ROME

Rome is not just a city—it’s an experience, a time machine, a living museum that walks you through more than 2,000 years of history. Whether you’re standing in front of the Colosseum or sipping espresso in a tiny piazza, Rome feels like a conversation between the ancient and the modern. It’s a place where history isn’t just studied—it’s lived.

As the capital of Italy and once the heart of the vast Roman Empire, Rome holds a unique place in global history and continues to captivate the imagination of visitors from all over the world.

A JOURNEY THROUGH HISTORY

Rome’s origins trace back to 753 BCE, according to legend, when the city was founded by Romulus, one of the mythical twin brothers raised by a she-wolf. Whether that story is myth or not, there’s no denying that what started as a small settlement grew into one of the greatest civilizations in human history—the Roman Empire.

For centuries, Rome was the center of political power, art, philosophy, and innovation. It gave us roads, aqueducts, concrete, and systems of governance still used today. After the fall of the Roman Empire, the city remained important as the spiritual heart of Catholicism, housing the Vatican City and the Pope.

From ancient ruins to Renaissance masterpieces and modern boulevards, the city is a mosaic of time. Every corner holds a piece of the past—be it a temple, a fountain, or a crumbling wall that’s older than most countries.

ROME TODAY: POPULATION AND PEOPLE

Modern Rome is a vibrant, bustling metropolis with a population of around 2.8 million people, making it the most populated city in Italy. It’s a mix of old families who have lived in the city for generations, immigrants from across the globe, students, and of course, millions of tourists who visit each year.

Despite its ancient history, Rome is a living, breathing city—complete with traffic jams, street performers, fashionistas, and football fans. The pace may be a bit more relaxed than other capitals, but don’t mistake it for sleepy. Romans are passionate, expressive, and proud of their heritage.

LANGUAGE, CURRENCY AND ELECTRICITY

The official language in Rome is Italian, and it’s the language you’ll hear in restaurants, shops, and on the streets. In tourist areas, many people—especially younger generations—speak basic English, but it’s always appreciated if you try a few phrases in Italian. A simple “Buongiorno” or “Grazie” goes a long way.

The currency used is the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere, but having some cash on hand is useful for smaller establishments, markets, or local cafés.

Rome uses 230 volts, 50 Hz AC electricity, with Type C, F, and L plugs. Travelers from countries with different standards (like the U.S. or UK) will need plug adapters and possibly voltage converters for certain devices.

CLIMATE: MEDITERRANEAN CHARM

Rome enjoys a classic Mediterranean climate, which means hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.

• Summer (June–August): Expect plenty of sun and temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). It can get quite hot in July and August, so sunblock, water, and shade are musts.
• Autumn and Spring (September–November & March–May): These are the best times to visit. Mild temperatures, blooming gardens, and fewer tourists make for a more relaxed experience.
• Winter (December–February): While it rarely snows, it can be chilly and damp, with temperatures averaging 7–13°C (45–55°F).

No matter the season, Rome has an allure that weather can’t touch.

WHAT’S ON THE PLATE: ROMAN CUISINE

Italian food needs no introduction, and Rome has its own rich culinary identity. Roman cuisine is simple, flavorful, and deeply rooted in tradition. It’s all about fresh ingredients, careful preparation, and letting each component shine.

Some dishes you absolutely must try in Rome:

• Cacio e Pepe – Pasta (usually tonnarelli or spaghetti) with pecorino cheese and freshly cracked black pepper. A minimalist’s dream.
• Carbonara – Made with egg, pecorino, guanciale (pork cheek), and black pepper. Creamy without using cream—only the yolks.
• Amatriciana – Tomato sauce, guanciale, and pecorino. Spicy, rich, and comforting.
• Saltimbocca alla Romana – Veal slices topped with prosciutto and sage, cooked in white wine and butter.
• Supplì – Fried rice balls filled with ragù and mozzarella. A favorite Roman street food.

Finish with gelato, grab an espresso at the bar, and enjoy people-watching in a sunny piazza. Food in Rome isn’t just nourishment—it’s culture, identity, and joy.

GETTING AROUND: TRANSPORTATION IN ROME

Rome is large and can be chaotic, but getting around is manageable with a bit of planning.

• Metro: Rome has three metro lines (A, B, and C), which are relatively efficient. They don’t cover the entire city, but they connect major landmarks.
• Buses and Trams: Widely available, though sometimes unpredictable. They’re a good option if you know your stop or are using a transit app.
• Walking: The best way to discover Rome. Many historic sites are close together, and walking lets you take in the city’s atmosphere.
• Taxis: Available but pricey. Only use official white taxis, and be sure they use the meter.
• Scooter Rentals: Popular with locals and brave tourists. Fun but not for the faint-hearted.
• Roma Pass or public transport passes: Great for tourists using multiple forms of transportation during their stay.

Traffic in Rome can be intense, and drivers are… spirited, to put it nicely. Crossing streets might feel like a gamble, but locals do it confidently—just be alert and go with the flow.

SAFETY IN ROME

Rome is generally safe, especially in tourist-heavy areas. Violent crime is rare, but petty theft, like pickpocketing, is a common issue—particularly in crowded spots like Termini Station, buses, and near popular landmarks.

Some tips:

• Keep your bag zipped and close.
• Don’t carry large amounts of cash.
• Be cautious with people offering “help” near ATMs or selling trinkets aggressively.

At night, many central neighborhoods remain lively and safe. However, some areas around Termini can feel sketchy after dark—stick to well-lit streets and avoid wandering alone late at night in unfamiliar places.

MAIN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS: MUST-SEE ROME

Rome is one of those cities where the list of must-sees can feel overwhelming. Everywhere you turn, there’s something historic or beautiful waiting.

Here are some of the highlights:

• The Colosseum – The iconic amphitheater once held 50,000 spectators. A powerful symbol of Roman engineering and culture.
• The Roman Forum – Ancient ruins that were once the heart of Roman public life.
• The Pantheon – An architectural marvel with a perfect dome and oculus. Still in use today as a church.
• Trevi Fountain – Toss a coin and make a wish. One of the most photographed spots in Rome.
• The Vatican – Technically its own country, but nestled in Rome. Home to St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s frescoes leave visitors speechless.
• Piazza Navona – A beautiful square full of fountains, artists, cafés, and baroque architecture.
• Spanish Steps – A meeting spot for locals and tourists alike, leading up to the Trinità dei Monti church.
• Trastevere – A charming, bohemian neighborhood full of cobbled streets, lively bars, and traditional trattorias.

And that’s just the beginning. Rome isn’t a one-day destination—it’s a city that deserves time to explore slowly.

OTHER ASPECTS TO KNOW

• Siesta Time: Many small shops still close in the afternoon (roughly 1–4 pm), especially outside tourist areas.
• Tipping: Not mandatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for great service is appreciated.
• Dress Modestly in Churches: Especially in the Vatican, avoid sleeveless tops or short shorts.

Rome doesn’t try to impress you—it simply exists as it always has, in layers of time, beauty, and contradiction. One minute you’re standing in front of a 2,000-year-old ruin; the next, you’re sipping a perfect cappuccino in a trendy café. That’s the magic.

It’s not just a city you visit. It’s a place that stays with you. You don’t just see Rome—you feel it. And if you’re lucky, it changes you just a little bit.