Rome has always held a certain magic for me—a timeless charm that somehow feels both grand and intimate. As a mature solo female traveller, I found the Eternal City to be not just welcoming but wonderfully liberating. Whether it was sipping espresso in a sun-dappled piazza or wandering ancient ruins at my own pace, Rome offered me the perfect mix of adventure, history, and self-discovery.
If you’re planning your own solo journey to Italy’s capital, here’s my guide to the best things to see and do, where to stay, solo-friendly places to eat, and practical tips for getting around safely and confidently.
What I Loved Seeing and Doing in Rome
- The Colosseum and Roman Forum
Standing inside the Colosseum was one of those moments that truly took my breath away. Imagining the roar of ancient crowds as I gazed up at the crumbling arches was awe-inspiring. I booked a small-group tour that included the Roman Forum, and I’m glad I did—the guide’s stories really brought the ruins to life. As a solo traveller, I found joining a guided tour was a great way to feel connected and informed without feeling overwhelmed.
- Vatican City
Visiting Vatican City was another highlight. I made an early start and pre-booked a skip-the-line ticket to avoid the crowds—an absolute must. The Sistine Chapel left me speechless, and I found a quiet moment of reflection in St Peter’s Basilica. It didn’t matter that I was on my own; the beauty of it all was deeply moving.
- Getting Lost in Trastevere
Trastevere quickly became one of my favourite areas. Its cobbled streets, pastel houses, and little piazzas made it perfect for wandering without a plan. I spent an afternoon there browsing boutiques, enjoying a leisurely lunch, and visiting the Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere. I felt completely safe walking alone and was struck by how friendly the locals were.
- The Pantheon and Piazza Navona
The Pantheon was even more impressive than I’d expected. I stood beneath its dome in awe, marvelling at how such ancient engineering could feel so modern. Just a short walk away is Piazza Navona, where I treated myself to a gelato and sat watching the world go by—one of the simple joys of solo travel.
- Villa Borghese and the Borghese Gallery
Needing a break from the city bustle, I spent a peaceful morning in Villa Borghese park. I rented a bike and cycled around the shady paths before visiting the Borghese Gallery, which houses masterpieces by Bernini and Caravaggio. I booked my ticket in advance, which I’d recommend as entry numbers are limited.
You can find lots of things to do in Rome here
Where I Stayed: Safe and Stylish Solo-Friendly Hotels
Hotel Artemide
I stayed at Hotel Artemide on Via Nazionale and absolutely loved it. The location was ideal—close to many attractions but still peaceful in the evenings. My room was spotless and quiet, the spa was a godsend after long days walking, and the staff were incredibly helpful.
Nerva Boutique Hotel
I also considered the Nerva Boutique Hotel, especially for its charming location in the Monti district. It’s a fantastic area for solo travellers, with independent shops, local cafés, and a friendly atmosphere.
The Beehive
For a more relaxed, community-focused stay, The Beehive near Termini Station came highly recommended. It offers yoga classes and communal dinners, which are great ways to meet other travellers—especially if you’re looking for companionship over a meal without the pressure of a big group.
Eating Alone in Rome: A Joyful Experience
I never once felt uncomfortable dining alone in Rome. In fact, it became a favourite part of my day—an opportunity to slow down, reflect, and savour the moment.
Roscioli
This gourmet deli-meets-restaurant was a real treat. I sat at the bar with a glass of red wine and the best carbonara I’ve ever tasted. The staff were friendly and attentive without being intrusive.
Enoteca Ferrara
Tucked away in Trastevere, this cosy wine bar offered a warm welcome and a great menu. I enjoyed a beautifully cooked fish dish, paired with a crisp white wine recommended by the waiter. Perfect for a solo dinner.
Tazza d’Oro
Near the Pantheon, this café became my morning ritual. I’d order a strong espresso or a creamy granita di caffè and take in the buzz of the city starting its day.
Ginger Sapori e Salute
When I craved something light and healthy, Ginger was my go-to. It has a fresh, modern menu and a bright, welcoming space where I felt right at home with my journal and a fresh juice.
How I Got Around Safely and Easily
Rome’s compact centre made it easy to explore on foot, and I truly enjoyed walking from place to place. But I also picked up a few tips along the way:
Walking
Comfortable shoes are a must—the cobbled streets are charming but tough on the feet! I stuck to well-lit areas in the evening and always felt safe.
Public Transport
The metro was clean, quick, and straightforward. I used it during the day, especially when heading to the Vatican or Termini Station. I made sure to keep my bag zipped and in front of me, especially when it was crowded.
Taxis and Ride Apps
When I was out late or needed to get somewhere quickly, I used official white taxis or booked a ride via Free Now. It felt more secure than hailing one on the street.
Airport Transfers
I pre-booked a car from the airport, which gave me peace of mind after a long flight. On the way back, I used the Leonardo Express train from Termini to Fiumicino—fast, safe, and reliable.
My Top Solo Travel Tips for Rome
- Confidence is key: A friendly smile and a firm “No, grazie” worked wonders when I was approached by overly persistent vendors.
- Dress comfortably but modestly, especially when visiting churches. A light scarf came in handy for covering shoulders.
- Learn a few Italian phrases—even just “Buongiorno” or “Un caffè, per favore” opened doors and drew smiles.
- Give yourself downtime. Rome can be overwhelming, so I planned leisurely afternoons in piazzas or parks to simply enjoy the city’s rhythm.
Final Thoughts: Rome, Just for Me
Travelling to Rome on my own as a woman over 50 was one of the most enriching experiences I’ve had. I was free to explore at my own pace, follow my curiosity, and embrace moments of quiet wonder. The Eternal City truly lives up to its name—and I found that travelling solo made it all the more meaningful.
If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting Rome alone, don’t hesitate. Book the ticket, pack your walking shoes, and prepare for a journey you’ll never forget.
