Rome, Italy — Things to Do
Sightseeing in Rome
As they say: 'When in Rome, do as the Romans do', but in a city filled with two millennia of history, there's much to do and even more to see. Among Rome's more renowned historic attractions are the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Pantheon. The Vatican, locus of the Roman Catholic Church, lies within Rome's borders and alongside is the Sistine Chapel with its famously painted ceiling. Once the seat of the mightiest empire in existence, the culture of Rome has shaped the face of art, architecture, law, warfare, literature and language in the Western world today, in fact, some refer to Rome as the 'cradle of Western civilization'.
Most of the historic sites are within walking distance of one another, and it is advisable to walk and take in the city's architecture while the frantic road traffic passes you by. Otherwise, a taxi or bus is the recommended means of travel. A bustling metropolis, Rome is constantly abuzz with tourists and locals, however, in the late summer, around August, a short holiday window sees locals heading out of the city and providing a little congestive relief.
As of 1 January 2011 the local authorities in Rome implemented a supplementary EUR1 'tourist tax' charged on all museum and monument entrance fees. All visitors who do not hold a valid Rome ID will be charged the extra fee. The revenue collected will be used on the maintenance and upkeep of the city's treasured sights. The same tax is added to hotel fees, tourists to the eternal city are required to pay a supplementary EUR2 per night for stays in three star hotels, while an extra EUR3 per night is added to the bill of those staying in five star hotels.
Shopping in Rome
Rome, only too aware of its popularity with international tourists and investors, is an expensive shopping destination but some deals can be found on trinkets like crafts, leather goods and glasswork, to remember the trip by. To find these, look to the markets of central Rome, which operate Monday to Saturday from 7am to 1pm. On Sundays, the popular Porta Portese flea market operates from the Trastevere district. While this market is stimulating for shopping enthusiasts, Rome has some of the most skilled pickpockets in the world and visitors are advised to take care with possessions.
Another reasonable shopping option popular in Rome is the purchase of books and second hand clothing with an abundance of stores located throughout the city. Antique shopping is also pervasive but could prove expensive for those who aren't sure of what they're doing!
If you have the means, Rome has an assortment of boutique stores with brands like Prada, Valentino, Gucci and Fendi all represented in the Piazza di Spagna. The Piazza San Silvestro exhibits Rome's best jewellers, Bulgari and Martinelli, among others. In Via del Corso one can find, in addition to an assortment of clothing department stores, the flagship stores for Ferrari (which is worth a look if nothing else) and Swarovski, with exquisite crystal-wrought crafts.
Non-EU tourists can apply for a tax refund of 20 percent on a slip of EUR154.94, where spent in one store. Alternatively look out for stores which participate in tax-free shopping, they will have a tax-free logo on display.
Rome Nightlife
The nightlife in Rome is laid-back, in true Italian style. People like to sit at cafés or restaurants taking their time with lots of food, wine and coffee. Campo dei Fiori, the Piazza Navona area and Trastevere are some of the best places for bars and cafés, while the Testaccio and Ostiense districts are better for nightclubs. Roma C'è and TrovaRoma (free with La Repubblica newspaper) have information on nightlife in Rome.
There are many wine bars and cafés near Campo de' Fiori, Piazza Navona and Via della Pace. Bar del Fico is good for cocktails and Zest at Es Hotel has a lovely poolside bar. The Vineria, in Campo de' Fiori, is very trendy and frequented by moviestars. Freni & Frizioni in Trastevere was a former car workshop, its name translates to Brakes and Clutches. Cafés in Trastevere attract visitors to see Piazza di Santa Maria's fountain and 12th century church lit up at night, as well as occasional guitar performances.
Party with the rich and famous at Gilda, close to Piazza di Spagna, or watch paid dancers at Alien, on Via Velletri. In Ostiense, hear some great DJs at Goa, or visit Classico Village for good Italian pop, rock and jazz concerts. There are also various ristodiscos, where both eating and dancing are enjoyed. When the clubs close for summer, there are numerous outdoor venues around town and near Ostia; outdoor festivities on Via di Monte Testaccio, in Testaccio, take center stage and include food stalls and markets.
The Teatro dell'Opera is home to the Rome Opera Ballet and opera is performed at the Baths of Caracalla's open-air ruins in July and August. Rock bands often perform at Stadio Flaminio and the Palazzo dello Sport.
Attractions for Kids
Rome has been an enticing, romantic vacation destination for decades, drawing art and history lovers from all over the world. This may seem more appealing to adults, but Rome also has a barrage of culture and entertainment to offer children.
A holiday with kids in Rome is made fun and easy by the vast amount of parks, theaters and entertainment centers, while a multitude of galleries and museums bring beautiful images and legendary characters to life. Historical sites, such as the Roman Forum and the Colosseum, are also great for kids to explore.
Most of the attractions in this beautiful, ancient city can be enjoyed year-round. However, the best time to take children on vacation to Rome is during the spring (April and May), when comfortably warm temperatures and blue skies make for perfect sightseeing and adventure.
