Rome, the Eternal City

Rome is one of the world's most inspiring travel destinations.  With a mix of history, fine art, and wonderful food, the combination makes for a perfect holiday.

Rome's best holidays and festivals  

Since the winter months can bring unpredictable weather, the best time to visit Rome is in April through October. Keep in mind that July and August can be very hot and the beaches also get very crowded. The Rome Marathon is held in March before the tourist season gets into full swing, and attracts more and more runners each year. If you choose to spend Easter in Rome, you can expect processions on Maundy Thursday until Palm Sunday, and the Easter Sunday Mass is held at St. Peter's Basilica. On June 2nd, Rome celebrates the Italian National Day and Republic Day with military parades and events in the central part of the city. The Feast of St. Peter and St. Paul is on June 29th. In June-August, there are music festivals, such as "Rock in Roma," held at the Capannelle Racecourse.

Rome living costs and interesting tips

The cost of living in Rome is less than in the UK or in London. This includes dining out and purchases in the grocery store. There is no smoking allowed in restaurants and bars as well as on public transport. Restaurants charge for the use of cutlery, plates and tablecloths.  Bread also often costs extra. It is not customary to leave a tip. The cover charge is often listed under service in Rome and in surrounding areas.

Rome transport options and accommodation

Upon arrival at the Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (FCO), the airport transfer "Leonardo Express" takes you to Termini Station in about 35 min. and costs roughly EUR 14 for a single ticket. Alternatively, the local express train, FL1, to Trastevere, Ostiense, Tuscolana and Tiburtina, costs roughly EUR 8.00, or the shuttle bus "Terravision" to Termini Station  costs around EUR 4.00, and takes about 1 hr. Hiring a taxi to the city centre costs about EUR 40.00.  Train travellers can take a transfer from the Ciampino station(CIA), using the express train FL4 to Termini Station, which costs about EUR1.50 and takes ca.15 min. The bus shuttles, "Terravision", to Termini station cost around EUR 4.00 and take ca.40 min.  Taking the taxi from the train station to the city centre costs about EUR 35.00.  Local public transport is operated by "ATAC," and includes metro, trolley bus, tram, city and regional trains. A Single ticket, valid for 100 min. costs about EUR 1.50. A day-pass costs ca. EUR 6.00, a 3-day pass approx. EUR about 16 euros,  a week-pass approx. EUR 24. Taxi prices for the first 3 km are roughly EUR 7, then cost just over EUR 1 per km.

Once you've arrived, accommodations in Rome ranges from guest houses or hostels for about EUR 15.00 per night, to 3 star hotels, starting at around EUR 35.00 per night, per person.