Visit Rome: The Ultimate Guide

Rome is undeniably one of those cities where you could spend a lifetime and still not fully explore it all! It’s no surprise that it’s one of Captain Ulysses’ favorite destinations.

To help you plan your Roman adventure, Captain Ulysses has gathered all his tips and insider tricks into one article!

When should you go? How long should you stay in the Eternal City? How do you get to Rome? Where should you stay? What are the top things to see and do in Rome? Follow the guide!

Contents – A Complete Guide to Rome
Everything you need to know for planning your trip to Rome
When is the best time to visit Rome?
How long do you need to see the city?
How do you get to Rome?
Where should you stay in Rome?
How to get around the city?
Rome’s must-see attractions
The wonders of Ancient Rome
The Vatican City
Rome’s iconic museums
The capital’s most famous churches
Other essential monuments of Rome
Rome’s picturesque squares and neighborhoods
Discovering Italian cuisine
Day trips around Rome
In summary, what are the most unmissable things to do in Rome?

Avoid the lines: Book your tickets and tours in Rome in advance!

Everything you need to know for planning your trip to Rome

When is the best time to visit Rome?

Let’s be clear right away: Rome is a VERY popular tourist destination. No matter when you visit, you should expect crowds and long lines (which is why Captain Ulysses recommends booking your tickets and tours in advance).

Unsurprisingly, summer is when Rome sees the largest number of tourists. The temperatures can soar past 30°C (86°F), but summer also brings long days and a vibrant cultural scene, with festivals and events happening all over the city.

If you prefer to avoid the heat and the crowds, plan your visit for spring or fall. The weather is milder, and there are generally fewer tourists.

While winter can be cold and rainy, it’s also the least crowded season. However, be aware that many monuments and tourist sites close earlier during this time of year.

How long should you spend in Rome?

Well, Rome is one of those cities where you could easily spend a lifetime and still not see everything!

More realistically, plan to spend at least 4 days to cover the essentials of the Italian capital:

• Day 1: The Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill
• Day 2: Vatican City (St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel)
• Day 3: The Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, and Campo de’ Fiori
• Day 4: Villa Borghese, Borghese Gallery, and the Trastevere neighborhood

If you have 5 to 7 days, you can explore more and even take day trips outside the city. Consider visiting the Via Appia Antica (with its impressive catacombs) and Tivoli, home to the stunning Villa d’Este and Hadrian’s Villa.

For those lucky enough to stay more than a week, you can truly immerse yourself in the city’s vast cultural wealth. Don’t miss the Capitoline Museums, Doria Pamphilj Gallery, Domus Aurea, Baths of Diocletian, Circus Maximus, Palazzo Barberini, and Palazzo Altemps. In short, you won’t run out of things to do!

How to get to Rome?

The Italian capital is located in the Lazio region, in central-western Italy, about 25 kilometers east of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Rome is bisected by the Tiber River and sprawls across its famous seven hills: the Aventine, Palatine, Capitoline, Caelian, Esquiline, Quirinal, and Viminal hills.

✈️ Getting to Rome by Plane

While flying may not be the most eco-friendly option, it remains the fastest and most convenient for international travelers.

Rome is served by two main airports:

• Fiumicino Airport (Leonardo da Vinci): Located about 30 kilometers southwest of the city center, it’s the largest airport. Many airlines offer direct flights from major cities across Europe and the world.
• Ciampino Airport: About 15 kilometers southeast of Rome, this is the hub for low-cost airlines.

From both airports, there are plenty of shuttle services (private or shared) that will take you straight to the heart of the city.

Transfer options to/from Rome airports

Getting to Rome by Train

If you’re traveling from another Italian city or a major European destination, the train is definitely worth considering!

Rome’s main station, Termini, is a major rail hub with direct connections to cities like Florence, Milan, Naples, and even Paris.

Termini is located right in the heart of the city, making it easy to hop on public transportation or grab a taxi to reach your accommodation.

Pro Tip: Public transport is included with the Omnia Card.

To book your train tickets, Captain Ulysses recommends the Omio platform for a smooth experience.

Getting to Rome by Bus

If you’re on a budget, the bus is often the most economical option, even if it’s not the most comfortable (you can’t have it all, right?).

