30+ Fascinating Facts About Rome Every Traveler and Expat Should Know
Whether you’re visiting Rome for a week, staying for a year, or just daydreaming from afar, there’s always something new (and ancient) to learn about this iconic city.
I have personally explored Rome with both a tourist’s wonder and a traveler’s curiosity. Throughout my many visits to Rome, I’ve gathered some of the most interesting, quirky, and useful facts that every traveler and expat should know. And trust me … whether you’re planning your first Roman holiday or thinking of moving here, these 30+ facts will help you see Rome in a whole new light.
1. Rome has more fountains than any other city in the world.
Over 1,500! The most famous? The Trevi Fountain, where legend says a coin toss ensures your return.
2. Ancient Romans used urine to bleach their clothes.
Yep, and they taxed it too. Makes you appreciate modern laundry.
3. There’s a sovereign country inside Rome.
That’s Vatican City …the world’s smallest country, home to the Pope, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Sistine Chapel.
4. You can drink from Rome’s street fountains and it’s safe.
Known as “nasoni”, these little fountains provide fresh, drinkable water all over the city.
5. Rome’s nickname, the “Eternal City,” dates back over 2,000 years.
Romans believed that no matter what happened in the world, Rome would last forever.
6. The Colosseum had a retractable roof.
Called the velarium, it was a system of sails operated by sailors to shade spectators. Engineering goals.
7. Italians don’t drink cappuccino after 11 AM.
Ordering one in the afternoon will instantly mark you as a tourist.
8. Expat hotspot: Trastevere.
Charming, artsy, and walkable … it’s one of the most popular neighborhoods for expats and students alike.
9. Rome is home to the world’s oldest shopping mall.
The Markets of Trajan, built around 100 AD, had over 150 shops.
10. Crosswalks are… a suggestion.
In Rome, traffic rules are fluid. Be confident but cautious when crossing streets.
11. Pizza in Rome is different than in Naples.
Roman pizza is thinner and crispier, often served “al taglio” (by the slice) and eaten on the go.
12. You don’t need to tip much.
Service is included. Leaving €1–2 for good service is polite, but it’s not expected like in the U.S.
13. Sundays = closed city.
Many stores shut down on Sundays. Plan your errands accordingly.
14. Italy has a “riposo” their version of siesta.
Shops and small businesses often close between 1 PM and 4 PM, especially outside tourist zones.
15. You need a coin to enter some public restrooms.
Bring small change …especially around tourist hotspots like the Vatican and Termini Station.
16. Rome’s metro only has 3 lines.
And it’s notoriously underdeveloped due to the city’s ancient underground ruins. But buses, trams, and walking make up for it.
17. Espresso is life.
Romans drink coffee standing at the bar …quick, intense, and done in under two minutes.
18. There’s a keyhole that perfectly frames the dome of St. Peter’s.
Located on the Aventine Hill, it’s one of Rome’s most delightful hidden secrets.
19. Public transport can be… unpredictable.
Download apps like Moovit or Rome2Rio to track real-time schedules and delays.
20. Rome is full of cats and they’re protected by law.
You’ll find colonies in places like Largo di Torre Argentina, where Julius Caesar was allegedly assassinated.
21. Aperitivo is the best time of day.
Between 6–8 PM, you buy a drink and get access to a mini buffet of snacks. A social, budget-friendly dinner hack!
22. Rome has more churches than any other city in the world.
Over 900, and many are open and free to visit … with art by masters like Caravaggio, Bernini, and Michelangelo.
23. Smoking is still pretty common.
Smoking in outdoor cafes is normal, and it might surprise some visitors from stricter countries.
24. ATAC is Rome’s public transport system.
It runs metro, buses, and trams. One €1.50 ticket covers 100 minutes of travel across all.
25. Romans recycle seriously.
You’ll see separate bins for plastic, glass, paper, and organics. Fines apply if you don’t sort correctly.
26. Street art is everywhere.
Neighborhoods like Ostiense and Testaccio are full of murals, giving Rome a modern, creative vibe.
27. There’s a “Mouth of Truth” that bites liars.
Legend says if you put your hand in and tell a lie, it’ll get bitten off. It’s at the Church of Santa Maria in Cosmedin.
28. Rome’s post office sells wine.
Yes …in true Italian fashion, some post offices also serve espresso and vino.
29. The Vatican has its own ATM in Latin.
You can literally withdraw euros in the ancient language of the Church.
30. Romans have a love-hate relationship with tourists.
They’re proud to share their city …but expect you to respect it. Learn a few Italian words, follow the rules, and don’t block the narrow sidewalks.
31. Gelato isn’t just dessert it’s an experience.
Get it in a cup, not a cone, if you want to blend in. And look for gelaterias that use metal tins and muted colors (not neon!).
32. Rome was once the capital of the world.
At its height, the Roman Empire ruled from Britain to Egypt ..all roads really did lead here.
33. Rome still has an official “gladiator school.”
You can train like a gladiator at Gruppo Storico Romano. Yes, swords and all.
34. The average Roman eats pasta at least once a day.
And no, they don’t get tired of it. Ever.
35. The Tiber River used to flood Rome regularly.
The city’s walls and embankments were rebuilt to stop this — but old locals still remember when it happened often.
A Final Thought from Julia – Explore With Kojo
“No matter how many times I visit Rome, it always manages to surprise me. One minute I’m walking past ancient ruins older than most countries, and the next I’m sipping espresso in a quiet alleyway where the only sounds are church bells and Vespa engines. It’s a city where chaos and calm coexist, where history isn’t locked behind glass …it’s under your feet and all around you. That’s what I love most about Rome. It doesn’t ask you to rush ..it asks you to feel. And that’s why I keep coming back.”
Julia, Explore With Kojo
