Rome, one of the world’s most magnificent, historic and romantic cities, has captivated visitors for over 2,000 years. With its breathtaking ruins, exceptional culinary scene and stunning architecture, it undoubtedly deserves a spot on every traveler's bucket list.
However, planning a trip to such a rich and vibrant destination can often feel overwhelming. Whether it’s your first time in Rome or you’re returning for another visit, this travel guide aims to assist you. It features a selection of AAA Diamond-designated hotels and restaurants, highlights the most popular attractions and offers valuable travel tips to enhance your trip.
How to Get Around Rome
While the city of Rome weighs in at 496.1 sq miles, (slightly larger than New York City), the historical center of Rome - the area inside the old city walls - encompasses over five square miles. Many of the most popular sights are within easy walking distance from each other. The Eternal City also boasts a comprehensive network of public transportation that will drop you off at, or within a short walk of, anywhere you want to go. Taxis are plentiful and no more costly than most major cities. It’s also possible to reach many top destinations by personal vehicle, but not recommended. Driving in Rome can be stressful, especially near its historic center.
Walk
Walk in Rome whenever possible. A large number of its narrow, winding streets offer some degree of historical interest and European charm. Getting from the Plaza del Popolo to the Coliseum, for example, takes just forty-five minutes on foot, but takes you past some of the city’s most popular attractions, including the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain and the Forum.
By Taxi or Rideshare
Rome's official cabs are white, have their license number printed on the doors and feature a "taxi" sign on the roof. You cannot hail a taxi on the street in Rome, but you’ll find many designated taxi stands scattered throughout the city near large piazzas and around popular tourist sights. Ordering a cab through the MyTaxi app or by calling the cab company directly is also possible. Taxis rates vary depending on the day of the week as well as the time of day. Expect to pay between €7 and €10 for the average trip inside the city center. Lyft does not operate in Rome and Uber's services are limited to its more expensive Black and XL options.
By Bus or Subway
Buses, commuter trains and trams operate daily from 5:30 a.m. to midnight, with limited bus service overnight. The Metro - Rome’s subway system - runs from 5:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. Sunday through Friday and until 1:30 AM on Saturdays. Google Maps comes in quite handy when using Rome’s public transit system with detailed instructions on what combination of bus and train routes will get you from point a to point b.
Best Time to Visit Rome
While Rome stays open for business year-round, when you visit will have a big impact on how much you’ll get to see, your budget and your overall vacation experience. Most travel experts consider mid to late Spring and early to mid-Fall as the best time to visit thanks to optimum weather, smaller crowds and lower prices.
Winter
Romans enjoy relatively mild and wet winters. The rainiest months are November and December. January tends to be the coldest month with daytime high temperatures averaging 54°F. Rome is also very festive and decorated during the holidays, known for a magical feel during the Christmas season.
Spring
Daytime temperatures in Rome range from the mid-sixties in April to the low seventies in May. Most days in March and April typically experience a thirty-percent chance of rain. Rome’s dry season starts on May 10th and runs for four months. And, while most travelers recommend visiting in the Spring or Fall, don’t forget that you’ll enjoy more daylight on a Springtime visit as opposed to going in the Fall.
Summer
Daytime temperatures in the Eternal City can feel oppressively hot, not aided at all by crowds often being at their highest in the summer. Summer concerts and festivals attract scores of visitors. These factors on top of the typical tourists and many school trips to popular attractions lead to long wait times and a less enjoyable experience overall.
Fall
With lots of food festivals taking place, along with smaller crowds and comfortable weather, some say Fall is the best time to visit Rome. Airfares also tend to drop in early September. Consider the last week in September through the end of October as the best time for an Autumn trip to Rome.
Top Things to do in Rome
Rome has hundreds of worthy things to do and countless places to see. If you’re there for a week or so and it’s your first visit, you will probably want to start with some of the city’s “must-see” attractions. Below is a list in no particular order, of some of Rome’s most popular destinations.
Vatican City
No trip to Rome would be complete without a visit to Vatican City. This small and independent state draws millions of tourists and pilgrims from all over the world each year. Along with the well-known stops inside Vatican City such as the Sistine Chapel, St Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museum, many people of all religions also come for an audience with the pope. Several vendors offer reasonably priced “skip the line” guided tours of the Vatican Museum which end inside the Sistine Chapel. For an audience with the Pope, contact the Prefecture of the Papal Household as soon as you plan your trip.
The Colosseum
Built to hold gladiator contests for up to 50,000 spectators, you won’t want to miss this marvel of ancient engineering. Centuries of damage from fire, earthquakes and looters have left the Colosseum in a partially ruined state which adds to the site’s current appeal. Once inside, you can tour the Colosseum on your own or use one of their tour guide services.
