Rome 2026 Guide: Must-see attractions, local cuisine, and practical tips! | Trip.com

Toss a Coin at Rome's Fountain

Stand facing away from the Trevi Fountain, toss a coin over your left shoulder with your right hand to wish for a return to Rome—a cherished tradition. Visit early or late to avoid crowds, admiring Neptune's baroque carvings. Explore Bernini's Four Rivers Fountain in Piazza Navona or the Moor Fountain in quiet alleys—ancient fountains gleam, filled with Rome's history.

Walk Through Ancient Rome's Glory

Tread the Colosseum's weathered stones, where gladiators clashed, and wander Roman Forum’s crumbled temples. Try an AR tour to see the Colosseum's battles reborn. Climb Palatine Hill for sweeping views of Rome's ancient heart. From the Forum’s arches to Castel Sant'Angelo's fortress, these ruins pulse with 2,000 years of imperial might, unveiling Rome's storied past.

Savor Local Street Eats

Grab pizza al taglio, Rome's rectangular, thick-crust pizza sold by weight, or a crispy supplì, a fried rice ball with mozzarella, from street stalls. Bite into porchetta, succulent roasted pork, at Testaccio vendors. Pair with Frascati wine or gelato from Giolitti. These street eats, born in Rome's bustling piazzas, burst with local flavor, defining Italy's culinary heart.

Step Into Art-Filled Sanctuaries

Gaze at Chiesa di Sant'Ignazio di Loyola's mirrored "3D" ceiling frescoes in Rome, then cross into Vatican City, a sovereign state, to explore St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel's Michelangelo masterpieces. Borghese Gallery and Museum's Bernini sculptures stun, while the Capitoline Museums showcase Roman statues. National Museum of Rome's ancient mosaics captivate. These halls, brimming with Renaissance and Roman art, echo the genius of Caravaggio and Raphael.

Shop Vibrant Roman Markets

Nibble fresh artichokes or creamy burrata at Campo de Fiori, sipping espresso at historic cafes. Testaccio Market's stalls offer prosciutto, pecorino cheese, olive oil, and handmade pasta. Browse Porta Portese's flea market for unique finds, from vintage cameras to rare books. Rome's markets pulse with local life, their scents and colors weaving daily Italian rhythms.

Relive Rome's Cinematic Moments

Stroll Via Veneto, Fellini's muse in La Dolce Vita, or find Roman Holiday's Spanish Steps and Mouth of Truth. Wander old streets from Woody Allen's To Rome with Love, camera in hand. Rome's sunlit alleys and grand piazzas, a natural film set, invite you to retrace iconic scenes, capturing timeless cinematic charm.

Catch a Performance in Historic Venues

Hear La Traviata, Madame Butterfly, or Barber of Seville at Teatro dell'Opera di Roma, Italy's opera cradle. In summer, watch Tosca, Turandot, or Carmen at Caracalla Baths' open-air stage, or classical concerts near the Colosseum. Book ahead for these ancient venues, where music and ruins blend, filling Rome's nights with operatic passion and timeless music.

Witness the Pantheon's Rose Petal Rain

On Whitsunday, seven weeks after Easter, attend the Pantheon's Pentecost Mass, where firefighters shower thousands of red rose petals through the oculus, symbolizing the Holy Spirit's descent. This sacred ritual, blending Catholic tradition with floral beauty, mesmerizes visitors. Respect dress codes and silence as petals drift onto marble floors, filling the ancient dome with Rome's spiritual grace.

Unwind in Villa Borghese's Gardens

Stroll Villa Borghese's sprawling gardens, where cypress trees shade serene paths. Rent a rowboat on the lake or visit Galleria Borghese's Bernini sculptures. Kids love the zoo, while picnickers bask under ancient oaks. Rome's largest park offers a tranquil escape from urban bustle, blending art, nature, and leisure. Sun-dappled trails hum with birdsong, inviting relaxation amid the city's heartbeat.

Wander Trastevere's Bohemian Streets

Roam Trastevere's cobblestone lanes, where ivy-draped osterias serve cacio e pepe under twinkling lights. Browse artisan shops or catch live music in Piazza Santa Maria. This vibrant district, a village within Rome, buzzes with nightlife and street art. From sunlit cafes to moonlit bars, Trastevere captures the city's soul. Laundry sways above alleys, echoing Rome's timeless charm.

