Rome Italy Travel and Tours | Keytours Vacations

Discover Rome's Wonders

For three millennia, Rome has played an essential role in the civilization, religion, art, architecture and gastronomy of Italy. Known as the “Eternal City”, Rome is home to some of the most remarkable sites in the world, including the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, and the Vatican, to name just a few. With its mixture of ancient ruins and contemporary living, Rome charms and excites all of her visitors and is a must-visit during any vacation to Italy.

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Description

Where should one begin to summarise the history of the Eternal City? A good date might be 21 April 753 BC, when Romulus founded the city after murdering his twin brother Remus. During the following centuries, Rome grew into a powerful empire, peaking during the rule of Marcus Aurelius in 161-180 AD. Like the ancient city, today's Rome is built on seven hills: Capitolino, Palatino, Quirinale, Viminale, Esquilino, Celio, and Aventino. The central area is called Campo Marzio, named after the Roman God of war, and was the ancient army’s training grounds. This is where many of the famous sights are located. Other well-known areas are Trastevere, on the other side of the Tiber River, and Monti. Little Pigneto is considered to be the most typical Roman neighbourhood.

Useful information

Population:

4.3 million (2025)

Currency:

Euro (€, EUR)

Emergency Info:

Emergency: 112
Fire brigade: 115
Medical: 118
Police: 113

Opening Hours:

Do & See

Ara Pacis Museum

Built in honour of Emperor Augustus after his triumphant return from the wars in Spain and Gaul, the Museum of the Ara Pacis houses the Ara Pacis Augustae, an ancient altar dedicated to Pax, the Roman goddess of peace. Visitors can explore the well-preserved marble reliefs and intricate carvings on the Ara Pacis, offering a glimpse into ancient Roman art and symbolism.

Aventine Hill

The Aventine Hill is one of the Seven Hills on which ancient Rome was built. The real off-the-beaten-path gem offers magnificent views of the city and leads to fabulous rose gardens and impressive religious structures, including the Basilica of Santa Sabina — the oldest Roman Basilica in Rome. The highlight here is the keyhole of the Knights of Malta, where people line up to enjoy the stunning view over the Dome of Saint Peter's.

Basilica of San Clemente

The Basilica of San Clemente is more than a simple church; it is a real museum that houses layers and layers of history. Behind the humble doors of this 12th-century church lie the remnants of the original basilica dating back to the 4th century, the remains of a 1st-century Roman villa, and breathtaking Byzantine mosaics beautifully adorning the ceiling.

Baths of Caracalla

Built under the reigns of Emperors Septimius Severus and his son Caracalla, the Terme di Caracalla is what remains of once functioning ancient public baths. It is, as of today, one of the best (and largest) remaining examples of a similar structure.

Borghese Gallery & Museum

Rome falls short of Venice and Florence when it comes to art, but this gallery is an exception. The bi-level art gallery, housed in the former Villa Borghese Pinciana, displays masterpieces by renowned artists such as Botticelli, Raphael, Caravaggio, Rubens and Tiziano. The adjacent gardens are as breathtaking as the artwork showcased in the gallery.

Castle of the Holy Angel

Located on the right bank of the Tiber River, guarding one of Rome's oldest bridges, the Castel Sant'Angelo is an imposing cylindrical building, initially commissioned by Emperor Hadrian as a mausoleum for himself and his family. It was later converted into a fortress, a papal residence, and a prison. Now, it's a museum offering beautiful views of Rome.

Cinecittà

Cinecittà offers a behind-the-scenes look at Italy’s historic film studios. Visitors can explore monumental sets, costumes worn by stars such as Sophia Loren and Alberto Sordi, and exhibitions on the history of Italian cinema. There’s also a restaurant styled like a film set and a bookshop, all set within the studio’s green park.