The Forum
Located adjacent to the Colosseum, the Roman Forum provides a glimpse into the daily lives of ancient Romans. For centuries, the Forum - called Forum Romanum during the days of the Roman Empire - served as the center of public life for ancient Romans. Many of its centuries-old structures remain today. Take a guided tour or bring a map to get the most out of your visit to the Forum.
The Pantheon
One of Rome’s oldest and best-preserved buildings, the Pantheon, remains almost entirely intact after over two thousand years. The unique structure boasts the world's largest unreinforced concrete dome. The diameter of the Pantheon’s interior circle and the height of its oculus (the large opening at the peak of the dome) are an identical 142 feet. Paintings line the interior walls of the Pantheon and numerous altars, apses and ancient sculptures add interest. The tombs of Raphael - one of the world's greatest artists - and several Italian kings are also located within the Pantheon. Today, the Pantheon still serves as a functioning church and hosts masses, weddings and other religious events.
Trevi Fountain
Completed in 1762, Rome’s largest Baroque fountain - Trevi Fountain - attracts visitors from all over the world. Aside from coming just to view its spectacular beauty, people come to throw coins into the fountain, as well. As legend has it, throwing a coin into the fountain ensures one's return to Rome. It’s one of the city's most popular destinations and collects about 3,000 euros daily, which funds a supermarket for Rome’s needy and underprivileged. Go early for an up-close look, as the fountain gets quite crowded on most days.
The Spanish Steps
This picturesque stairway with 138 steps connects the Piazza di Spagna (Spanish square) at the bottom, with the beautiful, twin-domed French church, the Trinità dei Monti, at the top. The Spanish Steps' proximity to numerous other attractions, including Trevi Fountain, make them the perfect place to rest one’s feet and enjoy a cup of gelato on a hot day.
Where to Stay in Rome
As you might expect, Rome has hundreds of accommodations, of varying types, at all price levels, sprinkled throughout the city. Typically, prices go up as you get closer to the city center. But, with that said, many travelers find the convenience of being right near the action well worth the extra expense.
Palazzo Scanderbeg
- Address: Piazza Scanderbeg, Rome, 00187
- Price: $600 per night in off-season - $1100 per night in busy season
- Great For: Travelers who want to be in the heart of the Old City
The Palazzo Scanderbeg offers incredible luxury right in the heart of the action. The hotel’s central location puts you within a ten-minute walk of many of the city’s major attractions, including the Colosseum, the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain and Piazza de Popolo.
Kolbe Hotel Rome
- Address: 48 Via di San Teodoro, Rome, 07 00186, Italy
- Price: $230 per night in off-season - $238 per night in busy season
- Great For: Travelers on a budget
The Kolbe Hotel’s reasonable prices and excellent location - just a three-minute walk to the Forum and Colosseum - make it a great location for an afternoon break after a long morning of sightseeing.
Hotel Santa Sofia
- Address: Piazza Della Madonna Dei Monti 3, Rome 184, Italy
- Price: $127 per night in off-season - $310 per night in busy season
- Great For: Travelers seeking quality accommodations at affordable prices
The Hotel Santa Sofia puts you right in the middle of the action at an exceptionally affordable price. Its location on the small Piazza Della Madonna gives it a true Roma vacation vibe. Enjoy dinner at the café downstairs, chill by the piazza’s fountain, or visit the 500-year-old Chiesa di Santa Maria ai Monti Catholic Church next door.
Bettoja Atlantico Hotel
- Address: Via Cavour 23, Rome 184, Italy
- Price: $213 per night in off-season - $264 per night in busy season
- Great For: Its Termini Station location means easy access to most of Rome’s public transportation
Located near Termini Station, the Bettoja Atlantico Hotel offers convenient access to most of Rome’s bus and train lines. Start the day with a free breakfast and end the day with a drink at their rooftop bar. Their staff have also been noted as exceptionally friendly.
Soggiorno Angelus Bed and Breakfast
- Address: 13 Via Del Boschetto, Rome 00184, Italy
- Price: $96 per night in off-season - $136 per night in busy season
- Great For: Budget Travelers
The Soggiorno Angelus Bed and Breakfast oozes charm and a little history - it boasts the oldest elevator in Rome. Its rooms are clean and comfortable. Enjoy a hot breakfast before heading out to Rome’s most popular attractions, many within walking distance.
