The Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, is an iconic landmark of Rome. Once capable of seating over 50,000 spectators, it was here that ancient gladiators fought for their lives in front of bloodthirsty crowds. Today, visitors can tour the remains of this ancient marvel and learn about the history of the Roman Empire.
Although technically a separate country, the Vatican City is located entirely within the city of Rome. Here, travelers can explore the magnificent St. Peter's Basilica, which houses priceless works of art like Michelangelo's Pieta, and the Sistine Chapel, with its iconic ceiling frescoes. Be sure to take in the breathtaking views of the city from the top of the dome.
What trip to Italy would be complete without indulging in some authentic Italian pizza? Pizzeria La Montecarlo, located in the vibrant Trastevere neighborhood, is known for its classic margherita and creative toppings like truffle and zucchini blossoms. The charming outdoor seating is ideal for people-watching while enjoying a slice (or three).
The Pantheon is one of the most well-preserved buildings of ancient Rome, with its iconic dome serving as a model for countless other architectural marvels over the centuries. Visitors can marvel at the intricate stone carvings and geometric patterns of the interior, as well as the tomb of the Renaissance artist Raphael.
After a day of exploring the city's marvels, take a leisurely stroll along the Tiber River. Admire the views of the Castel Sant'Angelo and Ponte Sant'Angelo, both ancient structures that have played important roles in Rome's history. End your day with dinner at one of the many trattorias or osterias in the Trastevere neighborhood, savoring the flavors of Italian cuisine while soaking in the ambiance of this charming and historic part of the city.
While many of the major tourist sites in Rome are within walking distance of one another, it's also easy to get around using Rome's extensive public transportation system. The metro and bus lines run frequently and are relatively affordable (a single ticket costs €1.50 and is good for 100 minutes of use, including transfers). Taxis are also widely available, and it's a good idea to negotiate the fare beforehand to avoid any surprises.
If you have more time to spend in Rome, consider adding on a visit to the Trevi Fountain or the Spanish Steps, exploring the ruins of the Roman Forum, or taking a day trip out to the charming town of Tivoli. If you have less time, consider scaling back your itinerary or focusing on one specific part of the city (like the Vatican City or Ancient Rome). No matter how long you have, be sure to take the time to savor the flavors and ambiance of this magical city.
Rome is served by two airports: Fiumicino Airport (FCO), also known as Leonardo da Vinci Airport, and Ciampino Airport (CIA). Fiumicino is the larger of the two and is located approximately 32 kilometers southwest of the city center. Ciampino is smaller and located approximately 15 kilometers southeast of the city center. Both airports offer a variety of transportation options into the city, including bus, metro, and taxi services.