When traveling to Rome, one of the most important factors to consider is your daily food budget. Italy is known for its delicious cuisine, and Rome offers a wide range of dining options to satisfy any palate. However, it’s essential to plan ahead and understand how much you can expect to spend on food per day in this vibrant city.
The Average Cost of Meals
On average, you can expect to spend around €30-€40 per person per day on food in Rome. This budget will cover three meals including breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Breakfast:
- In Rome, breakfast is usually light and simple.
- You can enjoy a cup of Italian espresso or cappuccino for around €1-€1.50.
- Add a fresh pastry or a croissant (known as cornetto) for €1-€2.
Lunch:
- A traditional Roman lunch at a trattoria or pizzeria typically costs around €10-€15 per person.
- You can savor a delicious pizza margherita or pasta dish like carbonara or amatriciana.
- If you’re on a tighter budget, grab a slice of pizza from a local bakery for just €2-€3.
Dinner:
- Dinner in Rome can be an indulgent experience with numerous fine dining options available.
- Average prices for dinner at a mid-range restaurant range from €20-€30 per person excluding drinks.
- If you prefer a more casual meal, head to a local osteria or trattoria where you can enjoy authentic Italian dishes for €15-€20 per person.
Additional Costs to Consider
While planning your food budget, it’s important to keep in mind additional costs that may arise:
Gelato and Snacks
Rome is famous for its gelato, and indulging in this sweet treat is a must! A cone or cup of gelato usually costs around €2-€4 depending on the size and location of the gelateria. Additionally, if you feel peckish throughout the day, budget around €5-€10 for snacks like arancini (rice balls) or supplì (deep-fried rice croquettes).
Drinks
If you enjoy a glass of wine with your meals, expect to spend around €5-€10 per glass at restaurants. Water is generally not complimentary in Rome, so budget an additional €1-€2 for bottled water.
Tipping
Tipping in Italy is not obligatory but appreciated. It’s common to leave a small tip of around 5-10% if you receive good service. However, some restaurants may include a service charge (coperto) in the bill.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, while dining in Rome can be affordable, it’s essential to plan your food budget accordingly. With an average daily budget of €30-€40 per person, you can enjoy delicious meals at various price points throughout this historic city. From quick bites to leisurely dinners, Rome offers something for every taste and budget.