City breaks to Rome are like stepping into a living museum – it’s an immersive history lesson, where every piazza, ruin and cobbled alley has something to say. From ancient amphitheatres to Renaissance masterpieces, the Eternal City serves up a timeless mix of culture, cuisine and pure cinema.
Rome’s iconic landmarks
The moment you land in Rome, it feels like time rewinds. The city’s historic centre is packed with centuries-old monuments and postcard-worthy sights. Start your adventure at the Colosseum, then make your way to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, which was once the bustling heart of Ancient Rome.
Wander through the Pantheon, one of the best-preserved Roman temples, and soak up the atmosphere in Piazza Navona, surrounded by Baroque architecture and lively cafés. Don’t forget to visit the Trevi Fountain, too – legend has it that tossing in a coin means you’re guaranteed to come back! As if you weren’t already planning to…
Ancient entertainment
The Colosseum is the ultimate symbol of Rome – and it’s been standing for over 2,000 years. Commissioned by Emperor Vespasian, this giant amphitheatre could hold up to 50,000 spectators and was once home to gladiator battles, animal hunts, theatrical performances and even public executions. It’s a must-visit, and booking ahead is deffo recommended.
Walk where emperors lived
Just across from the Colosseum, Palatine Hill offers a quieter, greener contrast to the city’s buzz. This was Ancient Rome’s most exclusive neighbourhood, where emperors and aristocrats built their lavish homes. You can explore the remains of Emperor Augustus and Livia’s houses, and see Casa Romuli, believed to be the home of Romulus – AKA the legendary founder of Rome.
Vatican City, AKA the world’s smallest country
The Vatican City is essentially a country within a city, and it’s the spiritual centre of the Catholic Church. Despite its tiny size and population (under 500 people), it’s home to some of the world’s most famous sights. Visit the Vatican Museums and check out Michelangelo’s frescoes in the Sistine Chapel. Step inside St Peter’s Basilica, built on the burial site of the apostle Peter, and climb to the dome for panoramic city views.
For a truly epic experience, head to St Peter’s Square just before noon on a Sunday – that’s when the Pope appears from his window to deliver his weekly blessing.
Best time to visit Rome
The best time to visit Rome, Italy is between April and June. Peak summer can get a bit too hot for sightseeing, so spring is still nice and sunny and there’s a low chance of rain. September and October are similar and great picks for exploring the city out of the school holidays, too. In winter, temperatures in Rome can drop to around 10˚C, which isn’t as cold as other parts of Europe if you’re not one for a summer holiday. Plus, the festive vibes are great and loads of the top attractions stay open around Christmas.
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Rome FAQs
It’s deffo recommended to prebook your tickets for the Vatican and Colosseum to skip the long lines and make sure you get to see to these popular attractions. You can buy tickets online in advance.
We recommend you go to Rome for at least 3 to 4 days to fully explore the city’s major attractions and immerse yourself in the culture and history.
Yes, Rome is very walkable – especially central areas like the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon and Spanish Steps. Wear comfy shoes and expect lots of walking. For longer distances, like the Vatican or Trastevere, taxis, buses or the metro are easy to use and affordable.
Absolutely. There’s loads for kids to enjoy – from climbing the Spanish Steps and tossing coins into fountains to hands-on museums and gelato stops. Gladiator schools, pizza-making classes, and parks like Villa Borghese are big hits with children. Just be sure to pace your days and mix in some downtime.
Yes! The tap water in Rome is safe and clean. In fact, the nasoni (public drinking fountains) are all over the city and provide fresh, cold water – totally free. Bring a refillable bottle to save money and avoid single-use plastic.
Yes – in fact, Sunday is one of the best days to be in the city. Many museums and sights are still open, and Via dei Fori Imperiali near the Colosseum becomes pedestrian-only. It’s also a great day for visiting parks or attending Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica. Just note that many smaller shops may close or open later.
It’s improving, but planning is key. Many major attractions like the Vatican Museums, Colosseum and other museums are wheelchair accessible and offer free admission for carers. Public transport can be hit-or-miss, and the cobblestones can be challenging, so taxis and private tours may be a more comfortable option. Look for accessible hotels and double-check individual sites before you book.
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Rome travel advice
Good to know
Passports and Visas
British passport holders don’t need a visa to enter Italy but must have a valid passport. You can check your passport’s valid for Italy using our handy tool. For the most up-to-date passport and visa info, visit the FCDO website.
Don’t forget to arrange your travel money and insurance before you go.
Health and safety
You should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover you while you’re away. If you’re travelling to the EU and you apply for a card now, you’ll get a new UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) instead of an EHIC. This entitles you to emergency medical treatment on the same terms as Italian nationals. It won’t, however, cover you for medical repatriation, ongoing medical treatment or non-urgent treatment. Visit the NHS website for full details on what it covers. You do not need to apply for a GHIC if you already have an EHIC. Your EHIC remains valid in the EU until it expires. An EHIC or GHIC is free of charge. For the latest health and safety information, visit the FCDO website.
Healthcare
-Italy has a high standard of healthcare. Pharmacies (farmacie) are well-stocked, and pharmacists often speak English. For minor health concerns, visit a pharmacy first – they can usually advise or provide over-the-counter medication. UK and EU visitors should bring their EHIC/GHIC card, and non-EU travellers should make sure they have travel insurance that covers medical costs.
Water
Tap water in Rome is clean and safe to drink. You’ll see locals refilling bottles from the city’s many public fountains (nasoni), which provide cool, fresh water for free. It’s a great way to stay hydrated on the go – and eco-friendly, too.
Language
Italian is the official language in Rome, but you’ll get by easily with English, especially in tourist areas, hotels, restaurants and museums. Locals in hospitality and younger generations generally speak English to a decent level. But using a few basic Italian words is always appreciated and can go a long way in markets, cafés and smaller shops.
Basic phrases
Here are some Italian essentials to try out on your trip:
- Hello /Good day – Ciao/Buongiorno
- Thank you – Grazie
- Please – Per favore
- Excuse me – Mi scusi
- Do you speak English? – Parla inglese?
- How much does this cost? – Quanto costa?
Social norms & etiquette
Tipping
Tipping in Rome isn’t mandatory, but it’s welcomed for good service. In restaurants, locals often round up the bill or leave €1-€2. If service is excellent, leaving 5-10% is appreciated. Taxi drivers don’t expect a tip, but rounding up the fare is common. And tour guides and hotel staff (especially porters and concierges) are also used to small gratuities.
Dress code
Romans are known for dressing well – even when it’s just a casual affair, there’s an emphasis on looking put-together. Think tailored trousers, dresses, good shoes – not beachwear in the city. When visiting churches or religious sites, especially the Vatican, make sure to cover your shoulders and knees out of respect. A light scarf or shawl is handy if you’re unsure.
Money
Currency
Italy uses the Euro (€). Prices in Rome vary, but you’ll find options to suit all budgets, from cheap eats to luxury shopping.
Exchange
You’ll find plenty of ATMs (bancomat) around the city, especially near main squares, banks and transport hubs. ATMs generally offer better rates than currency exchange desks. Just let your bank know before you travel to avoid card blocks.
Mobile payments
Most places accept Visa, Mastercard and contactless payments, including Apple Pay and Google Pay. That said, smaller cafés, trattorias or market stalls may prefer cash – especially in older neighbourhoods – so it’s handy to carry some euros with you
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