By Soren Rivero ✔ Reviewed by travel expert Ben Braude
The earliest of civilizations called Rome their glorious home, and thus, have led it to being one of the most popular travel destinations to explore across the globe.
From iconic attractions like the Colosseum and hidden gems only the locals know, to must-try restaurants and handy tips, find out everything you need to know with our essential travel guide to Rome.
Begin your Italian adventure with our trips to Rome or view all vacation packages to Italy.
What to Know
The city where ancient history blends perfectly with modern vibrancy, you'll find many of the world's most unique and mysterious landmarks in Rome. Built on seven hills along the banks of the Tiber River, Rome was originally the heart of the vast and mighty Roman Empire, now referred to as the Eternal City, and currently remains as a living museum of its glorious past.
From the grandeur of the Colosseum to the sacred halls of Vatican City, each of Rome's corners tells a story that spans well beyond 2,000 years. Now, Rome is not only an epicenter of culture and iconic attractions, but a bustling city full of contemporary energy, lively plazas, and of course, delicious food.
When to Go
Set in the heart of Italy, Rome boasts a Mediterranean climate with hot, sunny summers and mild, rainy winters. The city's peak travel season runs from June to August, when warm temperatures and long daylight hours make it especially inviting to visit Rome's most popular sights. It's to be noted, however, that crowds are usually at their peak during the summer, so book in advance or be prepared for long lines!
For a more relaxed experience, visit during the shoulder months of April, May, September, or October, when the weather is pleasantly warm, and the city's charm is easier to enjoy. And if you don't mind a bit of cold, then visit Rome in December for magical holiday markets and fewer crowds.
How to Get Around
Now, one thing you should know about Rome is that the city's blend of ancient streets and modern construction make getting around Rome an adventure in itself. Locals and frequent visitors recommend taking the public transport system, as it's not only affordable but also efficient by connecting all major landmarks.
Once you're in the city, walking is the best way to explore, as many of the famous sights and best foodie spots are clustered within Rome's Historic Centre. To truly embrace Roman life, consider renting a Vespa for a classic, exhilarating way to navigate the Eternal City.
Where to Eat
Farm-fresh ingredients, organic produce, and Mediterranean flavors define Italian cuisine, and you'll get to experience the best of it in Rome. Olive oil, pasta, and cheeses are popular in Roman cuisine, and if there's a few dishes you have to try, they are Pasta Carbonara, Cacio e Pepe, and Trippa alla Romana. When you're ready for dessert, be sure to indulge in some delicious gelato or tiramisu.
Find out some of the best restaurants in Rome below, and discover some more during your travels!
- Tonarello, Phone: +39 06 580 6404
- Ambrosia Rooftop Restaurant & Bar, Phone: +39 06 489911
- Rifugio Romano, Phone: +39 06 488 0945
- Pietro Valentini, Phone: +39 06 6868565
- AGelateria Lubrano, Phone: +39 324 770 3742
What to See
The Colosseum
Question: Can you visit Rome for the first time and not see the Colosseum? Answer: No – visiting the Colosseum during your first time in Rome is a must! Built around 70-80 AD, this massive amphitheatre once held up to 50,000 spectators, and was commonplace for hosting gladiator battles, spectacles, and even wild animal hunts.
Nowadays, visitors can wander through its weathered stone arches, view the battling area from high above, and even see the underground chambers where fighters prepared for combat.
Fun Fact: Its original name wasn't the Colosseum – it was the Flavian Amphitheater, named after the Flavian dynasty of Emperors who oversaw its construction. The famous nickname came much later, inspired by the colossal bronze statue of Emperor Nero that once stood nearby.
Trevi Fountain
Tucked within Rome's maze of streets, the Trevi Fountain is a Baroque masterpiece where myth and magic combine into a fantastical display of art and community.
Designed by Nicola Salvi in the 18th century, the fountain features Oceanus, god of the sea, riding a shell-shaped chariot. Tradition says tossing a coin over your shoulder ensures your return to Rome — one of the city's most beloved rituals.
Fun Fact: The fountain's name, Trevi, derives from the Latin word trivium, meaning "three ways," indicating its location at the connection of three roads. The amount of money collected from the fountain each year is astounding, often exceeding $1.5 million Euros. The fountain money is regularly collected and is donated to a Catholic charity called Caritas to help fund social programs and provide groceries for those who need assistance in Rome.
The Vatican Museums & St. Peter's Basilica
Take a step into the Vatican City, the world's smallest independent state, to begin your exploration into its awe-inspiring (and quite mysterious) treasures.
