Things to do in Rome

Described as ‘the world’s largest open-air museum’, simply strolling through the streets of Rome is an adventure. The main squares (piazze) have legacies all their own. Piazza Venezia marks the center of the city, while Piazza del Campidoglio, the center of government. Fashion reigns in the Piazza di Spagna, location of the world-famous Spanish Steps (Scalinata Trinità dei Monti).

Fountains in Rome have always been more than just sources of drinking water. They’ve also been a reflection of the generosity of their benefactors. Beautiful fountains splash and sparkle everywhere, and most carry interesting stories. The Fountain of the Four Rivers (Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi) is an early geography lesson. Folklore encourages you to drop a coin into the famous Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi), which ensures you’ll return to Rome someday.

Architecture in Rome is both a lesson in history and an exploration in art. Visit the ancient ruins of the Pantheon and the Colosseum. Explore the splendor of the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. Visit the Basilica of Saint Mary Major (Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore), built in the early 4th century and considered one of the finest basilicas in all the world.

Trastevere is a district in Rome just over the river Tiber. It is one of the centers of Rome's nightlife, and is filled with restaurants, shops and cafés in narrow and winding streets. For the best traditional food in town (at much better prices then in the city center), go here and enjoy people-watching all night long.