One of the most famous and arguably the most beautiful of Rome's many squares. The large and lively square features no less than three magnificent fountains.

Piazza Navona is a square in Rome, Italy, built on the site of the Stadium of Domitian, built in the 1st century AD, and follows the form of the open space of the stadium. /n The ancient Romans went there to watch the agones ('games'), and hence it was known as 'Circus Agonalis' (competition arena). It is believed that over time the name changed to 'in agone' to 'navone' and eventually to 'navona'.

Piazza Navona is a square in Rome, Italy, built on the site of the Stadium of Domitian.

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.

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.

St. Peter's Square is a large plaza located in Vatican City, the papal enclave inside Rome. It is directly in front of St. Peter's Basilica and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Rome.

St. Peter's Square is a large plaza located in Vatican City, the papal enclave inside Rome. It is directly in front of St. Peter's Basilica and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Rome. /n The square is surrounded by massive Tuscan colonnades, which were designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. The square also features a large Egyptian obelisk at its center, which was brought to Rome by Emperor Caligula in 37 AD. The obelisk is flanked by two fountains, one by Bernini and the other by Carlo Maderno. /n St. Peter's Square is also the site of the Pope's weekly addresses, which draw large crowds of both locals and tourists. The square is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, architecture, or religion.

St. Peter's Square is a large plaza located in Vatican City, the papal enclave inside 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.

One of the most ancient parts of the city, it stands 40 metres above the Roman Forum, looking down upon it on one side, and upon the Circus Maximus on the other.

The Palatine Hill is the centremost of the Seven Hills of Rome and is one of the most ancient parts of the city. It stands 40 metres above the Roman Forum, looking down upon it on one side, and upon the Circus Maximus on the other. /n From the time of Augustus Imperial palaces were built here. Prior to extensions to the Palatine Hill, the hill was mostly occupied by the houses of the rich.

Palatine Hill is one of the most ancient parts of the city, steeped in myth and history.

Piazza Venezia is a major square in Rome, known for its busy traffic and grand buildings. It is located at the foot of the Capitoline Hill and near the Roman Forum.

Piazza Venezia is a major square in Rome, known for its busy traffic and grand buildings. It is located at the foot of the Capitoline Hill and near the Roman Forum. /n The square is dominated by the imposing Vittorio Emanuele II Monument, also known as the Altar of the Fatherland. This monument was built in honor of the first king of a unified Italy and is a popular tourist attraction. /n Other notable buildings around the square include the Palazzo Venezia, which was once the embassy of the Venetian Republic and is now a museum, and the Palazzo Bonaparte, where Napoleon's mother lived.

Piazza Venezia is a major square in Rome, known for its busy traffic and grand buildings.

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.

Campo de' Fiori is a vibrant square in Rome known for its daily market and nightlife. It is located in the Parione district and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Campo de' Fiori is a vibrant square in Rome known for its daily market and nightlife. It is located in the Parione district and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. /n During the day, the square is filled with vendors selling fresh produce, flowers, and other goods at the market. The market has been held here since 1869 and is one of the oldest in Rome. /n At night, the square transforms into a lively hub of activity, with people gathering at the many bars and restaurants that line the square. The statue in the center of the square is of the philosopher Giordano Bruno, who was burned at the stake here for heresy in 1600.

Campo de' Fiori is a vibrant square in Rome known for its daily market and nightlife.

The Galleria Borghese is 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, nowadays considered quite separately by tourists as the Villa Borghese gardens. 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).

Galleria Borghese, situated in the heart of Rome, Italy, is a world-renowned art gallery that houses an extensive collection of sculptures, paintings, and antiquities. The gallery is located in the former Villa Borghese Pinciana, a beautiful and historic building that is a work of art in itself. /n The collection features works from some of the most acclaimed artists in history, including Caravaggio, Raphael, and Bernini. Visitors can explore the gallery at their own pace, taking in the stunning artworks and the equally impressive architecture of the building. The Galleria Borghese is not just a museum, but a cultural experience that offers a glimpse into the rich history and artistic heritage of Rome. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to the Galleria Borghese is sure to be a memorable experience.

Galleria Borghese is a renowned art gallery in Rome, housing an extensive collection of sculptures and paintings.

Pigneto is a neighborhood in Rome that is known for its bohemian and artistic atmosphere. It is filled with trendy bars, restaurants, and boutiques.

Pigneto is a vibrant neighborhood that offers a unique blend of the old and the new. /n Known for its bohemian vibe, the neighborhood is home to a diverse food scene, with a range of restaurants and cafes offering everything from traditional Italian cuisine to international fare. The area also boasts a number of unique shops and a vibrant nightlife, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Pigneto is a vibrant neighborhood known for its bohemian vibe and diverse food scene.

