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The Italian capital is superb in every sense of the word. There are very few things left to say about this city. It is the perfect showcase of the inception of Western civilization, with an endless range of remains and ancient ruins. Although Rome is dotted with ancient vestiges on every corner, the city reveals a sense of youth, modern and a vibrant daily life. The chaos of its traffic and its crowds are already an inherent part and the charm of this millenarian political, artistic, religious and cultural capital, surviving the swings of the centuries.
Rome is built through a set of layers of fascinating monuments and colossal buildings with some disturbing and inspiring histories, but always curious and evocative ... Be that as it may, Rome leaves no one indifferent.
Among the many mandatory visits of the eternal city, you can’t miss St. Peter's Basilica, the most colossal church on earth. The Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel are an absolute wonder and a once in a lifetime “must do”. And to discover the city of the Caesars, drop by the Roman forum and the Roman Colosseum. One thing is to watch it in magazines or reports, yet quite another to experience it in person. An absolute wonder.
In Rome everything is eternal. The Pantheon, the Borghese Gallery and its works by Caravaggio and Raphael, the Roman Capitol, the Trajan’s Column, the Christian Catacombs, the Arch of Constantine, the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, the iconic Trevi Fountain, the enigmatic Castel Sant'Angelo, the Capuchin Crypt... among hundreds of spectacular places where you can lose yourself and let the imagination fly.
If you want to enjoy a good walk, a nice meal or a fine glass of Italian wine, you can go to la Dolce Vita street. The name perfectly describes what you can do there. And if you are tired from walking around the city, simply sit in a bench or on a terrace and enjoy the comings and goings of people or some improvised street shows.
The Roman Colosseum
Formerly known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, the Colosseum it is considered the most impressive monument of the Roman Empire in Rome and the largest in the history of the Empire. More than 6 million people visit it regularly every year. Today it has become an icon for the Italian capital, as it gives us an idea of what life and society was like in Rome 2.000 years ago. It is an exciting journey in time that takes us back to year 72, when Vespasiano ordered the construction of the Colosseum. The construction was completed 8 years later, under the command of Emperor Titus. It is said that the building originally housed more than 50.000 people, who attended all sorts of social happenings: gladiatorial games, battle recreations, duels between animals or between animals and humans, public executions, etc. Only in the 100 days after its inauguration, 6.000 gladiators and prisoners lost their lives. The Colosseum remained open for about 500 years and the last games were organized in the 6th century. After this date, the Colosseum suffered its decline, due to earthquakes and looting and, more recently, bombings within the scope of World War II. Today, the Colosseum is one of the main attractions of Rome and is considered, since 2007, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.
Bucatini all'amatriciana, aperitivi and more
If you are in Rome, you may come across the pasta "alla matriciana", a traditional dish made of a typical sauce with cured pork cheek, pecorino cheese, onion and tomatoes. The origins of this dish seem to be linked to the Lazio region. However, Rome offers pasta alla matriciana to its millions of visitors this in most of its restaurants, since its recipe has expanded internationally. If you have the chance, go for a restaurant that makes its own homemade pasta. The price will be noticeably higher, but you can be sure that the quality of the product is also greater.
It is worth mentioning that Europe did not have tomatoes until the sixteenth century, when this product was brought from the New World. This is why Italy could not incorporate sauces and tomato based garnishes until then. Of course, now we could not understand Italian cuisine without this master ingredient. The Fiori di zucca is one of the best known antipasti (starters) of the Roman cuisine and is made from courgette flower and ricotta, making it soft and delicious.
The Suppli alla romana is a dish based on risotto croquettes with mozzarella cheese in the middle. Some varieties also incorporate meat. They are usually eaten as an antipasti or as a snack at fast food stalls. Properly cooked, they are a great, economical and filling delicacy.
Finally, and without a doubt, the Spaghetti alla carbonara is the most international pasta dish of all traditional Italian cuisine. But the quality of the dish varies radically depending on the restaurant. As a rule, you should try to find a place where they make their own pasta. Price is also a good indicator. Rome is an expensive city and, unless you go outside the tourist circuit, it will be difficult to find a restaurant that offers a good carbonara dish at a reduced price.
Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls
It is one of the major four catholic patriarchal basilicas, along with St. Peter's Basilica, Santa Maria Maggiore and the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran. It is one of the five oldest churches in Rome, considering all the previous ones and the Basilica of Saint Lawrence outside the Walls. In terms of size, it is the second largest, after St Peter’s and, according to tradition, it is the place where San Pablo was buried. This paleo-Christian style Basilica is, from the year 1990, included in the list of the World Heritage by UNESCO.
St. Paul outside the Walls was built over an extensive necropolis dated from the first century BC. and existed until the third century AC., nowadays buried. It seems that the apostle St. Paul was buried in this cemetery, after being martyred and executed in times of the Christian persecution carried out by Emperor Nero. This humble tomb began to generate continuous pilgrimages from the first century, the emperor Constantine raised in the fourth century the first small chapel in St. Paul’s honor. Over the centuries, this initial modest chapel has turned into different buildings, each one larger and more pompous than the previous one. Emperors Theodosius, Gratian and Valentinian II, who ruled together at a certain point in the late fourth century decided to build the first basilica in this enclave. This building remained standing until the destructive fire of 1823, of which only the cloister remained unharmed. Thus, this building kept alive the faith of many faithful and pilgrims during its 1435 years of history.