Colosseum

Built under Emperor Vespasian in A.D. 70-72 and completed by his son Titus 10 years later, the Flavian Amphitheatre, or the Colosseum, is a massive stone arena, which at its peak, could accommodate 80,000 spectators. As in the movie 'Gladiator,' the Colosseum has hosted violent and brutal displays of gladiatorial combats and wild animal fights, all just for the delight of crowds. The inauguration lasted one hundred days, and approximately 9,000 animals and 2,000 gladiators were killed during the event. Today, the Colosseum is Rome's most visited sight, which never fails to leave visitors awe-struck. Be sure to also come here at night when it looks even more magical.

Dining

Ad Hoc

Ad Hoc occupies a 15th‑century building in central Rome (just a short walk from Piazza del Popolo), with a wine cellar that feels like a cosy hideaway rather than a formal dining hall. Dinner here tends toward thoughtful menus: old‑school Roman and Mediterranean dishes, or tasting menus built around land, sea or truffle. For a special meal or quiet evening after sightseeing, Ad Hoc hits the right note.

BaGhetto Ristorante Kosher

BaGhetto offers the best of Roman-Jewish cuisine, with the capital’s best "carciofi alla giudìa" (Jewish-style deep-fried artichokes). But they also offer authentic cuisine that brings you back to ancient Rome with dishes like carbonara and amatriciana, and much more. And if you're a pizza lover, visit BaGhetto Milky on Via del Portico d'Ottavia, 2/A.

Camponeschi

Piazza Farnese, one of Rome's most sophisticated and splendid squares, provides the setting for the restaurant Camponeschi. The secret of the restaurant's success lies in its cuisine, which is varied, creative, imaginative, and suited to all tastes: fish, meat, game, as well as national and international specialities in season.

Felice a Testaccio

Felice a Testaccio is an esteemed trattoria that has been serving original Roman cuisine since 1936. The unpretentious, exposed brick interior is filled with locals, a good sign of its reputation. All the pasta and meat dishes are worth trying, but most people come for the cacio e pepe. Finish with the tiramisu, topped with melted chocolate, for a sweet note to the meal.

Ginger

Ginger is a modern Italian–Mediterranean bistro near the Pantheon with a focus on lighter, health-minded cooking. The menu runs from breakfast through dinner, covering salads, bowls, pizzas, smoothies and cocktails, with a strong emphasis on organic ingredients and seasonal produce. It’s popular from early morning onward, especially with travellers looking for a fresher counterpoint to heavy Roman classics.

Harry’s Bar

Harry’s Bar is celebrated for its Bellini cocktails and has a reputation that harks back to the golden era of Via Vittorio Veneto. The plush, antique-filled interior sets the scene for Mediterranean-inspired dishes, with live piano most evenings and a sense of the Dolce Vita that still lingers.

Hostaria Da Cesare

Hostaria Da Cesare is a Roman classic eatery with wood‑panelled interiors and a lively, old‑school atmosphere. The menu is broad: fresh seafood, pasta alle vongole, Chianina beef, grilled lamb and wood‑oven pizza share space with seasonal specials like truffles and wild mushrooms.

L'orso 80

L’Orso 80 is a long-running trattoria just behind Piazza Navona, known for its generous spread of antipasti and carafes of house wine. The open buffet by the entrance sets the tone, with vegetables, salads and simple bites to start, followed by familiar Roman comfort food like fresh pasta and pizza. The room feels worn in rather than styled, with old photos and artwork on the walls, and the crowd often skews local despite the central location.

Cafés

200 Gradi

Close to the Vatican, 200 Gradi is a popular sandwich shop with a long menu of focaccia-style sandwiches, including vegetarian options and inventive fillings. The bread is baked at 200 degrees, which gives the place its name. Salads, pastries, bottled beers and soft drinks round out the offer, and the late opening hours make it a handy stop after an evening visit to the area.

