A large public park featuring beautiful gardens, museums, and villilas.

Villa Borghese Gardens is a large public park in Rome. It features a lake, temples, fountains, statues and several museums. It's a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. /n The park is also home to the Borghese Gallery, which houses a substantial part of the Borghese collection of paintings, sculpture, and antiquities. The Galleria Borghese includes twenty rooms across two floors.

A large landscape garden in the naturalistic English manner in Rome, containing a number of buildings, museums, and attractions.

An art gallery in Rome, Italy, housed in the former Villa Borghese Pinciana. It is a building that was from the first integral with its gardens and has a rich collection of paintings, sculptures, and antiquities.

The Borghese Gallery is an art museum located in the former Villa Borghese Pinciana. It is a building that was from the first integral with its gardens, nowadays considered quite separately by tourists as the Villa Borghese gardens. /n The Galleria Borghese houses a substantial part of the Borghese collection of paintings, sculpture and antiquities, begun by Cardinal Scipione Borghese, the nephew of Pope Paul V (reign 1605–1621).

An art gallery in Rome, Italy, housed in the former Villa Borghese Pinciana.

Trastevere is a charming and lively neighborhood known for its traditional and innovative trattorias, craft beer pubs, and artisan shops.

Trastevere is a picturesque medieval neighborhood located on the west bank of the Tiber. The area escaped the grand developments of the 19th century, and so it has retained its narrow lanes and enclosed squares characteristic of medieval times. /n Today, Trastevere is a vibrant area filled with high-quality restaurants, bars, and nightlife. It's also the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely stroll and lose yourself in its charming streets.

A charming medieval neighborhood with a fiery temperament, a haven for artists, expats, and students.

The Tiber River is the third-longest river in Italy and it runs through the city of Rome. There are many tours available that take you along the river, offering a unique perspective of the city.

The Tiber River is the third-longest river in Italy, rising in the Apennine Mountains in Emilia-Romagna and flowing 406 kilometers through Umbria and Lazio, where it is joined by the Aniene river, to the Tyrrhenian Sea. /n It has been an important waterway since ancient times, and its banks are dotted with monuments and landmarks, making it a popular tourist attraction.

The third-longest river in Italy, important in the history and mythology of Rome.

The largest ancient amphitheater ever built, and still standing, the Colosseum is arguably the most impressive building of the Roman Empire.

The Colosseum, or the Coliseum, originally the Flavian Amphitheatre, is an elliptical amphitheatre in the centre of the city of Rome, Italy, the largest ever built in the Roman Empire. It is considered one of the greatest works of Roman architecture and Roman engineering. /n Occupying a site just east of the Roman Forum, its construction started in 72 AD under the emperor Vespasian and was completed in 80 AD under Titus, with further modifications being made during Domitian's reign (81–96). The name 'Colosseum' is believed to be derived from a colossal statue of Nero nearby.

The Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, is an iconic symbol of Imperial Rome.

Monti is one of Rome's oldest neighborhoods. It is a vibrant area with a mix of trendy boutiques, traditional restaurants, and hip bars. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Monti is Rome's first ward and one of its most charming neighborhoods. Known for its bohemian atmosphere, the neighborhood is a maze of narrow streets, intimate piazzas, vintage shops, and food spots that serve authentic Roman cuisine. /n Monti is also home to a mix of locals and international crowds, adding to its vibrant and diverse atmosphere. It's the perfect place to explore, shop, and taste the local cuisine.

Rome's first ward, a maze of narrow streets and intimate piazzas, home to a mix of locals and international crowds.

A rectangular forum surrounded by the ruins of several important ancient government buildings at the center of the city of Rome.

The Roman Forum is a rectangular forum (plaza) surrounded by the ruins of several important ancient government buildings at the center of the city of Rome. Citizens of the ancient city referred to this space, originally a marketplace, as the Forum Magnum, or simply the Forum. /n It was for centuries the center of Roman public life: the site of triumphal processions and elections; the venue for public speeches, criminal trials, and gladiatorial matches; and the nucleus of commercial affairs. Here statues and monuments commemorated the city's great men.

