Italy Rome: A Guide To Visiting For The First Time

Situated on the banks of the Tiber River, Rome is one of the oldest cities in the world. As the capital of Italy, Rome is one of the most iconic cities in the world, home to some of the world’s most iconic buildings and monuments. Rome is a city that has captivated visitors for centuries with its vibrant culture, captivating history, and vibrant nightlife. From the Colosseum to the Trevi Fountain, Rome is brimming with iconic sights and attractions.

In this guide, we’ll explore the many things to do in Rome and help you plan your perfect visit. We’ll look at some of the city’s most popular attractions and provide tips on how to make the most of your time in Rome.

History of Rome

Rome has a long and storied history, spanning more than two and a half thousand years. Founded in 753 BC by two brothers, Romulus and Remus, Rome is often referred to as the Eternal City due to its longevity. Throughout its long history, Rome has been a major cultural, political, and religious center.

At its peak, the Roman Empire was one of the largest and most powerful empires in history, spanning much of western Europe, northern Africa, and the Middle East. It was during this time that many of Rome’s most iconic monuments such as the Colosseum and Pantheon were built. In AD 476, the Western Roman Empire fell and Rome began its decline.

Rome was once again a major center of power in the late 19th century when it became Italy’s capital in 1870. Since then, Rome has been a major center of culture and influence in Europe, home to the Roman Catholic Church and the Italian government. Today, Rome is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, drawing millions of visitors every year from around the world.

Facts About Rome

Rome is a bustling cosmopolitan city with a population of over 2.8 million people. It is one of the most visited cities in the world with millions of visitors every year. It is home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, Vatican City, Trevi Fountain, and Spanish Steps.

Rome is also home to some of Italy’s best dining experiences with plenty of restaurants serving up classic Italian dishes alongside modern takes on traditional Italian cuisine. Rome is also known for its vibrant nightlife with plenty of bars and nightclubs to explore.

Things To Do In Rome

Rome is a city full of things to do and explore. From ancient monuments to modern art galleries, there’s something for everyone in Rome. Here are some of the best things to do while in Rome:

Explore The Colosseum

The Colosseum is one of Rome’s most iconic attractions and a must-see for any visitor to the city. This ancient amphitheater was built by Emperor Vespasian in AD 80 and was used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles such as reenactments of famous battles. Today, it stands as a reminder of the power and grandeur of Ancient Rome.

Visitors can explore the remains of this incredible structure on their own or join a guided tour to learn more about its history and significance. Those looking for a unique experience can even take part in an exclusive tour that takes you behind-the-scenes of the Colosseum for an exclusive look at parts of the amphitheater that are usually off-limits to visitors.

Book a Colosseum Tour here to experience this incredible structure in all its glory.

Visit The Vatican City

The Vatican City is an independent city-state within Rome that serves as the home of the Roman Catholic Church and its leader, the Pope. The Vatican City is home to some of the world’s most famous artworks such as Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel frescoes and many other masterpieces from some of history’s greatest artists. Visitors can explore these works of art on a guided tour or explore on their own.

The Vatican City is also home to St Peter’s Basilica which is considered by many to be one of the greatest churches in the world. Visitors can explore inside the basilica on their own or join a guided tour to learn more about its history and significance.

Book a Vatican City Tour here to experience all that this incredible city-state has to offer.

Explore The Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain is one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks and a must-see for any visitor to the city. This beautiful fountain was designed by Italian architect Nicola Salvi in 1762 and is considered by many to be one of Italy’s greatest works of art. Visitors can admire this majestic fountain on their own or join a guided tour to learn more about its history and significance.

It has become a tradition for visitors to throw coins into the fountain as a sign of good luck and it is estimated that approximately 3,000 Euros are thrown into the fountain every day!

Visit The Spanish Steps

The Spanish Steps are one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks and a favorite spot for visitors to relax and take in the stunning views over the city. This beautiful set of steps was designed by architect Francesco de Sanctis in 1725 and was built with funds donated by Spain as an expression of gratitude for help they had received from Pope Benedict XIII.

Today, visitors can admire this beautiful set of steps from below or climb them for stunning views over Rome. On certain days during summertime, visitors can also watch live performances at the steps which take place at sunset every Tuesday and Thursday evening from June through August.

Explore The Pantheon

The Pantheon is another one of Rome’s iconic landmarks and a must-see for any visitor to the city. This impressive temple was built by Emperor Hadrian in 126 AD and stands as a testament to ancient Roman architecture and engineering prowess. Visitors can explore this incredible structure on their own or join a guided tour to learn more about its history and significance.

The Pantheon is also home to some incredible works of art such as Raphael’s tomb which is considered by many to be one of Italy’s greatest works of art. Visitors can admire this beautiful artwork on their own or join a guided tour to learn more about its history and significance.

Book a Pantheon Tour here to experience all that this incredible structure has to offer.

Tours To Experience Rome

In addition to exploring Rome’s many attractions on your own, there are plenty of tours available that will help you make the most of your time in Rome. Here are two popular tours that will give you an immersive experience:

Vatican & Sistine Chapel Tour

This popular tour takes you on an immersive exploration of Vatican City and its incredible works of art such as Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel frescoes. You will explore inside St Peter’s Basilica and visit some of Vatican City’s other masterpieces including Raphael’s tomb before heading inside Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel to admire his masterpiece up close. This tour also includes skip-the-line access so you won’t have to wait in line outside St Peter’s Basilica!

Book a Vatican & Sistine Chapel Tour here for an unforgettable experience in Vatican City!

Colosseum Underground Tour

This unique tour takes you behind-the-scenes at one of Rome’s most iconic attractions – The Colosseum! You will get exclusive access to parts of this ancient structure that are normally off-limits to visitors including underground chambers where gladiators prepared for battle! You will also explore inside the upper levels of this iconic structure for stunning views over Rome before finishing your tour with access to exclusive exhibits inside the Colosseum museum!

Book a Colosseum Underground Tour here for an unforgettable experience at The Colosseum!

Conclusion

Rome is one of Europe’s most captivating cities with plenty of things to do and explore! From exploring ancient monuments such as The Colosseum and The Pantheon to admiring masterpieces such as Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel frescoes inside Vatican City – there is something for everyone in Rome! We hope this guide helped you plan your perfect visit to Rome!