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Rome Travel Guide

Everything you need to know to plan a city break in Rome — transport, hotels, attractions, food, and local tips.

Overview

Airports

Getting Around

Where to stay

Attractions

Tours & Experiences

Food & Local Eats

Visiting with Kids

Local Tips

Overview

Rome is a city where ancient history and everyday life exist side by side. Known for its archaeological sites, historic churches, and vibrant street life, the city offers a unique travel experience shaped by centuries of history. From iconic landmarks to lively neighbourhoods, Rome appeals to travellers interested in culture, architecture, and traditional Italian cuisine.

Rome works well for trips of 3 to 4 days. Many major attractions are located close to each other, while public transport helps cover longer distances across the city.

Country

Currency

Population

Time zone

eSIM

Italy

Euro (EUR)

2.8 million

UTC+1 (UTC+2 DST)

Check eSIM prices >

Airports

Rome is served by two airports that together handle international, European, and domestic flights. These airports connect the Italian capital with destinations worldwide and support large volumes of tourism year-round. Air travel is one of the main ways visitors arrive in Rome for both leisure and business purposes.

Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO)

Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport is Rome’s main international airport, handling the majority of long-haul and European flights.

Located approximately 32 km from the city center.

Ciampino Airport (CIA)

Ciampino Airport mainly serves low-cost and charter flights. It is smaller and closer to the city than Fiumicino.

Located approximately 15 km from the city center.

Getting Around

Rome’s historic centre is best explored on foot, while public transport helps cover longer distances across the city. Buses, metro lines, and trams connect key areas, allowing visitors to move between attractions and neighbourhoods with relative ease.

Metro

Tram

Taxi

Bus

Train

Car Rental

Metro

metro

The metro is one of the fastest and most efficient ways to move around cities. It usually offers frequent service, clear station signage, and good coverage of central areas, making it a practical option for daily travel and sightseeing.

In Rome, the metro connects major transport hubs and key areas of the city.

Bus

Buses provide extensive coverage across most cities, including areas not always served by metro or tram lines. They are a flexible option for short distances and local neighborhoods, though travel times can vary depending on traffic conditions.

bus

Buses in Rome cover large parts of the city, including areas not served by the metro.

Tram

Trams operate mainly in city centers and busy districts, offering a convenient way to travel short to medium distances. They are often well integrated with other public transport options and easy to use for visitors.

tram

Trams operate mainly in specific districts and complement other transport options.

Train

Local and regional trains are commonly used to connect city centers with suburbs, nearby towns, or surrounding regions. They are especially useful for longer distances or day trips beyond the main urban area.

train

Local trains connect Rome with suburbs and nearby towns.

Taxi

Taxis are widely available and provide a convenient door-to-door travel option. They are commonly found near transport hubs, hotels, and popular tourist areas, and can be useful when traveling with luggage or late at night.

taxi

Taxis are widely available in Rome and commonly used by visitors.

Car Rental

Renting a car is usually not necessary for getting around the city itself, but it can be a practical choice for travelers planning day trips, visiting rural areas, or exploring destinations outside the main urban zones.

car

Renting a car in Rome is best suited for trips beyond the city rather than central travel.

hotels

Where to Stay

Rome’s neighbourhoods blend historic charm with everyday city life. Staying near the historic centre makes it easier to explore major landmarks, while other districts offer quieter streets and better value. Good transport connections allow visitors to balance convenience and atmosphere when choosing where to stay.

Historic Centre

The Historic Centre is ideal for walking to major landmarks. It suits first-time visitors who want to stay close to attractions.

Trastevere

Trastevere offers a local feel with traditional restaurants and nightlife. It’s a good choice for atmosphere and evening walks.

Monti

Monti is centrally located but less crowded. It suits travellers looking for character close to major sights.

Vatican Area

The Vatican area offers quieter streets and metro access. It’s ideal for travellers wanting a calmer stay near cultural landmarks.

Hotel Navona

Located near major landmarks and walking routes. Ideal for first-time visitors focusing on sightseeing.

Hotel Santa Maria

Set in a traditional area with restaurants and evening atmosphere nearby. Suitable for travellers who enjoy local dining.

Hotel Colosseum

Positioned close to historic sites and metro access. Well suited for sightseeing-focused city breaks.

Hotel Metropolis

Located in a quieter district with good transport connections. Ideal for relaxed stays near cultural attractions.

Top Attractions in Rome

Attractions

Rome’s attractions offer a journey through thousands of years of history. Ancient ruins, Renaissance art, and grand architecture are woven into the fabric of the modern city. Many of Rome’s top sights reflect its role as the center of the Roman Empire and later as a cultural and religious capital. Visitors can explore landmarks that illustrate the city’s enduring influence on art, politics, and architecture.

Colosseum in Rome – iconic ancient amphitheater

Colosseum

The Colosseum is one of Rome’s most iconic ancient monuments, built as a vast amphitheater during the Roman Empire. It hosted public spectacles and remains a powerful symbol of the city’s historical and architectural legacy.

Pantheon in Rome – ancient domed temple

Pantheon

The Pantheon is a remarkably preserved ancient temple in Rome, famous for its massive dome and central oculus. Originally built to honor Roman gods, it showcases the city’s engineering mastery.

Trevi Fountain in Rome – baroque landmark

Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain is one of Rome’s most famous Baroque landmarks, known for its elaborate sculptures and tradition of coin tossing. It remains a central gathering point in the historic city center.

Roman Forum in Rome – ancient city center ruins

Roman Forum

The Roman Forum was the political, social, and commercial center of ancient Rome. Surrounded by ruins of temples and public buildings, it offers insight into daily life during the height of the Roman Empire.

Vatican Museums in Rome – world-renowned art collections

Vatican Museums

The Vatican Museums house one of the world’s most important art collections, including works from classical antiquity to the Renaissance. They reflect centuries of artistic patronage and cultural influence in Rome.

Piazza Navona in Rome – historic city square

Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona is a historic square in Rome built on the site of an ancient stadium. Surrounded by Baroque architecture, it reflects the city’s layered urban history and lively public spaces.

tours

Tours & Experiences

food

Food & Local Eats

kids

Visiting with Kids

Local Tips

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