Antico Caffè Greco

Opened in 1760, a stone's throw from the Spanish Steps, Antico Caffè Greco is considered the oldest café in Rome. The interior, with its marble tables, velvet chairs, and more than 300 paintings and memorabilia lining the walls, looks much as it did in the 18th century, a quiet museum of literary and artistic history. Over the centuries, it has drawn writers, artists, and thinkers, including Goethe, Keats, Byron, Gogol, Schopenhauer, and Nietzsche, many of whom spent long hours here talking and writing. A stop here isn’t really about the coffee (although the espresso will get the job done), but more about sitting with a piece of Rome’s cultural history.

Barnum

Barnum is a small café-restaurant near Campo de’ Fiori that attracts a steady crowd from breakfast through aperitivo. Coffee is taken seriously here, with pastries baked in-house and a short menu of light, seasonal dishes for lunch. In the evening, cocktails take over, often enjoyed at the window seats or outside on the street.

Caffetteria del Chiostro

Despite being located inside an old cloister (now an art museum) and only steps away from the immeasurably beautiful Piazza Navona, this charming café is a genuine spot perfectly fit for a light lunch (try the salads) or coffee and cake. Café guests are welcome to walk through the museum upon notifying the staff.

Ciampini

Set in close proximity to the iconic Spanish Steps and the imposing Villa Borghese, Ciampini has been a local gathering point since 1941. Whether it's a sandwich, a morning espresso, or the famous Italian gelato, Ciampini will please every palate.

Faro

Just a few minutes from Villa Borghese, Faro focuses on artisanal coffee sourced with sustainability in mind. The menu includes well-made sandwiches, wraps and pastries, and the space has a calm, low-key feel that suits a short break between sights.

Forno Campo de' Fiori

Forno Campo de’ Fiori is a historic bakery near the market square, baking bread, pizza and sweet pastries since 1880. Trays of pizza bianca, focaccia, maritozzi and biscuits line the counters, with many people stopping by to grab slices to eat on the move. Lunchtime gets busy, especially on market days, but it’s worth braving the queue for something freshly baked with a bit of Roman history behind it.

Gelateria Della Palma

This ice cream parlour is not for the indecisive ones: around 150 gelato flavours await you at Gelateria Della Palma, one of Rome's most renowned ice cream shops. Flavours like champagne, pear & cheese, or Irish coffee are served in its exquisite interior with marble and columns. Gelateria Della Palma is situated in the heart of Rome, near the Pantheon and Piazza Navona.

Bars & Nightlife

Bar San Calisto

Bar San Calisto is a long-running neighbourhood bar in Trastevere, known for budget-friendly drinks, old interiors and an easy mix of locals, students and regulars who’ve been stopping by for decades. Order a bottled beer, a spritz, or a coffee granita topped with cream, then take a seat outside to watch the square tick along from morning into late night. The tiles, the worn bar counter and the no-frills menu haven’t changed much since the 1960s, and that’s part of the appeal. Prices stay low, tables fill fast, and the place still feels like everyday Trastevere rather than a produced version of it.

Chorus Café

Chorus Café is a restaurant and cocktail bar inside the Auditorium della Conciliazione, just a short walk from the Vatican. The space is large and dimly lit, with high ceilings, marble floors, and a calm, adult feel that suits a pre- or post-concert stop. Enjoy their elevated Mediterranean food menu or focus on cocktails, especially the Martinis, and expect prices to reflect both the setting and the location.

Gregory's Jazz Club

Gregory’s Jazz Club is an intimate long-running venue known for live jazz played close to the audience and a serious whisky list. Head upstairs above the restaurant to find a snug, wood-panelled room with brick walls, where Italian and international musicians take the stage most nights and the focus stays firmly on the music rather than spectacle.

La Conventicola Degli Ultramoderni

If you want to escape the usual bar scene, this club could be an alternative for you. La Conventicola offers burlesque and variety shows, vaudeville, and theatre in a 1940s-inspired environment all night long. Many underground artists get their chance to perform here, and the cocktails are hugely popular, too.

