landmarks
Aventine Keyhole
A quirky, secret spot where you can peek through a keyhole for a perfectly framed view of St. Peter's Basilica. It's a tiny moment of magic in a busy city.
Rome Travel Guide
Known as the **Eternal City**, Rome is a sprawling open-air museum where ancient ruins stand seamlessly alongside vibrant, modern urban life. It is the birthplace of Western civilization and remains a global epicenter for history, art, and exquisite gastronomy.
About Rome
Founded according to legend in 753 BC by Romulus and Remus, Rome grew from a small settlement on the Tiber River into the capital of a vast empire that shaped the Western world. It transitioned from a Kingdom to a Republic and then a mighty Empire, leaving behind monumental structures like the Colosseum that still define the city's skyline today. Following the fall of the Western Roman Empire, the city evolved into the heart of the Papal States and the center of the Catholic Church. This dual legacy—as both the seat of imperial power and the home of the Vatican—has made Rome one of the most historically dense locations on Earth.
Roman culture is deeply rooted in the concept of *la dolce vita*, emphasizing the enjoyment of life, slow-paced dining, and spirited conversation in bustling piazzas. The city is a culinary haven where traditional dishes like **Carbonara**, **Amatriciana**, and **Carciofi alla Giudia** (deep-fried artichokes) remain staples, best enjoyed in the local *trattorias* of Trastevere. Art and religion permeate every street corner, from the awe-inspiring masterpieces of the Renaissance to the daily rituals of the local population. Romans are famously proud of their history, maintaining a fast-talking, passionate demeanor that reflects their long-standing heritage as citizens of the world's first true metropolis.
Practical info
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Language
Italian
Time zone
Central European Time (CET), UTC+1
Climate
Mediterranean climate featuring hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
Quick facts
- Rome contains an entire sovereign country within its city limits: the Vatican City.
- There is a museum in Rome dedicated entirely to pasta.
- The city has more churches than any other place in the world, with over 900.
- Every day, tourists throw an estimated 3,000 euros into the Trevi Fountain, which is donated to charity.
- Rome’s famous street cats are protected by local law and are allowed to live anywhere they choose.
Top things to do in Rome
The 15 attractions, museums, viewpoints, and experiences travelers visit most.
nature
Giardino degli Aranci (Orange Garden)
A beautiful, quiet park on the Aventine Hill with stunning views of the city. It's the perfect place to sit, relax, and enjoy the scent of orange trees.
landmarks
Mercato di Testaccio
This is where real Romans shop and eat, far from the tourist traps. Grab a legendary panino at Mordi e Vai or some incredible pizza at CasaManco for a true local lunch experience.
landmarks
Janiculum Hill (Gianicolo)
For the best panoramic view of Rome, skip the crowded Spanish Steps and head here at sunset. It’s a peaceful, local favorite spot to watch the city turn gold.
landmarks
Palazzo Barberini
A massive, overlooked palace that houses the Galleria Nazionale d'Arte Antica. It's home to incredible works by Caravaggio, Raphael, and Bernini, and you can often have the rooms…
music
Tramjazz
This is a truly unique Roman experience: a vintage tram that drives around the city while a live jazz band plays and you enjoy a candlelight dinner. It's incredibly romantic and…
landmarks
Baths of Caracalla
Skip the crowded Colosseum for an hour and wander these massive, hauntingly beautiful ancient ruins. They are incredibly well-preserved and give you a real sense of the scale of…
food
Mercato Centrale Roma
Located right in Termini station, this isn't your average food hall. It’s a high-end culinary destination featuring some of the best artisans in Italy—perfect for a quick,…
culture
Mosaic Workshop in Trastevere
Get hands-on and learn the ancient art of mosaic making from a local artist. It’s a meditative, creative experience where you’ll leave with your own handmade Roman-style piece.
shopping
Masto
A small, family-run eatery in Testaccio that’s perfect for a casual, delicious meal. It’s right near the market and feels like a true local hangout.
music
Charity Café
A tiny, no-frills jazz club in the Monti district that feels like a slice of New York in Rome. It’s raw, focused entirely on the music, and has a great vibe for a casual night out.
food
Salumeria Roscioli
This is a legendary deli-turned-restaurant. It's famous for its incredible ingredients, especially the cheeses and cured meats, and the carbonara here is widely considered one of…
landmarks
La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali
A family-run spot just a stone's throw from the Roman Forum. They put a creative spin on classic Roman dishes, and the quirky art on the walls makes the atmosphere feel very…
nightlife
AcquaRoof Terrazza Molinari
This rooftop bar offers stunning views over Piazza del Popolo and the city skyline. The cocktails are creative and the vibe is relaxed, making it a great spot for a sunset drink.
nightlife
Elegance Café Jazz Club
A stylish, gourmet spot in the Ostiense district that combines high-quality jazz with a fantastic cocktail bar and restaurant. It's the perfect place for a sophisticated night out.
Plan a trip to Rome
Pick a length and we'll lay out the days — walkable routing, restaurants, opening hours included.
Nearby destinations
Frequently asked questions
What currency is used in Rome?
The currency in Rome, Italy is Euro (EUR).
What language is spoken in Rome?
Italian is the primary language spoken in Rome.
What's the weather like in Rome?
Mediterranean climate featuring hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
How many days do you need in Rome?
Most travelers spend 2–5 days in Rome. With 60+ attractions and 5+ noteworthy restaurants, three days hits the highlights, while five lets you dig into neighborhoods and day trips. Use the Periplo iPhone app to lay out a day-by-day plan.
What are the must-see things to do in Rome?
Top picks include The Colosseum, St. Peter's Basilica, The Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Roman Forum.
Plan Rome in your pocket
Open the Periplo iPhone app for a day-by-day itinerary, offline maps, and live event picks tuned to your taste.
Download on the App Store