The Scoop: Rome

Rome serves up history, fine art and food like nowhere else in the world. Italy’s capital city is famed for its historic city centre, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its inhabitants live and breathe La Dolce Vita and to top it off, The Eternal City is regarded as one of the fashion capitals of the world.

Unrivalled rich history has seen Rome become a top destination for visitors with an average of 7-10 million per year. Dating back to 753 B.C., it’s history spans more than 2000 years and blends with a cosmopolitan atmosphere. The best times to visit are spring and autumn when the city enjoys mild temperatures and mostly sunny days.

What to do

The famous attractions found within the city walls, such as the Colosseum, attract millions of visitors each year. You can easily take a walking tour to discover Ancient Rome and a number of beautiful historic sites. The first stop for many is the Vatican Museums, home to the Sistine Chapel and Michelangelo’s magnificent ceiling frescoes.

Visit Saint Peter’s Basilica, the Pantheon, the Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona and the Roman Forum. Villa Borghese, originally a 17th-century residence, is Rome’s most famous park, covering over 80 hectares with museums, galleries and an amphitheatre. According to tradition, don’t forget to visit the Trevi Fountain to throw a coin in, ensuring your return to Rome.

Where to stay

Rome offers accommodation options to suit every taste, from trendy boutique hotels, bed and breakfasts, hostels, 5-star palaces, family-run pensions and even convents converted into hotels. It can be expensive and rooms tend to book out fast, so always try to book early.

Grand Hotel Plaza (£££)

Located on the popular shopping street, Via de Corso, the historic Grand Hotel Plaza has been featured in many movies. All rooms have high ceilings and marble bathrooms, as well as private terraces with views of the Spanish Steps and Villa Borghese. Onsite, Terrazza dei Limoni serves American breakfast daily and is the perfect spot for an afternoon drink with spectacular city views.

Hotel Modigliani (££)

Situated near Via Veneto, Hotel Modigliani is a boutique hotel with a peaceful atmosphere, right in the middle of the action. Offering an internal garden with a bar, the hotel provides a tranquil escape from a busy day of sightseeing. All rooms are decorated in a traditional style and include air-conditioning, minibars and LCD TV’s.

Hostel Des Artistes (£)

Hostel Des Artistes is one of the most popular Rome hostels due to its location and onsite facilities. Within easy walking to distance to all the famous sites, the hostel offers both dorm beds and private rooms. There’s free lockers, luggage storage, 24-hour reception and a rooftop terrace. Central station Termini is located right on the hostel’s doorstep, for all transportation needs.

Where to eat

It would take years to scratch the surface of eating in Rome. With hundreds of pizzerias and restaurants boasting master chefs, it’s easy to join the local’s obsession for food. Highlighting the best seasonal produce and creative takes on traditional dishes, eating in Rome is nothing short of heaven-sent.

La Rosetta (£££)

La Rosetta is run by Massimo Riccioli, a Roman super-chef and is situated a few steps from the Pantheon. The renowned seafood restaurant has been open since 1966 and serves fresh seafood that’s delivered every morning and evening. In the afternoons, La Rosetta Oyster bar is offered as a more budget-friendly fine dining option, with specialities such as grilled octopus with salmoriglio sauce and steamed lobster with mayonnaise.

Colline Emilian (££)

Serving classic Emilian cuisine since 1931, Colline Emiliane is all about tradition and family, making it a favourite among locals and visitors alike. Dishes such as tacchino alla bolognese and giambonetto di vitella grace the menu, as well as delicious, freshly made desserts. You’ll find it just off Piazza Barberini.

Forno di Campo de Fiori (£)

With pizza slices for as little at €3, you can’t go wrong at one of Rome’s most loved takeaway venues. Located on Campo De Fiori, they serve bread, panini, pizza Bianca and pizza Rossa straight from the oven. Be sure to try the seasonal specialities when they’re on offer, such as the pizza prosciutto e fiche, filled with overripe figs.

Simply Holiday Deals - 11th February 2015