Several long-distance bus companies, such as FlixBus and Eurolines, offer routes to Rome from major European cities.

Rome’s main bus terminals are located near Termini and Tiburtina stations. From there, you can easily catch public transport to your accommodation.

For bus tickets, Omio is once again Captain Ulysses’ top pick.

Driving to Rome by Car

If you plan on driving to Rome, you’ll be glad to know that Italian highways are generally well-maintained, making it easy to reach the capital.

However, be aware that like most major cities, traffic in Rome can be heavy, and finding parking can be a challenge. Your best bet is to choose accommodation with parking or park on the outskirts of the city and use public transport to get around.

Where to Stay in Rome?

Looking for accommodation in Rome? You’re in luck! Captain Ulysses has compiled a detailed guide with all the best tips and recommendations on Where to Stay in Rome.

In this guide, you’ll find detailed advice on the best neighborhoods to settle in, accommodation prices, and a list of great places to stay for every budget!

How to Get Around in Rome

Before diving into the must-see sights and activities in Rome, let’s cover a little strategic planning!

Rome’s attractions are spread out all over the city, making it impossible to visit everything on foot.

The good news? The city’s public transportation network (metro, buses, trams, trains) is convenient and quite affordable, allowing you to move around the Eternal City with ease. Plus, unlimited access to public transportation is included in the Omnia Card.

More info: Omnia Card.

If public transport isn’t your thing, there are alternative options too: hop-on-hop-off tourist buses, scooter rentals, or even Vespa rentals!

Rome’s must-see attractions

The wonders of Ancient Rome

What would Rome be without its ancient sites? The archaeological remains scattered throughout the capital are, of course, some of the Eternal City’s top attractions!

So, let’s set sail for a journey back in time!

The Colosseum

Nearly 2,000 years old, the Colosseum is undoubtedly one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks. With over 7 million visitors each year, it’s no surprise that it’s one of the most visited attractions in the Italian capital.

Built in the 1^st century AD under Emperor Vespasian, the Colosseum was the scene of countless games and spectacles for nearly 500 years. These included wild animal hunts, gladiator fights, public executions, and even full-scale naval battles.

The monumental structure could hold up to 50,000 spectators!

The Roman Forum

Nestled between the Capitoline Hill and the Palatine Hill, and just a stone’s throw from the Colosseum, the Roman Forum is the largest archaeological site in Rome.

While the earliest traces of settlement date back to the 7^th century BC, it was during the Roman Republic (509 BC – 27 BC) that the Forum truly flourished, becoming the political, commercial, and religious heart of the city.

Under the Roman Empire (27 BC – 476 AD), the Forum evolved into a purely religious and ceremonial space before being abandoned during the Middle Ages.

Palatine Hill

Just a short walk from the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill is a legendary spot considered the birthplace of Rome.

According to legend, it was at the foot of Palatine Hill that the she-wolf discovered the twins Romulus and Remus, raising them in her cave. As adults, the brothers decided to found a city, but a disagreement over its location led to Romulus emerging victorious—thus founding Rome!

Inhabited since the 10^th century BC, Palatine Hill became the “high-end district” of ancient Rome during the Republic, and later, emperors built their palaces here.

Abandoned in the Middle Ages, the hill was rediscovered during the Renaissance, when wealthy Roman families transformed it into vineyards and gardens.

The Pantheon

Located in the heart of Rome’s historic center, the Pantheon is the best-preserved ancient monument in the Italian capital.

Although the original structure was built in 27 BC, Emperor Hadrian completely rebuilt the Pantheon between 118 and 125 AD after a devastating fire. It is this 2^nd version that has stood the test of time, reaching us almost entirely intact today.

In the early 7^th century, the Pantheon was consecrated as a Christian church. During the Renaissance, it became a burial site for notable figures, including the painter Raphael and King Victor Emmanuel II.

Domus Aurea

Built by Emperor Nero following the Great Fire of Rome in 64 AD, the Domus Aurea (“Golden House”) was an enormous and extravagant palace covering dozens of hectares—a true testament to Nero’s opulence and, perhaps, his megalomania!

