Why go to Rome
In Rome, an ancient temple sits beside a Baroque fountain on a street of espresso bars. The joy is in wandering: every piazza has a story, and most of them come with gelato.
Best time to visit Rome
March to May and September to October are ideal: warm, bright and comfortable for walking. July and August are very hot and crowded, and some family restaurants close in mid-August. Winter is mild and the quietest time for the Vatican.
Top things to see
Colosseum and Roman Forum
Book a combined timed ticket; go early or late.
Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
Reserve ahead; Friday evening openings run in season.
St Peter's Basilica
Climb the dome for the finest view in Rome.
Pantheon
A 2,000-year-old dome with an open oculus.
Trevi Fountain
Visit at 7 am to have it almost to yourself.
Galleria Borghese
Bernini sculptures; entry by reservation only.
Things to do in Rome
- Wander Trastevere's lanes at dusk
- Climb the Aventine for the Knights of Malta keyhole view
- Walk the Appian Way by bike
- Take a food tour of Testaccio
- Watch sunset from the Pincio terrace
Local experiences
- Drink espresso al banco (at the bar) like a Roman
- Fill a bottle from a nasone drinking fountain
- Join the evening passeggiata on Via del Corso
- Shop Campo de' Fiori market in the morning
Where to eat in Rome
Dishes to try: carbonara, cacio e pepe, amatriciana, supplì, pizza al taglio, maritozzo.
RoscioliTrattoria
Deli, wine bar and some of the best carbonara in the city.
Da Enzo al 29Trattoria
Tiny, classic Trastevere spot; expect a queue.
Armando al PantheonTrattoria
Family-run Roman cooking since 1961.
GiolittiGelato
Historic gelateria near the Pantheon.
Where to stay in Rome
Hotel Hassler RomaLuxury
Atop the Spanish Steps.
Hotel de RussieLuxury
Secret garden between Piazza del Popolo and the Spanish Steps.
The Hoxton, RomeBoutique
Relaxed design hotel in Parioli.
Generator RomeBudget
Stylish hostel near Termini.
Best areas to stay
Centro Storico
Walk to everything; atmospheric but pricey.
Trastevere
Charming, lively and full of trattorias.
Monti
Hip, central and close to the Colosseum.
Prati
Calm, elegant and near the Vatican.
3 days in Rome
Day 1: Ancient Rome
Day 2: The Vatican
Day 3: Fountains and piazzas
See the full day-by-day itinerary
Festivals and events
Easter at the VaticanMarch or April
Holy Week services and papal blessings in St Peter's Square.
Natale di Roma21 April
Rome's birthday, with historical re-enactments.
Festa de' NoantriJuly
Trastevere's neighbourhood festival.
Getting around
The historic centre is best on foot. Metro lines A and B cover the main sights; buses fill the gaps. The Leonardo Express train runs from Fiumicino airport to Termini in 32 minutes.
Practical information
- Plug types
- C, F, L (guide)
- Voltage
- 230 V
- Emergency
- 112
- Tap water
- Safe to drink, including from public fountains
Tipping: Not expected; a cover charge (coperto) is common. Round up for good service. See our tipping guide.
Entry requirements depend on your nationality; check your government's travel advice and the destination's official immigration site before booking.
How much does it cost?
Approximate US dollar figures covering accommodation, food, local transport and sights; flights excluded.
Good to know
- Cover shoulders and knees for churches
- Coffee is cheaper standing at the bar
- Validate bus and train tickets before boarding
- Many sights are closed or busy on Mondays and Sundays: check ahead
Rome travel FAQ
What is the best time to visit Rome?
The best months are usually Mar–May, Sep–Oct. March to May and September to October are ideal: warm, bright and comfortable for walking. July and August are very hot and crowded, and some family restaurants close in mid-August. Winter is mild and the quietest time for the Vatican.
How many days do you need in Rome?
Plan on 3–4 days to see the highlights at a comfortable pace.
What currency is used in Rome?
The local currency is the Euro (EUR). Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carry some cash for markets and small vendors.
How much does a trip to Rome cost per day?
Roughly US$100 per person per day on a budget, US$230 mid-range and US$650 or more for luxury, excluding flights. Prices vary by season.
What food should I try in Rome?
Local favourites include carbonara, cacio e pepe, amatriciana, supplì, pizza al taglio, maritozzo.
What plug adapter do I need for Rome?
Rome uses plug type C, F, L at 230 V. Check whether your devices support this voltage.
Restaurants, hotels and prices change. Confirm opening times and book popular places ahead. Last reviewed October 2026.