The Eternal City: history, art, and the world's best food
The Eternal City, where ancient Colosseum ruins stand alongside Renaissance churches and world-famous pasta.
Rome is a city where every corner tells a story spanning over 2,000 years. Italy's capital and former center of the Roman Empire, this metropolis is an open-air museum where ancient ruins coexist with vibrant modern life.
From the Colosseum to the Vatican, through Baroque squares and family-run trattorias, Rome offers a complete sensory experience. Art, history, gastronomy, and la dolce vita combine to create an absolutely irresistible city.
In this guide you'll find everything to plan your trip: must-see attractions, optimized itineraries, where to eat like a Roman, and tips to avoid tourist traps.
The largest amphitheater ever built, with a capacity of 50,000 spectators. Built in 80 AD, it's Rome's symbol and one of the 7 modern wonders of the world.
One of the world's most impressive art collections. The route culminates in the Sistine Chapel with Michelangelo's ceiling frescoes and the Last Judgment.
The world's largest church and center of Christianity. Michelangelo's Pieta, the dome with Rome views, and the grandeur of the interior are overwhelming.
The world's most famous Baroque fountain. Tradition says tossing a coin with your right hand over your left shoulder guarantees your return to Rome. Spectacular when lit at night.
The best-preserved building from ancient Rome (126 AD). Its concrete dome with the central oculus is an engineering marvel. Raphael's tomb. Entry is now ticketed.
The political, religious, and social center of ancient Rome. Walking among ruins of the Senate, temples, and triumphal arches is time travel.
One of Rome's most beautiful squares, built over an ancient Roman stadium. Bernini's three fountains, Baroque buildings, and street artists create an unforgettable scene.
Rome's most authentic and charming neighborhood. Cobblestone streets, ivy-covered facades, family trattorias, and lively nightlife. Where Romans actually eat.
Rome's most beautiful park with the Galleria Borghese (a must, with Bernini and Caravaggio), gardens, a lake, and views from the Pincio.
The 135 most famous steps in the world connecting Piazza di Spagna with Trinita dei Monti church. A classic meeting point and one of Rome's most photographed spots.
First day dedicated to Imperial Rome: Colosseum, Forum, and classical monuments.
Full morning at the Vatican and afternoon exploring charming neighborhoods.
Relaxed day exploring galleries, churches, and enjoying the Roman art of living.
Roman cuisine is honest, straightforward, and absolutely delicious. With few top-quality ingredients, Romans create dishes that are pure perfection. No pretension here — just flavor.
Pasta with pecorino romano cheese and black pepper. Just 3 ingredients, absolute perfection. Rome's most iconic dish.
Roma Sparita, Felice a Testaccio
The real deal: guanciale (cured pork cheek), egg, pecorino, and pepper. No cream, no onion. Creamy from the egg.
Roscioli, Da Enzo al 29
Tomato sauce with guanciale and pecorino. One of Rome's four classic pastas. Hearty and delicious.
Felice a Testaccio, Bucatini
Fried rice ball with ragu and mozzarella. The quintessential Roman street food. When broken open, the cheese strings like a 'telephone'.
Supplizio, Trapizzino
Whole fried artichokes Jewish-style. Crispy like a golden flower. A specialty of Rome's Jewish Quarter.
Nonna Betta, Ba'Ghetto
Real Italian gelato: no artificial colors, natural hues, intense flavors. Pistachio, stracciatella, and hazelnut are classics.
Fatamorgana, Come il Latte, Gunther
In Trastevere, perfect Roman cooking. No reservations: 30-45min queue. Worth every minute.
Also in Trastevere, huge portions and delicious. The cacio e pepe is top-tier.
Many say the best carbonara in Rome. Reservations essential.
Pizza triangles stuffed with Roman stews. Great for a quick, cheap meal.
Best suppli in Rome. Try the classic 'al telefono'.
Thin, crispy Roman pizza. Always a queue but it moves fast. Cash only.
Rome's most charming neighborhood. Cobblestone streets, authentic trattorias, ivy-covered facades, and a bohemian atmosphere.
Ideal for: Foodies, romantics, and nightlife
Rome's hipster quarter. Vintage shops, natural wine bars, galleries, and a young vibe next to the Colosseum.
Ideal for: Young travelers and vintage lovers
Rome's secret foodie neighborhood. Birthplace of Roman cuisine: market, century-old trattorias, zero tourists.
Ideal for: Authentic foodies
The tourist heart with the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and Trevi Fountain. Monumental but crowded.
Ideal for: First-time visitors
Home to the Vatican Museums and St. Peter's. Prati is an elegant residential area with good dining options.
Ideal for: Pilgrims and art lovers
| Transport | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
Leonardo Express Direct train to Roma Termini. Every 15 min. Best option. | 32 min | €14 |
Regional train FL1 Stops at Trastevere, Ostiense, and Tiburtina. Cheaper. | 45-55 min | €8 |
Bus (Terravision/SIT) Cheapest option. To Termini. | 55-70 min | €6-7 |
Taxi Flat rate to center. Good for families. | 45-60 min | €50 (flat rate) |
| Transport | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
Bus + metro Bus to Anagnina (metro A) or Termini. | 40-50 min | €6 |
Taxi Flat rate. Cheaper than Fiumicino. | 30-40 min | €31 (flat rate) |
Rome has metro (3 lines: A, B, C), buses, and trams. The metro is useful but limited. Buses cover more areas but are slow.
Budget
54€
/day
Mid-range
90€
/day
Luxury
162€
/day
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