YOUR ROME TRAVEL GUIDE
This whole section of Italy Whiz is a Rome Travel Guide designed to help you plan the perfect trip to the Eternal City to ensure you make the most of your time there.
In the Rome Travel Guide you’ll find information about sites to visit, including the best times to go, what to expect, rules and regulations, practical tips, and so on.
“Rome was a poem pressed into service as a city.”
— ANATOLE BROYARD (1920-1990) - AMERICAN WRITER AND LITERARY CRITIC
When you go to Rome, you are guaranteed a combination of world-class sightseeing, delicious food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere!
Rome isn't just a city. Wandering through its historic streets is like walking through a living museum, an open-air exhibition of history and culture that stretches back millennia. It’s been a major tourist destination for more than 500 years since the Grand Tour of Europe became fashionable with the rich and noble, and it still attracts millions of tourists every year.
My First Taste of La Dolce Vita in Rome
My first visit to Rome was during a layover on my way to Spain. My friends and I took the train to Roma Termini station and from there a taxi to drive us around the main sights (this was before Hop On Hop Off Buses were a thing).
Our city tour ended at the Vatican City, where, in a bout of silliness, we had fun crossing the border between Italy and the Vatican State several times, and finally decided to have a drink at a small bar nearby.
The most memorable part of this short visit for me was seeing the Colosseum for the first time.
Just after the taxi left Termini, we were passing through a more modern part of Rome with normal apartment buildings. Then, we turned a corner and there was the Colosseum, straight ahead at the end of the street, towering over the other buildings. It was totally unexpected and awe-inspiring.
The Colosseum as I saw it on my first visit to Rome from via degli AnnibaldiThat is what I have loved most about Rome ever since that taxi ride – the unexpected way the ancient blends with the modern. Any number of marvels might be awaiting you down every street and around every corner.
And it’s not just the most famous sites like the Colosseum or the Pantheon. Beautiful structures and monuments are peppered all over the city.
So, here is your first tip on this Rome Travel Guide: always be on the lookout! You never know when some archaeological, architectural or artistic gem might “pop up” and surprise you.
But Rome is much more than just its monuments. It's a city buzzing with life. People are generally friendly, helpful and hospitable, and you’re sure to receive a warm welcome wherever you go.
So, here, in a nutshell, are just a few reasons why Rome should be at the top of your travel bucket list, and also what this Rome Travel Guide is all about:
1. The World's Best Sights
There’s no arguing that Rome boasts some of the world's most impressive and iconic monuments and sites, including the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps and the Pantheon. Other popular attractions include the Vatican Museums, the Roman Forum and Villa Borghese with its vast, beautiful, gardens.
The Arch of Constantine ©Charmaine Tanti 2014
2. Beyond the Tourist Trail
Once you've ticked off the must-see sights, there's a whole other side of Rome waiting to be explored.
If you’re an adventure seeker or a history buff, you can venture into the Roman Catacombs, a labyrinthine network beneath the city.
If you’re interested in the arts, Villa Barberini and the Borghese Gallery with masterpieces by the likes of Titian, Caravaggio and Bernini are well worth a visit.
You can also take a stroll through Trastevere, a charming bohemian neighbourhood with narrow streets, lively cafes, and trendy shops.
Villa Borghese Gallery ©Charmaine Tanti 2014
Or venture off the beaten path and explore the old Jewish quarter with its artisan studios, small shops and popular eateries.
Which brings us to the next reason why you should visit Rome …
3. Amazing Food
Rome is a paradise for foodies – from mouth-watering pasta dishes to fresh seafood and decadent gelato, there's something for everyone.
Rome’s culinary scene is as rich and varied as its history, blending the traditional with the innovative.
Cosy trattorias, food markets, street food vendors, Michelin-starred restaurants - the city offers an array of dining experiences that cater to all tastes and budgets.
So, whether you’re a pizza and pasta lover, a fine dining and wining aficionado, or simply love trying endless flavours of gelato – my favourite pass-time in Rome – this is your dream destination.
3. Shopping
Do you love shopping? Then you’re in for a treat, whatever your budget.
If you’re a luxury shopper, the high-end boutiques are on Via Condotti, just opposite the Spanish Steps.
If, on the other hand, you’re a bargain hunter, then the eclectic stalls at the Porta Portese flea market, and other markets such as the Mercato Monti, are what you’re looking for.
4. Cultural and Artistic Scene and Nightlife
If you’re interested in modern culture you will find plenty to enjoy in Rome’s contemporary venues which highlight the city's vibrant artistic and cultural scene.
The MAXXI national museum of contemporary art and architecture and the National Gallery of Modern Art near Villa Borghese are must-sees for fans of modern art.
Rome also hosts a great variety of theatrical and musical performances throughout the year. Whether you love opera or contemporary music, Greek plays or musicals, the artistic scene in Rome has something for all tastes and for lovers of all genres.
On the other hand, if it’s the nightlife that you’re looking for, you have plenty of that, too. Each neighbourhood has its unique appeal, from the charming wine bars and excellent restaurants and trattorie of Trastevere to the lively nightclubs of Testaccio.
5. Practical Tips
Travelling to a new city can be daunting, but our Rome Travel Guide has you covered with practical advice on everything from transportation to safety tips. Learn how to navigate the city’s public transport system, understand local customs, and find out the best times to visit major attractions to avoid crowds.
6. Rome and Beyond: Day Trips and Excursions
Rome is perfectly situated for day trips to other stunning locations in Italy. Our Rome Travel Guide provides suggestions for excursions to places like Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast or Tuscany, or smaller neighbouring towns like Tivoli and archaeological sites like Ostia Antica.
So, whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or simply someone looking for adventure, Rome has something for everyone.
Time to Dive Into your Rome Travel Guide
It’s now time to take the plunge and start planning your unforgettable visit to Rome.
Check out the following pages of the Rome Travel Guide.