Rome, the ancient Italian capital, draws epic numbers of tourists on the regular.
Its appeal, much like its nickname, is eternal, thanks to unrivalled ancient sites, art and.... food!
If you’ve not crossed Rome off your list yet, here are the activities you won’t want to miss!
Take a Colosseum tour
Where else to start but the Colosseum?
Nothing else compares to standing inside an arena that once held 50,000 spectators.
Choose a guided tour rather than wandering alone, as a good guide brings the gladiator stories to life and points out details you’d miss, like the underground chambers where fighters prepared for battle.
Walk slowly around the upper tiers for sweeping views of the Roman Forum - and just imagine the roar of the crowd echoing up through the stone arches.
Scale St. Peter’s Basilica
Head to Vatican City early in the morning to avoid the madness of midday visitors.
St. Peter’s Basilica is as vast as it is breathtaking; step inside and let your eyes travel up to Michelangelo’s dome, then... climb it!
The ascent takes effort, but the reward is a panoramic view that stretches across Rome’s rooftops to the distant hills.
The spiral staircase feels endless, but every turn brings you closer to that unforgettable skyline.
Don't forget to stop and admire the intricate stonework, and also catch your breath!
Throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain marks a rite of passage on any first holiday to Rome.
Tradition says tossing a coin over your shoulder actually guarantees your return.
So, many believe it that well over one million euros in coins land in the water each year, yet they are regularly collected and given to charity.
Visit in the evening when the lights shimmer on the water and the crowds thin out a bit.
After your wish, linger for a while and watch the fountain cascade over marble figures - nearby gelato shops make the perfect excuse to stay longer.
Step inside the Pantheon
The Pantheon is a masterpiece of engineering that still feels modern despite its age.
Walk through the massive bronze doors and look up - the oculus in the centre of the dome floods the space with natural light.
It’s free to enter, so take your time.
Notice how the marble floors slope gently to drain rainwater that falls through the open roof.
Chill out on a bench and let the calm sink in; this building has stood for nearly two thousand years, and you can really feel that weight of history.
Far from just a checklist, though, Rome is a city that invites you to slow down and savor every moment.
Take opportunities to sip espressos, slurp pasta and tuck into tiramisu as you fuel your next Italian adventure!