Forgotten for centuries before being rediscovered, the Domus Aurea now offers visitors a glimpse into the lavish Rome of the 1^st century AD.

For decades, the site has been undergoing extensive archaeological excavations and restoration efforts.

Baths of Caracalla

Located just a short distance from Rome’s main ancient sites, the Baths of Caracalla are a remarkably well-preserved thermal complex, built between 212 and 216 AD.

At the time of their construction, the Baths of Caracalla were the largest thermal baths in the capital. While they were later surpassed in size by the Baths of Diocletian, built between the 3rd and 4th centuries, the Baths of Caracalla were considered the most beautiful in Rome. In fact, some ancient Romans described them as one of the Seven Wonders of Ancient Rome!

The Circus Maximus

Nestled between the Palatine and Aventine Hills, the Circus Maximus (Circo Massimo in Italian) is the oldest and largest stadium of ancient Rome.

While legend suggests the Circus Maximus existed as early as the 6^th century BC, it was during the Roman Empire that the stadium was expanded to the monumental size we know today.

According to ancient sources, the Circus Maximus could hold anywhere from 150,000 to 300,000 spectators! However, a study conducted in the early 2000s estimated its capacity to be closer to 95,000–100,000 spectators.

Trajan’s Forum

By the 1st century AD, the original Roman Forum had become too small to accommodate Rome’s growing population. Political and judicial activities had been moved to the Palatine Hill,

leading the emperors to build their own forums: Julius Caesar first, followed by Augustus, Vespasian, Domitian, and Trajan.

The Forum of Trajan (Forum Traiani)—featuring the famous Markets of Trajan and Trajan’s Column—is the largest and best-preserved of the Imperial Forums.

Bocca della Verita

Dating back to the 1st century AD, the Bocca della Verità (Mouth of Truth) is a large marble disc, 1.75 meters in diameter and weighing approximately 1,300 kilograms. It depicts a bearded male face with holes for the eyes, mouth, and nose.

Though its original purpose remains unclear, experts suggest it may have been a drain cover, a rainwater collector, or a fountain.

Regardless of its original function, the Bocca della Verità soon became known for its mysterious and magical powers: legend has it that the stone can detect liars!

Exploring Vatican City

Want to tick another country off your list? Yes, indeed! Despite being nestled within the heart of Rome, Vatican City is an independent city-state. It is the spiritual seat of the Roman Catholic Church and home to the Pope—making it an essential stop for any visitor to Rome!

St. Peter’s Basilica

Located in Vatican City, St. Peter’s Basilica (San Pietro in Vaticano in Italian), a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the most important church in Catholicism and one of the most visited monuments in the world.

While the first version of the basilica was built in the 4^th century under Emperor Constantine, the current St. Peter’s was constructed between the 16^th and 17^th centuries.

Some of the greatest artists of the time worked on it: Bramante, Raphael, Michelangelo, Carlo Maderno, and Bernini. The result? A breathtaking masterpiece blending Baroque and Renaissance styles.

St. Peter’s Square

At the foot of the basilica, St. Peter’s Square is the heart of Vatican City and the spiritual center of Catholicism.

In 1656, nearly 30 years after the completion of St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Alexander VII commissioned Bernini to redesign the square to showcase the basilica and accommodate large gatherings of the faithful. The project was completed in 1667

and the square can now host up to—drum roll, please—300,000 people!

Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel

Located in the Vatican Palace, the Vatican Museums—home to the incomparable Sistine Chapel—are among the most iconic museums in the world.

The Vatican Museums are actually a vast complex of 12 museums, 3 chapels, and 5 galleries, spread over 1,400 rooms on a surface area of more than 42,000 m²!

The museum is so extensive that it’s best to pick the sections you’re most interested in.

Captain Ulysses’ top recommendations include the Pinacoteca (featuring works by Leonardo da Vinci, Titian, Caravaggio, and Veronese), the Pio-Clementino Museum, the Borgia Apartments, the Gallery of Maps, Raphael’s Rooms, the Bramante Staircase, and, of course, the unmissable Sistine Chapel.

The Vatican Gardens

Fun fact: The Vatican Gardens take up more than half of Vatican City’s surface area, which, by the way, is the smallest country in the world!

