Are you ready to explore Italy and are looking for the best things to do in Rome? You’re in for an amazing adventure with Winalist!
This renowned Italian capital is far more than a city – it’s the birthplace of the Roman Empire and home to centuries-old wonders. But with so much to see and do, how can you ensure that your trip is perfect? Join us as we uncover some of the best attractions in Rome so that your journey will be truly unforgettable!
Traveling to Rome – Things to know before you go
How to get to Rome
If you are traveling directly to Rome, the best way to arrive there is obviously by plane. Train lines in Italy are also an option, but train trips may be quite long from one Italian city to another. Like all European capital cities, you’ll find many flights that land in Rome from departures around the world. For international flights, the main airports are:
- Leonardo da Vinci International Airport: you can take the train (Leonardo Express) or the bus to arrive in Rome. The train is a little more expensive but will take you to your final destination faster – especially considering that traffic in Rome gets bad pretty quickly.
- Rome Ciampino Giovan Battista Airport: from this airport, there are no direct trains to Rome center, so it’s best to take a bus to reach your hotel or apartment.
Getting around Rome
As an ancient metropolis built by Romans during their glory days, back in 750 BC., Rome is not the easiest city to get around. In other words, if you don’t want to be stuck in traffic or in very narrow streets, your best friend will be yourself! It’s best to expect walking around Rome, above any other transportation means. As alternatives, here are your options:
By metro: Rome has three metro lines (A, B, and C) that are rather useful if you are staying outside of Rome. Even so, there are a couple of stops that directly lead to main points of interest like Piazza Spagna or the Colosseo.
Buses: this is the most used transportation means by Romans. The city’s bus network is quite extensive (more than 300 different ones), and covers all places that the metro cannot. You won’t have trouble finding a bus stop to a specific spot, even in the city center. A good tip to know: make sure you validate your bus tickets at the beginning of your ride- otherwise, it’ll end up with a fine!
Where to stay in Rome
Rome is absolutely beautiful, any district you choose to stay in will be sublime. Here is a Top 3 overview of the main ones to consider for a perfect stay:
_ Pantheon/Piazza Navona: this one is the best if it’s your first time in Rome. Find nice accommodations in this area.
_ Piazza di Spagna: perfect for a luxury stay in the most beautiful hotels, close to the Villa Borghese gardens. Discover your next hotel!
_ Trastevere: a very charming and smaller district, close to the historic center of Rome., with many beautiful places to stay!
Best things to do in Rome – must-sees
Rome probably hides more wonders than any other city in Italy, and maybe even Europe. With such an incredible historical heritage from the ancient ages, the birthplace of one of the world’s most powerful and influential Empires, Rome has been a reference for art, architecture, and culture for the most skilled and creative artists. From Roman ruins, the most impressive and magnificent ancient buildings, to breathtaking religious estates with unique frescos and pieces of art, you will be spoiled for choice in the Eternal City.
Explore Roman ruins at the Forum Romanum
If you are fascinated by Roman ruins, no need to look further. There is one spot you don’t want to miss: the Forum Romanum at Via della Salara Vecchia
Top 3 Piazzas not to miss
A Roman piazza is an open public space typically found in the heart of Italian cities and towns. They serve as centers of social interaction, with a variety of shops, churches, restaurants, cafes, and other gathering spaces surrounding them. Piazzas can also be used to host festivals or public events. The grandest examples are generally found in the major cities such as Rome, although small villages may still have a piazza even if it isn’t as large or bustling with activity.
Exploring Rome’s captivating Piazzas is an exciting adventure. There are so many wonderful squares that it can be difficult to decide which ones you should visit first! To help narrow down your options, here are my top three recommendation for the most gorgeous piazzas – each one more beautiful than the last! Make sure to grab a espresso and enjoy these stunning sights for yourself.
1. Piazza di Spagna
Piazza di Spagna is renowned for its 133 steps that have been featured in multiple romantic films. Sitting on the stairs of this unique piazza should be at the top of any Rome bucket list, and it’s definitely an essential part of experiencing Rome like a local! To make it even more fun, grab some ice cream before settling down to take in all the beauty around you.
Piazza del Popolo
Piazza del Popolo is a little remote next to the main points of interest of the city, but still ranked in this top 3. You’ll find 2 almost identical chapels acing an exotic fauna and flaura together with marble statues. It seems a lot for just one piazza, but it’s all there for you to see!
Piazza Venezia
From iconic spy movies to the pitter-patter of Vespa traffic, there’s no mistaking the grandeur and charm that radiates from Piazza Venezia. When you visit this area, you can expect a true Italian experience: savory mozzarella paninis from local cafes, as well as a rush of little Vespas gliding across the streets. Live la dolce vita in Rome!
The famous Trevi Fountains
Like many areas in Rome, you’ll encouter marble statues – a lot of them. But the Trevi Fountain is something special altogether. Not far from the Colosseo, you will be charmed by this fabulous harmony of Statues and water, behind a beautiful sculpted building.
The Pantheon
The Pantheon is so awe-inspiring, you may be overwhelmed just by standing in its presence. You can actually feel the historical grandeur of this temple devoted to King Agrippa. Although visits are free and open to public, prepare for at least a 30-minute line if you come during peak season. Despite being much smaller inside than outside, it is still incredibly impressive with its magnificence remaining intact through time – allowing everyone an opportunity to marvel at the beauty of days past.
The Colosseo
The Colosseo stands as a powerful symbol of the Roman Empire’s grandeur and influence, however its sheer size also serves as an uncomfortable reminder of the atrocities it has seen. This remarkable monument is truly worthy of your time – plus there’s even an underground metro stop nearby for easy access! Seeing this iconic structure with your own eyes will surely leave you with lifelong memories to cherish.
Just in case you’re visiting other cities or vineyards in Italy during your vacation to Italy, Winalist has you covered:
- The ultimate Tuscany travel guide
- Italy’s most stunning vineyards
- Messina Sicily things to do
- Piedmont must-sees
- Best Sicily vineyards to visit
- Arezzo Italy best things to do
- Best things to do in Chianti, Italy
- Amazing cities in Tuscany that you should visit
- What to see in Prosecco Italy
Trip to Rome, Italy FAQs
What is the best month to visit Rome?
Without a doubt, the best time to visit the capital city of Italy, Rome, is from October to April. This is due to tourist crowds, it’s much more enjoyable to explore the city during a quitter time than in most busy months like June or July.
Is Rome Italy worth visiting?
Between a massive historical heritage, beautiful exotic fauna, and the authentic Italian way of life, Rome is definitely worth visiting for several days.
How many days do you need to visit Rome?
Rome is such an incredible city, you would be sad not to stay at least 4 compelte days. From Roman historical buildings, art museums and breath-taking monuments, there is too much to see at once. Plus, daily-life in Rome is very enjoyable and rather layed-back, there is plenty to relax in Rome.
Is Rome a walkable city?
Rome is very much pedestrian-friendly. Compared to another European capitals, Rome is rather different: the pedestrian city-center is quite wide, especially during the summer when roads are closed. Even if there are metro-lines, it’s very convenient to go from one point to the other by foot, it’s actually the best way to stumble on hidden pieces of art here and there.