Magazzino Scipioni

Magazzino Scipioni is an enoteca (wine bar), bottle shop, and restaurant situated in an old warehouse. Here you can enjoy seasonal Italian dishes and unique wines from all around the world.

Pub Cuccagna

Opened in 1972, Pub Cuccagna is a cute little bar next to Piazza Navona. Besides serving affordable drinks, they also offer burgers, homemade pasta, and pizza. On warm nights, you can sit outside and watch passers-by on the cobbled streets.

Salotto42

Salotto42 is a posh cocktail lounge with plush sofas to chill on, fashion photography adorning the walls, and decorative chandeliers. The tiny bar reveals its sophisticated personality through its fashionable furniture, exclusive cocktails, and signature Spritz. Quality music that ranges from breathy soul to jazz to upbeat swing wraps up the night.

The Fiddler’s Elbow

The Fiddler's Elbow is a traditional Irish pub, the oldest one in Italy, offering a great variety of beers, live music, and sports on TV in that friendly and welcoming atmosphere Irish pubs are known for.

Shopping

Battistoni

Battistoni is a fashion institute that began its business in 1946 in Rome, creating flawless, tailored garments for men. If you're looking for an elegant Italian design, then you have come to the right place.

Carlo Cecchini

Peruse the high-quality leather creations of Carlo Cecchini, whose strong creativity and imagination result in a vast range of designs conceived for a varied crowd of all ages and styles. His production of bags, totes, wallets, shoes, and purses, follows the guiding principles of the old Italian leather-making traditions, only using top-quality raw materials treated and manufactured according to centuries-old traditions.

Coin

Coin specialises in men's and women's clothing and beauty items. Not only will you find shoes, bags, jewellery, and perfumes, but also a great selection of high-quality kitchen and bathroom gadgets.

Designer Outlet Castelromano McArthurGlen

For a unique shopping experience, just 20 minutes from Rome you'll find the Designer Outlet Castelromano McArthurGlen with all your favourite labels offering discounts of 30-70%, all year round.

Eataly

Eataly is a famous megastore chain offering high-quality Italian delicacies. In Rome, they are situated at Ostiense railway station and provide you with multiple floors of food heaven. You can pick up some souvenirs, attend cooking classes, or visit one of their restaurants.

Galleria Alberto Sordi

Galleria Alberto Sordi is a beautiful 19th-century arcade with enormous cut-glass chandeliers and a vaulted glass roof, named after the very popular, now-late actor Alberto Sordi. It houses a variety of shops and coffee bars, but mainly fashion clothes, and the bookshop Feltrinelli, which has a wide range of guides and books in various languages.

La Rinascente

La Rinascente is a slightly more exclusive department store, carrying many high-end brands. They have everything from clothes to shoes, perfume and accessories. After a long day of shopping, you can enjoy a walk through the nearby Villa Borghese gardens.

Vanessa Foglia Abitart

Vanessa Foglia, the daughter of the famous stylist Raffaella, who reigned over the Italian fashion scene in the last century, was immersed in the world of fashion from an early age. Her passion for art, fine fabrics, harmonious colours, and meticulous attention to detail was nurtured by her upbringing. Now, as a designer, she brings her artistic background to life at Vanessa Foglia Abitart, where you can find unique and vibrant women's clothing that reflects her creative flair. Each piece is a one-of-a-kind masterpiece, capturing the essence of her love for fashion and her dedication to creating colourful and captivating garments.

Tourist Information

Best Time to Visit

Rome is a great city to visit year-round, though the experience varies by season. Summer (June–August) brings hot weather and large crowds, with outdoor concerts, open-air film screenings, and Ferragosto celebrations on 15 August, when many locals leave the city. Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are quieter, with milder temperatures, blooming gardens, wine and food festivals, and events like the Rome Film Festival in October. Winter (December–February) is cooler and less crowded, but festive lights, Christmas markets in Piazza Navona, and New Year’s Eve fireworks at Circo Massimo create a memorable atmosphere. For fewer tourists and lower accommodation costs, October to April is generally the best period to visit.