The Roman Forum is a rectangular plaza surrounded by the ruins of several important ancient government buildings.

Testaccio is a district in Rome that is a foodie paradise, known for its authentic Roman cuisine and vibrant nightlife.

Testaccio is a working-class neighborhood in Rome, known for its strong food culture. It's the place to go for authentic Roman cuisine, from classic pasta dishes to the city's famous offal-based dishes. /n The neighborhood is also known for its vibrant nightlife scene, with a number of bars and clubs that stay open until the early hours of the morning. It's a great place to experience the local culture and cuisine.

A working-class neighborhood with a strong food culture, known for its authentic Roman cuisine and vibrant nightlife.

One of the largest and best preserved ancient thermal complexes, it offers a glimpse into the social life of Roman times.

The Baths of Caracalla are one of the largest and best preserved examples of an ancient bath complex in Rome. Built in the early 3rd century AD, they were a place for bathing, socializing, and studying. /n The baths were free and open to the public, and could accommodate up to 1,600 bathers. The complex included a gymnasium, libraries, and shops selling food and drink. Today, the ruins are a popular tourist attraction, offering a glimpse into the daily life of ancient Rome.

One of the largest and best preserved examples of an ancient bath complex, built in the early 3rd century AD.

Experience the timeless allure of Rome, Italy's captivating capital. Walk through centuries of history at iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and the Pantheon. Marvel at the Vatican City, home to St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, showcasing Michelangelo's masterpieces. Wander through charming piazzas, like Piazza Navona and Piazza di Spagna, and indulge in authentic Italian cuisine at local trattorias. Explore the vibrant Trastevere neighborhood, known for its bohemian atmosphere and nightlife. Don't forget to toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain, ensuring your return to this eternal city. Whether you're a history buff, foodie, or art lover, Rome offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of Italian culture.

Villa Borghese Gardens

Borghese Gallery

Trastevere

Tiber River

Start your day with a refreshing walk in the Villa Borghese Gardens. This is the third largest public park in Rome and offers beautiful views, sculptures, and fountains. It's a perfect place to enjoy the morning sun and get some exercise.

Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park. There are plenty of spots to sit and enjoy your meal while taking in the beautiful surroundings.

After lunch, head to the Borghese Gallery located within the park. This art gallery houses a substantial part of the Borghese collection of paintings, sculpture, and antiquities.

For dinner, head to a local trattoria in the Trastevere neighborhood. This area is known for its traditional Roman cuisine and charming, narrow streets.

After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the Tiber River. The river is beautifully lit at night and offers a peaceful end to your day.

Exploring Villa Borghese and Trastevere

Colosseum

Monti

Roman Forum

Testaccio

Baths of Caracalla

Start your second day with a visit to the Colosseum. This iconic Roman landmark is a must-see and offers a fascinating glimpse into the city's ancient history.

For lunch, head to a local pizzeria in the Monti neighborhood. This area is known for its excellent pizza and vibrant atmosphere.

After lunch, take a leisurely walk through the Roman Forum. This sprawling site was once the heart of the Roman Empire and is filled with ancient ruins.

For dinner, head to a local osteria in the Testaccio neighborhood. This area is known for its authentic Roman cuisine and lively nightlife.

End your day with a relaxing visit to the Baths of Caracalla. These ancient Roman public baths offer a unique and peaceful evening experience.

Discovering Ancient Rome and Testaccio

Daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March, ends last Sunday in October

UTC+1

Rome's public transportation system includes buses, trams, metro (subway), and suburban trains. The metro has three lines (A, B, and C) that can take you to many of the city's main attractions. Buses and trams cover the entire city and are a good option for reaching places not served by the metro.

Taxis are plentiful in Rome and can be hailed on the street, found at taxi stands, or called by phone. All official taxis are white and have a 'TAXI' sign on the roof. They are metered, so the cost will depend on the distance and time of travel.

Ridesharing services like Uber are available in Rome. They can be a convenient option for getting around, especially if you're not familiar with the city's public transportation system. However, they can be more expensive than taxis or public transportation.

