Introduction
Built on seven hills along the banks of the River Tiber in the Lazio Region, Rome is a collision of ancient empires and a modern metropolis. Glamorous locals sip espressos in the central Piazzas (squares) or zip past the cities Roman structures on pastel-coloured Vespas, while priests clothed in monastic robes wander through Rome's holiest of sanctuaries – Vatican City.
Effortlessly chic, Rome‘s combination of luxury hotels and rich cultural heritage has drawn visitors for centuries and many choose to visit Rome and combine it with a twin-centre stay in another of Italy's irresistible cities, such as Milan, Venice or Florence.
Rome’s cultural wonders
Few countries, let alone cities, can rival Rome for its cultural riches. Three thousand years of creativity has given rise to Baroque palaces that line medieval squares, Roman ruins that intersperse Renaissance art galleries and grand churches that overlook piazzas which have hosted truly civilisation-defining events.
Perhaps it’s best to start at the beginning. While the 16 giant Corinthian columns of the 2,000-year-old Pantheon stands as the city’s best-preserved evidence of its Roman founders, it’s the Colosseum that impresses most, a monument to ancient excess.
The Colosseum, Rome
Then, after marvelling at the Forum where excavators are still unearthing new secrets concerning Rome’s first centre, move on to the city’s subsequent movements. The Baroque and Renaissance are both evidenced across world-beating museums, skyline-curving basilicas and pretty piazzas.
For the highest concentration, head to the Vatican City, whose influence reaches out far beyond its half-a-kilometre-square slice of masterpiece artworks, Sistine Chapel beauty and Catholic riches. It’s all best explored with a private guide.
Fine art, opera & dining
In between the annals of history, there is plenty of the present to enjoy. Ease yourself into the city’s Mediterranean rhythms with trattoria lunches and whole afternoons whiled away sipping macchiatos in street-side cafés.
The fine-dining scene is equally impressive, with its 23 Michelin-starred restaurants, including the three-starred La Pergola, leading a cast of thousands. Indeed, with so many excellent spots to choose from, don’t forget to ask our specialists for their personal recommendations.
Freshly baked Pizza at a typical Rome café
And, between meals, there are plenty of options to get you excited. For a quintessentially Italian experience, perhaps take in the city sights on a Vespa tour, or why not enjoy a night at the opera in the art form’s homeland? We’ll be happy to book your seats to the best shows.
