Rome, the capital of Italy and famously known as “The Eternal City,” is a vibrant blend of ancient history and modern life. Founded over 2,700 years ago, it was the heart of the Roman Empire, shaping Western civilization through its art, architecture, and governance. Today, Rome is a bustling metropolis where iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Pantheon, and Trevi Fountain coexist with lively piazzas, world-class cuisine, and the spiritual centre of Catholicism in Vatican City. A city of timeless charm, Rome continues to captivate visitors with its rich heritage and cultural allure.  

Fun facts 

• Rome has over 1,500 fountains, more than any other city in the world. The Trevi Fountain is the most famous. Legend says tossing a coin guarantees a return to Rome. 

• Rome is one of the best places in the world for gelato. There are hundreds of gelaterias, and some date back generations. 

• You’ll see SPQR on manhole covers, monuments, and buildings. It means Senatus Populusque Romanus (“The Senate and People of Rome”). 

• Rome’s nickname is “The Eternal City” 

Discover Rome's magic, from the mighty Colosseum to the cozy corners of Trastevere. Below is a list of attractions to consider visiting during your weekend in Rome: 

Rome Colosseum: 

One of the most famous landmarks in the world, Colosseum is a symbol of ancient Rome. It was built before 80AD as a sporting and entertainment venue. This is the world’s largest amphitheatre and a popular UNESCO Heritage Site to visit.
Further information: https://colosseo.it/en/

Roman Forum 

The heart of ancient Rome, filled with ruins of temples, basilicas, and political buildings, it is part of Archaeological Park 

Timings: Daily from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM 

Further information: Colosseum and Forum Archaeological Park  

St. Peter's Basilica 

A masterpiece of Renaissance and Baroque architecture located in Vatican City, a microstate enclaved within Rome. It is one of the holiest sites in Catholicism and is traditionally regarded as the burial site of Saint Peter, one of Jesus's apostles and the first Pope. 

Timings: Daily from 7:00 AM to 6:30 PM 

Further information: St. Peter's Basilica

Trevi Fountain  

No visit to Rome is complete without stopping by the breathtaking Trevi Fountain, one of the city’s largest and most iconic landmarks. This masterpiece of Baroque art features striking sculptures that bring ancient mythology to life, creating a dramatic backdrop for the constant cascade of crystal‑clear water.

The fountain is also home to one of Rome’s most beloved traditions: toss a coin over your shoulder into the water, and legend says you’re guaranteed a return trip to the Eternal City. With more than a million coins thrown in each year, it’s a ritual shared by visitors from all over the world.

Recently, a small €2.00 local fee has been introduced for those wishing to access the lower basin area—the closest point to the water’s edge. This initiative helps support the fountain’s preservation and manage the flow of visitors. Viewing the fountain from the surrounding piazza remains completely free, so everyone can enjoy its beauty.

Whether you admire it from above or step closer for an unforgettable photo, the Trevi Fountain is a sparkling Roman treasure you won’t want to miss.

Further information: Trevi Fountain  

Pantheon 

A former Roman temple that was converted into a Catholic church. It is a symbol of great Roman architecture and visitors can learn about 2,000 years of Roman history by exploring this place. 

Timings: Daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM 

Further information: Pantheon  

Spanish Steps 

Located in the heart of Rome, this vibrant and elegant square is surrounded by 18th-century buildings augmented by the colorful flowers that adorn the Spanish Steps. The elegant steps by Francesco de Sanctis (1723-1726) consist of twelve flights of varying width, which descend to the scenic Franciscan Church of Trinita dei Monti. 

Further information: Spanish Steps 

Vatican City 

Home to St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums—Michelangelo’s ceiling is a must-see. 

Further information: Vatican Museum  

Castel Sant’Angelo 

Originally built as Emperor Hadrian’s mausoleum, later a fortress and papal refuge. 

Further information: Castel Sant Angelo

Trastevere 

Discover a hidden side of Rome in Trastevere, a non-touristy bohemian neighborhood located across the Tiber River. Get lost along the winding alleys, enjoy a panoramic view from Piazzale Garibaldi. The streets are lined with shops, trattorias, and bars; when night falls, Trastevere comes alive with al fresco dining, twinkly fairy lights, and live music.  

Piazza Navona 

A lively square with fountains, street artists, and cafés—perfect for soaking up Roman life. 

Villa Borghese Gardens 

A peaceful escape with museums, sculptures, and beautiful greenery.

Six Nations Free Museum Entry Offer

During the Six Nations weekends the Italian Rugby Federation in partnership with the Ministry of Culture and Roma Capitale offer free museum entry upon production of a match ticket.  Please note however the museums listed are the lesser known museums and this offer would not include the main attractions. For full details visit: https://www.museiincomuneroma.it/it/notizie/ingresso-gratuito-i-possessori-di-biglietto-del-torneo

The following sites are involved in the initiative:

- CAPITOLINE MUSEUMS  with the exhibition  Cartier and the Myth at the Capitoline Museums
- CENTRALE MONTEMARTINI  with the exhibition  Maria Barosso, artist and archaeologist in Rome in transformation
- TRAJAN'S MARKETS 
- ARA PACIS MUSEUM  (Museum only)
- PALAZZO BRASCHI MUSEUM OF ROME  (permanent exhibition only)
- MUSEUM OF ROME IN TRASTEVERE  with exhibitions
- MUNICIPAL GALLERY OF MODERN ART  with exhibition
- MUSEUMS OF VILLA TORLONIA – CASINO NOBILE
- MUSEUMS OF VILLA TORLONIA – CASINO DEI PRINCIPI
- MUSEUMS OF VILLA TORLONIA – CASINA DELLE CIVETTE
- MUSEUMS OF VILLA TORLONIA – SERRA MOORSCA
- CIVIC MUSEUM OF ZOOLOGY
- CARLO BILOTTI MUSEUM 
- PIETRO CANONICA MUSEUM
- BARRACCO MUSEUM
- MUSEUM NAPOLEONIC
- VILLA OF MAXENTIUS
- FORMA URBIS MUSEUM
- SACRED AREA OF LARGO ARGENTINA
- ARCHAEOLOGICAL AREA OF CIRCUS MAXIMUS
- IMPERIAL FORUMS

Please note that restaurant, bar and attraction recommendations and suggestions are provided in good faith and are based on general reputation and appeal. We are not affiliated with, paid by, or commissioned by any of the establishments mentioned. Individual experiences may vary depending on factors such as current food quality, service standards, and personal preferences. 

La Pergola
Rome’s only 3-Michelin-starred restaurant. Fine dining with breathtaking views – a bucket-list experience!
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