Rome Travel Guide
Known as the Eternal City, Rome is an ancient and fascinating travel destination, which tops the bucket list of many a historical sightseer and Catholic pilgrim. Hundreds of thousands of visitors travel to Rome on holiday every year to steep themselves in the remnants of the ancient Roman Empire, glory in the artistic treasures of the Vatican City, and gorge on pasta and pizza in pretty piazzas. Rome boasts possibly the best historical sightseeing in the world, with priceless ancient attractions strewn all over the city. Gems such as the Pantheon and the Colosseum can single-handedly justify a trip to Rome. Though it may feel eternal, the Italian capital also offers some modern thrills, with a stylish fashion scene and good shopping, sumptuous restaurants, a proud and lively population, and a laid-back, fun nightlife.
For many Catholics, a visit to Rome and the Vatican City is an unforgettable religious pilgrimage, and even non-Christians will be awed by Michelangelo's frescoes in the Sistine Chapel and the numerous treasures and beauties of the Pope's seat. Art-lovers will find marvels on every street corner and some of the most astounding galleries, museums and churches on earth.
Best time to visit Rome
The best time to travel to Rome is during the spring (April and May) when the city experiences lovely warm holiday weather with plenty of sunshine and blue skies. The height of summer (July and August) can be uncomfortably hot for trudging sightseers.
What to see in Rome
-Marvel at the museums and views of Capitoline Hill, seat of power in Ancient Rome.
-Visit the 4th-century Basilica Di San Giovanni, the first church built in Rome.
-Imagine fierce gladiatorial battles within the iconic Colosseum.
-Stroll through the winding, romantic streets of Trastavere, searching out coffee and gelato.
What to do in Rome
-Explore the thrilling remains of Ancient Rome's political centre at the Roman Forum.
-Take a tour of St Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Necropolis where the saint is entombed.
-Toss a coin over your shoulder into the beautiful Trevi Fountain.
-Picnic in the peaceful Villa Doria Pamphili Park, a green haven in a busy city.
Beyond Rome
Rome is conveniently located in the middle of Italy and is a transport hub for the rest of the country, often serving as the entry point for foreign tourists. If visitors can tear themselves away from the endless treasures of the ancient city, it is easy to travel south to Naples and Pompeii, or north to Florence, Venice and Milan.
Getting there
Flights to Rome land in Rome Leonardo da Vinci Airport (known as Fiumicino Airport), situated 19 miles (30km) southwest of central Rome, or in Giovan Battista Pastine Airport (often called Ciampino Airport), located nine miles (15km) southeast of Rome.
Did you know?
-Nearly €700,000 worth of coins get tossed into the Trevi Fountain by tourists every year.
-Rome's population of more than a million was not matched by any European city until London in the 19th-century.
-The first shopping mall was built in Rome by Emperor Trajan and consisted of more than 150 shops.