Rome: the place where every love story starts (fact) - even if it's the love story between you and a bowl of spaghetti.
Destination highlights
Home to the one and only Trevi Fountain (the one you throw coins into and make a wish)
More history than your grandparents' loft, so pack your comfiest Crocs if you want to see it all
Pizza, pasta and gelato galore - AKA, the best food coma you've ever been in
Speedy flight time (just over two hours!)
What are the best sights to see in Rome?
Mamma mia, you don't even wanna get us started on all the things to see and do in Rome...oh, wait. You do? Okay phew, because this page would be pretty bland otherwise. (Unlike the bowl of carbonara you inevitably order, because...well, when in Rome 😉.) Even if you're on an all-inclusive holiday to Italy, you'll probably want to get out and about a bit to see what all the fuss is about. Here are some of the juiciest bits to keep on your radar:
Trevi Fountain - chances are you've seen this place plastered all over social media - it's the iconic fountain where locals and tourists come to toss coins and make wishes - perfect for getting rid of those last few pesky euros before your flight home! Just a heads up though - it can get a smidge busy, so if you want some cool pics without being photo-bombed, you're gonna have to set your alarm early (no snoozing), and get here between 6 and 7am. You can do it 💪
Colosseum - history, but make it fun. This amphitheatre is an absolute whopper (clue's kinda in the name), and it'll have you shook before you've even stepped inside. Snap plenty of pics outside and then head to the second floor for a look at what the 'VIP' spectators would see back in the day (AKA, the rich folk), and have a wander around the arena itself for some really eerie feels.
Pantheon - this is one of the city's best-kept monuments (nice one, Mother Nature), and it's actually got a PHD: a Pretty Huge Dome. You can admire all you like from the outside, but you're definitely gonna wanna step inside to get a photo of that thing.
Spanish steps - leg day? Sorted, mate. Make sure you pack your comfy shoes for this one. There are 135 of these steps - all leading to Pincio Hill, and they're one of the most iconic attractions in Rome. Yeah, Rome. We're still in Italy here. Don't let the name confuse you (Charlotte from our Content Team had to check on Google Maps three times. Geography isn't her strong suit. Luckily, talking about holidays is.)
Vatican City - AKA, the one where the Pope lives. If you think of Italy as a Russian doll (because why wouldn't you), then Vatican City is like a city within a city. Expect alllll the Renaissance vibes, huge history-stuffed museums (1400-rooms huge), and loads of gardens to explore, with fountains and cacti.
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FAQs
How long does it take to fly to Rome?
It takes around two and a half hours to fly to Rome from the UK.
What's the time difference between the UK and Rome?
The local time in Rome is one hour ahead of the UK.
If you fancy escaping the touristy madness for a bit, head to the cute, pint-sized island of Isola Tiberina. It's one of the world's smallest inhabited islands, so you can walk around it in no time, but it's got plenty of charm, including some pretty epic views. Plus, every summer the place is transformed into a film festival right by the shore, with pop-up bars at sunset.
Get a (virtual) reality check
If you fancy channelling your inner Marty McFly, then the Roman ruins at the Baths of Caracalla are the place to do it. You can wander around these bad boys as they are now, then stick on a pair of Time Travel Goggles (or a virtual reality headset, as you might know it), to see what the ruins looked like back in the day. Two sights from one attraction? That's called getting your money's worth.
Get your gladiator on
Without all the fighting and bloodshed, obviously. We're talking about the Gladiator School of Rome - yep, it's a thing. Rock up, throw on a tunic and learn some ancient fighting techniques with actual weapons. And if you really get into it, you can even take place in the Gladiator Tournament. Steady, now.
Learn how to make the best pizza ever
If you're not afraid to get your hands a bit floury, then why not book yourself in for a cooking class while you're in Rome? That way, even once you get home from your holiday (sorry - we know, we don't like to think about it either), you'll still be able to make the absolute best, most show-stopping pizza or pasta dish. Plus, you'll totally be Top Dog at all future dinner parties. Karen and her sloppy shepherd's pie won't stand a chance.