Where to Eat in Rome
Rome has over 8000 excellent restaurants and 15,000 pizzerias. Stop at any bakery and grab a sandwich at lunchtime. It may just be the best thing you’ve ever tasted. Here’s a look at some of the city’s most popular AAA Diamond-designated eateries:
Crazy Pizza Rome
Address: Via Vittorio Veneto 167, Roma
Phone Number: +3 (906) 440-4417
Cuisine: Pizzeria, pasta, salads
Dress Code: Casual
Price: $$$
The perfect stop for a light lunch or dinner with a menu that features a wide selection of hand-tossed, thin-crust pizza, various pasta dishes and Italian salads. Starters include Focaccia bread, fried squid with zucchini and truffle and Parmesan fries.
Ristorante Traiano
Address: Foro Traiano 1b, Roma, Citta metropolitana di Roma Capitale, 00187
Phone Number: +39 (062) 539-9844
Cuisine: Italian
Dress Code: Semi-formal
Price: $$$$
A chic dining spot with incredible views of the Colosseum and the Forum. Ristorante Traiano specializes in seafood dishes with an Italian flare. Popular offerings include linguine with lobster, red prawns carpaccio with mango mayonnaise and sweet and sour onion and fried baby octopus with lime mayo.
Caffè Doria
Address: Via Della Gatta 1, Roma, Citta Metropolitana di Roma, 00186
Phone Number: +3 (906) 679-3805
Cuisine: Italian
Dress Code: Semi-formal
Price: $$$
Caffè Doria offers breakfast, lunch and after-dinner cocktails served in an upscale bistro setting inside the historic Palazzo Doria Pamphilj in Via del Corso. Menu selections such as homemade tonnarelli with cheese, lime and pepper sauce, or homemade ravioli filled with bolognese sauce and Parmesan fondue make it the perfect spot for a light lunch.
Osteria del Gallo
Address: Vicolo di Montevecchio 27, Roma, 00186
Phone Number: +3 (906) 687-3781
Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean, Seafood
Dress Code: Casual
Price: $
Eat where the locals eat in this cozy, reasonably-priced Italian restaurant. Popular dishes include fettuccine ai funghi porcini, lasagna and a variety of pizza combinations.
Belvedere dal 1933
Address: Via Regina Margherita 29, 00044, Frascati, Italy
Phone Number: +39 06 941 9004
Cuisine: Italian, Pizza, Mediterranean, European
Dress Code: Casual dress
Price: $$ -$$$
A family-run restaurant with offerings like eggplant polpette, zucchini flowers and braised baby lamb with fennel and mashed potatoes. Enjoy gorgeous views of the Eternal City thanks to its location just outside of Rome, in Frascati.
Rome’s Best Spots for a Photo Op
Rome is a city that captivates with its stunning architecture, numerous historical landmarks and iconic Roman monuments. Its vibrant, winding streets provide endless opportunities for photography enthusiasts, whether you're looking to capture a beautiful memory, update your computer background, or contribute to your photography portfolio. Here are some must-visit spots for unforgettable photos:
1. The Colosseum
As one of the New Seven Wonders of the world, the Colosseum deserves to be photographed from several angles. From the north side, near the Colosseo metro stop, there’s a small hill that provides an iconic view. Another angle, from the west side, near the entrance, will let you capture a larger part of the Colosseum. It’s a bit of a walk, but well worth it.
2. Trevi Fountain
One of Rome’s most visited attractions is also one of its most photographed. Trevi Fountain attracts large crowds, so go early for a chance at getting a shot without a random tourist in the middle.
3. Vatican City
Vatican City offers endless photo ops. Be sure to take plenty in St. Peter’s Square, St Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museum. Also, while you’re in the basilica, head to the roof for close-ups of the dome. There are also stairs and an elevator that leads to the top of the dome and amazing views of the city.
4. The Spanish Steps
The beautiful Spanish offers photo ops from all angles. Snap a few pictures from the bottom of the steps, in the Piazza di Spagna, for classic shots. Climb to the top for an astonishing view of the city.
5. Villa Borghese
A short walk from the top of the Spanish Steps, you could easily spend half a day with your camera at one of Rome’s largest parks - the Villa Borghese. Its beautiful grounds feature breathtaking landscaped gardens, a world-class art gallery and sweeping views of Rome.
Day Trips from Rome
Want to venture outside the Eternal City for a day and see some of the countryside? Several operators offer a variety of day trip tours that won’t disappoint. Here’s a look at some of the most popular:
1. Day Trip to Pompeii, Amalfi Coast and Positano
Total Trip Time: 13 Hours
Cost: From $119 (with AAA discount)
The popular Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast day trip from Rome includes two of Italy’s most scenic and interesting destinations. The trip lasts 13 hours and includes round-trip transport directly from Rome, a guided tour of the ancient ruins of Pompeii and enough free time to explore the fishing village of Positano.
