With a population today of over 2.8 million, the modern-day city is a fascinating mix of ancient buildings and ruins nestled between elegant Baroque palaces and churches. The scorching summer temperatures and frenetic city streets can be exhausting, prompting an after- meal snooze to recharge the batteries just in time for the fabulous entertainment evenings have to offer.
The best way to discover the city is on foot, although there is a reliable bus service and the Metropolitana subway is handy for getting around quickly between areas. The city is famous for its seven hills and the various districts contained within them surround the Tiber River, which divides the central zone of the city. Navigate the labyrinth of narrow and winding alleys with a good old-fashioned map, as finding your destination among the cobbled streets can be confusing for first-time visitors.
The long list of cultural and historic attractions include Vatican City, including the breath-taking St. Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, the Colosseum and Roman Forum. Every visitor to Rome should also head for the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain at least once during their trip, if only to toss a coin into the water, to guarantee a return to the city again one day. For a welcome break in a busy schedule stop at the picturesque Piazza Navona for an espresso and then visit the Pantheon to marvel at the architectural prowess of the city’s ancient inhabitants.
The Roman passion for architecture and football is only matched by their love of food and wine, and the capital does not disappoint when it comes to the culinary arts. Seek out eateries that are off the beaten track or packed with locals, where you can sample classic Italian dishes.
The saying goes: ‘When in Rome … do as the Romans do’; so after a long day on your feet taking in the sights, find a bar, sit on the terrace for an aperitivo while you watch the evening sun go down. Perfetto!
Known for Cathedrals, Churches, Historical Buildings
4.5/5(79 reviews)
Relax in wine bars and restaurants, take a walking tour and discover the famous Colosseum and other historic sites in one of Rome’s prominent districts.
Known for Cathedrals, Family-friendly, Friendly People
3.5/5(5 reviews)
Stay in this peaceful neighborhood, which still retains much of its authentic charm despite touching the edges of Rome’s biggest attraction, Vatican City.
Top hotels in Rome
Estimated price for 1 night / 2 adults
Hotel Quirinale
4 out of 5
Via Nazionale 7, Rome, RM
NZ$179
per night
3 Nov. - 4 Nov.
Located in Repubblica, this family-friendly Rome hotel is steps away from Teatro dell'Opera di Roma, Via Nazionale and Via XX Settembre. Via Veneto and Basilica ...…Located in Repubblica, this family-friendly Rome hotel is steps away from Teatro dell'Opera di Roma, Via Nazionale and Via XX Settembre. Via Veneto and Basilica ...WWW…
4.2/5Very Good! (4,125 reviews)
"Loved the location, right next to Metro A, bus stops and walkable to Termini. Breakfast buffet is very awesome. Only trouble is the toilet leaked everyday and staffers was not able to fix it. I also wish there would be a view out the window but since it is a great deal on price, I suppose I unerstand ..."…""Loved the location, right next to Metro A, bus stops and walkable to Termini. Breakfast buffet is very awesome. Only trouble is the toilet leaked everyday and staffers was not able to fix it. I also wish there would be a view out the window but since it is a great deal on price, I suppose I unerstand ..."WWW…"
Situated near the airport, this hotel is within 9 miles (15 km) of House of Love and Psyche, Fiera di Roma and Ostia Antica. Parco Leonardo and Castello di Giulio ...…Situated near the airport, this hotel is within 9 miles (15 km) of House of Love and Psyche, Fiera di Roma and Ostia Antica. Parco Leonardo and Castello di Giulio ...WWW…
4.1/5Very Good! (2,096 reviews)
"The room was decent for Rome. It was not small but not large either. Bed was comfortable but the comforter was too warm. We ate at the restaurant and it was not good at all! They were also disorganized."…""The room was decent for Rome. It was not small but not large either. Bed was comfortable but the comforter was too warm. We ate at the restaurant and it was not good at all! They were also disorganized."WWW…"
Located in Repubblica, this hotel is steps away from Teatro dell'Opera di Roma and Via Nazionale. Via XX Settembre and Piazza della Repubblica are also within ...…Located in Repubblica, this hotel is steps away from Teatro dell'Opera di Roma and Via Nazionale. Via XX Settembre and Piazza della Repubblica are also within ...WWW…
4.7/5Exceptional! (3,750 reviews)
"Great place to stay. Great location service and buffet"…""Great place to stay. Great location service and buffet"WWW…"
Breathtaking Renaissance masterpieces by artists such as Caravaggio, Raphael and da Vinci await in these magnificent museums neighbouring the Sistine Chapel.
The archaeological area starts at the Roman Forum and ends at the Colosseum. Meet our staff at the prestigious office next to the Roman Forum entrance. You will visit one of the most famous monuments in the world, the immense amphitheater that was the largest ever built by the Roman Empire.
Small-Group Skip-the-Line to Pompeii with Amalfi Coast Tour
NZ$332
Delve into the incredible history and archaeology of Pompeii while exploring its most important buildings with a knowledgeable archaeologist and expert local guide. Enjoy a stunning drive along the famously picturesque Amalfi Coast, and spend some free time at your leisure in Positano.
Rome In A Day Small-Group Tour with Skip-the-Line to Vatican & Colosseum
NZ$226
If you have a short time in Rome, seeing all the major sights widely spread across the city is a challenge. But on this tour led by an expert guide, see it all—including the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, and Pantheon.
Reach the Eternal City in 3.5 hours via high-speed train from Milan. Plan your own sightseeing tour and explore all the major sites on a double-decker hop-on, hop-off bus. Take a stroll through the Pantheon or even sip an Italian cappuccino in Piazza Navona.
Enjoy the opportunity to visit one of the most popular museums in the world at your leisure. Your faster than skip-the-line ticket lets you bypass the long lines outside and enter through an exclusive reserved door only available to the Vatican's official partners.
Skip-the-Line Sistine Chapel Express & St. Peter’s Basilica Tour
NZ$114
If the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica are on your list of sights to see, but time is not in your favor, this is the perfect activity for you. Begin in the morning to beat the crowds during an express tour that lets you make the most of every minute.
