How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Rome Italy
Are you wondering how to plan the perfect trip to Rome, Italy?
What are the best things to see and do? When should you visit and how much time will you need?
Be inspired by this guide as you plan your next trip to Rome, Italy!
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Welcome to Rome, the incredible Italian capital. Rome is an extraordinary place where the ancient ruins of the Roman Empire meet modern civilization. Learn about the city’s history at the Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill. Imagine what it must have been like to attend events at Circus Maximus so many centuries ago.
Wake up at dawn to catch a glimpse of the Spanish Steps without the suffocating crowds. Toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure you return to Rome again one day!
Rome can seem like an expensive destination, especially if you plan to visit all the major tourist attractions and museums, stay at higher-end accommodations and go out to restaurants for all of your meals. Costs can quickly add up if you are not prepared! Fortunately, with a little planning, there are ways to keep the costs down without sacrificing your vacation.
Rome is also the gateway to nearby day-trip destinations such as Naples, Pompeii & the Amalfi Coast. Spend some time visiting a different city, with new foods, cultural experiences and historical sites. There are endless things to do and places to see if you base yourself in Rome!
Main Attractions in Rome
Below is a sample of the best places to see and things to do in Rome. Find inspiration for your trip here!
How Many Days to Spend in Rome
Do you prefer to pack in as much as possible in a short period of time or travel at a more leisurely pace?
Are you visiting in the summer when there are plenty of daylight hours for exploring?
Are you travelling luxuriously or on a budget?
The main highlights of Rome can be seen in three to four days. This is the perfect amount of time for first-time visitors. Even if you only have a short period of time, exploring Rome for a few days will certainly be worthwhile.
When to Visit Rome
The best time to visit Rome truly depends on what you want to see and do during your trip. Decisions are often influenced by seasonal weather conditions, affordability and by the timing of festivals and events.
Spring
Spring is one of the best times of year to visit Rome. Warm, sunny days encourage visitors to explore the sights comfortably on foot, people start to spill out onto outdoor cafés and terraces, gardens start to bloom and the city starts to reawaken after the winter months.
Summer crowds have not yet arrived offering more exclusive access to tourist attractions, however places like the Colosseum and Trevi Fountain are crowded year-round. Deals can be found on flights and hotel rates to help lower travel costs.
Summer
Summer is peak tourist season in Rome as travellers flock to Italy on holiday. Longer days and warmer temperatures attract large crowds to the city’s most popular attractions and historical sites.
Make sure to book flights, accommodation as well as entrance tickets to attractions well in advance to avoid disappointment and long queues. If you are seeking a more authentic, low-cost experience, with fewer crowds, opt to avoid Rome during peak season.
Autumn
Autumn continues to bring travellers to Rome despite shorter days and cooler temperatures. Mild temperatures make sightseeing on foot a much more pleasurable experience.
Tourist crowds have dispersed somewhat freeing up space on the city’s ancient streets. Find yourself surrounded by locals rather than just other tourists.
Winter
Winter is the coldest season in Rome, but the city still enjoys comfortable temperatures, and rarely any snow fall. Take advantage of more affordable prices and fewer tourist crowds.
Rome is transformed during the Christmas season, displaying festive lights and hosting holiday markets. There are plenty of indoor activities to enjoy year-round, ensuring your time in the Italian capital is memorable.
Use this summary to understand Italy’s seasons and plan your perfect trip to Rome:
Spring – March, April, May
Summer – June, July, August
Autumn – September, October, November
Winter – December, January, February
How to Get Around
Rome has an abundance of historical sites, museums and neighbourhoods to explore. The city is safe to walk around, but can be a challenge during peak season with the summer heat and massive tourist crowds. Make sure to bring water and stay hydrated.
Avoid renting a car in Rome, as you’ll probably spend most of your time stuck in traffic. The city centre is pedestrianized, with roads closed off completely or with only limited access to motorized vehicles.
Navigating the streets of Rome can be quite the adventure. Remember that ancient roadways were not designed to accommodate vehicles, bikes or large crowds of people.
1. Walking
Rome is a city made for walking. Most attractions are concentrated in the city centre and can be easily accessed on foot. Join a walking tour to learn more about the history of Rome and discover a few hidden gems you may never have found on your own.
Although it is one of the most iconic elements of the city, cobblestone can be uneven in some places and slippery after it rains, so be sure to wear appropriate shoes. These pathways can be dangerous for people with mobility challenges, wheelchair users or those pushing strollers.
2. Hop-On Hop-Off Bus
Rome is a walkable city, but as temperatures soar during the summer season, it may be more comfortable and convenient to get around by bus. It’s possible to take public transit, but transportation designed for locals can often be confusing and intimidating.
Instead choose to purchase a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour. These bus routes have been created specifically for tourists, stopping at all the major landmarks in Rome while providing audio commentary. Select a one, two or three-day pass to suit your itinerary.
3. Airport Transfers
There are two major airports serving passengers flying in and out of Rome: Fiumicino & Ciampino Airport. The city centre is connected to both airports by shuttle buses. Avoid the hassle of carrying luggage across the city on public transportation. Shuttle buses are air-conditioned and have free Wi-Fi.
