Roma
Rome, the capital of Italy, is a city steeped in history and culture, where ancient ruins meet modern life. Known as the Eternal City, it is home to iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and the majestic Pantheon. Visitors can marvel at the art and architecture in Vatican City, including St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel. The vibrant neighborhoods, such as Trastevere, offer charming cobblestone streets, cozy cafes, and lively piazzas. With its blend of ancient history, artistic masterpieces, and lively atmosphere, Rome is a captivating destination for travelers seeking a taste of Italy’s rich heritage.
Things To Do
Rome offers countless activities for visitors to enjoy. One of the best things to do is immerse yourself in its ancient history by visiting iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and the Pantheon, where the remnants of the Roman Empire come to life. A stroll through the historic center reveals awe-inspiring sights like the Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, and Piazza Navona. No trip to Rome would be complete without exploring Vatican City, where you can admire the magnificent St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums, home to some of the world’s greatest art. For a more relaxed experience, you can wander through Rome’s charming neighborhoods like Trastevere, with its cobblestone streets, vibrant squares, and excellent trattorias. Food lovers can indulge in authentic Roman dishes such as carbonara, cacio e pepe, and pizza al taglio. Whether soaking in the rich history, enjoying delicious food, or simply strolling through its beautiful streets, Rome offers a timeless experience for every traveler.
Need To Know
Situated: The eternal capital of Italy, rich in history, art, and ancient ruins, blending modern life with thousands of years of heritage.
Accommodation: Stay near the historic center for easy access to iconic sites like the Colosseum and Vatican, or opt for Trastevere for a charming, local vibe.
Activities:
- Explore the Colosseum and Roman Forum, stepping back in time.
- Visit the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica.
- Wander through the picturesque streets of Trastevere and the Spanish Steps.
- Toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain and make a wish.
- Enjoy authentic Italian food, from pizza and pasta to gelato in charming piazzas.
Best Season: April–June, September–October (pleasant weather, fewer crowds).
Cheap Season: November–March (lower prices, but cooler and some tourist sites may be quieter).
Things To Remember
Recommended Time to Visit Rome (Italy)
- 1-2 days: Explore iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Pantheon, and Trevi Fountain.
- 3-4 days: Visit Vatican City (St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel), experience the charm of Trastevere, and explore hidden gems like Piazza Navona and the Spanish Steps.
- 5+ days: Dive deeper into Rome’s history with day trips to Tivoli (Villa d’Este), Ostia Antica, or Castel Gandolfo, and enjoy more local experiences such as food tours or evening walks.
Rome 3-Day Itinerary (Highlights Trip)
Day 1: Ancient Rome – Colosseum & Roman Forum
Morning:
- Start your day at the Colosseum, the iconic amphitheater of Ancient Rome. Make sure to book skip-the-line tickets or a guided tour for a deeper experience.
- Explore the Roman Forum, the heart of ancient Rome, where public life took place. Be sure to stop at Palatine Hill for stunning views of the city.
Afternoon:
- Have lunch at La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali, offering traditional Roman dishes near the Forum.
- Visit the Pantheon, an architectural marvel with a remarkable dome and a peaceful atmosphere.
- Take a stroll through Piazza Navona, a lively square filled with Baroque art and street artists.
Evening:
- Enjoy dinner at Armando al Pantheon, a traditional Roman trattoria serving hearty local cuisine.
- End your day with a visit to the Trevi Fountain to throw a coin and make a wish, followed by a walk through the Spanish Steps area.
Day 2: Vatican City & Hidden Gems
Morning:
- Head to Vatican City, starting with a visit to St. Peter’s Basilica. Climb to the top of the dome for panoramic views of the city.
- Explore the Vatican Museums, home to countless masterpieces, including the famous Sistine Chapel by Michelangelo.
- Visit the Vatican Gardens (optional, book in advance).
Afternoon:
- Have lunch at Pizzarium Bonci, a famous spot for delicious pizza by the slice.
- Visit Castel Sant’Angelo, a historic castle with great views of the Tiber River.
- Wander around Trastevere, a charming neighborhood with narrow streets, vibrant cafes, and a lively atmosphere.
Evening:
- Enjoy a Roman dinner at Osteria der Belli, known for its seafood and traditional Roman dishes.
- Experience Rome’s nightlife at Trastevere’s Piazza di Santa Maria, where you’ll find lively bars, music, and a youthful vibe.
Day 3: Discovering More of Rome
Morning:
- Visit the Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano, the first church ever built in Rome.
- Walk over to the nearby Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, a stunning example of early Christian art and architecture.
- Head to Villa Borghese Gardens and rent a bike or simply relax by the lake. Visit the Borghese Gallery (pre-booking required) to see works by Bernini, Caravaggio, and others.
Afternoon:
- Enjoy lunch at Piperno, a historic restaurant famous for its traditional Roman Jewish cuisine.
- Explore Campo de’ Fiori, a lively square with a daily market, cafes, and shops.
- Take a walk to the Piazza del Popolo and stroll down Via del Corso, Rome’s famous shopping street.
Evening:
- Have dinner at Ristorante Aroma, located with a view of the Colosseum, offering delicious food in an elegant setting.
- For a memorable last evening, take a night walk around the Roman Forum or the Piazza Venezia area to see the city lit up.
Rome 5-Day Itinerary (More In-Depth)
- Day 4: Take a day trip to Tivoli to see Villa d’Este (famous for its Renaissance gardens) and Hadrian’s Villa.
- Day 5: Visit Ostia Antica, an ancient Roman port city, or explore Villa Farnesina, a beautiful Renaissance villa with frescoes by Raphael.
- Alternatively, take a food tour through the Testaccio neighborhood or enjoy Roman cooking classes.