Rome Travel Guide

Introduction to Rome

A city like no other, Rome’s long and illustrious history is only one factor in its enduring popularity with visitors from across the globe. From its mythical founding in 753BC right through to its starring role in such Hollywood films as Audrey Hepburn’sRomanHoliday, Rome has long captured the imagination of artists, writers and indeed anybody fortunate enough to have visited it. With enough to see and do to fill an entire year, and a romantic atmosphere second to none, Rome is the perfect destination for a city break for people of all ages and interests.

Forum, Palatine Hill and Colosseum

The ‘big three’ of Roman ruins, all on one ticket

The Vatican 

The mighty St Peter’s Basilica and museums full of priceless treasures

The Trevi Fountain

Throw a coin in over your shoulder to ensure your return to Rome

Rome has a huge wealth of archaeological sites to satisfy even the most ardent enthusiast. The Pantheon is not to be missed, being the most complete Roman temple to survive from ancient times, while Trajan’s Markets are also beautifully preserved and offer wonderful views across the historic centre of the city. 

Another glorious viewpoint is from the Capitoline Hill, looking out over the Roman Forum to the Colosseum. Also on the hill are the Capitoline Museums, which house works by the likes of Caravaggio and are a must-see for art lovers. Be sure to pay a visit to the rooftop café, from which you can spot the dome of St Peter’s and get a great view of the Theatre of Marcellus.

Follow in the footsteps of Audrey Hepburn and visit the curious ‘Mouth of Truth’, said to bite off the hands of the dishonest, and climb the famous Spanish Steps for commanding views over the city.  Head to the Piazza Navona to peruse works by local artists, and don’t forget to visit one or two of Rome’s impressive churches. Santa Maria Maggiore and Saint John Lateran are two of the most interesting, while Saint Peter in Chains houses Michelangelo’s Moses. So why not book a hotel in Rome and have a weekend straight out of the movies!

Italians are passionate about their food, and it shows in the multitude of eateries Rome has to offer.  For breakfast, head to one of the numerous coffee shops for a cappuccino and sugared croissant – it’s the Roman way. You’re never very far from a restaurant, and many have tables outside so you can sample fabulous pizza and pasta while you watch the world go by; the best are to be found over the river in the Trastevere area.  Cool down on a sunny day with some exquisite Italian ice cream at a gelateria such as the famous Giolitti’s which has dozens of different flavours.

Flights to Rome land at one of Rome’s two airports; Fiumicino is most convenient, being closer to the city and having a train running every half hour to Rome’s main train station, Termini. Ciampino airport is a little further away and served mainly by budget airlines, with a bus linking it to the city. Taxis and car hire are readily available at both.