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Renowned throughout the world as one of the great cities, Rome is a name that is synonymous with history, style and everything Italian. This huge city is on the western side of the Italian peninsula, about half way down. Rome has an incredible history which spans more than 2000 years. The empire that had its ruling Caesars centred here extended across huge swathes of mainland Europe, England and North Africa. Once known as the "Capital of the World", Rome's influence on Western culture and traditions is impossible to overstate. Much of the history of the Roman Empire can still be explored today in the astonishing array of historical buildings, streets and monuments which have been preserved.

The Rome of today is a thriving and busy city of nearly three million, and literally hums with life. Buzzing vespas confound tourists as they zip around the heart of the city in between dozens of monuments and historic buildings, any one of which would be a prime attraction in almost any other city. They say "When in Rome do as the Romans do", but this is not as easy as it sounds. The locals are an eclectic mix of stylish and upwardly mobile sipping espresso at cafes, clergy who swish about on church business in full robes, hard bitten taxi drivers, officious waiters and street vendors alternatively selling cheap sunglasses or umbrellas, with every change in the weather.

For the tourist, there are few cities that compete with the stunning range of options here. Dining out on a summer's evening in one of the open Piazza' which have changed little in centuries, shopping for the world's finest shoes or most stylish fashions, or taking in the amazing views across the Roman Forum where the Caesars once ruled. There are more restaurants than you could eat at in a lifetime of holidays, more museums than you could visit in a hundred weekends or you can just stroll the streets of the old centre where the past and present blend all around you and famous architectural wonders can be found around every corner.

A Brief History of Rome

The history of Rome would take volumes to cover in any sort of detail, almost three thousand years of significant events. Legend tells that the city was built by the mythical duo of Romulus and Rhemus but the truth is somewhat more humble, with the city's origins being traced back to around 800 BC when the site which later became Rome on the Tiber River was settled by Etrscan, Sabine and Latin peoples.

The city grew quickly as a centre for trade and nucleus of considerable power and influence that was ruled by an Etruscan Monarchy. By 500 BC the kings were gone and Rome was the seat of the Roman Republic. In turn the republic grew into the mighty Roman Empire and for nearly one thousand years the city of Rome was the most influential, wealthy and powerful city in Europe or the entire western world. From the city of Rome the Caesars dominated most of Europe and the Mediterranean, ruling countless cities. The Romans were legendary engineers and built everything from beautifully straight cobbled roads to extravagant bathing complexes, complete with running water. The early years after Christ saw the construction of some of Rome's most lasting legacies, including the Colosseum and Aqueducts which brought water to the ever growing populations of Roman cities through Europe. However, following several centuries of the so called "Golden Age", economic decline and social unrest appeared, and a slow but steady rot started to set in.

In the fourth century AD, as Rome's power was becoming more decentralised, Constantine, the first of the Christian emperors, issued the Edict of Milan which legalised Christianity. Some of the Christian world's most wonderful buildings were constructed following the declaration, including St Peters Basilica. Constantine later shifted his seat of rule to Constantinople and power and influence shifted eastwards with him. Rome became less and less important over the ensuing century and by 476 AD Romulus Augustulus was deposed and the Roman Empire was largely finished. However, Rome had been established as the centre of the Papacy and so while no longer the seat of rule for an empire, it was now the centre of the Christian Church and the capital of what was known as the papal states.

The next few centuries saw constant feuding between the Holy Roman Empire and the Papal states and the city was the site of struggle and triumph. The Renaissance saw Rome's grandeur rise again, with many of the finest buildings being constructed during this period. A new Saint Peters Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, ornate and beautiful public squares, bridges and churches were all built and continue to contribute to much of what is on display today. A divided Italy was eventually re-unified and in the late 19th century Rome became the capital of the Italian Kingdom. After flirting with fascism in the early part of the twentieth century, Italy became a republic following World War II and began yet another transformation into the modern city it is today.

