Roaming Rome As A Solo Filipina: My Travel Tips and Experience from Switzerland to the Eternal City

Have you ever imagined yourself walking through cobblestone alleys, gazing up at ancient ruins, and eating delicious gelato and iconic traditional pasta dishes? Rome is the perfect place for that. 

If you are a solo female traveler planning to visit Italy and its capital, then this Rome travel blog is for you. I spent 3 days and 3 nights in Rome, not nearly enough to cover the entire city, but just enough to explore some of its iconic landmarks, soak in its charm, and learn about those infamous pickpockets. 

This guide offers real experiences, practical tips, and other essential details to ensure your Roman holiday is smooth, safe, and memorable. 

What are you waiting for? Continue reading to find out more!

From Switzerland to Fiumicino Airport

I arrived at Rome’s Fiumicino Airport ‘Leonardo da Vinci’ (FCO) around 11:23 PM. It was already Day 11 of my European trip, and at this point, I felt tired but also excited about what was ahead.

By the way, if you are planning to book your flight and are confused about why Google Flights or Skyscanner is showing two different airports, then let me give you a tip.

Fiumicino Airport primarily caters to long-haul flights operated by airlines such as Emirates, Qatar Airways, Lufthansa, EasyJet, ITA Airways, and others. This is the main international airport, so it is comfortable and equipped with reliable public transport. It also has a direct train to Termini Station, which is the main train station in Rome. 

On the other hand, Ciampino Airport (CIA) is a smaller airport just 15km from the city center. It’s reserved for budget airlines like Ryanair, Wizzair, and Wizzair Malta. 

If you are coming from European countries, or even flying from a different part of Italy, then you will probably land there. Ciampino Airport has buses that go to the center in 45-60 minutes, but there are fewer direct options than Fiumicino.

After landing in Fiumicino, it was a smooth bus ride to Roma Termini, followed by another one to Mama Roma Shelter Hotel, where I stayed for 2 nights. 

If your flight doesn’t arrive too late and the metro’s still running, you can take Metro Line A from Roma Termini toward Battistini and get off at Cipro Station. From there, it’s just a 5-minute walk to Mama Roma Shelter Hotel.

Having accommodation in a good location is key. While Rome’s metro is well-connected, metro tickets cost around $2, and those small costs can add up if you’re constantly commuting. Staying closer to the sights saves time, energy, and a few extra euros.

You can book an online shuttle bus from Fiumicino Airport to Vatican City here: https://gyg.me/TnvihVlz 

A Day in the Vatican City: A Glimpse Into Catholicism’s Centre

Going to the Vatican City is a bucket list item for many. People who visit Rome make sure that they set aside a time to go to the Vatican, and I understand why.

Vatican offers breathtaking views, and it gives a deeper understanding of the Catholic faith. My kabayans (fellow Filipinos) back in the Philippines are mostly Catholic, so visiting the Vatican City is non-negotiable.

Before you even arrive at Vatican City, you must prepare and book your tickets and tours in advance. Due to the number of people visiting per day, demand is high and tickets can sell out when you leave it too late. Aim to book at least a week before your planned visit. 

The most important tip that I can give you is to arrive early, before 7 AM. Crowds will start surging around 8 AM, and the queue to enter can be long and time-consuming, so arriving earlier gives you an advantage.

Another important note is that the Vatican has a dress code. If you are not dressed appropriately, you might get stopped. 

So dress at your own risk. There are security checks before you are allowed into the square, and modest clothing is usually enforced. If you make it through without any issues, consider yourself lucky!

Here are some of the most notable things to do in Vatican City.

Roam Around Piazza San Pietro

Piazza San Pietro, or St. Peter’s Square, is one of the most iconic public spaces in the world. It is often seen from a bird’s-eye perspective, with its symmetrical shape and aesthetic.

Did you know that it was designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini? The 284 Doric columns exude an outstanding sense of scale and symmetry. 

In the center, there is a 4,000-year-old Egyptian obelisk, which is flanked by two majestic fountains. The obelisk symbolizes the eternal power of the Catholic Church.

The square is the heart of Vatican City and is often where Masses are held during Catholic feast days, such as during Easter and Christmas. It is also a symbol of the global presence of Catholicism.

Even if you are not religious, the square is designed for quiet reflection. In peak tourist season, the Piazza San Pietro can get pretty crowded, especially during spring and summer (March-August). 

Visit the Basilica of St. Peter 

The Basilica of St. Peter is one of the main attractions in the Vatican City. The good news is, it is completely free to enter.

