Restrooms

Public restrooms are a rare commodity in Rome. Although there are public toilets in Piazza di San Pietro, Piazza San Silvestro, Piazza di Spagna, at the Roman Forum, and in a few other strategic locations (all with a charge of EUR 0.50-EUR 0.70), the locals seem to make do primarily with well-timed pit stops and rely on the local bar. Most bars will allow you to use the restroom if you ask politely, though it's courteous to buy a little something—such as a bottle of water or espresso—in exchange for access to the facilities. Standards of cleanliness and comfort vary greatly. Restaurants, hotels, department stores like La Rinascente and Coin, and McDonald's restaurants tend to have the cleanest restrooms. Pubs and bars rank among the worst. It's a good idea to carry a packet of tissues with you as you can't rely on most places having any toilet paper at all. There are bathrooms in all airports, train stations, and in most subway stations. In major train stations you'll also find well-kept pay toilets for EUR 0.70 and in most museums. Carry a selection of coins as some turnstiles do not give change. There are also free facilities at highway rest stops and gas stations: a small tip to the cleaning person is always appreciated. There are no bathrooms in churches, post offices, and public beaches.