Prove you're no Pinnochio at 'The Mouth of Truth'
Sounds creepy, looks kinda creepy...is pretty creepy. But it's something a bit different to do when in Rome, and it's still a wildly popular attraction. It's basically a stone face built into the wall beneath the porch of the Santa Maria church, with an open mouth which is said to chomp down on the hand of any fibbers. If you're feeling brave (and honest), give it a try and see for yourself. You've been warned!
Check out some art at Borghese Gallery & Museum
Make sure you book tickets for this place, because they sell like hot slices of pizza straight from the oven. This is a great shout if you're looking for something to do indoors, and it's absolutely stacked with cool paintings and sculptures to ooh and ahh over. And, for standard tickets (without a guide), it's only around €15!
What events can I go to in Rome?
If there's one thing we know about Rome, it's that they definitely know how to throw a decent shindig. Whether you're into food, films, festivals (or all three), Rome's got some events up its sleeve that'll have you saying holy gelato. You might want to clear your calendar for some of these:
Rome Independent Film Festival (June - July) - this annual film festival is all about celebrating independent film-makers. The festival is made up of different mini events - from live screenings to readings, music and workshops.
Villa Celimontana Jazz Festival (June - August) - an outdoor concert where local and international jazz musicians perform every night of the week.
The Summer Festival (June - September) - food stalls, arts and crafts vendors, pop-up restaurants line the banks of the Tiber River, and there's live music to enjoy. Plus, it's free to enter!
Romaeuropa (September - November) - this is known as the most important festival for Italian culture, with a programme celebrating art, dance, theatre and cinema.
White Night (September) - don't worry, you don't need to pick out an all-white outfit. Instead, this is just a late-night fiesta that takes place every year in mid-September, where shops and clubs stay open all night, and even public transport runs through the night so everyone can get home safely.
Piazza Navona Christmas Market (December) - this market is only small, so don't expect tons of stalls to snoop around, but it's still a cute place to visit if you're in Rome for the winter, with carousels, nativity scenes, balloon-sellers and food stalls lining the square.
Where's the best nightlife in Rome?
Romans eat late, which means their parties usually start late too. Fashionably, though, of course. We're in Rome after all. Whether your idea of a good night is sipping vino on a cute outdoor terrace or drinking your mates under the table before hitting the dancefloor, Rome's got a bit of something for everyone. Check these night spots out for a guaranteed good time you won't forget (depending how many Aperols you have):
Ice Club - if the Italian heat is getting to you, then this is the perfect place to cool down. Wrap up (although thick coats are provided when you enter), because this bar is called what it is for a reason. Once you're in, you'll be in for a one-of-a-kind experience in Rome, with ice sculptures to gaze at and over 15 different flavours of vodka to try. Wowzers.
Jerry Thomas Speakeasy - in true speakeasy style, you'll need a code to get yourself into here (once you actually find it), but that's what makes it so special. If you manage to find this place (we'll give you a clue: it's tucked behind a secret door in trendy Osteria delle Coppelle), then you'll be in for a cosy, cocktail-filled night.
Baja - if regular bars are a bit too vanilla for you, then this is the spot for you. It's a bar set on top of an old harbour barge, so you can slurp your drinks while you're literally right on top of the water.
Gay Village - this outdoor gay club runs in the peak of summer, with carnival dancers, DJ sets and all round good vibes. Well worth the €15 entry fee.
Alcazar - this is a former cinema that now stays open 'til 2am for cinema screenings, DJ sessions, art exhibitions and live bands.
Voodoo Bar - this place screams Instagrammable, with a Caribbean-themed cocktail menu, tapas and sushi to snack on, twinkly lights and a candlelit pathway leading into the park which acts as an outdoor club, and you can dance 'til the early hours to Latin-American music. Oh, and it's free entry!
What's the food like in Rome?