While the queue and security can be long, I will tell you that it is worth the wait. Once you are inside, you are greeted by the works of Michelangelo, Bernini, and Raphael.

It is one of the largest churches in the world. Inside, you will see Michelangelo’s iconic work: the Pieta. 

This beautifully detailed sculpture of Mary holding the body of Jesus commands one’s attention, even when it is behind protective glass.

At the center of the church, you will see a towering bronze canopy, which is called Bernini’s Baldachin. It marks the location of the Tomb of St. Peter, which could be visited on certain days through a staircase going down the site. 

This somber space holds the tombs of past popes and is believed to be where St. Peter, the first Pope of the Church, is buried.

If you want to see breathtaking views from the Vatican, consider climbing up Saint Peter’s Dome (Cupola). At 136 meters above the floor, it is one of the tallest domes in the world. 

While ascending, you will see stunning mosaics, and at the top, it offers an amazing panoramic view of the Vatican Gardens, St. Peter’s Square, and Rome. 

While the Basilica itself is free, access to the Dome requires an entrance fee. You can book your tickets here. 

2025 is a Jubilee Year for the Catholic Church, which means that the Basilica will have its Porta Sancta, or the Holy Door. Crossing would mean a spiritual renewal and a plenary indulgence for a pilgrim.

Note: You must dress modestly. Shorts, short skirts, and sleeveless tops are not allowed inside the Basilica.

Explore the Vatican Museums

If you want to see the famous Sistine Chapel, then going to the Vatican Museums is a must for your visit.

This vast complex is a journey through centuries of Catholic faith, art, and history. From Egyptian mummies to Renaissance masterpieces, every room, ceiling, and wall of the Vatican Museums offers so much to every visitor.

Depending on your pace, the visit takes roughly 2-3 hours. The Vatican Museums have it all. It’s so easy to get overwhelmed by the quantity of art and history all in one place. Don’t get a stiff neck from trying to look up to Michelangelo’s ceiling fresco, especially The Creation of Adam.

Photos are not allowed inside, so make sure you take the time to look at every little detail. 

You can book your Vatican activities here: 

Vatican: Museums & Sistine Chapel Entrance Ticket

Rome: Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & Basilica Tour 

Rome: St. Peter’s Basilica, Dome Climb, and Underground Tour 

Tiber River: Where Ancient Rome Was Built

The Tiber River is more than just an ordinary body of water. It is where ancient Rome was founded, and it is the heart of the city’s layout and spirit.

Flowing gently for over 400 kilometers, I found the Tiber River to be the best spot to chill and rest after a long day of exploring and walking. You will see narrow paths and iconic landmarks on your way, so just take your time and slow down.

If you’re like me, who probably hits 15,000 steps per day due to how much I want to see, then the best time to wind down is by relaxing in one of the benches overlooking the Tiber River.

Depending on the season when you visit Rome, you will have other things to do, such as the Lungo il Tevere festival, which fills the riverbanks of the river with food stalls, live music, and open-air bars.

Tip: If you want to do a sunset walk along the Tiber River, start from the Trastevere area and cross over to Campo de Fiori. It’s fascinating to see how ancient and modern Rome blend along the way.

Here’s a Tiber River activity you can book online: 

Rome: Tiber River Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour Ticket 

Rome: Food Tasting and Wine Pairing & Tiber River Boat Ride 

Piazza Navona: Stunning Fountains and Underground Museum

One of the most underrated places in Rome is Piazza Navona, which is a must-visit for its stunning baroque architecture, especially when you want a gelato break and people watch.

Bernini also sculpted the piazza’s heart, which is the Fountain of the Four Rivers. This marble masterpiece represents the Nile, Ganges, Danube, and Rio de la Plata, surrounding an Egyptian obelisk in the center. 

I must say that when preparing your own Rome travel guide, be sure not to miss visiting the Piazza Navona Underground or the Domitian Stadium Museum, located directly below the Piazza Navona.

If you want to learn more about Rome’s ancient sports and architecture, this is the best place to go. The remains of the ancient Roman stadium include preserved foundations, arches, and informative exhibits that bring the city’s athletic history to life. 

This museum is included in the Roma Pass, but even if you don’t have it, the entrance fee is not expensive, which makes it a great escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. It’s quiet, cool, and will keep you protected from the midday heat, especially during summer.

Book your ticket with an audio guide here: Rome: Navona Square Underground Ticket with Audio Guide

Pantheon: Rome’s Timeless Wonder

After visiting Piazza Navona, I decided to walk towards the famous Pantheon, which is a quick five-minute stroll.