Spanning nearly 23 hectares, the gardens include a variety of styles such as a square garden, English garden, French garden, Italian garden, a vegetable garden, and a 3-hectare woodland.

While not a must-visit for everyone, the Vatican Gardens are a true delight for botany enthusiasts and worth a visit if your schedule allows it.

Visiting Rome’s Iconic Museums

Art lovers, rejoice! Rome is a paradise for museum enthusiasts, featuring everything from masterpieces of painting to ancient sculptures. You’re bound to find something that captures your imagination!

Follow the guide!

Galleria Borghese

Let’s get straight to the point: the Galleria Borghese is one of Captain Ulysse’s top favorites in Rome!

Housed in a magnificent 17^th-century villa surrounded by vast gardens, this museum boasts an exceptional collection. Expect to find masterpieces by Bernini, Raphael, Caravaggio, Titian, Veronese, Bruegel, Rubens, and more!

Even if art isn’t your thing, the palace alone is worth the visit—it’s an architectural marvel!

Capitoline Museums

Perched atop the Capitoline Hill, the Capitoline Museums are the oldest public museums in the world.

They date back to 1471, when Pope Sixtus IV donated four ancient bronze statues to the city: the Capitoline Wolf, the Spinario, the Camillus, and fragments of a statue of Domitian.

In the centuries that followed, subsequent popes continued to donate ancient works to the museums. Later, Pope Benedict XIV purchased collections from the Pio and Sacchetti families to establish the Capitoline Art Gallery.

The National Roman Museum

The National Roman Museum was founded in 1899 and initially housed within the Baths of Diocletian. Its mission was to collect and display ancient artworks and sculptures discovered in Rome and its surroundings.

As the museum’s collection grew, the Baths of Diocletian became too small to accommodate everything.

As a result, the National Roman Museum’s collection is now divided across four distinct sites: the Baths of Diocletian, the Palazzo Altemps, the Palazzo Massimo alle Terme, and the Crypta Balbi.

The Palazzo Doria Pamphilj

Located on the Via del Corso, the Palazzo Doria Pamphilj houses one of Rome’s finest private art collections in a stunning historical setting.

Get ready to step back in time! Unlike modern, minimalist museums, the Doria Pamphilj Palace immerses visitors in the opulence of 17th and 18th-century Rome.

Expect to encounter masterpieces by Raphael, Velázquez, Caravaggio, and Titian—a true paradise for art lovers and one of Captain Ulysses’ personal favorites!

Palazzo Barberini

Built in the 17^th century under the orders of Pope Urban VIII, the Palazzo Barberini is a Baroque architectural masterpiece. Some of the greatest architects of the time contributed to its design, including Carlo Maderno, Francesco Borromini, and Pietro da Cortona.

Today, the palace houses the National Gallery of Ancient Art, an extraordinary museum that will delight any art lover. The collection includes works by Raphael, Caravaggio, Titian, Tintoretto, Poussin, and El Greco, among others.

Iconic Churches of Rome

Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore

Perched on the Esquiline Hill, Santa Maria Maggiore is the largest church in Rome dedicated to the Virgin Mary and one of the four major basilicas in the city (alongside St. Peter’s Basilica, St. John Lateran, and St. Paul Outside the Walls).

Construction began in the 5th century under Pope Sixtus III and the basilica underwent several renovations and expansions throughout the centuries, particularly in the 13^th, 16^th, 17^th, and 18^th centuries. The result is an architectural patchwork combining early Christian, Romanesque, Renaissance, and Baroque influences.

Basilica of Saint John in Lateran

Located on the Lateran Hill, the Basilica of St. John Lateran (Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano) is one of Rome’s four major basilicas.

Nearly 1,700 years old, it is the oldest Christian church in the Western world. The inscription on its façade reads: Omnium urbis et orbis ecclesiarum mater et caput (“Mother and head of all the churches of the city and the world”).

The basilica as we know it today is largely the result of 18^th-century renovations by the architects Francesco Borromini and Alessandro Galilei.

Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls

Located outside the Aurelian Walls, the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls is one of Rome’s four major basilicas and the second-largest church in the city after St. Peter’s.