The Vatican Museum is home to an extraordinary collection of art and artifacts, including the wondrous Sistine Chapel, where you can view the breathtaking artworks of Michaelangelo.
St. Peter's Basilica is also a must-see in Vatican City. It's the burial site of Saint Peter himself, with the high altar built directly over his presumed tomb. This absolute masterpiece of Renaissance architecture owes much of its grandeur to the incredibly detailed and stunning mosaics that cover its interior walls.
Fun Fact: Michelangelo painted the ceiling between 1508 and 1512, showing nine stories from the Book of Genesis, including the “Creation of Adam.” The museums were created back in the early 1500s when Pope Julius II bought just one marble statue: the Laocoön and His Sons. The rest, as they say, is history!
The Pantheon
A masterpiece of ancient Roman engineering, the Pantheon has stood for nearly 2,000 years. Originally built as a temple to the Roman gods, its massive domed roof — with a central oculus open to the sky — still impresses with its architectural brilliance.
The Pantheon is filled with various chapels, sculptures, and artwork, but the dome and oculus are the main highlights. As you gaze upon the world's largest unreinforced concrete dome, be sure to admire the original Roman marble floors and visit the tombs of famous people like artist Raphael and King Vittorio Emanuele II.
Nestled in Piazza della Rotonda, this remarkably preserved monument is definitely one of the best things to see in Rome!
Piazza Navona
As one of Rome's most beautiful public squares, Piazza Navona is a hub full of life, ringing with street artists, people watchers, outdoor cafes, and Baroque architecture.
At the center of the square, you'll spot the famous “Fountain of the Four Rivers”, built by artist Bernini.
The fountain features four figures that represent the major rivers of the continents known at the time: the Nile, Danube, Ganges, and Rio de la Plana. The square itself is vibrant and bustling, and gives you a true taste of Italian lifestyle. Watch the street artists, visit the Fountain of the Moor, or dine at an outdoor cafe and grab a coffee or gelato.
Fun Fact: This square is built on the site of an ancient Roman stadium!
The Roman Forum & Palatine Hill
Leap back into the earliest ages of government and civilization as you stroll through the ruins of the ancient Roman Forum. This incredible monument was previously used as the political, religious, and social heart of Rome, hosting a variety of events from discussions, elections, speeches, sermons, and more.
The remains of the Roman Forum have mostly crumbled, but are still present enough to tell the stories of civilization from ages ago. Just above lies Palatine Hill, where Rome's legendary founders, Romulus and Remus, were said to have been raised by a she-wolf. It also offers some of the best views over the Forum and the Colosseum, so if you want a nice photo, this is the place to go!
Tips and Tricks
- Before you visit any site or attraction, make sure that it's open before heading out. Many places in Rome close at specific days of the week to practice religious resting days, or simply for cleaning/maintenance. Italy as a country also has a tradition of riposo, which is essentially a midday hour of rest where businesses, schools, and public establishments close.
- Order your public transportation passes and tickets ahead of time. Prices may go up the closer you get to your visit dates, and wait times may be long.
- Toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain and make a wish – who knows, maybe it will come true!
- When visiting Rome's churches, be sure to check the dress code. Approved clothing for male-presenting and female-presenting people are different, so do your ample research ahead of time to be respectful.
Day Trips from Rome
Tivoli
Only about an hour from Rome, travel to Tivoli for a treasure box of historical splendor and beauty straight from the Renaissance Era. Start by discovering Villa Adriana, the vast ruins of Emperor Hadrian's 2nd-century retreat, where you can see grand baths and palaces that speak of the emperor's lavish lifestyle.
From there, step into a different era at Villa d'Este, a masterpiece of Italian Renaissance architecture, named a UNESCO Heritage Site.
Ostia Antica
Get a glimpse of everyday life in ancient Rome by heading over to Ostia Antica, only 30 minutes from the city center. As a previous bustling port in Rome, this remarkably preserved archaeological site takes you on a journey back in time.
Make sure to take your walking shoes, as you'll be treading through an ancient amphitheater, taverns, baths, and so much more.
Castelli Romani
Castelli Romani offers a reinvigorating escape from the city's hustle and bustles, located just 40 minutes from Rome over in Alban Hills. Known for their local wines and dynamic views, these hillside villages are a must-see in Rome.
Pay a visit to Frascati to sip on a glass of their famous white wine. Then, stroll through Castel Gandolfo, the Pope's summer residence, to admire the beauty of Lake Albano.
With this Rome travel guide, now you know the essential tips and tricks to making your getaway both seamless and unforgettable. Discover the Eternal City by exploring our cheap travel deals with flights, hotels, and more included.
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