Grandiose architecture, classical art and sunnypiazzas: all the ingredients that make up the acclaimed Italian capital. As thehome of the Roman Empire, it’s considered by many to be the centre ofcivilisation – the seed that birthed the Europe we see today. With so mucharchitecture and history spanning back centuries, it’s an ideal city for thehistorians amongst you.
Rome is divided intoneighbourhoods, most of which are named after the main attraction containedwithin the area. This can prove useful when trying to pick a place to stay.Bisected by the River Tiber, the city has a network of beautiful cobbledstreets and boulevards leading to ornate bridges. Remember to take a map withyou when you explore, especially if you want to visit some of the olderneighbourhoods where winding streets and can cause confusion. With so much tosee, the narrow winding streets and many historical sites are best experiencedon foot, while public transport such as buses are the most practical option forcovering longer distances.
Of course, getting lost is part of the charm in Rome.You’ll find yourself stumbling over unexpected treasures such as an undergroundbakery with cornetti fresh from the oven, or an archaeological dig in themiddle of a busy street. It’s a city full of pleasant surprises.
No visit to Rome iscomplete without experiencing the numerous architectural and artistic sites.You'll find Renaissance marvels in the Vatican City, such as the Palazzo Senatorio and the Sistine Chapel. Check outbaroque masterpieces, such as the magnificent St. Peter's Basilica, the SpanishSteps and the Trevi Fountain. The history goes all the way back to Roman times;be sure not to miss the Roman Forum and the magnificent Colosseum.And don’t forget to keep yourself fuelled with a delicious Italian coffee inone of the many squares such as Piazza Navona. If you're short on time, most of Rome's popular attractions are covered in the Rome in One Day tour.
In addition to opera and other music, football andarchitecture, the Romans are also famous lovers of food and wine, and you canalso easily carve an unforgettable culinary journey through the Italian capital.Everywhere in Rome you’ll find fine Italian foodand 'vino' in abundance. The classic dish is Spaghetti Carbonara, but Romancuisine extends far beyond just pasta, with fresh vegetables, meat and cheesetaking centre stage. Simple and tasty dishes based on what is available inseason.
Once you’ve explored the city, do what the localsdo. Find a spot to sit with a delicious gelato (Italian ice cream) and watchthe afternoon sky turn pink. You know what they say, “when in Rome”.