According to Christian tradition, after St. Paul’s execution, his body was recovered by a Roman Christian woman and buried in a necropolis outside the city walls, giving the basilica its name.

In 1823, a fire destroyed most of the 4^th-century basilica. The current structure, rebuilt in the 19^th century, follows the original plans but incorporates the neo-classical style popular at the time, including its coffered ceiling.

Exploring Other Must-See Monuments in Rome

The Trevi Fountain

With its extravagant Baroque design and monumental size, the Trevi Fountain undoubtedly ranks as one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks!

Though the fountain itself was built in the 18^th century, its origins date back much further. It marks the end point of the Aqua Virgo aqueduct, commissioned by Roman general Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa in 19 BC.

The Trevi Fountain has appeared in numerous films, most famously in Federico Fellini’s La Dolce Vita, where Anita Ekberg and Marcello Mastroianni’s midnight dip forever etched the fountain into cinematic history.

Castel Sant’Angelo

Located on the right bank of the Tiber River, facing the Vatican, Castel Sant’Angelo (Castle of the Holy Angel) has stood as a sentinel over Rome for nearly 2,000 years.

Originally built in the 2nd century AD under Emperor Hadrian as his mausoleum, the castle was later repurposed as a fortress, papal refuge, and even a prison.

Restored in the early 20th century, it now houses a national museum and is open to the public.

Villa Farnesina

Nestled along the Tiber River in the charming Trastevere district, Villa Farnesina is a stunning Renaissance palace adorned with frescoes by some of Italy’s greatest masters.

Built between 1505 and 1511 for a wealthy Sienese banker, the villa is the work of architect Baldassare Peruzzi.

The walls are decorated by renowned artists such as Raphael, Peruzzi, Sodoma, Sebastiano del Piombo, Giovanni da Udine, Giulio Romano, and Giovan Francesco Penni.

In the 1920s, the Italian state acquired the villa, which is now partially open to the public.

Victor Emmanuel II Monument

Nestled in Piazza Venezia at the end of Via del Corso, the Monument to Victor Emmanuel II is a grandiose neo-classical structure celebrating the unification of Italy under its first king, the legendary Victor Emmanuel II.

Built in an eclectic neo-classical style, this monument stands out for its overwhelming architecture.

Spanning 140 meters (460 ft) wide and rising 70 meters (230 ft) high (covering a total area of 17,550 m²), the monument’s dazzling white silhouette—constructed from Brescia marble and travertine—leaves a lasting impression!

Exploring Rome’s Picturesque Squares and Districts

Piazza del Popolo

Located in the northern part of Rome’s historic center, Piazza del Popolo once served as the main entrance to the city. Although it no longer holds this function, it remains one of Rome’s most iconic squares.

In the late 16^th century, Pope Sixtus V embarked on an ambitious renovation project for the square,

ensuring that this gateway to Rome would match the city’s legendary grandeur. Over the next three centuries, his successors continued the development of Piazza del Popolo.

Piazza di Spagna

At the heart of Rome’s upscale shopping district, Piazza di Spagna is renowned for its stunning Spanish Steps, which connect the square below to the Trinità dei Monti Church above.

The staircase is especially striking in spring when it’s adorned with blooming azaleas.

Don’t miss the charming Fontana della Barcaccia, crafted by Pietro and Gian Lorenzo Bernini.

Piazza Navona

Just a short walk from the Pantheon and Campo de’ Fiori, Piazza Navona is undoubtedly one of Rome’s most beautiful squares.

Lined with cafés, gelato shops, and restaurants, this baroque masterpiece is a favorite gathering place for locals, tourists, and food lovers alike.

In the 17th century, Pope Innocent X commissioned a major renovation of the square, enlisting the era’s top artists and architects. The Fountain of the Four Rivers was designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, while his rival Francesco Borromini was tasked with building Sant’Agnese in Agone Church.

Campo de’ Fiori

Just a stone’s throw from Piazza Navona, Campo de’ Fiori is one of Rome’s most picturesque squares, with its bustling fruit and vegetable market.