Rome has several bike rental companies, and the city is increasingly becoming more bike-friendly with the addition of bike lanes. Biking can be a fun and active way to explore the city, but be aware that Rome's hilly terrain and chaotic traffic can be challenging.

Renting a car can give you the freedom to explore Rome at your own pace. However, driving in Rome can be stressful due to heavy traffic, narrow streets, and limited parking. Additionally, the city center is a restricted traffic zone (ZTL) where only authorized vehicles are allowed.

Many of Rome's attractions are within walking distance of each other, especially in the historic city center. Walking can be a pleasant way to explore the city, but be prepared for cobblestone streets and occasional lack of sidewalks.

Renting a scooter can be a fun and efficient way to get around Rome. However, this option is best for those who are experienced in riding scooters and comfortable navigating Rome's busy streets.

Private tours, often with a chauffeur, can be a comfortable and convenient way to see Rome's sights. These can be customized to your interests and typically include pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation.

Hop-on hop-off bus tours are a popular way to see Rome's main attractions. These double-decker buses follow a specific route and you can get on and off as many times as you like at the designated stops.

A popular street food in Rome, Pizza al Taglio is a rectangular pizza that is sold by weight. It's a must-try for its variety of toppings and authentic Roman style.

Pizza al Taglio

A classic Roman pasta dish made with egg, Pecorino Romano cheese, guanciale (pork jowl), and black pepper. It's a staple in Roman cuisine.

Carbonara

These are Italian snacks made of risotto, usually filled with mozzarella, coated with bread crumbs and then deep-fried. They are a popular appetizer in Rome.

Supplì

Another classic Roman pasta dish, Cacio e Pepe is made with Pecorino Romano cheese and black pepper. It's simple yet full of flavor.

Cacio e Pepe

A traditional Roman main course, Saltimbocca alla Romana is made of veal lined or topped with prosciutto and sage, and marinated in wine, oil or saltwater.

Saltimbocca alla Romana

Artichokes are a staple in Roman cuisine. They are usually fried (Carciofi alla Giudia) or braised with herbs and garlic (Carciofi alla Romana).

Roman Artichokes

A popular Italian starter, Bruschetta is grilled bread rubbed with garlic and topped with diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and sometimes mozzarella.

Bruschetta

Gelato is Italian ice cream and is a must-try when in Rome. It's denser and milkier than regular ice cream and comes in a variety of flavors.

Gelato

A classic Italian dessert, Tiramisu is made of ladyfingers dipped in coffee, layered with a whipped mixture of eggs, sugar, and mascarpone cheese, and flavored with cocoa.

Tiramisu

When in Rome, trying an Espresso is a must. It's a concentrated form of coffee served in small amounts.

Espresso

A popular Italian cocktail, Negroni is made of one part gin, one part vermouth rosso, and one part Campari, garnished with orange peel.

Negroni

Prosecco is a sparkling white wine from Italy. It's a popular choice for aperitivo (pre-dinner drink) in Rome.

Prosecco

New Year's Day

Epiphany

Easter Sunday

Easter Monday

Liberation Day

Labor Day / May Day

Republic Day

Assumption of Mary

All Saints' Day

Feast of the Immaculate Conception

Christmas Day

St. Stephen's Day

Home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Villa d'Este and Hadrian's Villa.

Tivoli

Ancient Roman port city with well-preserved ruins.

Ostia Antica

Castelli Romani

Medieval city known for its Gothic cathedral.

Orvieto

A hilltop village accessible only by a pedestrian bridge.

Civita di Bagnoregio

Birthplace of St. Francis, with a stunning basilica.

Assisi

Vibrant city with rich history, art, and food culture.

Naples

Ancient city preserved under volcanic ash from Mount Vesuvius.

Pompeii

Renaissance city known for its art and architecture.

Florence

Medieval city known for its Palio horse race.

Siena

Island known for its rugged landscape and upscale hotels and shopping.

