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About this guide

Rome, Italy, is a city brimming with rich history, stunning architecture, and classical culture. From the awe-inspiring Colosseum to the Vatican's artistic treasures, Rome offers endless opportunities to explore ancient roots and indulge in modern charm. The city's cultural neighborhoods, artisan farmer’s markets, and award-winning cuisine provide ample opportunities to immerse in local life. Additionally, Rome's commitment to celebrating global cultures ensures travelers find meaningful connections and unforgettable experiences.

  • Best time to travel: June to August (peak season), November to March (off season), April to May and September to October (shoulder season) 
  • Time zone: Central European Time (CET)
  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Language: Italian
  • Noteworthy: Carnevale Romano (February), Roma Summer Fest (June to August), Rome Film Fest (October), Rome Jazz Festival (November)
  • Best for: Italian Food and Wine Connoisseurs, European History Buffs, Art and Music Lovers, Romantic Getaways 

Get Away: Getting To and Around Rome, Italy

By Air 

The best way to get to Rome, Italy by air is to book a direct flight into the city’s main international gateway at Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport. Most major airlines offer direct flights from various global hubs with plenty of convenient options. Check flights into Ciampino Airport, which primarily serves low-cost carriers, for budget-conscious travelers.

By Car

Driving around Rome can be challenging due to heavy traffic and limited parking, but renting a small vehicle can help in navigating the narrow streets more easily. To avoid restricted traffic zones (ZTL), it’s best to use parking garages and opt for a GPS or navigation app like Citymappers. Alternatively, renting a scooter can be a fun and efficient way to explore the city, too.

By Public Transit

Rome has an extensive metro, bus, and tram network for convenient and affordable travel. The metro connects three lines to major attractions while buses and trams cover areas the metro doesn't reach. For a more economical option, a Roma Pass gives unlimited access to public transportation and discounted entry to numerous sites.

Explore Rome, Italy On Foot

Walking around Rome may arguably the best way to experience the rich history, local culture, and fantastic cuisine. Many iconic landmarks, such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Trevi Fountain, are located close for easy walkable access. Always take safety seriously and wear comfortable shoes when wandering through charming neighborhoods like Trastevere and the historic center.

Quick facts

Central European Time (CET)

Euro (€)

Italian

Good For

Italian Food and Wine Connoisseurs

European History Buffs

Art and Music Lovers

Romantic Getaways

Keep in mind

  • Carnevale Romano (February)
  • Roma Summer Fest (June to August)
  • Rome Film Fest (October)
  • Rome Jazz Festival (November)

Gourmet

Gourmet: Places To Eat In Rome, Italy

All’Oro

Michelin-starred All’Oro respects Italian tradition with a modern twist showcased in their upscale à la carte and tasting menus. Dishes include Tiramisu of potatoes with salted cod, raviolini with marscapone cheese and duck ragout, and Carbon’air with a fruit-infused white chocolate egg. 

Sant'Isidoro - Pizza And Bolle

Sant'Isidoro - Pizza And Bolle serves authentic rustic Italian food like Burro e Limone, Sicilian Caponata, and spicy Diavola pasta. Their Italian classic dessert menu includes pistachio Zeppoline Fritte, panna cotta, and authentic tiramisu.

Ice Club Roma

In Rome's historic Monti district, the Nordic cocktail bar Ice Club Roma has ice-built interior with low -5°C temperatures. Guests can savor over 40 vodkas from around the world, including sweet and fruity variations like strawberry, peach, and chocolate.

Qvinto

The warm and elegant atmosphere at Qvinto complements their amazing Italian menu. The restaurant’s seasonal themed decor like the Lemon Room, Secret Garden, Jungle Garden, and Love rooms, deliver all the good vibes.

La Licata 

Dine at La Licata for a laid-back atmosphere and the best espresso in Rome’s Rione Monti district. Italian, American, and vegan breakfast and lunch options complement the coffee bar or a wine, beer, and cocktail list.

Ristorante Coromandel

Curated by owner and Chef Katia Minniti Berard, Ristorante Coromandel serves artistically delicious breakfast and brunch menus. Dishes include handcrafted croissants, maritozzi, pancakes, classic burgers, and croque madame or monsieur.

Play

Play: Things To Do In Rome, Italy

Cooking Class Near Navona

This cooking class near Navona teaches guests the art of Italy's globally-beloved cuisine with handcrafted pasta and dessert. After making fettuccine, ravioli, and tiramisù in a restaurant kitchen, guests enjoy their delicious feast with wine, limoncello, and coffee.

Rome's Dark Side Of Ghosts And Legends

The award-winning Rome’s Dark Side Of Ghosts And Legends takes visitors on a haunted tour of the city’s history of ghosts, executions, true crime, and more. This after-dark stroll goes through the backstreets before ending with a nice drink and meal at a local restaurant.

The Coolest Underground Catacombs Tour

The Coolest Underground Catacombs Tour takes visitors through the iconic underground tunnels surrounded by Roman architecture to learn about the history and culture of Rome. Led by an experienced guide, guests go down through the 4th Century Basilica above the tomb of historic martyrs and end near the Apopka Antica.

Rome Twilight Trastevere Food Tour

To fully indulge in authentically local Italian, this  Rome Twilight Trastevere Food Tour is the best way to skip the line and taste the city like the Romans do. This is one of the best tours to gain exclusive access to Rome’s oldest wine cellar, try popular street food spots, indulge in traditional pasta, and gorge on the best organic gelato in the city.

Ancient Mosaic-Making

This Ancient Mosaic-Making workshop teaches different traditional and modern mosaic techniques to create a fun souvenir. The studio has a full set of original Roman Mosaic craft tools, sketches by famous Italian artists, and refreshments. 

Truffle Experience

For an amazing day trip through the northern woods of Rome, the Truffle Experience teaches guests about different species of truffle in Italy. Led by a guide and his two trained truffle-hunting pups, Matteo cooks fresh truffle dishes from the ones picked during the tour.

Vespa Tour With A Professional Photographer

No one leaves Rome without photos of the trip so this Vespa Tour with a professional photographer is the perfect way to keep those memories alive. This passenger-only experience rides to the iconic Colosseum, the beautiful Orange Garen, and stunning views on Aventine Hill.

Vatican, Sistine Chapel, Basilica, And Papal Tomb Group Tour

To skip the line and have everything planned at some of Rome’s most popular tourist spots, book the Vatican, Sistine Chapel, Basilica, And Papal Tomb Group Tour. A Maya Tours guide leads visitors through the Vatican’s extraordinary collections, art galleries, and over 20,000 displays of iconic Roman artwork.