Master Roman Cooking

Join a cooking class in a Roman kitchen, rolling fresh pasta for fettuccine or stirring tiramisu’s creamy layers. Learn to craft cacio e pepe with local chefs, then savor your dishes with Chianti wine. These hands-on sessions, often in Trastevere or Testaccio, blend culinary secrets with warm hospitality. Flour-dusted counters hum with laughter, creating memories of Rome's flavors.

Explore Ostia Antica's Ancient Ruins

Take a 30-minute train to Ostia Antica, Rome's ancient port, where crumbling theaters and mosaics reveal daily Roman life. Wander through bathhouses and taverns, less crowded than the Colosseum, under cypress-lined paths. This archaeological gem, preserved for centuries, offers a quieter glimpse into antiquity. Sun-warmed stones whisper tales of merchants and sailors, connecting Rome's past to its present.

Rome is a city steeped in history, with iconic landmarks like the Colosseum showcasing ancient engineering, the Pantheon's architectural brilliance, the Trevi Fountain's Baroque artistry, the Roman Forum's historical significance, and Castel Sant'Angelo's multifaceted past, each offering visitors a unique window into the city's rich cultural heritage.

The Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, is a testament to the architectural and engineering prowess of ancient Rome. This iconic structure, which could hold up to 50,000 spectators, was the stage for gladiatorial combat, wild animal hunts, and even mock naval battles, reflecting the grandeur and brutality of the Roman Empire. Today, it stands as a monument to Rome's history, attracting millions of visitors each year who come to marvel at its grandiosity and to imagine the spectacles that once took place within its walls. The Colosseum is not only a symbol of Rome but also one of the new Seven Wonders of the World, offering a glimpse into the past and the opportunity to walk through the same entrances that spectators did nearly two millennia ago.

The Pantheon, a former Roman temple now known as the Basilica di Santa Maria ad Martyres, stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of ancient Rome and has been a continuous inspiration for buildings worldwide. Its most striking feature is the massive unreinforced concrete dome, with a central oculus that not only illuminates the interior but also creates a play of light that changes with the sun's position, acting as a natural sundial. Visitors can marvel at the harmonious proportions of the building, where the height to the oculus and the diameter of the interior circle are the same, creating a unique spatial experience. The Pantheon's history spans over two millennia, originally dedicated to the twelve gods and the living sovereign, later converted to a Christian church, and now serving as a revered historical site that attracts millions of visitors annually.

The Trevi Fountain, designed by Nicola Salvi and completed by Giuseppe Pannini in 1762, is a Baroque masterpiece and one of the city's most famous fountains. Standing at 26 meters high and 49 meters wide, it is the largest Baroque fountain in Rome. The central figure of the fountain is the statue of Oceanus, god of all water, who stands atop a chariot pulled by sea horses, flanked by allegorical figures representing Abundance and Health. The fountain marks the endpoint of the Aqua Virgo aqueduct, constructed in 19 B.C., which supplied water to ancient Rome and is now known as Acqua Vergine. A popular tradition among visitors is to toss a coin into the fountain, which is said to ensure a return to Rome. The fountain has been featured in numerous books and films, most notably in Federico Fellini's "La Dolce Vita". After a major renovation in 2014-15, the fountain's beauty has been restored, making it an ideal time for visitors to experience this iconic symbol of Rome's rich artistic heritage.

The Roman Forum, once the pulsating heart of ancient Rome, is a sprawling expanse of ruins that offers a profound glimpse into the city's storied past. As the central showplace of Roman public life, it hosted a myriad of activities including political discussions, trials, market trades, and religious ceremonies. Visitors today can walk along the Via Sacra, the main thoroughfare of ancient Rome, and immerse themselves in the history that unfolded amidst the temples and political buildings that once defined the empire. The Forum's significance as a center for religious and secular spectacles continues to echo through the ages, with its imposing temples and monuments standing as silent witnesses to Rome's once-mighty empire. Exploring the Roman Forum is an essential experience for those looking to connect with the ancient world, offering a tangible link to the architectural and societal advancements of Roman civilization.