Things to See and Do in Rome

Rome has so much to see and do that visitors can only really hope to scratch its surface, and then plan another trip. Some of the must do's however are obvious. The Vatican and St Peters Basilica defy the imagination. Architectural grandeur and artistic splendour combine with the stunning history of the Catholic church for an experience that is moving, memorable and truly awe inspiring.

The Roman Forum is the ruin of the ancient heart of the city. Its history spans several centuries and although much of it is little more than toppled remains of once mighty buildings, it is humbling to stand on the same ground as such historic luminaries as Julius Caesar himself. The Colosseum which stands partially intact at one end of the forum is one of the world's most recognised monuments. Where once Gladiators slaughtered animals, each other and Christians alike, today tourists flock to be sold snapshots with Roman look-a-likes. With a little imagination you can still hear the bloodthirsty chants of the crowd and imagine the sight of the Colosseum being flooded to allow mock sea battles, or lions scoring a rare victory over a sword wielding warrior.

Another of the major attractions in Rome is the Pantheon. Originally a temple dedicated to all the gods of Ancient Rome, this incredible building with its distinctive circular shape and domed roof with a central hole is testament to the ingenuity of the ancients.

All over this city there are great things to see and do, from the stunning old public squares such as the Piazza Navona, to the hundreds of italian restaurants, hip cafes, unsurpassed shopping and myriad of museums. There is also plenty of nightlife, pubs, clubs and bars. Rome has to be seen to be believed.

Local Flavours

Rome of course is a fabulous place to enjoy authentic Italian food, but watch out, the tourist areas can be home to high prices and sometimes low quality examples. The best bet is to get out of the main tourist areas and seek out venues where the locals hang out. Of course great spaghetti and pizza can be found if you look but some of the less stereotypical dishes should also be tried, such as Osso Bucco, deep fried zucchini flowers, variations of artichokes and of course the fantastic sweet Italian pastries and brilliant coffee. Also be on the lookout for a genuine gelato - the real ones actually belong to a guild and the ice-cream is to die for!

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Getting In and Around Rome

Getting around Rome is not too difficult. In general if you are in the centre of the city, travelling by foot is a great option. This can be an experience in itself and you are likely to enjoy the constant surprises of beautiful buildings or the site of archeological digs in the midst of busy streets. Take care when crossing the road and be aware that drivers will not stop if you stand by and wait for the traffic to stop at pedestrian crossings. You may need to actually start the crossing before anyone will give way.

Besides walking, another option is public transport. There are plenty of buses and you can buy tickets from one of the many "Tabacchi" kiosks. There are tram routes as well which service some of the main sites. Some private buses also operate hop-on hop-off services which loop around the main sites and are pretty good value. Taxis are another option that are quick but relatively expensive, you also need to be careful of scams where non-licensed cabs will try to pick you up and charge inflated prices.

Don't bother with hiring a car or riding a bike - competing with the locals in traffic is a recipe for disaster.

Rome Weather

Rome weather is hot and dry in summer and is sometimes accompanied by high humidity. Summers can go higher than 35 degrees celsius. Winters are mild by European standards with temperatures below zero relatively uncommon and daytime temps around 10 degrees celsius. November and December can be quite wet, but Spring and Autumn bring generally blue skies and warm days.

Good to Know

Rome is one of the biggest tourist cities on earth and as such attracts some tourist traps and rip-offs. Keep your eyes open and be aware of prices. Many of the inner city restaurants are expensive, and during big events like Easter kiosks pop up everywhere and charge crazy prices.

Keep your eyes out for special events and exhibitions which are always changing throughout the year.

Staying at Rome

As one of the busiest tourist destinations on earth, Accommodation in Rome comes in all shapes and sizes. There are plenty of Rome hotels including lots that are right in the centre of town. Prices vary considerably depending on time of the year but of course central hotels are more expensive than those in more outlying areas. One option is to rent an apartment. Apartments in Rome are a great option if you want to eat in some nights or have an extended stay in mind. Another option if you are doing Rome on the cheap is to stay in a campground.