Rome Travel Guide
The writer Miguel de Cervantes once said 'To Rome, for everything’ and he was right! With a rich history, fantastic food and some of the most recognisable landmarks in the world, the 'Eternal City' of Rome has it all!
The capital of Italy, and of the Lazio region, Rome is located on the central-western part of the country and two thousand years ago the city was the heart of the Roman Empire which ruled over one-third of the world. It was the poet Tibullus who first referred to Rome as the ‘Eternal City’ in the 1st century BC, inspiring many to believe the city would last forever. The legacy of the Roman empire is still prominent today with the iconic Colosseum, where gladiators once fought in brutal combats and the Roman Forum which was once used for various social and political functions. After the collapse of the Roman Empire, the city of Rome came roaring back to prominence many years later during the Renaissance. The Vatican City and St Peter's Basilica are areas of historical significance and home to some of the most incredible pieces of art.
Rome enjoyed another "renaissance" from the 1950s, when the famous films of ‘Roman Holiday’ and ‘La Dolce Vita’ helped promote the city as a holiday destination. These days, it still has a cosmopolitan, sophisticated culture, with art, dance, opera and film all prominent parts of the city's lifestyle.
We've outlined some general information that may be helpful to you when planning your next holiday to Rome.
Time Zone & Currency
Italy is one hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) throughout the year. The currency in Italy is the Euro.
Weather In Rome
The climate is generally pleasant; warm and sunny in spring and autumn and hot and dry in summer.
Reading For Your Trip To Rome
A Time in Rome by Elizabeth Bowen
Angels & Demons by Dan Brown
Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert
Best time to go to Rome
Summer temperatures routinely top 30 degrees, but we tend to travel in the spring and autumn months which are still usually warm and sunny, but not stifling. So be prepared for some sun when you take a holiday in Rome.
Top Tourist Attractions In Rome
Top 10 things to do in Rome
Rome has a captivating blend of culture, cuisine and historical sights. Whether you're an art lover, history enthusiast or a serious foodie, there is plenty to discover in one of the most breath-taking cities in the world.
Food and drink in Rome
Food is a major aspect of what it means to be Roman, and visitors are in for a gastronomic treat when they take holidays to Rome. It's the birthplace of spaghetti alla carbonara, which mixes pasta, bacon and egg, as well as salty pecorino Romano cheese. But there are also rich amatriciana pasta sauces, stuffed artichokes (carciofi) and delicious herb-seasoned lamb chops to get your teeth into. And, that's before we even get onto Roman wines like Frascati - a crisp, refreshing white wine.
Rome Travel Guide FAQs
Can you give a brief history of Rome?
Is there a dress code for The Vatican?
I have walking difficulties, is a holiday in Rome suitable?
Is Rome a good holiday destination?
Useful Links
- For up-to-date information regarding entry into Italy please see: www.gov.uk
- Official Italian Tourism Board: www.italia.it