Packing
The weather is considerably
milder in Rome than in the north and central United States or Great
Britain. In summer, stick with clothing that's as light as possible,
although a sweater may be necessary in the cool of the evening. Brief
summer afternoon thunderstorms are common, so carry an umbrella.
During the winter bring a medium-weight coat and a raincoat. Central
heating may not be up to your standards, and interiors can be cold
and damp; take wools or flannel rather than sheer fabrics. Bring
sturdy shoes for winter, and comfortable walking shoes in any
season.
Italians dress well and are not sloppy. They do not usually wear
shorts in the city, unless longish Bermudas happen to be in fashion.
Men aren't required to wear ties or jackets anywhere, except in some
of the grander hotel dining rooms and top-level restaurants, but are
expected to look reasonably sharp. Formal wear is the exception
rather than the rule at the opera nowadays, though people in
expensive seats usually do get dressed up.
Dress codes are strict for visits to churches--especially St.
Peter's--and to the Vatican Museums.
Women must cover bare shoulders and arms--a shawl will do--but no
longer need cover their heads. Shorts are taboo for both men and
women. For the huge general papal audiences, no rules of dress apply
other than those of common sense.
Take your own soap if you stay in budget hotels, as many do not
provide it or else give guests only one tiny bar per room.
Electricity
To use your U.S.-purchased electric-powered equipment, bring a converter and an adapter. The electrical current in Italy is 220 volts, 50 cycles alternating current (AC); wall outlets take plugs with two round prongs.