Endless vistas await in Rome, the cherished Italian capital where modern culture and the storied past of its cobbled streets collide.
ROME
Deeply etched into the annals of history and a source of countless systems and practices still used today, Rome is undoubtedly the beating heart of Italy and the cradle of Western civilisation, dubbed the ‘eternal city’ for its everlasting presence.
Built not only on remarkable architectural foundations but also philosophical ideals that have shaped our perception of humanity, Rome’s enduring presence is, indeed, everlasting.
Having evolved as a global hub of tourism, welcoming a record-breaking 35 million visitors in 2023 alone, the city reigns supreme as a destination of choice amongst travellers due to its plethora of historical sites and monuments, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage-listed.
At the heart of the action, discover the momentous Colosseum, which once staged the city’s gladiatorial games, before exploring the nearby Roman Forum and Palatine Hill archaeological sites, where public meetings and open-air markets were historically held. For a truly immersive experience, the Parco archeologico del Colosseo offers a 60-minute guided night-time tour of the area.
On the west bank of the River Tiber lies Vatican City – the world’s smallest independent state and seat of the Roman Catholic Church.
A country within a city, the fascinating destination houses the Vatican Museums, a vast collection of art amassed by popes since the 17th century, St Peter’s Basilica, a revered site of Catholicism where St Peter himself was reportedly laid to rest, and the Sistine Chapel, featuring Michelangelo’s world-famous fresco on its ceiling.
Should a busy schedule prevent you from reaching the popular Vatican, however, spend time discovering hidden gems in the resplendent heart of Rome where historical basilicas, churches, and chapels delight, many of which feature stunning floor-to-ceiling artwork.
Take, for example, Chiesa di Sant’Ignazio di Loyola, a baroque Jesuit church complete with detailed frescoes and a trompe l’œil faux dome – the ultimate optical illusion.
Outside the peaceful church walls, Rome’s touristic centre thrums with activity. The ancient temple of the Pantheon showcases its perfect geometry and 25-foot-wide oculus that’s open to the skies, whilst the Spanish Steps, featured as the backdrop of movie scenes in Roman Holiday and countless others, present the perfect photo opportunity.
Meanwhile, the Trevi Fountain is the city’s impressive baroque centrepiece, heralding the legend that those who toss coins into its glistening blue waters will surely return to Rome.
After a long day of immersing in Rome’s history, the vibrant, bohemian neighbourhood of Trastevere presents the perfect opportunity to discover off-the-beaten-track eateries amongst its winding alleyways, blow off steam, and absorb the city’s buzzing nightlife.
Charles Dickens’ sentiment from his travelogue, Pictures from Italy, perfectly encapsulates Rome’s compelling atmosphere, emphasising why the city is a must-see for any visitor.
“It is a place where everybody who has a mind of his own must go, sooner or later. Whether for good or evil, it is the grand despot amongst cities.”
OUTLOOK RECOMMENDS
Eat:
FOR A TRUE ITALIAN TREAT…
Reportedly Rome’s first ice cream parlour, Giolitti is not to be missed. Classic décor makes for a nostalgic feel in the charming shopfront, located just a stone’s throw from the Pantheon on one of the oldest streets in Rome, the Salita del Grillo, in the Monti district. Enjoy classic Italian flavours like crema, pistachio, and tiramisu, or more experimental options such as pineapple, wild cherry, or pomegranate.
Do:
FOR A TASTE OF THE ATMOSPHERE…
Visit the Stadio Olimpico, home of AS Roma and S.S. Lazio, to witness the beautiful game of football in all its glory. The UEFA Category 4 stadium famously hosted the 1990 World Cup final and has the capacity for over 70,000 spectators, making it one of the largest in Europe. Witness giants of Italian football face off, such as the recent contest between AS Roma and Inter Milan in October 2024 which the visitors emerged from as 1-0 winners.
Sleep:
FOR CLASSIC CHARM AND CONTEMPORARY COMFORT…
Choose River Château Hotel, a 4-star accommodation option in the heart of Rome’s sporting and cultural district. The hotel features 55 rooms spread over four floors, which promise elegance, discretion, Italian sumptuousness, and state-of-the-art spa and gym facilities. In addition, the accommodation is ideally located amidst many of Rome’s well-known attractions, including the Stadio Olimpico, Foro Italico, Auditorium Parco della Musica, and Lungotevere.
WHEN IN ROME…
Although Rome’s historic monuments and warm weather are vital to its identity, the city would be nothing without its food. From dawn until dusk, consider these delicious local offerings:
- Colazione (breakfast): A day of sightseeing calls for a morning coffee or ‘caffè’, an undeniable Italian staple. Both caffè lattes and cappuccinos are considered acceptable breakfast drinks, whilst a double espresso or ‘doppio’ will provide an extra boost. To enjoy coffee like a local, drink it standing at the counter, paired with a fluffy maritozzo – a sweet pastry bun sandwiching fresh whipped cream, lightly dusted with powdered sugar.
- Pranzo (lunch): Pasta is undeniably a quintessential Italian lunch option. The holy trinity of Roman pastas are therefore a must-try, consisting of amatriciana, prepared with cured pork cheek or ‘guanciale’ and fresh tomatoes; carbonara, featuring guanciale with the addition of pecorino cheese and egg yolk; and cacio e pepe, a simple two-ingredient dish of pecorino and cracked black pepper. The spaghetti is always served al dente and often with a glass of local wine.
- Merenda (snack): To curb afternoon hunger pangs, Romans opt for suppli, a popular street food snack. The deep-fried rice ball is coated with egg and breadcrumbs and filled with tomato ragu and mozzarella cheese – the crunchy exterior giving way to a gooey, cheesy centre.
- Aperitivo (pre-dinner drinks): The Italian answer to happy hour, take advantage of aperitivo between 6:30 and 8:30pm every evening. Costing just €10 or less, the concept typically consists of a drink and a variety of snacks served buffet-style before dinner. An Aperol or Campari spritz are popular drink options, whilst the Hugo spritz is a tasty alternative. Beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages are also available.
- Cena (dinner): After a day of sampling the city’s best fare, Roman artichokes or ‘carciofi alla romana’ make for the perfect finale. Traditionally, the artichokes are served pan braised, whilst fried artichokes or ‘carciofi alla giudia’ originate from the Roman-Jewish community. Porchetta, deboned pork stuffed with herbs and spices, and tripe or ‘trippa’ prepared with tomato, white wine, and pecorino are also popular dinner options.
ROME ARRIVALS AND DEPARTURES
One of the most cost-effective ways to access Rome is by travelling with low-cost airline, Ryanair.
Offering flights for as little as €15 one way from most European destinations, passengers can choose from Standard, Plus, and Flexi Plus fares, whilst popular add-ons include priority boarding, reserved seats, and extra baggage.
UK airports offering regular flights to Rome with the airline include London Stansted, Manchester, Liverpool, Bristol, and Edinburgh.
It’s important to note that Rome has two airports – Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (FCO) and Giovan Battista Pastine Airport (CIA) – both of which offer connections to the city centre.
Upon arrival, online travel agency, Tripadvisor, offers tours, excursions, and experiences to suit any budget or preference.
