Rome is a city where you can turn a corner and find a 2,000-year-old temple next to a pizzeria. The Eternal City is an open-air museum of ancient ruins, Renaissance masterpieces and Baroque fountains, and it is also one of the best places in the world to eat. This Rome travel guide covers what not to miss, where to stay, where to shop and how to explore the city’s historic Jewish quarter.
Top sights in Rome
The Colosseum and the Roman Forum
The Colosseum is the most famous symbol of Rome, an amphitheatre that once held tens of thousands of spectators. A combined ticket also covers the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill, where you can walk the streets of ancient Rome among temples, arches and the ruins of imperial palaces. Book a timed entry online well in advance.
The Vatican
The Vatican Museums hold one of the greatest art collections in the world, ending in the Sistine Chapel with Michelangelo’s famous ceiling. St Peter’s Basilica is free to enter, and the climb to the top of its dome rewards you with a spectacular view over the city. Remember that shoulders and knees must be covered.
The Trevi Fountain
Tradition says that if you throw a coin over your shoulder into the fountain, you will return to Rome. Come early in the morning or late at night to avoid the crowds. See our Trevi Fountain visiting tips.
The Pantheon and Piazza Navona
The Pantheon, with its vast open dome, is one of the best-preserved buildings of ancient Rome. A short walk away, Piazza Navona is a beautiful Baroque square with Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers.
The Spanish Steps
The famous staircase links Piazza di Spagna with the Trinità dei Monti church and is surrounded by elegant shopping streets. Note that sitting on the steps is not allowed.
Five recommended hotels in Rome
- Hotel Hassler: a legendary luxury hotel at the top of the Spanish Steps, with breathtaking views across the city.
- J.K. Place Roma: an elegant boutique hotel near the Tiber and the main shopping streets.
- Hotel Eden: a historic hotel near the Villa Borghese gardens, with a celebrated rooftop restaurant.
- The St. Regis Rome: a grand hotel that combines modern luxury with historic charm.
- Albergo del Senato: a charming hotel right next to the Pantheon, with a lovely roof terrace.
For help choosing a neighbourhood, read where to stay in Rome.
Where to shop in Rome
- Via del Corso: the main shopping street, lined with popular brands and department stores.
- Via Condotti: Rome’s luxury fashion street, home to the great Italian design houses.
- Trastevere: a bohemian neighbourhood of independent shops, artisan workshops and lively trattorias.
- Campo de’ Fiori: a colourful open-air market for local produce and souvenirs.
The Jewish quarter and Jewish Rome
Rome’s Jewish community is one of the oldest in the world, dating back more than 2,000 years. The former Ghetto, beside the Tiber, is one of the most atmospheric parts of the city. Visit the Great Synagogue and the Jewish Museum of Rome to learn about the community’s long and often difficult history, then sit down at one of the neighbourhood’s restaurants for traditional dishes such as carciofi alla giudia, crispy Jewish-style fried artichokes. For kosher food and Shabbat arrangements, see our page on the Chabad House in Rome.
Practical tips for visiting Rome
- Roma Pass: offers free or discounted entry to selected sites and unlimited public transport.
- Book ahead: reserve tickets for the Colosseum, the Vatican Museums and the Borghese Gallery in advance.
- Wear comfortable shoes: Rome is best explored on foot, but the cobblestones are hard going.
- Drink from the fountains: the city’s “nasoni” drinking fountains provide free, fresh water.
- Eat like a local: try cacio e pepe, carbonara, pizza al taglio and, of course, gelato.
- When to go: spring and autumn offer the best weather. Summer is hot and very busy.
For a ready-made itinerary, see Rome in 4 days. Planning to continue around Italy? Read our guide to things to do in Venice.
