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Rome City Breaks

Italy
Rome accommodation
Map

Irene Clunie, City Break Specialist

"Rome is Italy’s bustling capital and is full of life, energy and a touch of Italian eccentricity; with the local Romans adding as much to the sense of theatre as the architecture, sights and sounds. Rome feels alive with history which isn’t surprising given it was the birthplace of an Empire that once stretched as far north as Scotland and as far south as Egypt. A lot of the historical sites from those times still survive today, none more breathtaking than the Colosseum, a stunning Roman amphitheatre right in the centre of town."

Rome at a glance

Rome is truly a unique destination; the whole city is a large open air museum with ancient ruins dotting the landscape to create a literal symphony of past meets present architecture. With a history dating back 2,500 years, Rome is one of the oldest cities in Europe, earning it the title the Eternal City.

Playing a large role in the birthplace of Western civilisation, Rome has long held a place of importance, with beginnings as the capital of the Roman Empire to the modern day seat of the Papacy. Its city centre is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a number of its iconic attractions topping the list of tourist destinations. The quintessential city break, there is plenty to do, see and experience in Rome.

Perfect if you’re looking for:

  • Historical sightseeing
  • Iconic sights
  • A romantic getaway

Getting around

It is easy to navigate many parts of the city on foot, with the majority of the ancient sites lying to the east of the Tiber River and the Vatican lying to the west. Narrow streets, chaotic traffic and lack of pedestrian zones in some areas can create a compact feel, especially during peak tourist periods. While the seemingly hectic movement of vehicles and people may strike visitors as unappealing, it does lend a certain unique energy and ethos to the experience that is Rome.

Dining in Rome

Adding to the historical splendour of the city is a dining scene not to be missed. World-renowned restaurants and less formal eateries called trattoria offer exceptional, freshly made, local cuisine. Italy is one of the top wine producing countries of the world, making the choice of wines and wine bars plentiful, while side streets and squares, called piazzas, offer up wonderful cafes, perfect for people watching while you enjoy a rich Italian coffee, cappuccino or decadent gelato.

Must-try local dishes:

  • Pizza - in Rome the base is thin and crispy
  • Cacio e pepe: grated Pecorino Romano and cracked black pepper, tossed with spaghetti and olive oil
  • Gelato

Osprey Holidays top tips

Visit the Trevi Fountain after 6pm when the crowds have dissipated from the surrounding narrow streets and you are able to fully admire this amazing Baroque extravaganza which completely overwhelms the tiny piazza.

Get your tailor-made city break itinerary

Osprey Holidays can create a fabulous short break to Rome designed completely around your needs. We can arrange whatever you need, including:

  • All travel and transfers on days of your choice
  • Accommodation from our handpicked range of  Rome hotels, to suit your budget and requirements

Our award-winning team can provide expert advice and recommendations, from general questions to tiny details. Contact us now for your tailor-made itinerary.

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Important information
Population 2,800,00
Languages Italian
Currency Euro
Visa Information No visa required for EU citizens
Average temperatures

(monthly highs °C)

Interesting facts

The Roma Pass gets you free or reduced entry to many attractions, as well as three days travel on the city's buses and subway.

Featured accommodation
Hotel Canada
3.5 out of 5

Read more

Distance from airports
Rome International 23 km
Railway stations
Rome Termini

Things to do in Rome

  • Trevi Fountain: Rome’s largest and most famous fountain; a large baroque artwork which was immortalised in the film ‘La Dolce Vita’.
  • The Colosseum: the symbol of eternal Rome where gladiators fought each other and condemned prisoners fought off hungry lions.
  • Sistine Chapel: Michelangelo’s masterpiece is the highlight of any tour through the Vatican museums.
  • St Peter’s Basilica: admire Michelangelo’s beautiful interior and enjoy the stunning views from the top.
  • Piazza Navona: a vast beautiful piazza, lined with Baroque palaces. The perfect place to enjoy a drink.
  • The Pantheon: a stunning piece of architecture and a spectacular piece of history.
  • Villa Borghese: Rome’s most famous park boasts acres of gardens, flowerbeds, shaded walkways and monuments.
  • Campo de Fiori: by day this square hosts a fruit and vegetable market and by night it is buzzing with locals and visitors enjoying a drink.
  • The Forum: the commercial, political and religious centre of ancient Rome.

