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.

The Roman Forum is an iconic archaeological site in Rome with ruins of ancient government buildings. Palatine Hill is one of the most ancient parts of the city, steeped in mythology and history.

The Roman Forum, once the heart of the Roman Empire, is a sprawling complex of ruined temples, basilicas, and arches. It's like stepping back in time, walking the same streets that Caesar once did. /n The Palatine Hill is the most central of Rome's seven hills and offers stunning views over the city. It's also home to the ruins of palaces of Roman emperors and aristocrats, making it a fascinating place to explore for anyone interested in history and architecture.

The Roman Forum and Palatine Hill are ancient sites, offering a glimpse into Rome's past.

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.

Vatican City is an independent city-state enclaved within Rome. It's home to St. Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums.

Vatican City, the smallest independent state in the world, is a treasure trove of art, history, and religion. It's home to St. Peter's Basilica, one of the world's largest churches, and the Sistine Chapel, with its breathtaking frescoes by Michelangelo. /n The Vatican Museums house an immense collection of art and historical artifacts, collected by the Roman Catholic Church over centuries. A visit to Vatican City is a unique experience, offering a glimpse into the heart of the Catholic Church and its rich history and culture.

Vatican City is a city-state enclaved within Rome, known for St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel.

One of the largest churches in the world, a renowned work of Renaissance architecture and one of the holiest Catholic shrines.

St. Peter's Basilica is an Italian Renaissance church in Vatican City, the papal enclave within the city of Rome. It is the most renowned work of Renaissance architecture and the largest church in the world. /n While it is neither the mother church of the Catholic Church nor the Catholic Roman Rite cathedral of the Diocese of Rome, St. Peter's is regarded as one of the holiest Catholic shrines. It has been described as 'holding a unique position in the Christian world' and as 'the greatest of all churches of Christendom'.

St. Peter's Basilica is an Italian Renaissance church in Vatican City, the papal enclave within the city of Rome.

One of the world's largest museum complexes, containing some of the most significant classical sculptures and Renaissance works of art.

The Vatican Museums are Christian and art museums located within Vatican City. They display works from the immense collection amassed by popes throughout the centuries including some of the most renowned classical sculptures and most important masterpieces of Renaissance art in the world. /n The museums contain roughly 70,000 works, of which 20,000 are on display, and currently employ 640 people who work in 40 different administrative, scholarly, and restoration departments.

The Vatican Museums are Christian and art museums located within Vatican City.

A chapel in the Apostolic Palace, the official residence of the Pope, in Vatican City. It is famous for its Renaissance frescoes, which include works by Michelangelo.

The Sistine Chapel is a chapel in the Apostolic Palace, the official residence of the Pope, in Vatican City. It is famous for its frescos, which include works by Perugino, Pinturicchio, Ghirlandaio, Rosselli, Botticelli, Signorelli, della Gatta and, most famously, Michelangelo. /n The chapel takes its name from Pope Sixtus IV, who restored it between 1477 and 1480. Since that time, the chapel has served as a place of both religious and functionary papal activity. Today it is the site of the Papal conclave, the process by which a new pope is selected.

The Sistine Chapel is a chapel in the Apostolic Palace, the official residence of the Pope, in Vatican City.

A former Roman temple, now a church, with a massive dome and ancient Roman architecture.

The Pantheon, a former Roman temple now a church, is one of the best-preserved of all Ancient Roman buildings. It has been in continuous use throughout its history. Its dome, with its famous hole at the top (the oculus), is still the world's largest unreinforced concrete dome. /n The design of the Pantheon is a perfect study in symmetry and proportion, with the diameter of the dome equal to the height of the building. Inside, you can find the tombs of several important Italians, including the artist Raphael. The Pantheon is a testament to the genius of Roman architects and their revolutionary use of concrete and design.

The Pantheon is a former Roman temple, now a church, known for its perfect proportions.

The largest Baroque fountain in the city and one of the most famous fountains in the world.

The Trevi Fountain is a fountain in the Trevi district in Rome, Italy, designed by Italian architect Nicola Salvi and completed by Pietro Bracci. Standing 26.3 metres (86 ft) high and 49.15 metres (161.3 ft) wide, it is the largest Baroque fountain in the city and one of the most famous fountains in the world. /n The fountain has appeared in several notable films, including Federico Fellini's La Dolce Vita, and is a popular tourist attraction.

The Trevi Fountain is the largest Baroque fountain in the city and one of the most famous fountains in the world.

A monumental stairway of 135 steps, one of the most famous tourist attractions in the city.

The Spanish Steps, located in the Piazza di Spagna, are one of Rome's most popular tourist attractions. This monumental stairway of 135 steps was built in the 18th century to link the Bourbon Spanish embassy to the Trinità dei Monti church above. /n The steps are a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike, offering great views of the city. At the foot of the steps, you'll find the Barcaccia Fountain, another popular landmark. The area is also known for its high-end shopping and is home to many designer boutiques.

The Spanish Steps are a monumental stairway of 135 steps, a popular gathering place in Rome.

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.

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.

Colosseum

Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

Trastevere

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Colosseum. This ancient amphitheater, a symbol of Rome's imperial might, offers a glimpse into the city's gladiatorial past. Don't forget to take plenty of photos.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch in a local trattoria. Try some traditional Roman dishes like pasta carbonara or saltimbocca. Savor the flavors of the Eternal City.

After lunch, head to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. These archaeological sites are a testament to Rome's ancient grandeur. Wander through the ruins and imagine life in the Roman Empire.

For dinner, indulge in a pizza at a local pizzeria. Rome is famous for its thin-crust pizza, topped with fresh, local ingredients. Enjoy the relaxed, convivial atmosphere.

Experience Rome's vibrant nightlife in the Trastevere district. This area is known for its lively bars and clubs. Enjoy a cocktail or a glass of Italian wine with your friends.

Exploring Ancient Rome and Trastevere Nightlife

St. Peter's Basilica

Vatican Museums

Sistine Chapel

Pantheon

Trevi Fountain

Spanish Steps

Testaccio

Start your second day with a visit to the Vatican City. Explore St. Peter's Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel. Marvel at the art and architecture of these iconic sites.

Have lunch in a café near the Vatican. Try a panini or a plate of pasta, and don't forget to sample some Italian gelato for dessert.

Spend the afternoon exploring the historic center of Rome. Visit the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, and the Spanish Steps. Take in the beauty and history of these famous landmarks.

Enjoy your last dinner in Rome at a local osteria. Try some Roman specialties like cacio e pepe or amatriciana. Savor the flavors of the city one last time.

End your trip with a night out in the Testaccio district. Known for its clubs and music venues, Testaccio is the perfect place to dance the night away.

Vatican City and Historic Center Sightseeing

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.

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2-Day Rome Itinerary: Sightseeing & Nightlife with Friends

About Rome, Italy