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Rome travel guide

The ancient capital of the vast Roman Empire continues to attract people from all over the world, as it has for thousands of years. Where else can you see epic ruins and Renaissance architecture in the morning, followed by Michaelangelo’s sculptures and Caravaggio’s paintings in the afternoon? Rome has art and culture in abundance, along with everything that makes an Italian holiday so wonderful: mouthwatering cuisine, great wines, gelato to-die-for, exceptional coffee and of course, a healthy appreciation for the good life. If you’re planning a visit, explore our Rome travel guide. We’ve collected the best tips from our travel experts, and have top suggestions for things to do, the best time to travel, where to stay in Rome, getting around and more. We even have a guide to Leonardo da Vinci Airport in Fiumicino (aka Rome Airport) to help you find your way.

Where to stay

With so many interesting things to see and do, it can be a challenge to decide where to stay in Rome. Thanks to the city’s numerous landmarks and places of interest, it’s not difficult to find accommodation close to the things you want to see.  So, how do you decide? Apart from your budget, you should definitely consider the type of experience you want to have during your vacation. Do you want to shop ‘til you drop or indulge in the luxurious side of the city? Do you want to live like a local or immerse yourself in museums? Here are some of the best areas to stay in Rome.

Things to do

With so many things to do in Rome, it can be a challenge to fit it all into one holiday. The city is home to monuments like the Colosseum that have been around for thousands of years. It also has churches and palazzos full of masterpieces by Renaissance geniuses like Raphael and Bernini. Your time in Rome is sure to be enriching and enlightening. 

Travel tips

Don't be fazed by the long voyage and other transit stresses; knowing a couple of Rome travel tips will help you feel more confident. For instance, knowing that Rome has good drinking water from taps and fountains will save you from buying bottled water. You should also know that there's a lot of walking cobblestone streets and waiting in lines when it comes to sightseeing. So be sure to wear comfortable shoes and buy your tickets in advance whenever possible. Here's some more Rome travel advice to keep in mind.

Getting Around

Visiting Rome's parks and squares provides welcome respite from the city’s bustling streets, while the city’s squares are open air art galleries – home to some of Rome’s most famous statues.  Refresh your senses and relax after a long day of sightseeing at the university botanic gardens in Trastevere or the Rome Rose Garden. Drop by the piazzas (squares) to see sculptural fountains made by Renaissance masters. Rome's piazzas are also a good place to find open-air markets selling fresh produce as well as restaurants and bars – perfect for people watching late into the evening.

Where to eat

As Italy's capital, you can expect Rome's food and drinks scene to have delicious and authentic fare everywhere you look.  Start your mornings by downing an espresso and pastry while standing at a coffee bar. Then sample the local produce in food markets. Alternatively, grab your choice of pizza by the slice between sightseeing destinations. At night, enjoy a lingering late dinner in a restaurant by a piazza and watch revellers pass by.  Finally, you can drink some Italian wine and dance at one of Rome's bars before crawling into bed and living la dolce vita again the next day.

Shopping

When you visit Rome, shopping should be on your to-do list. Italy is known for its high-quality goods and it would be a shame if you came home empty-handed. Wondering what to buy in Rome? Check out the leather goods, jewellery, antiques, and clothing when you're in Tridente. This shopping district comprises three main streets (Via del Corso, Via del Babuino, and Via di Ripetta) and the alleys that link them together.  Rome is home to Italian designer brands as well as smaller boutiques. If you want to find a bargain, try your luck at the flea markets.

Best time to travel

From postcards and tourist videos, the weather in Rome may seem perpetually hot and sunny. However, it does vary according to the four seasons. In summer, the heat makes locals flee to more coastal towns in Italy. However, this is also the most popular time for international visitors, so touristy areas are quite busy.  In autumn, the weather cools down and harvest season provides a lot of good eats in the city. Winters are chilly and wet but worth it for anyone seeking Christmas festivity. Meanwhile, springtime brings a bit of warmth as well as plenty of flowers into the city.

Parks

Visiting Rome's parks and squares provides welcome respite from the city’s bustling streets, while the city’s squares are open air art galleries – home to some of Rome’s most famous statues.  Refresh your senses and relax after a long day of sightseeing at the university botanic gardens in Trastevere or the Rome Rose Garden. Drop by the piazzas (squares) to see sculptural fountains made by Renaissance masters. Rome's piazzas are also a good place to find open-air markets selling fresh produce as well as restaurants and bars – perfect for people watching late into the evening.