Tours and Excursions

Classical Rome City Tour

This comprehensive morning tour will introduce you to all the top attractions in Rome's historic centre; throw a coin or two into the iconic Trevi Fountain - or three to marry an Italian! Visit the awe-inspiring St Peter’s Basilica, see the Roman Pantheon and stroll through the Piazza Navona admiring the Bernini fountains.

Upgrade to a full day tour and visit Imperial Rome in the afternoon. Highlights include the Church of St Peter in Chains, Capitoline Hill and the Colosseum.

Please note that the Classical Rome Tour now includes a guided tour inside St Peter's Basilica (except Sundays and religious holidays) in place of a visit inside the Pantheon. 

Vatican Highlights

This skip-the-line tour features all the highlights of Vatican City in a small group, accompanied by a professional guide. One of the world’s largest private art collections, the Renaissance and Baroque galleries of the Vatican house countless sculptures, frescoes, carvings and paintings. Raphael’s Rooms are dedicated to the Renaissance master and his pupils, while the Sistine Chapel is renowned for Michelangelo’s stunning ceiling fresco, The Creation of Adam. On the day you can choose to add on visits to the Vatacombs or St Peter’s Basilica.

Alternatively, beat the crowds by choosing Early Access, before the museum officially opens, or take an Evening Tour when everyone has left for the day. There are numerous options for visiting The Vatican, in private or as part of a group, so please speak to one of our City Breaks Specialists for details. 

The Colosseum

Rome's most iconic symbol, the Colosseum is the largest amphitheatre ever built. Your expert guide will share details of the, often brutal, history of this arena where emperors, gladiators and slaves once stood.

Take a Skip the Line: Colosseum and Roman Forum Tour and avoid the queues to visit the Colosseum’s arena and mid-levels before heading to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill for incredible views of Ancient Rome.

An Ancient Rome and Colosseum Tour: Underground Chambers and Arena will give you access to the network of passages, chambers and cells where Roman gladiators prepared for battle and their animal foes were caged. You will step onto the arena floor and learn about the epic battles that took place here. This tour also includes a walk to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

During the summer months, The Colosseum can also be visited as part of a Moonlight Tour, giving exclusive after-hours access and the opportunity to see the illuminated ruins along Via Fori Imperiali.

Crypts and Roman Catacombs Walking Tour

Visit underground Rome, including the Church of Santa Maria della Concezione where you will see Caravaggio’s painting, St Francis in Meditation, before heading down to the Capuchin Crypts – made entirely with the bones of former monks. Above ground take a stroll to the Appian Way, one of the world’s longest roads and home to the catacombs, nearly 300km of underground tunnels used as burial chambers by Rome’s early Christians. Skipping any lines, you will descend to the Domitilla Catacombs to view the treasures that lie below the city. The final highlight of the tour is the Basilica of San Clemente, a 12th century church made up of three different buildings built on top of one another. The buildings give a taste of Rome’s history, each grander than the last and featuring beautiful frescoes and mosaics.

Pompeii Ruins Day Tour

In 79 AD Mount Vesuvius erupted, covering the prosperous city of Pompeii in deadly volcanic ash and preserving much of what lay beneath. 1,500 years later it would become one of the most important archeological sites in the world. You will pass through the picturesque Latium and Campania regions, stopping for a panoramic view of Naples and 2-course lunch in a tradional restaurant. On arrival at Pompeii you will skip the lines and explore the ancient streets accompanied by your knowledgable guide.

Tivoli Day Trip: Hadrian's Villa & Villa d'Este

Enjoy a day away from the hustle and bustle of the city and discover two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Hadrian’s Villa and Villa d’Este, in Tivoli, the popular summer retreat for wealthy Romans. Explore the archeological ruins of Emperor Hadrian’s ‘modest’ retreat and admire the stunning gardens of the 15th century Villa d’Este, featuring impressive waterfalls and over 500 fountains.  

We would be happy to arrange an excursion for you. To discuss options with a member of our knowledgeable team or to book, please contact us on 0131 243 8098.