Passport & Visa

Citizens of European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) countries do not need a visa to enter Italy, only a valid ID. Many other countries, including the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, United Arab Emirates, Australia, and New Zealand, benefit from visa-free entry for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Visitors from visa-exempt countries must hold a valid passport and, starting in late 2025, will need to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) authorisation online before travelling. For those requiring a visa, such as travellers from some Middle-East, African or Asian nations, a Schengen visa must be obtained prior to arrival. All travellers should ensure their passport is valid for at least three months beyond their intended stay.

Ciampino Airport (CIA)

The city’s second airport, Ciampino (CIA), is situated 12km southeast of central Rome and is mainly served by low-cost and charter airlines. Some of these airlines have their own buses. The regular buses depart from the nearby underground station, Anagnina. A taxi ride from the airport and central Rome takes 20 minutes.

Fiumicino International Airport (FCO)

Rome’s main airport, Leonardo da Vinci (FCO), is located in Fiumicino, 30 km from central Rome, roughly a 30–40 minute drive depending on traffic. One of the most convenient ways to reach town is the non‑stop Leonardo Express train from the airport station to Roma Termini, which takes 32 minutes and runs every 15–30 minutes. A cheaper alternative is the regional train (FL1) to stations like Trastevere, Ostiense or Tiburtina, useful if your accommodation is outside the historic centre (ticket fares are lower, but you may need a connecting ride). For budget travellers, shuttle‑bus services such as Terravision or similar companies link FCO with central Rome in around 50–70 minutes, depending on traffic.

Public Transport

Getting around Rome is straightforward and affordable using public transport, though much of the historic centre is compact enough to explore on foot. The network includes three metro lines (A, B and C), buses, trams and urban/regional rail, all run by ATAC. Tickets and passes, from 24‑hour to weekly, are available at machines, newsagents and ATAC offices. The metro runs until around 23:30 (later on weekends), while night buses (marked “N”) cover key routes after hours. For information on fares, routes and timetables, visit ATAC's official website.

Taxi

Official taxis in Rome are all white, with a “TAXI” sign on the roof and the City of Rome emblem plus licence number clearly displayed. You’ll find them at taxi stands near major squares, train stations, and tourist sites; street‑hailing is possible but less common, so using a stand or booking ahead is usually more reliable. App-based booking services like FreeNow and IT Taxi connect you with licensed taxis, while Uber operates only through premium or taxi-based services.

Electricity

Italy uses the Type F electrical sockets with two round holes, the same as in many countries in Continental Europe. You will also encounter Type L sockets with three round holes arranged in a line. A “universal“ socket, that accepts Type C, E, F and L plugs, is commonly used in Italy. The standard voltage is 230 volts, but some hotels have special plugs for 110 or 120-volt shavers.

Frequently Asked Questions about Rome (FAQs)

Is Rome a safe place to visit? Despite being a major European capital and one of the most visited cities in the world, Rome is a fairly safe city for travellers. However, as with most main tourist destinations, pickpocketing and scams are the biggest concerns here. So be careful with your belongings when taking public transport and around the city's main attractions, and avoid canvassers. Is Rome expensive? Yes, Rome is quite an expensive city to visit but slightly cheaper than other European destinations, such as London and Paris, especially when it comes to accommodation. As of today, the average cost per traveller in Rome is between €80-130 per day. Does Rome have Uber? Yes, the Uber app does work in Rome, and it is totally legal to take one, despite what a few taxi drivers may tell you. However, because there is no UberX or UberPOOL and only Uber Black, Uber Van, and Uber Lux, fares do tend to be higher. For more information on how to get around in Rome, read our sections on Taxi and Public Transport.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the must-see attractions in Rome for a first-time visitor?

