Rome

What are the most recommended things to do in Rome?

  • Visit the Colosseum and Roman Forum to explore ancient history.
  • Explore Vatican City, including St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums.
  • Toss a coin at the Trevi Fountain and enjoy nearby piazzas.
  • Walk through Piazza Navona and admire its fountains and street art.
  • Climb the Spanish Steps for city views and shopping nearby.
  • Discover Pantheon, one of the best-preserved Roman buildings.
  • Stroll Trastevere neighborhood for local culture, cafes, and nightlife.
  • Visit Castel Sant’Angelo and its museum exhibits.
  • Enjoy Gelato and Italian cuisine at local trattorias.

Introducing Rome

Rome (Italian: Roma, English: Rome) is located in the central west coast of the Italian peninsula, on the hilly plain in the lower reaches of the Tiber River (Fuime Tevere), 25 kilometers east of the Tyrrhenian Sea, and the city spans both sides of the Tiber River.

Rome, the capital of Italy, boasts numerous precious historical sites from ancient Rome, including the Vatican, a city within a city. While the city is divided into 22 districts, with attractions scattered throughout, the majority of attractions are concentrated in the historic center, which is also the busiest area for tourists. Rome is also the capital of Christendom and a popular pilgrimage site for Catholics.

Climate and best time to travel

The Mediterranean climate boasts hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters, making it a perfect season for all seasons. Ancient monuments, churches, and squares showcase their unique culture and charm regardless of the season. July and August are peak tourist seasons, as they are the summer vacation period and Romans are away on vacation. Consequently, the city sees fewer locals and more tourists.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Colosseum

Rome's most iconic landmark, it was once the scene of gladiators' desperate struggles and condemned prisoners' battles with hungry lions. After the fall of the Roman Empire, the Colosseum fell into disrepair and was repeatedly damaged by earthquakes. Only a fragmented skeleton remains, yet glimpses of its former glory remain. The Colosseum is particularly beautiful at night, so photographers should definitely visit to capture its beauty.


Wishing Well

This is Rome's largest and most famous fountain. It's also the world's largest Baroque fountain, and became famous worldwide after the film "Roman Holiday." Facing the fountain, hold a coin in your right hand and toss it over your left shoulder. Make a wish on it and return to Rome. Repeat this action, throw two coins, and you'll have a romantic encounter. Throw three, and your romantic dreams will come true.

All day, free


pantheon

The best-preserved building in ancient Rome, over 2,000 years old, is home to the artist Raphael and the Roman Emperor Victor Emmanuel II. Built by Agrippa, son-in-law of Octavian, the first Roman Emperor, to honor the gods of Mount Olympia, it was praised by Michelangelo as "the design of an angel."


Plaza de España

Located at the foot of the hill where the Trinità degli Archdiocese of Rome stands, the square is famous for its Spanish Steps, which lead up to the cathedral. The cafés in the square were favorite haunts of writers like Keats, Byron, and Shelley. Café Greco, located on Via Condotti, is the oldest café in Rome and was the site of Goethe's masterpiece, The Princess of Talives.

The most famous thing in the square is the Shipwreck Fountain designed by the Baroque architectural master Bernini. Many young people come here to chat and enjoy the coolness in the summer.


Most Popular FAQs for Rome

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Rome, founded over 2,700 years ago, is the capital of Italy and a cradle of Western civilization. Known as the "Eternal City," it played a central role in the Roman Empire, the Catholic Church, and Renaissance culture, featuring landmarks, art, and architecture of global historical importance.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Rome is in central Italy, Lazio region. Accessible via Rome Fiumicino Airport or Ciampino Airport. Public transport includes metro, buses, trams, taxis, and walking, especially in historic center areas.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Major attractions usually open 9:00–19:00. Best times to visit are spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) to avoid summer crowds and extreme heat.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

  • Colosseum & Roman Forum: €18–€24, tickets online or at entrance.
  • Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel: €17–€30, recommended online booking.
  • Castel Sant’Angelo: €15, tickets at entrance or online.
  • Pantheon: free entry.
  • Special guided tours may vary in price, book online for convenience.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Yes, for Colosseum, Vatican Museums, and popular guided tours. Booking 1–2 weeks in advance is recommended, especially in peak season (April–September).

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

3–5 days for main attractions in Rome; add extra days for Vatican City and day trips to nearby towns like Tivoli or Ostia Antica.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • Colosseum
  • Roman Forum
  • Vatican Museums & St. Peter’s Basilica
  • Trevi Fountain
  • Piazza Navona
  • Spanish Steps
  • Pantheon
  • Trastevere neighborhood
  • Castel Sant’Angelo

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Yes, guided tours and audio guides are widely available in English, Italian, Spanish, French, German, and other major languages.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • Colosseum exterior and rooftop views
  • St. Peter’s Basilica dome
  • Janiculum Hill (Gianicolo) panorama
  • Piazza Navona and Trevi Fountain at sunrise or evening
  • Spanish Steps with city backdrop

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Day 1: Colosseum → Roman Forum → Palatine Hill; Day 2: Vatican Museums → St. Peter’s Basilica → Castel Sant’Angelo; Day 3: Pantheon → Piazza Navona → Trevi Fountain → Spanish Steps; Day 4: Trastevere exploration and local food experience.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Yes, night tours are available at Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Vatican Museums. Special events include evening concerts in piazzas and seasonal exhibitions.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Rome is busiest in summer (June–August) and around Easter. Early mornings, weekdays, and shoulder seasons (spring/fall) are less crowded.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Most attractions provide toilets, cafes, water fountains, seating areas, and souvenir shops. Historic streets have many restaurants and gelaterias.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Many attractions have accessibility options, elevators, and ramps; however, historic sites with uneven surfaces may require assistance. Children-friendly areas are common.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments are widely accepted; cash is recommended for small vendors, markets, or local trattorias.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

  • Trattorias and pizzerias near Piazza Navona and Campo de’ Fiori
  • Cafes near Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain
  • Restaurants in Trastevere offering local cuisine and wine

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, Rome has many vegetarian, vegan, and halal-friendly restaurants across the city, including near tourist areas.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

  • Luxury: Hotel Hassler, Rome Cavalieri
  • Mid-range: Hotel Delle Nazioni, Albergo del Senato
  • Budget: Guesthouses and boutique hostels near Termini Station

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

  • Tivoli (Villa d’Este, Hadrian’s Villa)
  • Ostia Antica ruins
  • Castel Gandolfo

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, souvenirs include Roman-themed art, miniature Colosseums, Vatican memorabilia, leather goods, and Italian pasta/wine products.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Metro, buses, taxis, and trains (Roma Termini) for nearby cities; rental cars for regional trips; airports (Fiumicino, Ciampino) for flights.