If you don't speak Italian, you'll probably get by with English in Rome. More Italians, however, are comfortable with a smattering of French than English, and cognates often help Spanish speakers.
Don’t be afraid to improve your Italian by talking to the native speakers.
France is notorious for being totally snobbish and unforgiving of overseas visitors who try hard to speak their language but make mistakes. Italians however are much friendlier, and will forgive all mistakes in their language; They'll smile and help you along.