2. Day Trip to the Best of Tuscany with Lunch and Wine Tasting
Total Trip Time: 12 Hours
Cost: $99 (with AAA discount)
Enjoy the best that Tuscany has to offer on this full-day trip from Rome. The trip travels to the stunning Val d'Orcia region, just south of the town of Siena. Stops include Montepulciano, Montalcino and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Pienza. There will also be fine wines and local delicacies served throughout.
3. Day Trip to Pompeii Day Trip from Rome with Mount Vesuvius
Total Trip Time: 13 Hours
Cost: $119 (with AAA discount)
Similar to the Pompeii, Amalfi Coast and Positano day trip, this option trades Positano for the majestic Mount Vesuvius. Along with a knowledgeable guide, a three-course lunch and breathtaking views of the Bay of Naples, this trip includes enough time for a leisurely hike up Mount Vesuvius.
Visiting Rome on a Budget
If you're traveling to Rome on a budget, there is still plenty you can see and do. Rome has many free attractions, top-notch and reasonably priced eateries and relatively inexpensive lodgings, that you'll have no trouble enjoying the trip of a lifetime without spending more than you need to.
1. Visit Rome in January
Airfares and hotel prices take a pretty steep dive right after the new year begins. Crowds most certainly thin out, but all the city's major attractions remain open year-round. Who knows, you might even be able to get a selfie in front of Trevi Fountain, with no random strangers in the background. Plus, the Eternal City still gets plenty of sunshine on most winter days and high temperatures average in the mid-50s.
2. Use Public Transportation
Rome has an excellent public transportation network of buses, trains and trams with reasonably priced tickets. A single-fare MetroBus ticket costs €1.5 while a weekly pass runs €24. And, all tickets, whether single or monthly, work for all the means of transportation.
3. Use AAA Discounts for Hotels, Restaurants, Shopping and More
Did you know that AAA membership includes discounts on just about everything travel-related? Your AAA membership can save you a bundle whether you're on a bucket-list vacation, or just headed out to one of your favorite local restaurants. No matter where you’re headed, book your rental car, hotel, tour, attraction tickets and restaurant reservation through AAA and save big.
4. Stay Outside the City Center
Hotels in the historic area near famous landmarks like Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon and the Colosseum generally cost more. Neighborhoods like Garbatella, Ostiense and Monte Mariothe offer lower-cost accommodations and easy access to the city center by bus, train and metro.
5. Sightsee for Free
Some of Rome’s top attractions, like Saint Peter’s Basillica, Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps and Piazza Navona charge no admission. Stop in any church and you may find works by famous artisans like Bernini, Caravaggio, Raphael and more. Bernini, who designed Saint Peter’s Square, Saint Peter’s Basilica and the Piazza Navona, also designed the stunning Ponte Sant’Angelo, a worthy and free attraction.
Some Final Tips
- Check your cell phone plan in advance. Some providers charge an arm and a leg for out-of-country service. You can buy a SIM card relatively inexpensively before or when you arrive. Then just give the number to those who will need it. Most cards also come with more than enough data for a typical stay.
- Download the map of Rome and anywhere else you intend to visit, beforehand. Most apps, including Google Maps, allow users to save the map of a given area on their device. That way, you’ll be able to get turn-by-turn directions in places with no data service.
- Be safe and mindful. Like any popular tourist destination, Rome has its share of scoundrels looking to separate you from your cash or cards. Pickpockets look for easy marks and, with a few simple precautions, they won’t give you a second look. Switch to a thin travel wallet, carry only your necessary cards and documents and keep them in your front pocket or a fanny pack, if possible.
- Take guided or self-guided tours of the major attractions. While they’re stunning on their own, a good tour guide can really bring ancient Rome to life. Booking early is always a helpful tip.
- Keep in mind that the Vatican has a dress code that applies to the museum and Saint Peter’s Basilica. For men, a collared shirt is recommended, but T-shirts are acceptable provided they do not contain offensive images or slogans. Trousers must be at least knee-length. Hats are also considered bad manners inside the museum. Women will not be permitted entry with bare sleeves or midriffs and pants or skirts must cover up to the knee.
Plan Your Rome Vacation with AAA
Once you’ve gathered inspiration for your dream Rome trip on Trip Canvas, contact one of AAA’s Travel Agents today to start making your dream a reality, using your AAA membership to access exclusive deals. No matter your budget, they can help you simplify the planning process with prepackaged trips or à la carte options.