Rome is brimming with iconic landmarks. Must-see attractions include the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Pantheon, which showcase the city's ancient history. Don't miss Vatican City, home to St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel. The Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps are also popular spots, perfect for soaking up the city's vibrant atmosphere.

How many days should I spend in Rome to see the main sights?

To fully experience Rome's main attractions, plan to spend at least 3 to 4 days. This allows time to explore the ancient ruins, Vatican City, and enjoy leisurely strolls through charming neighborhoods like Trastevere. Additional days can be used for day trips to nearby destinations such as Tivoli or Ostia Antica.

What is the best way to get around Rome?

Rome's public transportation system is efficient and includes buses, trams, and a metro. The metro is often the fastest way to travel longer distances, while buses and trams are great for reaching areas not served by the metro. Walking is also a wonderful way to explore Rome's historic center, as many attractions are within walking distance of each other.

When is the best time of year to visit Rome?

The best time to visit Rome is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller compared to the peak summer months. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures for sightseeing and outdoor dining.

What are some traditional foods to try in Rome?

Rome is famous for its traditional cuisine. Be sure to try classic dishes like "cacio e pepe" (pasta with cheese and pepper), "carbonara" (pasta with egg, cheese, and pancetta), and "supplì" (fried rice balls). For dessert, enjoy "gelato" or "tiramisu". Pair your meals with local wines or an espresso.

Are there any local customs or etiquette I should be aware of when visiting Rome?

When visiting Rome, it's important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites like churches and the Vatican. Cover your shoulders and knees. Italians value politeness, so greet people with a "buongiorno" (good morning) or "buonasera" (good evening). Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is customary.

What are some unique experiences to have in Rome beyond the typical tourist attractions?

For unique experiences in Rome, consider taking a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Italian dishes. Explore the Appian Way, one of the oldest roads in Rome, or visit the Catacombs for a glimpse into ancient burial practices. Attend a local market like Campo de' Fiori for fresh produce and authentic Roman atmosphere.

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Details for Rome

Ara Pacis Museum

Ara Pacis Museum

Aventine Hill

Aventine Hill

Basilica of San Clemente

Basilica of San Clemente

Baths of Caracalla

Baths of Caracalla

Borghese Gallery & Museum

Borghese Gallery & Museum

Castle of the Holy Angel

Castle of the Holy Angel

Cinecittà

Cinecittà

Colosseum

Colosseum

Ad Hoc

Ad Hoc

BaGhetto Ristorante Kosher

BaGhetto Ristorante Kosher

Camponeschi

Camponeschi

Felice a Testaccio

Felice a Testaccio

Ginger

Ginger

Harry’s Bar

Harry’s Bar

Hostaria Da Cesare

Hostaria Da Cesare

L'orso 80

L'orso 80

200 Gradi

200 Gradi

Antico Caffè Greco

Antico Caffè Greco

Barnum

Barnum

Caffetteria del Chiostro

Caffetteria del Chiostro

Ciampini

Ciampini

Faro

Faro

Forno Campo de' Fiori

Forno Campo de' Fiori

Gelateria Della Palma

Gelateria Della Palma

Bar San Calisto

Bar San Calisto

Chorus Café

Chorus Café

Gregory's Jazz Club

Gregory's Jazz Club

La Conventicola Degli Ultramoderni

La Conventicola Degli Ultramoderni

Magazzino Scipioni

Magazzino Scipioni

Pub Cuccagna

Pub Cuccagna

Salotto42

Salotto42

The Fiddler’s Elbow

The Fiddler’s Elbow

Battistoni

Battistoni

Carlo Cecchini

Carlo Cecchini

Coin

Coin

Designer Outlet Castelromano McArthurGlen

Designer Outlet Castelromano McArthurGlen

Eataly

Eataly

Galleria Alberto Sordi

Galleria Alberto Sordi

La Rinascente

La Rinascente