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.

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.

Rione IV Campo Marzio is one of the historic districts of Rome, known for its elegant buildings and upscale boutiques. It is located in the city center and is a popular area for shopping and dining.

Rione IV Campo Marzio is one of the historic districts of Rome, known for its elegant buildings and upscale boutiques. It is located in the city center and is a popular area for shopping and dining. /n The district is home to many of Rome's most famous landmarks, including the Spanish Steps and the Piazza del Popolo. It is also known for its many designer boutiques, antique shops, and art galleries. /n The district's narrow, winding streets and beautiful architecture make it a charming place to explore. The area is also home to many excellent restaurants and cafes, making it a great place to stop for a meal or a coffee break.

Rione IV Campo Marzio is one of the historic districts of Rome, known for its elegant buildings and upscale boutiques.

The Capitoline Museums are a single museum containing a group of art and archaeological museums in Piazza del Campidoglio, on top of the Capitoline Hill in Rome, Italy. The historic seats of the museums are Palazzo dei Conservatori and Palazzo Nuovo.

The Capitoline Museums are a group of art and archaeological museums located in Piazza del Campidoglio in Rome. They house a vast collection of ancient Roman statues, inscriptions, and other artifacts. The museums were founded in the 15th century, and they're considered to be the world's first public museums. /n The museums offer a fascinating insight into the ancient Roman culture and history, and they're a must-visit destination for any history enthusiast. The Capitoline Museums are not just museums, but also a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of Rome.

A group of art and archaeological museums in Piazza del Campidoglio.

Aventino is a peaceful residential neighborhood in Rome, known for its gardens and beautiful views. It is located on one of Rome's seven hills and offers a quiet escape from the city's bustling center.

Aventino is a peaceful residential neighborhood in Rome, known for its gardens and beautiful views. It is located on one of Rome's seven hills and offers a quiet escape from the city's bustling center. /n The neighborhood is home to several important sites, including the Basilica of Santa Sabina and the Garden of Oranges, which offers stunning views of the city. /n Aventino is also known for the Knights of Malta keyhole, a small hole in a door that perfectly frames a view of St. Peter's Basilica. This unique view has made it a popular spot for tourists.

Aventino is a peaceful residential neighborhood in Rome, known for its gardens and beautiful views.

A large urban square in Rome. The name in modern Italian literally means 'People's Square'. The square has an obelisk of Ramesses II from Heliopolis and two Neoclassical churches.

Piazza del Popolo is a large urban square in Rome. The name in modern Italian literally means 'People's Square', but historically it derives from the poplars after which the church of Santa Maria del Popolo, in the northeast corner of the piazza, takes its name. The piazza lies inside the northern gate in the Aurelian Walls, once the Porta Flaminia of ancient Rome, and now called the Porta del Popolo. This was the starting point of the Via Flaminia, the road to Ariminum (modern-day Rimini) and the most important route to the north. At the same time, before the age of railroads, it was the traveller's first view of Rome upon arrival. For centuries, the Piazza del Popolo was a place for public executions, the last of which took place in 1826. /n The layout of the piazza today was designed in neoclassical style between 1811 and 1822 by the architect Giuseppe Valadier. An Egyptian obelisk of Sety I (later erected by Rameses II) from Heliopolis stands in the centre of the Piazza. Three sides of the obelisk were carved during the reign of Sety I and the fourth side, under Rameses II. The obelisk, known as the obelisco Flaminio or the Popolo Obelisk, is the second oldest and one of the tallest obelisks in Rome (some 24 m high, or 36 m including its plinth). The obelisk was brought to Rome in 10 BC by order of Augustus and originally set up in the Circus Maximus.

Piazza del Popolo is a large urban square in Rome. The name means 'People's Square'.

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.

Borgo is a historic neighborhood in Rome, located near Vatican City. It is known for its narrow streets, old buildings, and close proximity to St. Peter's Basilica.

Borgo is a historic neighborhood in Rome, located near Vatican City. It is known for its narrow streets, old buildings, and close proximity to St. Peter's Basilica. /n The neighborhood is home to many shops and restaurants, making it a popular area for tourists. It is also home to several important sites, including the Castel Sant'Angelo and the Passetto di Borgo, a secret passage that connects the Vatican to the castle. /n Despite its small size, Borgo is packed with history and charm. Its narrow streets and old buildings give it a unique character that sets it apart from other neighborhoods in Rome.

Borgo is a historic neighborhood in Rome, located near Vatican City.