Fiumicino Airport (FCO) – Shuttle buses connect travellers between Fiumicino Airport and Termini Train Station in central Rome within 45-55 minutes. This is the main airport serving international travellers. Purchase your one-way or round-trip Fiumicino Airport transfer here.
Ciampino Airport (CIA) – Shuttle buses connect travellers between Ciampino Airport and Termini Train Station in central Rome within 45 minutes. This is the airport typically used for domestic flights or budgets airlines. Purchase your one-way or round-trip Ciampino Airport transfer here.
4. Train
The main attractions in Rome are easily accessible from Roma Termini train station. It takes about 20 minutes to walk from the station to the Colosseum.
The railway provides connections to other popular Italian destinations such as Florence, Pisa and Venice. Train tickets are cheap in Italy and have a reputation for running on time. Take advantage of some of the day-trip destinations (Naples, Pompeii, Amalfi Coast & Positano) while you are in Rome.
Where to Stay in Rome
There are a number of unique neighbourhoods in Rome that each cater to a specific type of traveller. Each area has its own atmosphere and volume of tourist traffic. Choose where to stay wisely, as these differences can significantly impact your experience.
Regardless of whether you are on a tight budget, only in the city for a few days or visiting with children, there are many accommodation options available. Keep in mind that Rome is a very popular tourist destination year-round, so book early to secure your preferred location at the best price.
Book your accommodation in Rome here.
1. Centro Storico (Central Rome)
Centro Storico is considered the cultural heart of Rome and the best place to stay for first-time visitors. The city’s main attractions, museums, restaurants and shopping retailers are conveniently located within walking distance.
Due to its central location, accommodation prices will be more expensive but may be worthwhile if you are only visiting for a short period of time. There are plenty of backpacker hostels on the outskirts of the city centre, that can help to lower accommodation costs.
Keep in mind that this area is heavily-touristed so expect crowds and noise all day long. Nearby attractions include: Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, Spanish Steps &Trevi Fountain.
2. Trastevere
The Trastevere neighbourhood offers great food, nightlife and a more local atmosphere away from the tourist crowds. This is a great place to stay for return visitors or couples looking for a romantic getaway. Although located on the opposite bank of the river Tiber, this area remains walking distance to the historic center of Rome.
3. Prati
The Prati district is known for its close proximity to the Vatican City. Here you will find plenty of excellent and affordable accommodation options.
Although very busy during the day, this area is much quieter in the evenings (compared to the city centre) once the tourist crowds have dispersed. Nearby attractions include: Vatican Museum’s Sistine Chapel & St. Peter’s Basilica.
4. Monti
The district of Monti is a great location for families with children. Here you will find a charming residential neighbourhood, lined with cobblestone streets. Located between the Colosseum and Roma Termini train station, it’s easy to walk to all the main attractions.
5. Termini
Termini is the best place to stay for budget travellers, since it’s packed with hostel-style accommodation options. This area is within walking distance to the city’s main attractions and main train station, Roma Termini.
If you don’t mind walking a little further, and want to keep costs down, book your accommodation in Termini. Be aware of your surroundings when travelling near metro stations, especially after dark. These areas tend to be notorious for pickpockets and scammers.
Day Trips from Rome
Rome is the gateway to nearby day-trip destinations. Spend some time visiting a different city, with new foods, cultural experiences and historical sites. Base yourself in Rome and check out these must-see Italian cities.
1. Naples
Naples is considered the birthplace of Italian pizza. No trip here would be complete without tasting a delicious slice from an authentic Neapolitan pizzeria!
Make sure to capture a photo of the Bay of Naples with Mount Vesuvius looming in the distance. Day trips to Naples are often paired with guided tours to the ancient ruins of Pompeii.
2. Pompeii & Mount Vesuvius
Visit the intact remains of the Roman town of Pompeii and climb Mount Vesuvius, the volcano that destroyed it. The volcanic eruption that decimated Pompeii occurred in the year 79 AD.
Mount Vesuvius is an active volcano, however it’s unknown when it will erupt again. It’s considered one of Europe’s most dangerous volcanoes due to the 3 million+ people that live in its immediate vicinity!
3. Amalfi Coast & Positano
Take a break from the busy streets of Rome and spend the day discovering the beauty of the Amalfi Coast. Enjoy time at the charming villages of Positano & Amalfi, exploring the local shops, restaurants and beaches.
Take a boat cruise to get a unique perspective of the rugged cliffs and colourful architecture from the water. Make sure to try the delicious local liquor: Lemoncello!
Start Booking Your Trip
Use the helpful resources below to start booking your trip to Rome, Italy!
- Reserve your accommodation with Hotels.com or Hostelworld.
- Book your rental car with Discover Cars.
- Book your flight with SkyScanner.
- Book tours with Get Your Guide.
- Traveling Solo? Book a Group Tour with G Adventures.
- Buy Travel Insurance with SafetyWing or World Nomads.
Recommended Reading
Have any questions about planning your trip to Rome, Italy? Please share your questions or comments below!