This timeless wonder is always part of all the top things to do in Rome, and for a good reason. Built 2,000 years ago by Marcus Agrippa (right-hand man of Emperor Augustus), the Pantheon remains one of the best-preserved buildings in Ancient Rome.

If you have some extra time in your trip, I encourage you to step inside and look up. The dome is massive and perfectly round, and it immediately reminded me that architects and engineers of ancient Rome were geniuses of their time. 

What’s more, it’s made of unreinforced concrete, which makes it an even more astounding architectural feat. 

If you are an architecture buff, this should be on top of your list, and even if not, you’d find tombs of Italian kings and even the artist Raphael here. 

Trust me, the Pantheon is one of the places you can never miss when you go to Rome.

Book your guided tour here: Rome: Pantheon Timeless Marvel Guided Tour with Entry Ticket 

Trevi Fountain: Time for Instagrammable Pictures

I’m sure you and I have seen the aesthetic posts on Instagram or TikTok, with the beautiful Trevi Fountain in the background, and we immediately know that the person is in Rome.

Nothing says “European trip” louder than seeing and taking a picture with the Trevi Fountain, but it’s more than just a quick snapshot.

Trevi Fountain is famous among those who want to make a wish by tossing a coin with their right hand over their left shoulder, hoping to return to Rome one day.

In 2024, Rome went through extensive maintenance and construction work in preparation for the Vatican’s 2025 Jubilee. One of the major sights that underwent maintenance was the Trevi Fountain. 

In December 2024, Rome reopened the Trevi Fountain with some major changes implemented. Visitors can still enjoy the iconic fountain, but with controlled access. 

Only 400 people are allowed at a time, and queues are regulated. While the fountain remains free to visit, a €2 fee and time slots will be implemented soon. 

The fountain continues to be a popular spot for the traditional coin toss, with proceeds donated to charity. Visitors are reminded of new rules, including no sitting on the fountain’s edge and no eating or drinking.

Bioparco di Roma: A Serene Escape in Central Rome

If you are like me, who likes to find refuge in nature everywhere I go, Bioparco di Roma is a serene escape from Rome’s super touristy and bustling streets.

It is a historic 17-hectare zoo located in the Northern part of Villa Borghese, specifically at Piazzale del Giardino Zoologico 1.

It’s the oldest zoo in Italy and is home to more than 1,100 animals across 222 species. The highlights of my visit included seeing the rhinoceros, zebra, giraffes, penguins, and various species of monkeys.

The Bioparco di Roma is not just a zoo. It is also a rescue and conservation center, which means you’re helping support a bigger cause beyond just seeing cute animals. 

Admission fees are around €18 if you get the regular one, but you can score discounts if you book early online. Students or reduced categories pay €14, and if you’re super last-minute, there’s even a €9 ticket if you buy it just 2 hours before closing.  

If you are planning a visit and want more information, you can visit Bioparco di Roma’s website here. 

Colosseum: Rome’s Most Iconic Landmark

Your visit to Rome would never be complete without being inside the Colosseum. Known also as the Coloseo, Rome’s iconic landmark is more than just a monument or a structure from ancient Rome.

When I was looking at the Colosseum, my first thoughts were: How were they able to create something this massive, grand, and architecturally unique without the help of machines?

Being able to fit up to 50,000 spectators, the Colosseum was the ancient Roman arena for games and entertainment. Once you are inside, you can roam around its corridors and walk in hidden alleyways from different levels.

Detailed and intricate carvings and ancient graffiti can be seen, as well as some stone seats that have stood the test of time. It’s incredibly surreal how well-preserved it all is. 

Interactive models and exhibits are also available to better understand the history and marvelous engineering of the Colosseum. 

If you want to take it a step further, you can buy a ticket that includes the hypogeum (underground), which includes a guided access as well to the place where the ancient gladiators wait before their match. You can buy your tickets from the official website here. 

Once you are done with your tour, you will find the nearby piazzas full of street artists and performers. You can also take pictures with costumed gladiators if you feel like it!

If you want to join a Colosseum small group tour, book your ticket here: Colosseum Arena, Ancient Rome, and Optional Underground Tour 

Castel Sant’Angelo: A Secret Fortress

Just a short walk from the Vatican and near the Tiber River, Castel Sant’Angelo is one of those places in Rome that catches you off guard in the best way. 

It started as Emperor Hadrian’s tomb way back in the 2nd century, but over the years, it’s been a fortress, a papal hideout, a prison, and now a museum.