Pope Leo XII was at the forefront of its reconstruction, maintaining the Early Christian style of the first monument. This project managed to get ahead thanks to the donations of important figures from around the world, such as the Viceroy of Egypt or the Russian Emperor. Although much of the basic structures and general style have been saved, the reconstruction resulted in building which was quite different from the original. However, this colossal architectural marvel, with its 131 meters long, 65 wide and 29 meters high, continues to attract visitors from all over the world.
The Roman forum
In ancient Rome, the forum was the nerve center of the city, where most of the economic, administrative, cultural, religious and public life took place during the Empire. Along with the Coliseum, the forum highlights the greatness of the legendary Roman Empire. Little by little, during the years after the fall of the Roman Empire, the Forum fell into oblivion, erosion and natural phenomena buried its splendor between swampy areas and landslides. The discovery of these ruins began as early as the sixteenth century, but until the twentieth century the necessary excavations were not made to bring their glory to light. The forum is an extensive esplanade that can be walked with freedom and respect, and where we can observe the following monuments: the temples of Saturn, Venus, Romulo and Vesta, among others; the Via Sacra, the main street in ancient Rome; the Arch of Titus; the Arch of Septimius Severus; the Temple of Antoninus and Faustina; the Basilica of Maxentius and Constantine; the Column of Phocas, of the Byzantine emperor; and the Curia, meeting point of the old Roman Senate.
What do you need to travel to Italy?
Traveling to Italy is a unique and unforgettable experience . It is a tourist destination of first international level, with an optimal infrastructure and with comfortable and frequent forms of transport. However, there are certain precautions you must take before embarking on one of the most incredible adventures of your life. Read the tips that we have prepared then, to be well prepared.
WHEN TO VISIT ITALY?
The delicious climate of the country makes it a favorable destination 365 days a year. Obviously, northern cities experience a more severe winter, for which you will need appropriate outerwear. In the central and southern regions enjoy mild temperatures throughout the year, being especially stifling in the summer months. Spring and autumn are the great tricks for a delicious trip through Italy. In summer or during Spanish bridges, Italy is also a priority destination. That is why, if you can travel in the low season, when they are not official holidays, you will enjoy more affordable prices and more agile and reasonable waiting queues. In summer, the heat can become the topic of conversation throughout your stay, especially in the south, where you will be permanently looking for a shade or an ice cream shop to refresh you. During the winter, and in the months before Christmas, Italy dresses up as a party, with its traditional Christmas markets. It is a magical time in which to fall for this fascinating country. In sum, there is no bad time to travel to Italy; only that, if you want to travel in high season, you have to contract everything with extreme anticipation and assume the prices and queues derived from mass tourism.
TRAVELING TO ITALY AT A GOOD PRICE
As often happens with all European destinations, ticket prices during Easter and summer are significantly higher. So, if you want to travel on these dates, be sure to purchase your flight ticket as early as possible.
TIME ZONE
The time zone in Italy is GMT+1 (no DST considered), as the rest of Central Europe.
EMBASSIES AND CONSULATES
British Embassy Rome
<li>Address:<span class="LrzXr"> </span><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Via Venti Settembre, 80A, 00187 Rome</span></li><li><span class="LrzXr">Phone: </span>+39 06 4220 0001</li>British Consulates
Milan
<li><span class="LrzXr">Address: </span>Via San Paolo 7, 20121 Milan</li><li><span class="LrzXr">Phone</span>: +39 02 723 001</li>Embassy of Italy in London
<li>Address: <span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">14 Three Kings' Yard, Mayfair, London W1K 4EH</span></li><li><span class="LrzXr">Phone: </span>+44 20 7312 2200</li>Italian Consulates
London
<li><span class="LrzXr">Address: </span>38 Eaton Place, London SW1X 8AN</li><li><span class="LrzXr">Phone</span>: +44 20 7235 9371</li>Edinburgh
<li><span class="LrzXr">Address:</span> 2 Melville Street Edinburgh EH3 7H</li><li><span class="LrzXr">Phone:</span> +44 131 220 3695 / 226 3631</li>Manchester
<li><span class="LrzXr">Address: </span>Rodwell Tower, 111 Piccadilly Street Manchester M1 2HY</li><li><span class="LrzXr">Phone:</span> +44 161 236 9024</li>Documentation
As a member of the European Union and the Schengen area, you only need your valid passport to travel to Italy.
How to get to Rome?
BY PLANE
Rome has 2 main airports. Both of them have direct flights with various UK cities, both with traditional airlines and low cost.
