What do you need to book in advance when you come to Rome?
Here are the attractions in Rome that I would recommend booking in advance:
Colosseum Underground: Offers a unique perspective by allowing visitors to explore beneath the arena and the higher levels of the amphitheater. Booking several weeks in advance is crucial, especially during high season, due to limited availability
Palazzo Farnese: Now serving as the French Embassy, this palazzo requires long advance booking for its limited tours due to security concerns. English tours are available once a week
La Pergola: Rome has only one three-Michelin-starred restaurant and that is La Pergola Restaurant at the Rome Cavalieri Waldorf Astoria.
Known for Chef Heinz Beck's creative dishes, booking months in advance is necessary to secure a spot at this renowned dining establishment.
The Vatican Necropolis (Scavi Tour): A guided tour that takes you below St. Peter's Basilica to the tomb of Saint Peter. Early booking (at least a month in advance) is advised due to the limited number of visitors allowed per day
Papal Audience: Experience prayers, readings, and blessings with the Pope on Wednesday mornings. Tickets are free but you should arrange them 2 to 3 weeks in advance
Roman Forum and Palatine Hill: While you don't need to book tickets in advance just for these sites, combining them with a Colosseum visit might necessitate earlier booking.
The Pantheon: Recent changes require visitors to book a ticket ahead of time, even for this previously free-entry site. Booking is possible two to three weeks in advance
Museums & Sistine Chapel: Due to their popularity, booking a few weeks ahead of time is recommended. Various tour options are available, including self-guided tours
If you are headed to Rome in the coming months, it’s best to start planning today!