For a long time, this area was nothing more than a pasture – hence the name “Campo de’ Fiori” which means “field of flowers” in Italian. In the 15^th century, Pope Callixtus III had the square and surrounding area developed,

transforming it into a lively meeting place for Romans, which it remains to this day.

Visitors can enjoy a vibrant market, café terraces, and leisurely strolls through the nearby narrow streets.

Trastevere District

Nestled on the western bank of the Tiber, Trastevere is one of Captain Ulysses’ favorite spots in Rome.

The name Trastevere comes from the Latin Transtiberim, meaning “beyond the Tiber.”

Historically a multicultural and working-class neighborhood, Trastevere has retained its distinct character, which its inhabitants – the Trasteverini – take great pride in.

Although parts of the area, particularly around Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere, have become more gentrified, the streets surrounding the Basilica of Santa Cecilia in Trastevere remain more authentic and serene.

Discovering Italian Cuisine

Foodies, rejoice! Rome is a paradise for lovers of Italian gastronomy. Ready for delicious discoveries?

However, Rome being a tourist hub, some restaurants can be disappointing. A word of advice: follow the locals rather than the tourists. If you hear Italian being spoken at a restaurant, you’re in the right place.

For an unforgettable gelato experience, Giolitti – near the Pantheon and serving since 1890 – is highly recommended by Captain Ulysses. It’s a true Roman gem!

Day tours Around Rome

The Appian Way

Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Rome’s historic center and get some fresh air? Head to the Appian Way (or Via Appia Antica), an ancient Roman road that offers a tranquil and scenic retreat just outside the Eternal City.

The Appian Way was first constructed in 312 BC to connect Rome with Capua, and over time it was extended all the way to Brindisi in southern Italy.

After the fall of the Roman Empire, the road fell into disrepair, but in the 18th century, Pope Pius VI ordered its restoration.

Today, this ancient road is part of a protected national park that spans over 3,500 hectares. Lined with pine trees, cypress groves, and historic monuments, the Appian Way is a postcard-perfect escape from city life.

Villa d’Este in Tivoli

The story of the Villa d’Este begins in the 16th century when Cardinal Ippolito d’Este, disgruntled at not being elected pope, decided to build a villa in Tivoli that would rival the most magnificent buildings of his time.

The result is breathtaking. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Villa d’Este is a true gem, with its Mannerist architecture, lush terraced gardens, and spectacular fountains making it one of Captain Ulysses’ favorite destinations near Rome!

Hadrian’s Villa in Tivoli

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hadrian’s Villa (Villa Adriana) is a sprawling ancient complex built in the 2^nd century AD by Emperor Hadrian.

Impressively well-preserved, Hadrian’s Villa is one of Italy’s most remarkable archaeological sites and is a must-visit if you have time to spare.

A tip: wear comfortable shoes! Although only part of the Villa Adriana is open to the public today, that section alone covers around 40 hectares (out of the original 120 hectares), so be prepared for a lot of walking.

Ostia Antica

Located about 30 kilometers from the center of Rome, the archaeological site of Ostia Antica ( Parco Archeologico di Ostia Antica ) offers visitors the chance to step back in time and explore one of the most prosperous cities of ancient Rome.

While some sources date the foundation of Ostia Antica to around 620 BC, the earliest evidence unearthed by archaeologists dates back to around 335 BC.

Initially, the city thrived on salt marshes, but after being conquered by Rome, it transformed into a naval base and commercial port. Ostia’s importance grew steadily as Rome expanded its influence throughout the Mediterranean.

Must-See Sites in Rome

Feeling overwhelmed by the number of incredible landmarks in Rome?

If you’re short on time, Captain Ulysses has handpicked a list of the absolute must-see spots for your Roman holiday:

• Ancient Rome: The Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, and the Pantheon.
• Vatican City: The Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Square, and St. Peter’s Basilica.
• Rome’s Museums: The Borghese Gallery and Capitoline Museums.
• Other Monuments: The Trevi Fountain and Castel Sant’Angelo.
• Picturesque Places Districts: Piazza del Popolo, Piazza Navona, Campo de’ Fiori, Piazza di Spagna, and the Trastevere.

Avoid the lines: Book your tickets and tours in Rome in advance!