Whether you're into history, food or fashion, all roads lead to Rome. Italy's Eternal City, found in the region of Lazio, is a popular holiday destination is brimming with things to do, places to see and dishes to eat throughout the year.
It's the sort of place you can also spend an afternoon wandering even without an itinerary, meandering down the cobblestone streets and soaking up 28 centuries of history. When you're ready to head inside and receive a more direct hit of culture, Rome's many museums are ready to host you, packed with Michelangelo's paintings and sculptures among many other famous pieces.
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They call it the Eternal City for a reason. Rome is one of the world's most historically rich and culturally significant cities and is a very popular destination for travellers from all over the world.
Rome is home to some of the world's most iconic historical landmarks and architectural masterpieces, including the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and Vatican City. You could easily spend a few days here getting lost in museums and galleries and soaking up centuries of culture.
What’s more, Rome is a fashion capital, and its street markets, high-end boutiques, and vintage shops offer plenty of opportunities for picking up chic new outfits. Leave some room in your luggage for your arrival in Rome, you’re sure to leave with heavier suitcases!
The Italian capital isn’t short on things to see and do. The annual Rome Carnival is a beautifully atmospheric pre-Lent festival that takes place in February or March and includes street performers, music, processions, great feasts and masked revellers in the streets.
With the centre of Christianity so nearby, you can expect Easter Sunday to be a monumental affair each year. This religious celebration rounds off with a procession led by the Pope and traditional foods, such as lamb, served in homes and restaurants.
Rome Film Festival is a glamorous affair held every November, celebrating the best in film from around the globe. If you’re in the city at this time, chances are you’ll spot a famous face! To experience the high arts, you’ll want to visit in summer during the Estate Romana, a high-brow festival of a variety of cultural events, including concerts, theatre performances, opera and art exhibitions.
Check out our guide on how to spend 3 days in Rome
Rome Colosseum
A holiday in Rome is incomplete without sampling some (or all!) of the myriad of delights that come from here. Carbonara is a dish loved around the world… and also totally butchered outside of Rome. A real carbonara is made with eggs, pancetta, pecorino romano cheese, and black pepper. An Italian may faint if you try to add cream!
Try the traditional street food supplì - delicious savoury fried rice balls filled with mozzarella and tomato sauce that are similar to arancini. You’re sure to want to seek out pizza too. Roman-style pizza is typically thin-crusted and crispy, with simple toppings such as tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil that differentiates it from the more typical Neapolitan style.
And don't even think about leaving the city without trying some sweet treats. All over Rome, you’ll find gelato shops displaying mountains of irresistible ice cream in huge varieties of flavours and colours and definitely seek out some cannoli - crisp deep-fried pastries stuffed with sweet ricotta and chocolate or pistachios. Ok, so these really come from Sicily, but Romans adore them and so will you!
Cannolis
Great for kids: The Borghese gardens are a lush green space for kids to run around and burn some energy. It’s home to Rome’s Zoo which is sure to delight as well.
Great for teens: See some street art. Rome is home to lots of elaborate and fantastic graffiti and there are even tours where you can learn more and find the best spots.
Great for couples: toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain. It’s said the third coin you throw over your shoulder will help lead the way for marriage…
Great for large groups: explore the decadence of Ostiense after dark. This neighbourhood is full of great bars and lively nightclubs that the whole gang will love.
Escape the city. Rome is surrounded by beautiful countryside and hills in the Lazio region, providing a great day trip away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre.
The neighbourhood of Trastevere over on the west bank of the Tiber is home to a plethora of narrow streets, artisanal shops, and a laid-back bohemian vibe.
The city of Rome is fascinating to explore, but don’t forget about the gorgeous towns just moments outside the city. From hilltop towns with breathtaking views to ancient Roman ruins and charming medieval villages, there is no shortage of incredible places to discover on the outskirts of Rome.
On Aventine Hill in the orange tree garden, you’ll find the Knights of Malta Keyhole - a stunning view over to St. Peter’s Basilica framed perfectly by verdant hedges. Ideal Instagram fodder!
Located just 30 km outside of Rome, Tivoli is a charming hilltop town that offers a glimpse into ancient Roman and Renaissance history. The town is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the stunning Villa d'Este, famous for its elaborate fountains and gardens, and the grand Hadrian's Villa, an impressive complex of ruins that was once the luxurious retreat of Emperor Hadrian.
Situated near the mouth of the Tiber River, Ostia Antica is a well-preserved ancient Roman town that offers a glimpse into life in ancient Rome. Visitors can explore the ruins of Ostia's ancient city walls, theatres, public baths, and more which date back to the 4th century BC. The town is also home to a museum that showcases artefacts from the site's excavations, as well as a nearby beach and nature reserve.
Nestled in the hills of the Castelli Romani, Frascati is a picturesque town known for its stunning views and delicious wines. Visitors can explore the town's historic centre, which features charming streets, baroque churches, and elegant villas. Frascati is also home to several wineries, where visitors can sample local wines and learn about the town's winemaking traditions.
As they say, all roads lead to Rome, so the city is pretty easy to access. Over 10.5 million visitors make their way to the city each year, and although it is very walkable, cyclable and fairly flat, the city also has a convenient metro system and many many taxis to whizz you about.
Rome is served by two airports, Fiumicino and Ciampino. The flight time from London is roughly two hours and both airports have easily navigable bus and rail connections to the city centre.
Rome Termini is the main train station in the city with services that stretch far and wide across Italy’s mainland. You can reach Rome from Venice in the north in around 4 hours, or from Lecce right down in the heel of Italy in roughly 5 hours 30 mins. Elsewhere in Europe is also accessible by rail too.
Rome is fairly well known to be home to some zany drivers with a very… confident… driving style! Only venture into the city as a driver if you are super savvy behind the wheel.
The centre of Rome is a limited traffic zone (ZTL) so we recommend taking a taxi or Uber for ease and convenience.
The best sights of Rome are located super near to each other, making the city very walkable. One minute you’ll be checking out a pretty side street, the next you’ll step out in front of a magnificent ancient monument. Walking in Rome is the best!
Rome is known for its rich history, culture, art, architecture, and food. It is famous for ancient landmarks, religious significance, art museums and galleries, traditional cuisine, and magnificent architecture.
To see the major attractions and get a sense of Rome's history, culture, and cuisine, it's recommended to spend at least 3-4 days in the city. However, the length of your stay ultimately depends on your personal preferences, budget, and schedule.
Technically, it is possible to swim in the Venice Canals, but it is not allowed and not The best time to visit Rome is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Summer can be hot and humid, and winter can be cold and rainy, but both offer their own advantages for visiting the city.
The best place to stay in Rome depends on your preferences and budget. The Historic Center is a popular area to stay in as it provides easy access to most of the city's attractions.
Rome can be an expensive city, particularly in terms of accommodation and dining. However, it is still possible to find budget-friendly options for both. Admission fees to major tourist attractions can also be costly, but many offer free admission on certain days or during certain hours. Overall, the cost of visiting Rome will depend on your travel style, preferences, and budget.