Castel Sant'Angelo, originally the Mausoleum of Hadrian, stands as a testament to Rome's layered history, evolving from a tomb to a fortress, and eventually a museum. Its transformation over the centuries is marked by significant events, such as the vision of the Archangel Michael in 590 AD, which not only gave the castle its name but also a symbolic statue atop its structure. Visitors today can explore the richly decorated papal apartments, prison cells, and enjoy panoramic views of Rome from its terraces, which offer three distinct vantage points including the rooftop with the angel statue. The castle's history as a refuge for popes, a prison for notable figures, and its role in cultural works like Puccini's opera "Tosca," adds to the allure for tourists and history enthusiasts alike.

Rome's food scene is a rich tapestry of flavors, featuring the highly esteemed white truffle, traditional pastas like fettuccine and ravioli, a variety of pizzas from ancient flatbreads to modern interpretations, the quintessential cucina povera dish Coda alla Vaccinara, and diverse panini offerings that showcase the city's commitment to quality ingredients and culinary innovation.

A highly esteemed delicacy from Alba, celebrated for its large size and intense, earthy flavor with hints of garlic, nuts, or honey. Revered in Rome's culinary scene, restaurants like Dal Bolognese offer specialized menus featuring this prized tuber in various dishes, from appetizers to main courses. Harvested by expert truffle hunters and their trained dogs, these truffles are a seasonal treasure, available from September to December, and are a highlight at truffle fairs and auctions, where they fetch premium prices.

Staples of Roman cuisine, these pastas are celebrated in hands-on cooking classes where participants learn to make them from scratch. The experience is enriched with Prosecco, wine, and appetizers, and culminates in a group meal featuring the freshly made pasta paired with seasonal sauces like amatriciana or cacio e pepe. These classes, often held in the vibrant Trastevere neighborhood, offer not just a meal but a deeper understanding of Italian culinary traditions and the joy of sharing food.

 A culinary tradition that has evolved from ancient flatbreads and now includes varieties like the thin, crispy pizza Romana and the square-shaped pizza al taglio. Originating as a piatto povero, or dish of the poor, Roman pizza has become a beloved street food, often enjoyed by families and tourists alike, with toppings ranging from simple olive oil to more elaborate combinations. Whether it's the traditional pizzette, the popular pizza al teglio, or the modern pinsa, Rome offers a pizza for every palate, with numerous venues across the city to savor this iconic dish..

A traditional Roman dish that embodies the city's piatto povero heritage, utilizing the oxtail, a less desirable part of the animal. This rich stew varies in preparation, but a notable version includes a sauce enriched with raisins, pine nuts, and a hint of cocoa powder, often served over pasta like rigatoni. To fully appreciate this dish, it is recommended to pair it with a red wine from Lazio, such as Cesanese del Piglio, which complements the flavors beautifully.

A staple of Italian street food, particularly celebrated in Rome for its variety and the quality of ingredients. These sandwiches range from the innovative mini panini at Zia Rosetta to the gourmet options at Tricolore Panini Gourmet, with a focus on fresh, natural components and complex flavors. Notably, 'Er Bucchetto specializes in pork porchetta panini, served simply to highlight the rich taste of the meat.

Rome is primarily served by two airports, with efficient public transportation, taxis, and ride-sharing services to the city center, as well as international trains and buses arriving at central stations.

By Air:

Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO),  also known as Fiumicino (FCO), about 30 km (18 miles) southwest of the city, is the main international hub. 

To the City:

- Leonardo Express train: This is the fastest and most reliable option, taking you directly to Roma Termini, the main train station. Follow signs from arrivals in Terminal 3 to the train station (5-minute walk). Direct non-stop service to Termini Station (32 min), running every 15 min from 5:38 AM to 00:23 AM. Tickets: approximately €14. Available to purchase at machines (English available), online via the Trenitalia app, or at counters (cash/card/mobile pay).

- FL1 regional train: A more affordable but slower train option connects Fiumicino Airport to various stations in Rome, including Trastevere, Ostiense, and Tiburtina. However, this train does not stop at Termini. The journey takes approximately 40 to 50 minutes and costs around €8. Trains run every 15 minutes from 5:57 AM to 11:32 PM. Tickets can be purchased at machines or through an app. You can connect to the metro or bus for access to the city center.

