Throughout its millenary historical trajectory, Rome has always played the role of a major political, economical and cultural force. Nowadays Rome capitalizes, from a tourist point of view, on the memory of its major historical achievements, displaying a seemingly endless array of archeological sites and architectural gems, though, if truth be told, the fashionable and modern side of Rome is just as much worth exploring and admiring.

Counting as one of the first top tourist destinations in the world, Rome, the capital of Italy, rightfully exalts the shine of its past. Nowadays Rome, the former scene where figures like the Roman emperors, gladiators, popes and artists intertwined in an intricate and fascinating plot, lives up to the surname of Eternal City, since it continues to mesmerize visitors all over the world. It is a contemporary landmark of international tourism and a must-visit for all passionate globetrotters.

A unique feature of Rome is that Vatican City is located within the confines of its administrative and geographical territory. Vatican City is the hub of catholic Christianity on Earth, and it contributes with its specific attractions to the tourist prestige of Rome.

Short History of Rome

The legendary founder of Rome is Romulus. The story goes that after killing his brother Remus, he established the city of Rome on April the 21st, 753 BC, setting the core of the future capital of the Roman Empire. However, some 7 centuries had to elapse before the first mentioning of the Roman Empire proper, under Emperor Octavian, successor of Cesar to the rule of Rome. During this interval, Rome was administrated and made its way thorough on the political map of Europe as kingdom and republic.

The bottom line is it was during the empire that Rome gained most of its prestige (though a major achievement referred to the turning of the Mediterranean Sea into the so-called “Mare Nostrum”, after the Punic wars), but even when overshadowed by sundry opposing political forces, Rome kept a high political profile, being the seat of papacy, a tremendous decision-maker on the political scene of Europe (and outside Europe, for that matter).

Where to stay in Rome

TAccommodation in Rome is as miscellaneous as it gets. The sleeping venues range from a plethora of luxury hotels to B&Bs and even camping sites. But what budget travelers should keep in mind is cheap accommodation solutions are quite scarce, since high prices tend to be practiced regardless of the rating of the venue.

THowever, the accommodation offer of Rome is worth studying, since the location of the chosen solution is a key factor in delineating the outcome of a stay in the capital of Italy.

Attractions and things to see in Rome

Rome literally bursts with things to see and places to visit. The Coliseum, the Roman Forum and the Pantheon count as some of the most important archeological sites, whereas Piazza Navona, Piazza del Popolo and Campo de Fiori are just a few of the public squares tourists can explore at leisure while strolling around in Rome.

Fontana di Trevi is but one of the majestic fountains in Rome, whereas the Papal Basilica of Saint Peter is the height of all religious places of worship in Rome. The latter is located in Vatican, Vatican City being in itself a core of attractions in Rome.

Italian Cuisine in Rome

The Italian cuisine is rightfully broken down in several quite distinct culinary regional traditions. Rome falls in the category of the Lazio cuisine, the specificity of which is given by the extensive use of meats and cheeses.

However, pasta and pizza remain tourists’ top favorites. A fabulous array of colors and flavors, herbs and ingredients stimulate the gastronomic imagination, turning the expectation of a meal into the promising adventure of a craving palate. All sorts of sauces based on garlic, tomatoes and olive oil flood the dishes, further exciting the already dazzled appetite.

On top of that, the countless restaurants and cafes, pizzerias and sundry other eateries have a way of enticing tourists, capitalizing on the prestige of the Italian cuisine and on visitors’ curiosity to discover the richness and heartiness of the local specialties.

Events and Festivals in Rome

Rome is not a place where getting bored is an option. Sightseeing alone is able to fill one’s stay in the capital or Italy, but attending the numerous events and festivals hosted here is a manner of getting a deeper insight into the life of this city. The Birth of Rome, the Romaeuropa Festival, Vertigo and the Independent Film Festival, for instance, are complemented by sports events like the Rome Marathon and the football confrontations between A.S. Roma and Lazio Roma, which occasion supporters and fans to delight in seeing their favorite teams clash in worldwide renowned matches.

Hotels in Rome

Soggiorno Blu Hotel Soggiorno Blu Rome
Acqua Bullicante Hotel Acqua Bullicante Rome
Commodore Hotel Commodore Rome
Abruzzi Hotel Abruzzi Rome

Residences in Rome

Torre di Pratolungo Residence Torre di Pratolungo Rome
Belsito Residence Belsito Rome

Bed & Breakfast in Rome

100 passi dalla Cappella Sistina Bed & Breakfast 100 passi dalla Cappella Sistina Rome
1 Pink Rose Bed & Breakfast 1 Pink Rose Rome

Hostels in Rome

Alessandro Downtown Hostel Alessandro Downtown Rome
BellaRoma Hostel BellaRoma Rome

Campings in Rome

Flaminio Camping Flaminio Rome
Seven Hills Camping Seven Hills Rome

Image Gallery

A view from inside the monument to Vittorio Emanuele in Rome
A view from inside the monument to Vittorio Emanuele in Rome
A view of Piazza Venezia in Rome
A view of Piazza Venezia in Rome
Altar of the fatherland in Rome
Altar of the fatherland in Rome
Ancient marketplace in Rome
Ancient marketplace in Rome

Video Rome

Short presentation of Rome
Short presentation of Rome
Cultural tourism in Rome
Cultural tourism in Rome
Roma Pass
Roma Pass
Via Condotti Rome
Via Condotti Rome
Borghese Gallery in Rome
Borghese Gallery in Rome
The Roman Forum in Rome
The Roman Forum in Rome
Capitoline Museum in Rome
Capitoline Museum in Rome
Catacombs and Via Appia
Catacombs and Via Appia
Evening stroll in Rome
Evening stroll in Rome