Buckle up, 'cause Rome's food scene is a party that you most definitely want to be invited to. Luckily, we're on good terms with the host. From carb-filled classics to sweet treats that'll have you smiling like a kid at Christmas, food in Rome is made to feed the soul. If you don't know where to start or what to expect, sink your teeth into some of these:
Pasta alla Carbonara - you've probs heard of this one, but this isn't the claggy, stodgy out-of-a-jar kind. The traditional Roman version is all about simplicity, with a sauce made purely from egg yolks, lashings of pecorino and black pepper. There's even a Carbonara Day in Rome (April 6th), which gives you a clue into how seriously they take this pasta dish. We feel ya, Rome.
Carciofi alla Romana- AKA, artichokes, Roman style. Due to popular demand, these guys can be found, simmered in oil and herbs, on almost every menu around the city. But if you want a real treat, stop by in winter when they're in season 😚👌
Supplí - move over aranchini, there's a new snack in town. This tasty treat is a fried risotto dumpling filled with tomato sauce and cheese. Honestly, we're sold.
Pizza al taglio- of course pizza had to make an appearance somewhere, but traditional pizza in Rome is a bit different to the classic round ones you're used to from your fav takeaway. In Rome, pizzas are traditionally rectangular and served in square slices, usually eaten straight at the counter (mood), or walking down the street.
Gelato - you'll find creamy, frozen gelato all over Rome, with stands and traditional shops on every corner. There are loads of flavours to pick from too, but some to keep an eye out for are: custard, mango and rum and raisin.
Maritozzo com creme- sweet tooths unite: this sticky bread sweetened with honey and candied fruits and then filled with cream is what dreams are made of.
Places to visit
Villa Borghese
Villa Borghese is like Rome's very own secret garden. Except, it's too great for us not to tell you about it. And, it's not just your average park. Sure, it's got flowers for looking at, grasses for picnicking on. But it's also got a little train to take you around the park (perfect content for the Insta reel), and an adorable lake where you can rent a boat for just €4 per person for 20 minutes. You and your travel bud in a cute little rowing boat, taking in the scenery? It's giving Tangled, and we're oh-so here for it.
Trastevere
Welcome to Rome's coolest and hippiest neighbourhood. You'll find more locals than tourists here, so if that's your bag, run don't walk. Apart from when you're near the edge of the fountain, then you should definitely walk. This place is authentic Rome at its finest, with narrow streets, cute little piazzas, local shops and pizzerias on every corner. There are even some pretty lively bars and clubs knocking about if you're here after dark, or, you can just grab a seat out front of one of the trattoria and enjoy a glass of vino as the world goes by. Bellissimo.
Quartiere Coppedè
This little corner of Rome is often called its best-kept secret, so...we're basically putting our neck on the line by telling you about it. But we don't mind for you lot. It's also known as the Fantasy District, thanks to its whimsical architecture with gothic, baroque and medieval influences. There aren't actually any bars or restaurants in this area, BUT - before you shut it down, hear us out. There's so much to see - from intricate archways and the Fountain of Frogs (exactly what it sounds like), to the Villino delle Fate or 'fairy houses' in English - which are completely wacky and asymmetrical in design, resembling something from a fairytale story or a Dr Seuss movie. And, you're still only 10 mins max away from cafes and bars as you head out of the district, so if you're still craving that Negroni Sbagliato, don't worry.
Key facts about Rome
Language
Italian
Currency
Euro
Flight Time
2.5 hrs
Time Difference
+1 hr
Do I need any vaccinations to visit Rome?
Please check with your healthcare provider for all up to date vaccination advice before booking your holiday.
Do I need to pay tax on my holiday to Rome?
Many major cities in Italy now charge tourists a small overnight tax. The tax is levied by hotels and can vary in price depending on location and the star rating of the hotel.
Is there a dress code in Rome?
For general sightseeing in Rome, there's no strict dress code. Locals do tend to dress on the modest side, but there's absolutely nothing stopping you from wearing shorts when it's scorchio outside. The only time you might have to be a bit more conscious about your outfit choice is if you're planning on visiting the Vatican or any churches. Here a dress code will apply, and you won't be allowed to enter if you're wearing shorts, a mini skirt or a low-cut top. So if you've got a few churches on your sightseeing list, you might want to keep that in mind.