HOW TO MOVE AROUND ITALY
Italy offers an excellent train network between the main cities and regions of the country. The trenitalia.com page informs you of all the destinations, schedules and prices. It is important to bear in mind that there are different types of trains: regional, Eurostar, fast trains, etc. The most convenient is to buy the tickets in advance in order to guarantee your place and it is even possible that a discount. Try to familiarise with the name of the main cities in italian. For instance, Milan=Milano, Padua=Padova, Florence=Firenze, as this may help at the time of booking. The Eurostar trains are usually the most expensive ones, but they guarantee a seat. In the regional ones, cheaper than the first, you won’t be able to guarantee a seat.
OR TRAVEL IN PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
When using urban public transport, be aware that train and bus tickets must be validated. This means that, in addition to acquiring tickets, you have to pass them through a machine, which stamps the use of the same with date and time. On buses, tickets can be validated inside the vehicle. However, in the trains, the validation will have to be carried out before mounting on them, on the corresponding machines, which are green and gray, and are at the head of the train tracks. Having said that, this validations is not needed in the high speed trains (Freccia rossa, Freccia Argento), in these trains you have a specific timetable and an assigned seat.
OR BY BOAT
The main islands, Sardinia, Capri and Sicily, are connected to mainland Italy by an intensive ferry service which, in addition to offering high standards of comfort, is frequent and affordable. There are different operators that offer these services; Before buying your ticket, compare prices and schedules, and make sure you are at the right port and early enough to catch your Ferry.
OR HIRE A CAR
It is another excellent option to explore the island without without being tied to schedules. However. Just bear in mind in Italy, as in most european countries they drive on the other side of the road, so be extremely precautious when renting a car. On another note, also keep in mind that you may not be used to driving in such a chaotic way such as the one in the big cities like Rome or Florence, not to mention Naples. Also, try to get information on parking and restricted access when driving in the cities, as it is often the cause of various fines in a single trip. Driving outside the big cities is a rewarding and unforgettable experience, as well as a wonderful way to get to know the authentic beat of Rome.
OR IN TAXI
In the transfers to the airports it is recommended to previously agree the price of the trip with the driver, to avoid unpleasant surprises. In some of the main cities like Rome, Milan or Naples, authorities have set up standard fares which can be checked beforehand.
Healthcare
Medical care in hospitals and outpatient clinics is correct. As a European, before traveling to Italy, you must obtain the European Health Insurance Card (or EHIC).
In your clinic they will be able to inform you better. With this card, you can receive medical attention in case of emergency. This card is in no way a substitute for travel insurance.
Additionally, it is advisable to get a travel insurance before traveling, which covers medical costs in case of emergency. This private insurance would be very useful in case you had to leave the country because of an illness or accident.
Currency
The euro is the official currency in Italy, so you will have to exchange currency.
ATMs
You will surely be able to withdraw money with your usual card in practically any ATM. However, you will have to consider the banks and cashier withdrawal commission. In many cases, the cashier will not report the commission that will charge you. Find out in advance at your usual bank.
CREDIT CARDS
Most of the establishments in the cities accept the majority of credit cards. Check with your usual bank to avoid uncomfortable surprises
BANK CARDS CANCELLATION PHONES
<li><span class="mt-original-content">VISA:</span> 0800 89 1725</li><li>MASTERCARD 0800 964 767</li><li>AMERICAN EXPRESS +44 (0)1273 696 933</li>National holidays
National holidays
January 6 - Epiphany of the Lord (Italian national holiday)
April 14 - Good Friday
April 17 - Easter Monday
April 25 - Anniversary of the Liberation (Italian national holiday)
May 1 - Labor Day
June 2 - Day of the Republic (Italian national holiday)
June 29 - Saints Peter and Paul (local party in Rome)
August 15 - Assumption of the Virgin (Italian national holiday)
October 12 - National Holiday of Spain (national holiday)
November 1 - All Saints (Italian national holiday)
December 6 - Constitution Day (national holiday)
December 8 - Day of the Immaculate (national holiday)
December 25 - Christmas
December 26 - Santo Stefano (Italian national holiday).
If I book Flight + Hotel, when will I receive my travel documents?
Once the booking is confirmed you will receive a confirmation e-mail. The voucher for the hotel will be also sent by email plus the vouchers for any other services (car hire, transfer, travel insurance) if booked.
Please note that no flight tickets are sent due to most airlines using e-tickets. You only need to print our confirmation email where the Airline`s booking reference appears and take it with you to the airport with your ID/Passport documents.
Important: Some Low Cost Airlines (Ryanair, Easyjet, Wizzair, Blueair and others) now request all passengers to check-in online and print the Boarding Cards before departure through their corresponding websites. Failure to do so, these airlines will charge you a supplement at the airport.
Other package holiday FAQS...
- Can I change or cancel my booking? How much will I have to pay?
- What expiry date should I have on my passport to travel to.....?
- How early should I arrive at the airport?
- How can I book a package Holiday on the website?
- How would I know if there is availability for my booking request?
- General Conditions of my booking
- What happens if my booking or part of it is pending confirmation?
- Does my package holiday include a travel insurance?
- Do I need to pay airport taxes?
- Where do we meet our driver for the transfer service ?
- What do I do if the transfer to the hotel or the transfer to the airport is not there?
- Why do I get duplicate vouchers for the transfer service?
- Do I need a visa to travel to......?
- Why is it that the price of the child is the same as the adult?