Known as the Eternal City for two thousand of its two thousand eight hundred years of history, the capital of Italy, Rome, is renowned for its abundance of well-preserved ancient remains, monumental architecture, treasured Renaissance art, and incredible culinary tradition. Rome’s city center is less than four kilometers from Vatican City, the smallest country globally, but with the most famed art collection, like Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling. The best hotels in Rome are spread around the central neighborhoods of the city and its pleasant Mediterranean climate makes it enjoyable to visit throughout the year.
The Rome Travel Guide
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Rome Basics
Rome Hotels
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Rome Activities and Attractions
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Rome Trip Planning
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Frequently Asked Questions about Rome
Where is Rome?
Rome is positioned in central Italy, about 190 km north of Naples, 210 km north of Pompeii, 230 km south of Florence, and around 300 km south of Venice. Vatican City, the smallest independent nation in the world, is essentially a neighborhood of Rome (no passport is necessary to enter, but there is a dress code) just 2 km west from the Historic Center and 4 km west from Stazione Termini, Rome’s main train station. The city of Rome is approximately 850 km east of Barcelona, Spain; 1050 km northwest of Athens, Greece; and 1100 km south of Paris. Rome is home to approximately 2.8 million individuals, making it the third most populated city in Europe (behind Berlin and Madrid). Vatican City is home to around 825 residents.
What is Rome famous for?
Rome is renowned for its remarkably preserved remnants from Ancient Roman civilization, especially the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and the Roman Forum. Nearby Vatican City is most famous for Michelangelo’s masterwork painting on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. Rome is also celebrated for its superb museums, monumental architecture, lavish dining, historic landmarks, and excellent shopping venues, but one of the top things to do in Rome as highlighted in this article is simply wandering the streets and squares, enjoying people-watching, savoring small cafes, and immersing in la dolce vita style of life.
What cities have direct flights to Rome?
Rome`s two airports, Leonardo da Vinci/Fiumicio International Airport (code FCO) and G.B. Pastine/Ciampino Airport (code CIA), receive direct flights from numerous international cities. Journeys from most major Western European centers take between 2 to 4 hours; many low-cost carriers utilize Ciampino Airport. Nonstop flights from locations across North America require approximately 9-10 hours, departing from airports such as Atlanta, Boston, Havana, Los Angeles, Mexico City, Miami, Montreal, Newark, New York City, and Toronto. Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro, and São Paulo in South America provide direct routes to Rome, taking 12 to 14 hours. Middle Eastern cities like Abu Dhabi, Cairo, Doha, Dubai, and Istanbul offer 2-6 hour direct flights. Major Asian hubs like Bangkok, Beijing, New Delhi, Seoul, Singapore, Taipei, and Tokyo connect directly with flights of 7.5 to 12.5 hours duration.
What is the best month to go to Rome?
Rome generally makes a suitable destination throughout the year even though weather could be cool and wet from November through March. May until August are the warmest and driest months. The prime timing to visit Rome is from late March to early June or early September to early November when conditions are warm but not excessively hot and peak tourist crowds of July and August have reduced. It’s not advisable to visit Rome in August; not only is it incredibly hot, but many locals take a month-long vacation, leaving their family-run restaurants and shops closed.
How long should I spend in Rome?
The primary highlights of Rome can be experienced in two packed days, if planned judiciously (one day exploring the ruins in central Rome and one day visiting the art and architecture of Vatican City). For travelers interested in experiencing more than only the “must-sees”, planning on devoting at least four to six complete days in Rome is suggested. No matter the duration, taking a tour can be a great way to experience much of Rome’s history, culture, and culinary scene in a short span.
Is Rome safe?
Travelers to Rome, including solo women, will feel safe exploring the city as it has a low crime rate with many pedestrian-only areas that are well-lit at night and bustling with people. However, visitors should be cognizant of pickpockets targeting crowded spots like metro stations, busy trains, and tremendously popular free attractions similar to other large cities. Keeping money well-secured and aware of one`s surroundings is advised.
Where is the best area to stay in Rome?
Two of the most suitable locations to reside in Rome are the Historical Center (best for initial visitors, near all major attractions) and Trastevere (best for experiencing local culture, excellent dining options, and nightlife entertainment). Both encompass largely pedestrian-focused regions overflowing with superb restaurants, bars, and stores, within a short distance on foot of many of Rome’s most beloved sights. Additionally, the areas of Ancient Rome, Monti, Tredente, Trevi Fountain, Prati, Villa Borghese, Barberini, the Quirinale, Testaccio, Ostiense, and Termini also provide a fine mix of walkability, places worth seeing, high-quality dining establishments, and convenient transportation.
What are the best day trips from Rome?
Due to its central placement, Rome makes for an excellent home base when exploring nearby cities. There are organized excursions and direct trains running all day from Rome to outstanding attractions. Among the best day trips from Rome are tours of Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast as well as visits to the wine region of Frascati.
What currency is used in Rome?
Italy is included in the European Union, so the currency utilized in Rome is the Euro (€). Most outlets, dining establishments, museums, and archaeological sites in Rome take credit cards, but it is an advisable plan to also have some money on hand for small purchases like packaged water, trivial souvenirs, nutrition from outdoor markets, and taxi fare. ATMs are uncomplicated to find throughout central Rome.
