Last Updated on June 22, 2020 by Amanda Stancati

Known as the City of Seven Hills, there’s much more than the city streets and cityscapes to explore in Rome. The capital of Italy, and housing a state within the city, Rome is a unique destination with much to offer. From museums and people-watching to famous tourist attractions, delicious Italian fare, and popular shopping, we’re in love with all that Rome has to offer. If you’re looking for a European vacation rich in history, attractions, delicious food, and a busy itinerary, Rome is a popular destination with something to see around every corner, and a public transportation system making your vacation worry-free, with subway stops at almost all major attractions.

We highlight 5 reasons you should visit, and the top things to see in Rome:

THE HISTORY

Rome is history-steeped, with archaeological sites, museums, and stories scattered throughout the city. Step back in history while thriving in a vibrant city with modern tourist attractions and get a taste for the empire Rome once was. Find churches full of art, and visit famous sites like the Roman Forum. The forum, a rectangular plaza surrounded by the ruins of ancient government buildings stands tall in the city centre of Rome, calling attention to the city’s long (and fascinating!) history. Other historic stops you don’t want to miss are the famous Colosseum, the Pantheon, and The Spanish Steps stretching up to the Trinita dei Monti. This city is a mecca for those looking for historic sites, and there’s no shortage of activities for the traveller looking to learn about days gone by.

THE FOOD

Italy is home to the simple pleasures and comfort of dishes like pasta, pizza, and gelato, and you won’t go hungry in Rome. This city is, after all, known for its extravagant banquets in ancient times, and the focus on cuisine and Italian fare hasn’t faded with time. Taste your way through Italy with your stay in Rome: try restaurants featuring different variations on Italian cuisine and regional favourites without leaving the city. Wake up and start your day with a cannoli and cappuccino in one of Rome’s cafes, venture to the Trastevere area for lunch, where there’s no bad restaurant. Don’t miss L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele for a delicious, authentic meal (you may recognize the restaurant from Eat, Pray, Love) before leaving Rome, and top off any (and all) meals with gelato…you’re in Italy, you’re allowed. (Really love gelato? You can learn how to make your own in an Artisan Gelato class.)

THE ART

Rome has stunning art and museums throughout the metropolitan city, with statues and galleries waiting for you to explore. Known for some of the most famous artists from the Baroque and Renaissance periods, artists like Michelangelo and Raphael left their mark on Rome. The Sistine Chapel in the Vatican Museums, Michelangelo’s claim to fame, is a must see, but don’t overlook the Museo Nazionale Romano which is stuffed full of sculpture and classical art, and the Galleria Doria Pamphilj for some of Rome’s most prized pieces by Raphael and Bernini, among others. Don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled while walking through Rome’s streets and city squares, the sculptures on some of Rome’s fountains (especially the Trevi) are magnificent. Keep those camera batteries charged!

EVERYTHING ABOUT THE VATICAN

A visit to Rome isn’t complete without a visit to Vatican City, and the Vatican Museums. With so much to do in this area of the city, plan on spending the better part of a day here to see everything and immerse yourself in the history. Make sure you spend some time examining the Sistine Chapel but don’t skip the ancient Greek and Renaissance art on your way to the Chapel. Visit St. Peter’s Basilica to immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of the Vatican, and the Barberini Garden. Opt for a guided tour to get the most of your Vatican visit, or choose to visit during a Papal Audience for some added excitement and a one-of-a-kind experience in the Vatican square.

ITALIAN CULTURE

There’s so much more in Rome that you’ll want to visit on your Italian vacation: relax each night after a busy sightseeing day with famous Italian wine. Italian culture is highlighted by art, food, and fashion; spend some time slowing down, taking in the sights and people watch in city squares to round out your vacation. In this country of world-famous cities, you’ll want to revel in all that it has to offer. Rome is also a great starting destination for Mediterranean cruises, and boasts a great route to Florence and northern Italy for river cruises.

Ciao!