One of the coolest things? There’s a secret passageway called the Passetto di Borgo that used to let popes sneak out of the Vatican when things got sketchy. 

Inside the castle, you’ll find spiral staircases, old weapons, elegant rooms where popes once stayed, and an epic rooftop view of the city.

In the evenings, Castel Sant’Angelo is beautifully lit with golden tones, and Ponte Sant’Angelo (the bridge) often comes alive with street performers, vendors, and artists, creating a lively and romantic ambiance, especially during summer.

Book your online ticket with an audioguide here: Rome: Castel Sant’Angelo Entry Ticket with Audioguide 

Roma Pass: Is It Worth It?

The Roma Pass is a city card that provides access to certain museums, archaeological sites, and unlimited public transportation. It is offered by the Municipality of Rome.

I would say that the Roma Pass is a super convenient and cost-effective option, especially for travelers who want to see a lot of what Rome has to offer in 48 or 72 hours.

The Roma Pass 48-hour costs €36.50 and the 72-hour costs €58.50. Here’s why buying the Roma Pass, for example, for 3 days, is worth it:

• If you want to visit the Colosseum (€18) and Capitoline Museums (€13), these two are included in the Roma Pass, so that’s already €31.
• Every metro and bus ride in Rome costs €1.50 per trip, so that can add up as well.
• Special entrances and skip-the-line lanes for Roma Pass holders, which can save you a lot of time and waiting if you are on a strict schedule.
• You want to go to museums, which include the Ara Pacis (€14), Palazzo Barberini (€15), and Museo di Roma (€13).

However, one thing that I wish were included in the Roma Pass is access to the Colosseum’s underground chambers, the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and the dome of Saint Peter’s Basilica, as all of these require separate payment.

You can buy the Roma Pass online here or also at in-person points at Fiumicino and Ciampino airports and Termini Station. Vatican tickets sell out fast, so you might want to book them 60 days ahead.

Is the Food Good in Rome? Some Restaurant Advice

There is this idea that food can never go wrong in all parts of Italy, which is true, to some extent.

For example, I stumbled upon this gelato spot called Hedera by accident, and it turned out to be one of the best! Their gelato was amazing, and their crepe is something you shouldn’t miss!

I highly recommend that you go to this place after your day trip to the Vatican City, as it is known for its traditional recipes and high-quality ingredients.

However, there are also some famous places for traditional pasta dishes called Osteria da Fortunata, and honestly, the hype is real…but only to an extent. 

The handmade pasta? A showstopper, especially watching the nonnas roll it out fresh by hand. It’s a vibe for sure, and the carbonara or cacio e pepe are crowd favorites. 

But if I were being real, the experience can be a little bit overrated. Prices are higher than average, and the service can be hit or miss, especially during busy hours. I was overwhelmed by the long queues and lots of tourists during my visit.

Rome and Pickpockets: Should You Be Concerned?

The quick answer is yes. 

Rome is infamously known for its clever pickpockets, maybe more so than in other super touristy European cities like Barcelona and London.

Pickpockets are a real problem in Rome, and some of them even started stealing from the locals, too. Of course, this annoyed the locals, and you will hear some people in the metro shout “Attention, pickpocket!”.

While this has increased awareness of the presence of pickpockets, I think that it is a widespread problem, as even the police are a little bit lost on what to do.

The best advice I can give you is to keep your valuables in secure bags, preferably in front of you, and avoid displaying expensive items. Be cautious of distractions, like people asking for directions or performing tricks, as they might be working with pickpockets. 

Use anti-theft bags and stick close to your group in busy areas. If something is stolen, report it to the police for documentation. 

The adage applies here: better to be safe than sorry. Simple precautions can help you enjoy Rome without the worry of theft.

3D3N Rome Sample Itinerary and Breakdown of Expenses

This is a sample itinerary that I have made based on my trip. Feel free to use this as a gauge for your own Rome travel guide.

I have included here the expenses as well, so you can have an idea of how much 3 days in Rome would cost.‎

Here’s the table with the total cost breakdown:

Arrivederci, Roma

Rome has a rhythm all on its own; every moment is wrapped in la dolce vita, and I hope you can experience the same when you decide to visit this beautiful place.

From walking through the ruins of the Colosseum that feel straight out of a movie to tossing a coin into the Trevi fountain, Rome felt unreal. 

If you have been dreaming of Rome, book the ticket. Everything else will fall into place after. This Rome travel guide is created for people with wanderlust in their hearts. Now go and make it happen! ‘Til next time, Eternal City!

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