Capri

Amalfi Coast

Bergamo

Bolzano

Brescia

Cinque Terre

Lake Como

Milan

Sicily

Tuscany

Venice

Old vintage cult car parked on the street

Rome is a busy city, so be prepared for crowds, especially during peak tourist season (April to June, September and October).

Pickpocketing can be a problem in crowded areas and on public transportation, so always keep an eye on your belongings.

The city is very walkable, but it also has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, and a metro.

Tipping is not customary in Italy, but you can leave a small amount if you receive exceptional service.

Many shops and restaurants close for a few hours in the afternoon for 'riposo', similar to the Spanish siesta.

It's common to pay a small cover charge ('coperto') in restaurants, which is not a tip but a charge for the bread and service.

Rome's tap water is safe to drink and there are numerous public fountains where you can refill your water bottle for free.

It's considered rude to order a cappuccino after 11 am, as Italians typically only drink it for breakfast.

Most museums and attractions are closed on Mondays.

Rome can be very hot in the summer, with temperatures often exceeding 86°F (30°C), and very cold in the winter, with temperatures often dropping below 32°F (0°C).

It's customary to greet people with a handshake, or two kisses on the cheek (starting from the left) for friends.

Italians are generally relaxed about dress code, but you should dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Many Romans speak English, especially in the city center and tourist areas, but learning a few basic Italian phrases can be helpful.

The voltage in Italy is 220-240 Volts, so you may need a converter if your devices use a different voltage.

The currency in Italy is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash.

Pharmacies in Rome are marked by a green cross and are the best place to go for minor health issues.

Smoking is banned in all enclosed public places in Italy, including bars and restaurants.

Rome is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+1).

Emergency numbers in Italy are 112 for general emergencies, 113 for police, 118 for medical emergencies, and 115 for fire.

Public restrooms can be hard to find in Rome, and many charge a small fee. Restaurants and cafes often reserve their restrooms for customers.

January is the coldest month in Rome, with occasional rain and snow. It's a great time to visit if you prefer fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.

February is still quite chilly, but the days are getting longer. It's a good time to visit museums and historical sites.

March sees the beginning of spring, with temperatures starting to rise. The city starts to bloom, making it a beautiful time to visit.

April is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures. It's a great time to explore the city on foot.

May is warm and sunny, perfect for outdoor activities. The city is vibrant with flowers and greenery.

June is the start of summer, with long, hot days. It's a great time for beach trips and outdoor dining.

July is the hottest month in Rome, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C. It's a great time to visit if you love the heat and sunshine.

August is equally hot, with many locals leaving the city for vacation. It's a good time to visit if you don't mind the heat and smaller crowds.

September sees the start of autumn, with temperatures starting to drop. It's a great time to visit for comfortable weather and fewer tourists.

October is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures. It's a great time to explore the city on foot.

November is cooler, with shorter days and more rainfall. It's a good time to visit museums and indoor attractions.

December is chilly, but the city is beautifully decorated for Christmas. It's a great time to visit for holiday festivities and shopping.

When visiting Rome, Italy, it's important to be aware of the city's Mediterranean climate, which is characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. 

During the summer months, from June to August, temperatures can reach highs of 86°F (30°C) during the day. It's advisable to stay hydrated and wear light, breathable clothing to stay comfortable. Don't forget to apply sunscreen regularly, especially if you're planning to spend a lot of time outdoors exploring the city's historical sites.

The winter months, from December to February, are generally mild with temperatures ranging from 37°F to 57°F (3°C to 14°C). It's a good idea to pack a warm coat, as well as an umbrella or raincoat, as this is when Rome receives most of its rainfall.

Spring and autumn are considered the best times to visit Rome. The weather during these seasons is typically mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C). These periods also tend to be less crowded with tourists, making it easier to explore the city.

Regardless of when you visit, remember that weather can be unpredictable. It's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. Also, keep in mind that many of Rome's attractions are outdoors, so be prepared for any weather conditions.

Cookie consent

2-Day Local Experiences with Outdoor Activities in Rome, Italy

About Rome, Italy