforts—like learning basic Italian phrases, adhering to dress codes at religious sites, and choosing meals at the “right” times—can go a long way toward showing that you appreciate Rome for more than just its postcard highlights.
By avoiding these ten mistakes, you’ll not only keep the locals happy, but you’ll also have a more rewarding trip. Locals might even open up and share extra insider tips on where to go, what to see, and what to eat. Remember: when in Rome, do as the Romans do (at least a little), and you’ll find that the city’s charm is even more intoxicating than you ever imagined. Buon viaggio!
