Rome is the capital city of Italy. It is also the capital of the Lazio region, the centre of the Metropolitan City of Rome Capital, and a special comune named Comune di Roma Capitale.
The best time to visit Rome is spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) when the weather is mild, the crowds are smaller compared to peak summer months, and outdoor sightseeing is more enjoyable.
✅ Spring (April–June) – Pleasant temperatures (15–25°C or 59–77°F), blooming flowers, and fewer tourists than summer.
✅ Fall (September–October) – Comfortable weather, fewer crowds, and great for exploring historic sites.
🚫 Summer (July–August) – Hot (often above 30°C or 86°F), very crowded, and expensive.
✅ Winter (November–March) – Fewer tourists, lower prices, and cooler weather, but some attractions may have shorter hours.
For a perfect experience, May and September are ideal months as they combine good weather with fewer crowds.
Rome has two main airports:
From FCO to Rome City Center:
From CIA to Rome City Center:
Rome’s main train station is Roma Termini, with high-speed trains from:
✅ Tour the Colosseum & Roman Forum – Step back in time and learn about ancient Rome.
✅ Visit the Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel – See Michelangelo’s masterpiece.
✅ Explore the Pantheon – Marvel at its stunning dome.
✅ Wander through Trastevere – Discover hidden alleys, churches, and authentic Roman vibes.
✅ Climb St. Peter’s Basilica Dome – Enjoy breathtaking views of Rome.
✅ Join a Food Tour – Try authentic pasta, pizza, and gelato in local neighborhoods.
✅ Take a Cooking Class – Learn to make fresh pasta or traditional Roman dishes.
✅ Enjoy an Aperitivo at a Rooftop Bar – Sip a cocktail with stunning views of the city.
✅ Visit Campo de’ Fiori Market – Taste fresh Italian produce and delicacies.
✅ Throw a Coin in the Trevi Fountain – Ensure a return trip to Rome!
✅ Watch the Sunset from Gianicolo Hill – One of the best panoramic views.
✅ Walk the Appian Way (Via Appia Antica) – An ancient Roman road surrounded by history.
✅ Explore the Catacombs – Underground tombs filled with history and mystery.
✅ Rent a Vespa or Bike – Experience Rome like a local.
✅ Shop on Via del Corso & Via Condotti – For fashion and luxury brands.
✅ Explore Local Artisan Markets – Great for souvenirs and handmade goods.
✅ Visit a Bookstore Café – Cozy spots to read about Rome’s history.
Centro Storico (Historic Center) – Perfect for first-time visitors, close to landmarks like the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and Piazza Navona.
Trastevere – A charming, lively neighborhood with cobbled streets, amazing restaurants, and a local vibe.
Prati (Near Vatican City) – Ideal for visiting the Vatican; a quiet, elegant area with good shopping.
Monti – Trendy neighborhood with cool cafes, boutique shops, and close to the Colosseum.
Termini Station Area – Budget-friendly with easy transport links, but less charming.
✅ Trattoria Da Enzo al 29 – Famous for its Carbonara & Cacio e Pepe (📍Trastevere).
✅ Roscioli – A mix of deli, bakery, and restaurant, known for incredible pasta (📍Centro Storico).
✅ Armando al Pantheon – A historic spot for authentic Roman dishes (📍Near the Pantheon).
✅ Felice a Testaccio – One of the best places for Cacio e Pepe (📍Testaccio).
✅ Flavio al Velavevodetto – Traditional trattoria built on ancient Roman ruins (📍Testaccio).
✅ Pizzarium (Bonci) – Legendary pizza by the slice near the Vatican.
✅ Seu Pizza Illuminati – Modern twist on classic Roman pizza.
✅ Emma Pizzeria – Excellent thin-crust Roman-style pizza.
✅ La Gatta Mangiona – Creative gourmet pizzas in a cozy setting.
✅ La Pergola (⭐⭐⭐ Michelin) – One of the best restaurants in Italy, stunning views.
✅ Imàgo (⭐ Michelin) – Elegant dining with breathtaking views of Rome.
✅ Aroma at Palazzo Manfredi (⭐ Michelin) – Fine dining with a view of the Colosseum.
✅ Terrazza Borromini – A beautiful rooftop for romantic dining.
✅ Giolitti – Historic gelateria, loved by locals.
✅ Fatamorgana – Unique flavors made with natural ingredients.
✅ Otaleg – High-quality artisan gelato.
✅ Gelateria del Teatro – Creative flavors in a picturesque setting.
Rome is a city rich in history, art, and traditions, blending ancient heritage with modern Italian life. Here are some key aspects of Roman culture you should know before visiting:
✅ La Dolce Vita (The Sweet Life) – Romans enjoy a slow-paced, relaxed lifestyle, prioritizing good food, conversation, and leisure.
✅ Late Dining – Dinner usually starts after 8 PM, and meals are a social affair, often lasting for hours.
✅ Aperitivo Culture – Similar to "happy hour," locals enjoy pre-dinner drinks with small bites, usually between 6-8 PM.
✅ Natale (Christmas in Rome) – The Vatican hosts a grand Christmas Mass, and Piazza Navona has a famous Christmas market.
✅ Settimana Santa (Holy Week) – Easter celebrations with processions and a Papal Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica.
✅ Carnevale Romano – A pre-Lent festival with parades, costumes, and street performances.
✅ Festa della Repubblica (June 2nd) – Italy’s National Day with military parades in Rome.
✅ No Cappuccino After 11 AM – Italians drink cappuccino only in the morning; after lunch, order an espresso.
✅ Bread Isn’t Free – If they bring bread to your table, expect a small charge.
✅ No Parmesan on Seafood Pasta – It’s considered a culinary "rule" to never mix cheese with seafood pasta.
✅ Paying the Bill ("Il Conto") – You usually have to ask for the check, as waiters won’t bring it automatically.
✅ Basic Italian Phrases Help – While many speak English, locals appreciate when visitors try Italian.
✅ Hand Gestures Are Common – Italians express a lot through hand movements; don’t be surprised if conversations feel animated!
✅ Fashion Matters – Italians take pride in their appearance. Dressing stylishly is common, even for casual outings.
✅ Respect Religious Sites – When visiting churches (especially St. Peter’s Basilica), wear modest clothing (shoulders & knees covered).
✅ Greet with a Kiss – Friends and family greet each other with a kiss on both cheeks, but a handshake is fine for new acquaintances.