A towering cylindrical building initially commissioned by the Roman Emperor Hadrian as a mausoleum for himself and his family, it now houses a museum.

Castel Sant'Angelo, also known as the Mausoleum of Hadrian, is a towering cylindrical building in Rome. It was originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian and his family, but over the centuries, it has served as a fortress, a prison, and a papal residence. /n Today, it houses a museum that showcases its varied history, and its rooftop terrace offers panoramic views of Rome. The Castel is also famous for its "Passetto

Castel Sant'Angelo is a towering cylindrical building offering panoramic views of Rome.

Via dei Fori Imperiali is a major road in Rome that passes through the Roman Forum and the Colosseum. It offers stunning views of these ancient ruins and is a popular route for tourists.

Via dei Fori Imperiali is a major road in Rome that passes through the Roman Forum and the Colosseum. It offers stunning views of these ancient ruins and is a popular route for tourists. /n The road was built by Benito Mussolini in the 1930s and was originally named Via dell'Impero. It was designed to connect Piazza Venezia with the Colosseum and to showcase the grandeur of the Roman Empire. /n Today, the road is lined with ancient ruins and is a popular spot for tourists. It offers a unique perspective on Rome's history and is a must-visit for anyone interested in ancient Rome.

Via dei Fori Imperiali is a major road in Rome that passes through the Roman Forum and the Colosseum.

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.

Piazza Navona

Trastevere

Vatican Museums

Sistine Chapel

St. Peter's Square

Start your day at the Piazza Navona, one of Rome's most famous squares. Here, you can enjoy the Christmas market and admire the beautiful Fountain of the Four Rivers.

Enjoy a traditional Italian lunch in the Trastevere district, known for its authentic Roman cuisine.

Visit the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel, where you can admire the stunning frescoes by Michelangelo.

Have dinner in a cozy restaurant in the Prati district, which offers a wide variety of Italian dishes.

End your day with a stroll around the beautifully lit St. Peter's Square and its magnificent Christmas tree.

Exploring Piazza Navona and Vatican City

Colosseum

Monti

Roman Forum

Palatine Hill

Piazza Venezia

Begin your day with a visit to the Colosseum, one of the most iconic landmarks in Rome.

Have lunch in the Monti district, known for its trendy eateries and vibrant atmosphere.

Spend your afternoon exploring the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, where you can learn about the city's ancient history.

Enjoy dinner in the Testaccio district, famous for its traditional Roman cuisine.

Experience the magic of Christmas at the Piazza Venezia, where you can see the city's main Christmas tree and enjoy the festive lights.

Discovering the Colosseum and Roman Forum

Pantheon

Campo de' Fiori

Galleria Borghese

Pigneto

Spanish Steps

Start your day with a visit to the Pantheon, one of the best-preserved ancient buildings in Rome.

Have lunch in the Campo de' Fiori district, known for its bustling food market and traditional Italian eateries.

Spend your afternoon exploring the Galleria Borghese, home to a vast collection of art and sculptures.

Enjoy dinner in the Pigneto district, famous for its bohemian vibe and diverse food scene.

End your day with a visit to the Spanish Steps, beautifully decorated with poinsettias for the Christmas season.

Art and History at the Pantheon and Galleria Borghese

Trevi Fountain

Rione IV Campo Marzio

Capitoline Museums

Aventino

Piazza del Popolo

Begin your day with a visit to the Trevi Fountain, one of Rome's most famous fountains. Don't forget to throw a coin for good luck!

Have lunch in the Rione IV Campo Marzio district, known for its upscale restaurants and chic boutiques.

Spend your afternoon exploring the Capitoline Museums, where you can see a vast collection of ancient Roman artifacts.

Enjoy dinner in the Aventino district, famous for its peaceful atmosphere and excellent Italian cuisine.

End your day with a stroll around the Piazza del Popolo, beautifully lit up for the Christmas season.

Fountains and Museums: Trevi and Capitoline

St. Peter's Basilica

Borgo

Castel Sant'Angelo

Via dei Fori Imperiali

Start your day with a visit to the Vatican City to attend the Pope's Christmas Mass at St. Peter's Basilica.

Have lunch in the Borgo district, known for its traditional Italian eateries and close proximity to the Vatican.

Spend your afternoon exploring Castel Sant'Angelo, a historic fortress offering panoramic views of Rome.

Enjoy your final dinner in Rome in the Prati district, known for its wide variety of Italian dishes.

End your trip with a visit to the Via dei Fori Imperiali, beautifully lit up for the Christmas season.

A Vatican Christmas and Farewell to Rome

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.

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5-Day Christmas Holiday Itinerary to Rome, Italy

About Rome, Italy