The Eternal City of Rome is a fascinating mix of history and contemporary culture. Rome’s iconic sights, awe-inspiring art and enviable street and nightlife make it one of the most appealing capitals in the world. For art lovers the city showcases every step of Western art’s history, from Byzantine mosaics and Renaissance frescoes to contemporary cultural groupings. For history lovers there are layers of 3000 years of urban developments including iconic structures such as the Colosseum, St Peter’s, and the Vatican and Baroque churches nestled next to more modern monumental statements. The city of la Dolce Vita also knows how to enjoy itself and the beautiful people can hang out in stylish cafes, exquisite restaurants and let their hair down in the clubs of this ever-stylish city.
Areas & Neighbourhoods in Rome
Modern Centre - This is where you can shop till you drop and dine till you recline around the Via Veneto. If you still have the energy check out the Trevi fountain, piazza Barberini, Castro Pretorio and Piazza della Repubblica.
Old Rome - The Renaissance-era heart of the city is all beautiful squares, imposing cathedrals, palaces and, of course, the Pantheon. There is plenty of relaxed dining to enjoy here and areas with their own distinctive charms such as the former Jewish Ghetto.
Vatican City - Where power, art and religion have carved their own unique space, the Vatican is a treasure troves of sights, relics and museums.
Colosseo - The majority of the ancient Roman sites cluster here in open air museums and more formal historical exhibits.
North of the Centre - Here you will find the Villa Borghese, Spanish Steps and the elegance of the Parioli and Salario districts.
Trastevere - Just south of the Vatican is this artistic district that clings to the west banks of the Tiber and inspired Giorgio de Chirico amongst many others.
San Lorenzo - Near the indulgent gaze of the Victor Emmanuel monument you can find some of the city’s liveliest nightlife.
Things to See in Rome
Art lovers are in for a visual feast wherever they turn in a city that has been at the centre of the development of Western art for centuries. You cannot help but discover masterpieces by the by Michelangelo, Caravaggio, Raphael and Bernini. History lovers are well-served as well with iconic Roman remains, early Christian basilicas, Renaissance palaces and Baroque monuments. Tours of Rome can help you to appreciate the sights and understand their place in the city’s fascinating history.
Things to Do in Rome
Gastronomes, shopaholics and lovers of la Dolce Vita will love all that Rome has to offer. Take a food tour to experience the best Italian cuisine or a bar tour of the lively San Lorenzo region. Other tours are just as interesting for the way you get about as they are for the sights you see: a Segway tour of the ancient Appian Way or a horse riding tour through Roman ruins are both available. Whether it's opera or a club night Rome will happily oblige. You can even channel your inner gladiator at gladiator school and bring out the Russell Crowe in yourself.
You can also book top Rome hotels and great Rome holiday package deals right here on Expedia.co.uk.
