13 Things to Know Before Studying Abroad in Rome

If you have stumbled upon this article, you must want to know what to expect when studying abroad in Rome. You can expect the typical nights with friends filling up on pizza and pasta while you sip on a classic bottle of wine. However, there are cultural differences in Italy that you may not be used to as an American.

From going without cell service at times to living with no air conditioning, sometimes it can be hard to adjust to the Italian way of life. However, this is all a part of the study abroad experience in Rome! If you follow the tips for studying abroad in Rome, you will do absolutely fine.

More than that, you might thrive while embarking on your study abroad in Rome! Whether you are thinking about applying to a program or you’re already planning to go, here are some things to know before studying abroad in Rome.

What to expect when studying abroad in Rome

There are plenty of things to know before studying abroad in Rome that will help you make the most of your experience. These study abroad in Rome tips and tricks will having you living your best life in this exciting, historical capital city:

1. Keep your stilettos and high heels at home.

What to expect when studying abroad in Rome? Walking, walking, and more walking on cobblestone streets. While cobblestone streets are pretty, they are not your friends. The terrain can be rough and uncomfortable, so make sure you bring and wear sturdy shoes.

READ: What to Pack for Study Abroad in Italy

2. See all of the art that you possibly can.

Graffiti or street art, Renaissance art, contemporary or modern art. See it all! You may not be used to certain kinds of art and you may find some things a bit strange, but don’t miss out. There is such a wide variety of art to see and experience in the Eternal City.

3. Use public transport.

While Italy is known for having delayed trains and maybe late buses, don’t let this discourage you. You can see so much more of the city when you use public transport. Also, you can take a train and be in another exciting city in Italy. Hop on a train to Florence to walk the streets of Michelangelo or take another train to see the gorgeous Amalfi Coast!

4. Drink up!

Stay local in the city or take a trip to a winery and try as many different wines as you can. Don’t stop at the wine, try a bit of limoncello and the bright orange spritz drinks. As for water, the water in Rome is generally safe. There are drinking fountains all over the city, they just might look different than what you are used to back home.

5. Eat, eat, eat! Eat as much as you can.

You’re going to want to try all the pizza, pasta, and other treats you can get your hands on.

Seriously, don’t freak out about calories too much, you’ll be walking it off anyway, right? The food in Italy is legendary for a reason. The fresh ingredients, unique recipes, and classic dishes will taste so good you will remember how they tasted long after you have left Italy.

6. Beware of pickpockets.

Rome is known to be a center for pickpocketing, and tourists are usually target number one. Just make sure to be aware of your surroundings, keep your items close to you, and make sure not to walk around with a lot of cash or valuables.

7. Be respectful of certain customs.

This is an especially important study abroad in Rome tip. In Vatican City, churches, and cathedrals, it is disrespectful to enter with exposed knees and upper arms. If you plan to go to one of these places either bring a scarf to drape around you or wear more modest clothing.

8. Bring your student I.D. when visiting museums and other historical sites.

Student discounts are plentiful in Europe. See historical sites at a discounted rate. Make sure to bring your student I.D. with you when you go to museums and see ruins. This is an especially important study abroad in Rome tip!

9. Prepare yourself for the rush of tourism and the slower-paced Italian lifestyle.

In the touristy areas, things might be moving fast and it can be hard to feel completely relaxed in the hustle and bustle. Conversely, if you go into the more local areas of Rome, you may experience a slower pace of life.

People may close their shops in the middle of the day or take longer to serve you food at a restaurant. While these might be elements of a different lifestyle that you aren’t used to, you can find the beauty in taking things slower and living life to its fullest.

10. Embrace the Italian food scene.

Have we mentioned trying all the food in Rome?

Make sure you follow Italy’s dining etiquette. No need to tip at restaurants because waiters and waitresses usually make a livable wage, unlike American restaurants. Additionally, don’t leave a bunch of food on your plate. It is usually considered rude to order more food than you can eat, because it’s seen as wasteful.

Breakfasts are usually very light and consist of coffee and maybe a pastry. When in Rome, do as the Romans do and stand while drinking your coffee or eating breakfast at the café bar. Don’t sit down, or you will be charged more on your bill!

Also, keep in mind that dinner is served much later—after 8 p.m. is the norm. Before this, you can snack at aperitivo, which is basically eating appetizers and having a drink or two.

READ: What are the Best Culinary Programs in Italy?

11. Learning some Italian before you go will help!

Most people speak English in the touristy areas. However, if you want to impress locals or venture outside of the main spots in town, learning some Italian is a great idea. A simple prego or grazie can go a long way. This is a great way to immerse yourself in the study abroad experience in Rome!

12. Keep your sweatpants at home.

Italians (and Europeans) generally dress better on a daily basis. While your yoga pants and workout gear might be cute and casual back home, it probably won’t be seen the same way in Italy. If you want to blend in a bit more, bring your nicer clothes with you and wear them when you are out and about in Rome.

13. Realize that living in an apartment in Rome might be different than what you are used to.

You may not be used to the lack of modern capabilities in Italian homes or apartments. For instance, there usually is no central air conditioning. This can be brutal in the summer when the temperatures and the humidity index are high.

Your apartment in Rome might not have everything you’re used to back home, but it will still be a great home base for an amazing experience.

Also, buildings might have weak electricity power which could also limit your Wi-Fi or cell phone signal. Furthermore, the plumbing might be older and not work as well as you are used to. In addition, there are washers, but no dryers, so get ready to hang your clothes up out the window or on some drying racks.

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Study abroad in Rome and experience adventure!

Expect a study abroad experience complete with unparalleled culture, food, and history.

These things to know before studying abroad will keep you well equipped to embark on any adventure in the Eternal City! Simply be aware of your surroundings, stay safe, see as much as you can, and have fun! Once you come back you will have tips for studying abroad in Rome of your own.