Rome holidays

About Rome

The 'Eternal City': a living history of Western Civilisation stretching back over 3,000 years, Rome is a breathtakingly beautiful holiday destination. From its birth, through the Renaissance to the modern day, the city is a treasure trove of art, architecture, monuments and ruins. When it comes to food, Roman cuisine is rich and varied, from traditional and earthy dishes originating in the meat markets, to classic spaghetti alla carbonara and more than one hundred different flavours of ice cream. Pecorino romano and ricotta are the city’s favourite cheeses, while a platter of delicious antipasti will reflect whatever is in season at the local markets. For a real Roman experience, try visiting the authentic area of Trastevere, full of trattorias and pizzerias offering alfresco dining opportunities during the long summer evenings. Wash it all down with a crisp white Frascati or the Est! Est! Est! wine - taking its name ('Here it is!') from the words written on a wine shop door by a medieval papal messenger sent to find the best one in town! Rome is also a shopper's paradise, with Italy’s top designers around the Via Condotti at the bottom of the Spanish Steps - Prada, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, Versace and more - and plenty of unique, Roman finds. Leather goods, ceramics, handicrafts and handmade stationery are all great buys, or head to the Sunday morning flea market at the Porta Portese for something different.

When to visit

If you're planning a holiday in Rome, our top picks for the best time to travel would be February and October