Rome Travel Guide
Sip a cappuccino in front of the historic Pantheon, imagine gladiators fighting beasts in the Colosseum, and see some of the world’s greatest artistic masterpieces during Rome vacations. Only a city that was once the center of civilization could offer the vast diversity and pleasures that Rome does. Prepare to be seduced; this Italian city has a way of making every single visitor fall in love.
Vacations to Rome can also be expensive, so instead of waiting another few years, skip overpriced hotels for an affordable vacation rental. Your apartment in Rome could be next to a delicious trattoria or down the street from a divine bakery. Let VacationRentals.com prove that a trip to Rome could be within your budget!
What to Do in Rome
Out for a Stroll
Any travel guide Rome will suggest that you see this romantic city on foot. Some of your best memories of Rome will be strolling through markets, piazzas, winding streets, and parks. This is the best way to discover Rome through the eyes of a local.
There are a few places you must see during Rome vacations including Piazza Navona and Campo di Fiori. Campo di Fiori is a marketplace by day and outdoor living room by night. Indulge in the Italian favorite pastime of people watching as you enjoy a scoop of famous gelato. Don’t miss strolling through Trastevere (a neighborhood of Rome with cobbled streets), by the Trevi Fountain, and around the stunning Pantheon.
Step Back in Time
Vacations to Rome wouldn’t be complete without learning a little ancient history. Remains of the ancient Romans are everywhere throughout the city. Take the English-language tour of the Colosseum, wander through the ruins of the Roman forum, and gaze in awe at the Pantheon.
There are also less well-known Roman relics to check out during your trip. If you want the complete ancient Rome experience, also visit the Roman baths of Caracalla, the Portico of Ottavia, and the Theatre of Marcellus. Another historical monument not to miss is Villa Borghese.
See the Masterpieces
No travel guide Rome could possibly ignore the wealth of attractions at the Vatican. You will remember the moment you first step into the Sistine Chapel and stare up at the beautiful hand-painted ceiling for the rest of your life. Beyond this famous site, there is an incredible variety of art to see as well. From a room dedicated to Raphael to classical sculptures, you will be in the company of masterpieces.
Family Fun
Thinking about bringing your kids on Rome vacations with you? Don’t hesitate for a moment to bring the little ones along. While Rome is one of the most romantic cities in the world, it is also a very easy place to keep kids entertained. From the ruins of Ancient Rome to the buzzing marketplaces, there are thrills around every corner for kids in Rome.
Give your kids a coin to throw into Trevi Fountain, watch them climb the Spanish steps, or enjoy the street performers in Piazza Navona. Markets are a great place for families, and the bustling market in Campo di Fiori will satisfy all family members. Vacations to Rome will be one trip where you won’t need to worry about what your kids will eat—there are spaghetti and meatballs and pizza on menus all over town!
What to See in Rome
The Eternal City is full of landmarks that will make Rome vacations memorable. Don’t miss some of the top museums including the National Gallery of Modern Art, the Capitoline Museums, and Galleria Borghese. Rome is also home to a fascinating series of catacombs including Via Appia Antica and Catacombs of St Callixtus. Churches worth a visit include San Giovanni Laterano, Santa Maria Maggiore, and San Clemente.
Beyond the Roman ruins and the religious attractions, there is more to discover in Rome. From buzzing nightlife in the Testaccio district to parks worthy of a gourmet Italian picnic, each day spent in Rome can be unique.
Where to Shop and Eat in Rome
Get Some Italian Style
Some of the best shopping in the world takes place in Italy. In the land of some of the world’s most famous designers, there will be endless temptations. While Rome may not have the full selection available in Milan, you can still satisfy your craving for designer labels.
During Vacations to Rome start your shopping along Via del Corso where you will find Ferrari and Swarowski Crystal. Another favorite shopping area is around Piazza di Spagna and Via dei Condotti where you will find Italy’s top designers including Armani, Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, and Versace.
The Roman Tradition of Sitting Down to a Meal
The Italians, and the Romans in particular, love the ritual of sitting down to a meal. Dining will be one of the chief pleasures of Rome vacations, and don’t expect this tradition to go too quickly. Romans take their time for meals, both at lunch and at dinner. Most days begin with a coffee and a pastry of some sort, and then many locals sit down to lunch in the middle of the day. Typical dishes include plain pasta with olive oil and grated cheese or baked lasagna.
During vacations to Rome you are sure to be tempted by a variety of restaurants. Some of the most expensive (and least impressive) options are located very close to the top tourist attractions. Get away from the main sites, and you will find better prices and higher quality. Top choices for dining include Roma Antico for classic dishes, Mangia Bevi for a local favorite, or La Scaletta for a divine risotto.
When to Visit Rome
Any good travel guide for Rome will reveal the best times to see this fascinating city. Largely, when to plan Rome vacations depends on what kind of traveler you are and what you’re looking for. Many travelers consider a trip to Rome during July and August. You may be surprised to learn that this isn’t peak season in Rome; these months can be quite hot and many Romans leave the city to spend the summer by the sea. Crowds won’t be unmanageable during these months, but the temperatures might soar.
The most popular time to plan Vacations to Rome is April through June and September through November. The spring and fall are two spectacular seasons in Rome—the chill of winter has passed and the heat of summer has yet to descend. You may experience some crowds during these months but seeing Rome under a blue, sunny sky is worth a few delays at top attractions. The month of December around the holidays is also a busy time to visit the Eternal City.
What to Bring to Rome
Any trip to Rome will consist of a significant amount of walking, so remember to bring comfortable walking shoes. Rome also has a reputation for pickpockets, so bring along a handbag that fully closes and can be worn across your body. Men are advised to keep wallets in pockets of their jacket as opposed to their pants pocket. Be especially cautious on public transportation, as this is where pickpockets focus their attention.
Local Services in Rome
During Rome vacations you will discover many pleasures. Visitors quickly discover that you can get a scoop of gelato or coffee at any time of the day, but services can be difficult to come by. An Italian post office is a confusing and time-consuming affair. ATMs are common and much simpler to use than exchanging cash. Internet cafés are widely available and affordable. Many of these cafés also have facilities for international calls. Unlike other parts of Italy, shops in Rome will keep longer hours, but don’t expect to be able to get anything 24 hours a day.
What to Know About Rome
A few safety tips from this travel guide Rome will help to ensure you have a fun and safe trip. Be sure to agree on a taxi fare before you begin a journey. Italian trains make it simple to discover nearby attractions but make sure you always have a proper ticket, the fines can be expensive.
If you’re looking to get the best value for your money, don’t sit down in cafes and bars. You will notice that many Romans enter a café, order a coffee, and drink it standing at the bar. This is because you will be charged extra for sitting down at a table. If you are tired and looking to rest for a few minutes, by all means, sit down, but realize you will pay for a place to sit!
Getting to Rome
Rome is home to a major international airport and the largest airport in Italy. If you don’t have direct service from your hometown, you should be able to connect in the States through a city such as New York or in Europe at London or Paris. Prices for airfare fluctuate throughout the year according to demand, but affordable fares can be found if you plan ahead.
Why Rome Vacation Rentals?
You are probably planning Vacations to Rome because you want to experience Italian culture. The best way to achieve this is to stay in a local neighborhood where you will be surrounded by Romans and not by tourists. Take advantage of the fresh markets and prepare some Italian cuisine in your kitchen. Find a favorite local bakery and bring pastries back for breakfast. Nothing will make you feel more like a Roman than having a set of keys in hand to your own vacation rental!