Thousands of years of history and some of the most jaw-dropping landmarks in the world set Rome apart from most places. This living museum has such iconic structures as the Colosseum, Pantheon, and the Vatican, as well as retaining the romance of a small town even amid its downtown. The world’s greatest empire certainly left its mark and it is ready to be explored, thankfully minus the risk of being thrown into the path of a pack of hungry lions in the arena!
Key attractions
The Colosseum in the ancient Colosseo district is the highlight for many. Still standing, though minus the temporary floor that was used for the gory gladiatorial battles, it continues to evoke amazement and wonderment to whomever enters. Nearby are the remains of the once all-powerful Roman Forum, too, while another of the ancient reminders is the intact Pantheon. Visitors can also easily walk to the Trevi Fountain and the spectacular Spanish Steps from here. Vatican City—the state within a city—should also be high on the sightseer’s agenda. Get there by Metro.
Having fun
The nightlife is a bit staid for a major European city, but there are places for fun, including the Ostiense and Testaccio areas. There are several prominent theaters, though most acts are typically in Italian—the Auditorium, near the river and old town, is best. Food is king anywhere in Italy and none more so than in its capital. There are pizzerias and cafés everywhere, the latter often featuring a bar and good for an evening’s entertainment. Head around the Pantheon, such as to Piazza Navona, for excellent choices.
Shopping
High fashion is most apparent in Rome, along with art and jewelry, though it is mostly boutiques and smaller shops in the downtown area, with larger stores and malls in the suburbs. Rome is especially into its designer labels, with expensive and glitzy places all along Via del Corso, the main shopping street in town that passes near the Trevi Fountain. Also be sure to take in vias Condotti, Borgognona, and Frattina. Arts, crafts, and antiques are best had at the markets, including at Campo de’ Fiori.
Nearby
With a car, you can get out to the Catacombs to the southwest of downtown—beyond which are golf courses—or to ancient Frascati near the Parco Regionale dei Castelli Romani for its wine and slow pace. The ancient port of Ostia Antica is just 30 minutes toward the coast and reveals its stark ruins, although a trip to Mount Vesuvius and the burnt out town of Pompeii is a real treat, a two-hour, 30-minute trip to the south. Visitors can also access the glorious Tuscany countryside from the capital.
Our recommendations in Rome
Best Western Globus Hotel
Located in Rome's Nomentano neighborhood, Best Western Globus Hotel is in the city center and near a metro station. Borghese Gallery and Roman Forum are cultural highlights, and some of the area's popular attractions include Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain. Looking to enjoy an event or a game? See what's going on at Stadio Olimpico or PalaLottomatica. Our guests appreciate the hotel's convenience to public transportation: Policlinico Station is 9 minutes by foot and Bologna Station is 10 minutes.
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Seven Hills Village
Located in Rome's Cassia neighborhood, Seven Hills Village is near a train station. Piazza del Popolo and Castel Sant'Angelo are notable landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Villa Borghese and Monte Mario. Traveling with kids? Consider Spanish Steps, or check out an event or a game at Stadio Olimpico.
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Hotel Residence Villa Tassoni
Located in Rome's Trionfale neighborhood, Hotel Residence Villa Tassoni is in the city center and near a metro station. Via del Corso and Via Veneto are worth checking out if shopping is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Villa Borghese and Monte Mario. Check out an event or a game at Stadio Olimpico, and consider making time for Spanish Steps, a top attraction not to be missed. Our guests appreciate the residence's central location.
Hotel Solis
Located in Rome's Monti neighborhood, Hotel Solis is in the city center and connected to the convention center. Roman Forum and Via Nazionale are notable landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Villa Borghese and Pincio. Traveling with kids? Don't miss Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps. Our guests appreciate the hotel's location for the sightseeing.
Turner Hotel Rome
Located in Rome's Salario neighborhood, Turner Hotel Rome is in the city center and connected to the convention center. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Villa Borghese and Pincio, while Borghese Gallery and Roman Forum are cultural highlights. Traveling with kids? Don't miss Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain.
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Hotel Re di Roma
Located in Rome's San Giovanni neighborhood, Hotel Re di Roma is in the city center and near a metro station. Colosseum and Roman Forum are notable landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Villa Borghese and Pincio. Check out an event or a game at PalaLottomatica, and consider making time for Trevi Fountain, a top attraction not to be missed. Our guests appreciate the hotel's convenience to public transportation: Re di Roma Station is 3 minutes by foot and Ponte Lungo Station is 8 minutes.
Sheraton Roma Hotel & Conference Center
Located in Rome's Ostiense neighborhood, Sheraton Roma Hotel & Conference Center is in the business district and near a metro station. Roman Forum and Baths of Caracalla are cultural highlights, and some of the area's popular attractions include Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain. Looking to enjoy an event or a game? See what's going on at PalaLottomatica or Stadio Olimpico. Our guests appreciate the hotel's convenience to public transportation: EUR Magliana Station is 11 minutes by foot.