The Vatican City is a must-visit destination for travelers to Rome. This tiny country within Italy boasts some of the most beautiful and ornate architectural designs in the world, including the stunning St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel. During the summer season, visitors can witness an audience with the Pope every Wednesday.
Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, is home to some of the world's most treasured art and architecture. Enjoy a guided tour of the Uffizi Gallery and wander through the Ponte Vecchio, the oldest bridge in the city. Don't miss the stunning Duomo, which features stunning stained glass and intricately painted murals.
Travel to Pisa to take a fun family photo holding up the iconic leaning tower! The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and the Baptistery of St. John are also must-visits while you’re in town. Enjoy some delicious Italian cuisine in nearby cafes and restaurants to refuel before the next adventure.
Pompei is one of the world’s most important archaeological sites, offering insights into the daily life of ancient Roman civilization before the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in AD 79. View preserved frescoes and mosaics, along with some of the most well-preserved examples of Roman city planning in existence.
The Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain are two of Rome's most famous landmarks. Climb the steps to the top and take in stunning views of the city, then make your way down to toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain - a ritual that ensures a return visit to Rome.
The Colosseum is one of the most iconic symbols of the ancient Roman Empire. Explore the amphitheater, try on traditional garb, and learn about the engineering and construction techniques that made this feat of architecture and engineering possible.
Travelers should consider a combination of transportation methods to maximize their visit to Rome. Train travel is an efficient and cost-effective way to reach destinations like Florence, Pisa, and Pompei. Use a taxi or ride-share app to get around the city quickly, or take advantage of Rome’s extensive public transportation network, including metro lines and buses. Consider purchasing a Rome city pass, which offers discounts on transportation and popular attractions.
If you have more time, consider adding a visit to the ruins of Ostia Antica or the Villa d’Este, a UNESCO World Heritage Site outside of Rome. For families with young children, the Explora children’s museum offers interactive exhibits and play areas. If you have less time, skip Pompei and travel directly to Rome to use those extra hours exploring the city’s piazzas and narrow streets.
Rome has two airports: Fiumicino Airport (FCO) and Ciampino Airport (CIA). Fiumicino, also known as Leonardo da Vinci International Airport, is the larger and more well-known of the two. It is located about 30 km southwest of the city center and offers extensive global connections to major cities around the world. Ciampino Airport is smaller and located about 15 km southeast of the city center. It offers primarily low-cost and regional flights to destinations across Europe. Both airports are served by bus and train services that provide affordable transportation to and from the city center.