- Bus shuttle: Several companies provide direct and budget-friendly bus transfers to Roma Termini. Terravision and SIT Shuttle operate buses from stands outside Terminal 3 to Termini Station. The journey takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes and tickets cost around €11. Buses run every 30 to 60 minutes from 8:30 AM to 12:30 AM. Tickets can be purchased online, on board, or at kiosks (payment can be made by cash or card).

- Taxi: Fixed rate €50 to the city center (within Aurelian Walls, 40 min), from ranks outside terminals; 24/7, up to 4 passengers, includes luggage. Pay cash/card at the end; official white taxis only.

- Ride-Shares: Uber or Bolt from designated areas near Terminal 3 parking; €35-55 to the center (40 min), book via app (data required), cashless pay.

Ciampino (G.B. Pastine International Airport - CIA) is the smaller and closer of the two airports, located approximately 15 km (9 miles) southeast of central Rome. It is primarily used by low-cost airlines like Ryanair and Wizz Air.

To the City:

- Shuttle Bus: Terravision or SIT Shuttle from bus stands outside arrivals to Termini Station (40 min, €6), every 30-60 min from 8:30 AM to 12:30 AM. Tickets can be purchased online or onboard (cash/card).

- Ciampino Airlink (Bus + Train): TRAL bus from outside arrivals to Ciampino train station (5 min, €1.20), then regional train to Termini (15 min, €1.50), every 20-30 min from 6 AM to 10 PM. Total €2.70; tickets from machines (cash/card) or app.

- Taxis: Fixed rate €30 to the city center (30 min), from ranks outside arrivals; 24/7, up to 4 passengers.

- Ride-Shares: Bolt or Uber from the parking area (short walk from arrivals); €25-40 to the center (30 min), book via app.

By Train:

Travelers can easily get to Rome by train, as it is well-connected to the rest of Italy and Europe via an efficient and reliable rail network. Two main operators, Trenitalia and Italo, offer frequent high-speed services, while regional trains connect smaller towns.

Roma Termini: The main and busiest station, located right in the city center. It is the best arrival point for easy access to central Rome and is a major hub for metro and bus connections.

Roma Tiburtina:  Rome's second-largest station, located in the northeastern part of the city. Many high-speed services stop here before reaching Termini, and it is a good option if your accommodation is in the area, as it is generally less crowded.

Roma Ostiense: A historic station south of the city center, which primarily serves regional lines.

By Bus:

Bus travel is a popular and economical option for reaching Rome from other parts of Italy and Europe. Popular international and Italian operators serving Rome include FlixBus, MarinoBus, and Itabus. 

Tiburtina Station: Most international and long-distance buses arrive at the Tiburtina Bus Station, which is adjacent to the Roma Tiburtina train and metro station. 

Rome's local public transport system, run by the company ATAC, includes the metro, buses, and trams. All use an integrated ticketing system, meaning a single ticket is valid across all services within the city's urban area.

Tickets and passes:

Integrated ticket (BIT): A single ticket costing approximately €1.50 is valid for one metro ride or 100 minutes of travel on all other ATAC services, including transfers. It must be validated at the start of your journey.

Contactless "Tap & Go" payment: You can now pay for public transport directly with a contactless card or mobile device by tapping it on the readers inside buses and trams and at metro gates.

Time-based passes: For unlimited travel, you can purchase passes for various durations, including 24, 48, or 72 hours.

Roma Pass: This tourist card offers free public transportation for 48 or 72 hours, along with complimentary or discounted entry to attractions.

Tickets and cards are available at all metro stations and many major bus stops. They are multilingual and accept cash and credit cards. Many tobacco shops (look for a "Tabacchi" sign) and newsstands also sell single tickets and passes. 

Metro: The metro is often the fastest way to get around Rome and is less prone to traffic delays.
Three lines—M1 (Orange), M2 (Blue), and M3 (Green)—serve the city. Lines A and B are most useful for tourists, as they connect major sites such as the Colosseum (Line B) and the Vatican (Line A). Line C is still under construction and mostly serves residential areas. Weekdays, the metro runs from 5:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.. On Fridays and Saturdays, service is extended to 1:30 a.m.

