Europe · Italy
Rome
Ancient history, vibrant street life and world-class cuisine make Rome an essential destination for curious travellers.
2–4 days
Euro 80–250
Best in spring and autumn for mild weather and smaller crowds; summers are hot and busy.
FCO
Why visit Rome?
Rome condenses millennia of history, art and Italian daily life into walkable neighbourhoods. Between ancient monuments, lively piazzas and bustling markets, visitors can admire world-class museums, sample regional food, and enjoy relaxed cafe culture all within a compact, easily explored city break in a few days.
Rome is a living museum where layers of history sit alongside modern Italian life. Its unparalleled concentration of ancient sites, Renaissance and Baroque art, and atmospheric neighbourhoods makes it ideal for culture seekers, food lovers and romantics. The city suits travellers who enjoy walking between major landmarks, lingering over long meals, and exploring museums at their own pace. Easy day trips and frequent transport links also make Rome an efficient base for longer Italian itineraries.
Quick overview
2873000
Euro
Italian
April, May, September, October
Medium
Is Rome right for you?
Choose Rome if you want
- You love history, architecture and museums concentrated within walkable neighbourhoods.
- You enjoy excellent Italian food, lively streets and easy day-trip options across the Lazio region.
Consider another city if you want
- You want a quiet nature escape or beach holiday rather than a busy urban break.
- You dislike crowds, hot summers or irregular opening hours at major attractions.
City ratings
Top things to do in Rome
Colosseum
Iconic Roman amphitheatre where public spectacles once took place; booking timed entry reveals dramatic architecture and contextual displays about ancient Roman life.
Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica
Home to the Sistine Chapel and vast art collections; combine museum entry with St. Peter’s Basilica and dome climb for Renaissance masterpieces and sweeping views.
Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
Ruins that were the political and social heart of ancient Rome, offering layered archaeology and panoramic views that illustrate the city’s foundations.
Pantheon
Exceptionally preserved Roman temple with a dramatic oculus; admire its harmonious interior, Baroque additions and the lively piazza cafés outside.
Where to stay
Trastevere
Charming district of narrow lanes, local trattorie and lively evenings; suits couples and food lovers who want authentic dining and easy river crossings to central sights.
Centro Storico
Historic core around the Pantheon, Piazza Navona and Trevi Fountain; ideal for first-time visitors who want to walk between major attractions and central transport hubs.
What to eat in Rome
Cacio e Pepe
Simple pasta of pecorino cheese and black pepper; creamy, peppery and essential to try at a traditional Roman trattoria.
Carbonara
Emulsified sauce of eggs, pecorino, guanciale and black pepper served with al dente pasta, showcasing classic Roman technique.
Supplì
Fried rice ball filled with tomato-scented risotto and melted mozzarella; a popular street snack and appetizer in casual eateries.
Getting there and around
Getting to Rome
Rome is served by Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO) with regular trains to Termini via the Leonardo Express; Ciampino (CIA) handles some low-cost carriers with bus connections. Major international and high-speed trains arrive at Roma Termini, while long-distance buses use Tiburtina station, offering multiple convenient entry points for travellers.
Getting around Rome
Central Rome is highly walkable, with many attractions within easy walking distance. Public transport (metro, buses and trams run by ATAC) helps cover longer trips, though the metro network is limited. Taxis and ride apps are widely available; scooters and bike rentals offer flexibility. A car is unnecessary and often more trouble due to traffic and scarce parking.
A two-day itinerary
Day 1: Start at the Colosseum and Roman Forum, then climb Palatine Hill for views. Afternoon visit to Capitoline Museums or a relaxed lunch near the Jewish Ghetto, finish with dinner and evening in Trastevere.
Day 2: Book an early slot for the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, visit St. Peter’s Basilica and climb the dome. Afternoon stroll via Castel Sant’Angelo to the Pantheon, Piazza Navona and the Trevi Fountain, ending with gelato near the Spanish Steps.
Best day trip
Tivoli – Visit Villa d’Este’s famous Renaissance gardens and fountains plus Hadrian’s Villa ruins; both offer scenic architecture and greenery about 30–60 minutes by train or organized bus from Rome, making a refreshing contrast to city monuments.
Tivoli’s Villa d’Este and Hadrian’s Villa pair dramatic gardens, ornate fountains and expansive classical ruins for a scenic and historic day away from the city, reachable in about 30–60 minutes.
Similar cities
Naples
Barcelona
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