Rome Travel Guide : Explore the Eternal City in Depth

Rome wasn’t built in a day—and you’ll quickly understand why. This is a city where every stone has a story, every piazza holds centuries of history, and every meal feels like a celebration. Whether it’s your first time in the Eternal City or your fifth, Rome has a timeless charm that never fades.


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Step into Ancient History

1. The Colosseum

Colosseum

No trip to Rome is complete without a visit to the iconic Colosseum. Built in 80 AD, this massive amphitheater once held gladiator battles and public spectacles that entertained thousands. Walk through the ancient arches, feel the echo of the crowd, and book a guided tour to access the underground chambers where gladiators once prepared for combat.

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 Book a Colosseum + Roman Forum combo tour here:

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2. Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

Next to the Colosseum lies the Roman Forum, once the heart of ancient Rome. Explore the ruins of temples, senate buildings, and triumphal arches. Don’t miss Palatine Hill, where legend says Romulus founded Rome. The views over the Forum and Circus Maximus are breathtaking.

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The Vatican & Religious Wonders

3. Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel

Home to one of the world’s greatest art collections, the Vatican Museums are a labyrinth of galleries filled with masterpieces by Michelangelo, Raphael, and more. End your visit at the Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s ceiling will leave you speechless.

4. St. Peter’s Basilica

St Peter Basillica

St. Peter’s is not just a church—it’s a spiritual experience. Enter this vast basilica to admire the Pietà, Bernini’s Baldachin, and climb to the dome for panoramic views over St. Peter’s Square and Rome.

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 Tip: Arrive early or book a skip-the-line ticket to avoid long waits.

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Fountains, Piazzas & the Heart of Rome

5. Trevi Fountain

Trevi Fountain

Toss a coin over your shoulder and make a wish at the Trevi Fountain, one of the most famous fountains in the world. Designed by Nicola Salvi in the 18th century, it depicts Oceanus (god of the sea) riding a chariot.

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 Fun fact: Around €3,000 is thrown into the fountain daily—and donated to charity!

6. Spanish Steps

Spanish Steps

Climb the 135 steps from Piazza di Spagna up to Trinità dei Monti Church and enjoy people-watching from the top. In spring, the stairs are covered in blooming azaleas.

7. Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona

This vibrant square is built on an ancient stadium and surrounded by Baroque palaces, street artists, and cafés. The centerpiece? Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers, symbolizing the Nile, Ganges, Danube, and Rio de la Plata.

Take a Hopp on Hopp off bus to see all the Highligts of the city

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Must-See Landmarks

8. Pantheon

Pantheon

A marvel of ancient engineering, the Pantheon has stood for over 2,000 years with the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome. Step inside and look up at the oculus—still open to the sky. It’s now a church and the resting place of artists and kings.

9. Castel Sant’Angelo

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Originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, this castle has served as a fortress, papal refuge, and now a museum. Walk the circular corridors and climb to the top for amazing views of the Tiber River and St. Peter’s.


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Eat Like a Roman

Rome’s cuisine is rustic, rich, and unforgettable. Must-try dishes include:

  • Cacio e pepe – pasta with Pecorino Romano cheese and black pepper.
  • Carbonara – made with egg, guanciale (pork cheek), and cheese (no cream!).
  • Supplì – fried rice balls filled with tomato sauce and mozzarella.
  • Artichokes – served “alla romana” (braised) or “alla giudia” (fried, Jewish style).

Pair your meal with a glass of Frascati wine or a refreshing Aperol Spritz, and finish with creamy gelato from spots like Giolitti or Fatamorgana.


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Walking Itineraries & Hidden Gems

  • Jewish Ghetto: One of Rome’s most atmospheric districts, with ancient ruins, synagogues, and the best fried artichokes.
  • Trastevere: A bohemian neighborhood with cobbled streets, ivy-covered walls, and lively piazzas perfect for an evening stroll.
  • Aventine Keyhole: Peek through a nondescript door on the Aventine Hill for a perfectly framed view of St. Peter’s Basilica.
  • Appian Way: Rent a bike and ride one of the oldest roads in Rome, lined with aqueducts and catacombs.

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Where to Stay in Rome

Decimo Meridio

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Luxury

Decimo Meridio – at Spanish Steps

Nestled between the Spanish Steps and Piazza del Popolo, this five-star hotel offers elegant suites, a secret garden, and world-class dining.

https://trip.tpo.lu/WD91q1u7

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Mid-range

Hotel Artemide

Located on Via Nazionale, this stylish hotel features a rooftop restaurant and spa, perfect for unwinding after a long day of sightseeing.

https://trip.tpo.lu/hoQS7Onj

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Budget

The Beehive

A charming, eco-friendly hostel near Termini Station with cozy rooms and a relaxing courtyard café.

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https://trip.tpo.lu/Bz1okKmb


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Best Time to Visit Rome

  • Spring (April–June): Mild weather, blooming flowers, and fewer tourists.
  • Fall (September–October): Warm days, cool evenings, and wine harvest season.
  • Summer (July–August): Hot and busy, but lively with events.
  • Winter: Quieter, especially in January–February, and festive during December.

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Rome Travel Tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes – Rome’s cobblestones are no joke.
  • Bring a refillable water bottle – you can drink from the public fountains (nasoni).
  • Keep cash on hand for small cafés and gelato shops.
  • Use public transport (Metro, buses) or simply walk – most major sights are within reach.
    Conclusion
    Rome is more than a destination — it’s a living museum, a culinary wonderland, and a place where past and present intertwine on every corner. Whether you’re here to explore the ruins of a great empire or enjoy a gelato in a quiet piazza, Rome is the ultimate bucket list city.
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