Buses: A comprehensive bus network serves the entire city, operating from approximately 5:30 a.m. to midnight. A network of night buses also operates from midnight to 5:00 a.m.. However, buses can be significantly delayed by Rome's heavy traffic.

Trams: Rome's six tram lines offer a more scenic, above-ground travel experience but have a less extensive network than buses. 

Taxis: Metered white cabs, short rides €5-15, night surcharge.

Ride-Shares: Uber or Bolt.

Bike Rentals: Major operators include Lime and Dott. Park the bike in a designated area and end the ride via the app.

Rome is a city steeped in history and culture, offering a diverse array of accommodation options across its many distinct neighborhoods. Visitors can choose from areas rich in ancient history, bustling with nightlife, or offering a more tranquil, residential atmosphere.

The area around the Colosseum, known for its historic significance, is a central location that provides easy access to some of Rome's most iconic landmarks. Accommodations here offer the chance to stay amidst the grandeur of ancient Rome, with the Colosseum itself, the Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill just a stone's throw away. The district is well-served by public transportation, including the Metro B line at the Colosseum metro stop and various bus lines, making it convenient for visitors to explore the city. The neighborhood's central location is ideal for those who wish to immerse themselves in Rome's rich history and have major attractions within walking distance.

The Spagna district, encompassing the Piazza di Spagna and the Spanish Steps, is synonymous with luxury shopping and cultural landmarks. This area is a haven for those seeking high-end retail therapy on streets like Via Condotti. It's also home to the Trevi Fountain and close to the lush gardens of Villa Borghese, making it an excellent choice for families and culture enthusiasts. The district boasts a mix of upscale hotels and historic accommodations, with easy access to the rest of the city via the Spagna and Barberini Metro stops. The neighborhood's blend of shopping, art, and history creates a vibrant atmosphere for visitors.

Staying near the Vatican City means being in proximity to the spiritual heart of Rome, with the majestic St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums nearby. The surrounding districts, such as Prati, offer a more residential feel, providing a calm retreat from the city's hustle and bustle. The area is characterized by elegant accommodations and is well-connected by public transportation, including the Metro A line with stops at Cipro and Ottaviano. This neighborhood is particularly appealing to those on a religious pilgrimage or travelers who prefer a quieter, more local experience while still being close to significant attractions.

1. Pay with Cards and Carry Some Euros in Cash
Use contactless Visa, Mastercard, or mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) at Rome’s shops and restaurants. Carry small euro (€) coins and notes (€5, €10) for public toilets, small cafes, shops, or markets like Campo de Fiori, as cash is sometimes required. 

2. Use Roma Pass for Transport and Sights
Purchase a Roma Pass through the official website or Trip for public transportation (metro, buses, trams) and discounted entry to select popular attractions. Alternatively, purchase single tickets at self-service machines or use contactless cards at metro gates and bus readers. 

3. Navigate Rome by Metro, Bus, or on Foot
Rome’s main attractions (e.g., Pantheon, Trevi Fountain) are walkable within the historic center; use metro Lines A/B for longer trips (e.g., Vatican). Buses complement the metro but are slower in traffic. Strikes are common in Italy, but they are usually scheduled and don't disrupt services too much. You can check for strike information on the official website www.cgsse.it.

4. Validate Transport Tickets Correctly
For the metro, tap your ticket or contactless card at the entry and exit gates. For buses, purchase tickets pre-boarding at machines or tabacchi shops, then validate them on onboard yellow machines to avoid fines. Hold onto tickets for random checks. 

5. Avoid ZTL Restricted Zones if Driving
Rome’s ZTL (Zona Traffico Limitato) zones in the historic center ban unauthorized vehicles during daytime hours, with steep fines for violations. Park outside ZTL areas at lots like Parcheggio del Gianicolo or use the metro to avoid penalties if driving.

6. Respect Religious Site Etiquette
At churches like St. Peter’s Basilica or Santa Maria Maggiore, dress modestly (cover shoulders, knees; no shorts or sleeveless tops), keep phones on silent, and stay quiet. Ask before taking photos, as some areas ban photography. 

