Destination Guide

Rome, Italy

Rome, Italy is one of the most beloved tourist cities in the entire world. Because of its long history and cultural significance, Rome boasts some of the most famous and universally recognised tourist attractions.

Rome has been a centre for religion, government, empire, art, architecture and cultural evolution for thousands of years. It is a beautiful city whose history and culture have influenced people the world over. With so much to see and do in this ancient city make sure you wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes while touring Rome.

Rome's peak tourist season is between mid-Spring and early Fall. However, the temperate climate makes it possible to comfortably tour Rome all-year-round. Many tourists find that going during the off-season makes for a more enjoyable experience.

Getting in and around Rome

Rome Airport

There are two airports in Rome. However, Leonardo di Vinci airport, also known as Fiumicino, is more commonly used by tourists. Leonardo di Vinci airport is located 26 miles outside of Rome. Ciampino is the other airport in Rome, which handles mainly international flights and more basic airline carriers.

Once you arrive at the airport, you will need to travel to the city's centre. Luckily, Rome has a detailed framework of public transportation that makes travelling safe and easy for tourists.

Rome Transport

You can travel to Rome from the airport by train or bus. The Stazione Termini is the train system in Rome that also runs hourly to and from the airport. If you choose to travel by bus, ATAC and Eurolines are the two main bus carriers in Rome. You can easily purchase tickets at most newsstands.

Travel within the city is best done by train, bus or by foot. Taxis are not recommended because they can be very costly, unless you are travelling a short distance and driving yourself can be quite hazardous. Walking to restaurants and sites around Rome is the best way to see the city.

Rome Car Hire

Driving yourself around Rome can be quite hazardous, however if you wish to explore the country side on your own time, hiring a car would be quite convenient. Car hire is available in Rome from your popular outlets.

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Rome accommodation

Like so many European cities, hotels in Rome can be quite cosy and somewhat antique. Rome hotels are also available in a wide range of quality and price. You often get what you pay for when staying in Rome.

Luxury
  • Caesar House Residenze Romane is ideally located and resembles staying in someone's elegant home rather than a hotel.
  • Sofitel Roma This award-winning hotel is luxurious and spacious and conveniently located within central Rome.
Mid-range
  • Hotel Santa Maria is tremendous value for money and it is perfectly positioned for seeing the best of Rome's sites.
  • Capo d'Africa Hotel This beautifully furnished and spacious hotel is just a few minutes walk from the highlights of Ancient Rome.
Budget
  • Hotel Select This beautifully furnished and spacious hotel is just a few minutes walk from the highlights of Ancient Rome.
  • Hotel des Artistes makes you feel right at home with friendly, English-speaking staff and comfortable, affordable accommodation.
Backpackers
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Things to do in Rome

In Rome, there are so many things to see and do. It's easy to become overwhelmed. In fact, there are more sites than you could possibly see in a single trip. Experiencing Rome in its fullest requires longer, or even multiple trips. There are some top spots that you will definitely want to make time for.

  • The Pantheon. During the age of Rome's pagan religious tradition, the Pantheon was built as a temple to all the gods. The Pantheon is an architectural wonder and a symbol of pagan religious tradition that once prevailed in Rome.
  • The Roman Forum is what remains of the centre of Ancient Rome. Tourists get an up close and personal look at what's left of buildings and architecture that were once the focal point of one of the biggest empires in world history.
  • The Catacombs of Rome are ancient, underground burial places that house the remains of those from many different religious traditions and cultures.
  • Circus Maximus was the site of sport and entertainment in Ancient Rome. See the site of the famous chariot races.
  • The Sistine Chapel is a petite church that is universally famous because it houses the famous ceiling painted by Michelangelo during Rome's Renaissance age. Michelangelo's chapel ceiling is one of the most important and widely recognised works of art and a symbol of the Renaissance movement.
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    Day trips in and around Rome

  • The Coliseum In Ancient Rome, in the days of emperors and imperial Rome, the Coliseum was the site of the notorious gladiators -slaves that were trained and forced to fight to the death for an audience and executions in which the victim was killed by a vicious, predatory animal. Tourists have the opportunity to explore the network of tunnels and cells that were once concealed beneath the Coliseum floor. The Coliseum has been a Roman icon for over 2000 years.
  • Vatican City: St. Peter's Basilica is a place of pilgrimage for its religious, historical and architectural significance. Designed in part by Michelangelo, St. Peter's Basilica is the focal point of the Catholic community the world over and is also the site of Michelangelo's, Pieta.
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