Packing Tips

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.
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.

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