7. Plan Around Rome’s Operating Hours 
Rome’s shops and restaurants follow a traditional Italian schedule - most close from 2:00 to 4:00 PM. Restaurants serve lunch from noon to 3 PM and dinner from 7:30 PM to midnight, often closing Sundays or Mondays. In August, many establishments shut down for 1–4 weeks for summer holidays, although eateries in Trastevere or Campo de Fiori usually remain open. Book tables at popular spots like Trastevere trattorias via apps or call ahead to secure reservations, even for casual meals, as they ensure priority service and help avoid long waits, especially during peak seasons.

8. Follow Rome’s Dining Etiquette
To blend into Rome’s culinary culture, adopt local dining habits at trattorias or pizzerias. Use a fork only for pasta (no spoon, as it’s seen as non-Italian), and eat pizza with a knife and fork in restaurants or by hand for street slices. Order a cappuccino before 11 AM, as it’s a breakfast drink with pastries—Italians prefer espresso or macchiato later in the day. Wipe plates clean with bread (“fare la scarpetta”), a gesture of appreciation, and request “il conto” (the bill) when ready, as servers won’t bring it automatically. 

9. Guard Against Pickpockets and Scams
Pickpockets target crowded spots like the Colosseum, Termini Station, Piazza di Spagna, and bus 64 to the Vatican. Use anti-theft bags, keep phones in zipped pockets, and avoid back-pocket wallets. Beware of scams like fake police demanding fines, distraction thefts (e.g., “helpful” strangers), or petition signers stealing valuables. Walk away from suspicious approaches and secure bags at cafes.

10. Book Top Attractions Early
Reserve tickets for the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, or Borghese Gallery at least one month in advance via official websites or through Trip to skip long queues. Book timed entries for peak seasons. Arrive early for crowd-free views at sites like the Pantheon, and check schedules for closures on Mondays (common for museums).

11. Follow Tourist Behavior Laws
Rome enforces strict rules to protect historic sites, with high fines for violations. Don’t sit on the Spanish Steps, wade in fountains like Trevi, eat messily near monuments, or walk bare-chested. Drink from Nasoni fountains using cupped hands, not your lips, and avoid dragging suitcases on historic stairs, such as those at Piazza di Spagna.

12. Pack for Weather and Walking
Rome’s cobblestone streets (e.g., Via Appia) demand comfortable, sturdy shoes to avoid discomfort—pack layers for variable weather (spring showers, hot summers) and a compact umbrella. Bring a reusable water bottle to refill at Nasoni fountains, saving money and staying hydrated.

13. Save Emergency Contacts
Save Italy’s emergency numbers: 112 for police, ambulance, or fire; 113 for police-specific issues. Keep your hotel’s address handy.

Italian is the primary language. 

English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, restaurants, shops, and transport due to Rome's international visitors. It's easy to navigate using English alone, with most signs and menus bilingual. Although it's less common in residential outskirts, it's sufficient for travelers.

Rome2Rio: Transport planning, tickets for trains/buses.

Trenitalia: Train schedules/bookings; English available.

Google Maps: Navigation, offline maps; ATAC integration.

Uber/Bolt: Cashless rides.

OpenTable: Restaurant reservations.

eSIM: Airalo, Holafly, TIM, and Vodafone offer tourist plans. Online or airport kiosks.

Physical SIM: Available at airport kiosks (TIM, Vodafone, WindTre) and in malls.

Pocket Wi-Fi: Airport/online, €4.90/day from HippocketWifi.

Free Wi-Fi: Available in hotels, cafés, and public spots via Roma WiFi (registration required). Pre-book eSIM/pocket Wi-Fi online for pickup. 

Currency: Euro (EUR, €).

Cards and contactless payments are the preferred methods of payment, while cash is mainly used in small shops and markets.

Credit/debit cards: Visa and Mastercard are commonly accepted, while American Express is less frequently used. It’s important to notify your bank before your trip.

Cash: You can find ATMs at airports and banks. They require a 4-digit PIN, and there may be fees associated with transactions. ATMs can be useful for small purchases, such as street food or tips.

Mobile payments: Using Apple Pay or Google Pay at stores and for transportation.