Pizza in one hand, gelato in the other - now that’s how you do Rome. Buongiorno, citizens! Welcome to the city that’s got it all, from ancient ruins, baroque beauty and buzzing piazzas all rolled into one. You’ll be surprised, too. Rome isn’t all about their postcard sights, but surprises like quiet courtyards, hidden wine bars, and mind-blowing art. We’ve mapped out for you the must-sees, eats and streets in this Rome city guide. Ready to roam in Rome?
When looking at the country’s famous boot shape, about halfway down on the west side lies Rome - the capital city. Surrounded by the Lazio region and a short drive away from the Mediterranean coast, Rome brings sunshine and sea breezes to your sightseeing in the city. Getting there is easy too, with 2 main airports and speedy trains zipping in from Florence, Milan, and beyond. Once you’ve landed, the Colosseum, Vatican and endless espresso are awaiting you.
Rome is generally a safe city to be a bustling tourist in. With that being said, though, pickpocketers do love a crowd - so keep your bag zipped and your phone tucked away on public transport or around big attractions. Walking around at night is usually fine, but stick to well-lit streets. If you take a taxi, make sure it’s official (look for a meter and license number). Like any big city, it’s all about staying alert and using common sense - with a bit of street smarts, you’ll be just fine!
Luckily for you, citizens, Rome has a handful of ways to get from A to B in the city. Let’s go through the different modes of transportation to cruise the city like a local (or at least try to):
Rome is one of those prized possessions for travel because it shines all year round (yippee). But, there are some seasons that are more selfie-friendly than others. Use this little seasonal breakdown of Rome to choose when your ideal Italian trip is going down.
spring (May - March): With mild weather, blooming flowers, and fewer crowds, spring is one of the best times to visit. Expect daytime highs around 17-23°c alongside big Easter celebrations around the Vatican.
summer (June - August): Summer in Rome is hot (and we really mean it, it gets hot). We’re talking 30°c and up. It’s also peak tourist season, so get ready for queues and packed piazzas. On the upside, there are tons of open-air concerts, night events, and city festivals like Estate Romana.
autumn (September - November): Autumn season is perfect for those who want a bit of sun with a side of breeze, with temps around 15-25°c. The golden glow flows over the city to celebrate grape harvest season in Rome - expect wine events and food festivals, making for the perfect excuse to eat your way through Rome.
winter (December - February): If you’re looking for a quieter and a bit cheaper season to visit Rome. While it can get chilly (around 8-14°c), visiting Rome during winter is still a sight to see, with the landmarks lit up for Christmas. And if you’re into seasonal shopping, January’s Saldi (sales) are a dream!
Rome has layers (think lasagna, yum) but with more history. With our ultimate guide, we will show you around local food and drink hotspots, tourist traps that are totally worth it, hidden gems that cannot be missed, and the best neighbourhoods to spend your time facendo una passeggiata - or ‘taking a walk’ in Italian. Alora, let’s dive in!
If there’s something you should take seriously in Rome, it should be food. This city is packed with flavour. From street corners serving crispy supplì to wine windows to candlelit spots dishing out velvety carbonara, and once you’ve had your first forkful, you’ll finally understand. Follow us through the streets of Rome to find the best bites.
To start off your food journey, head to Salumeria Roscioli. This deli-restaurant hybrid is beloved by locals and tourists alike for their creamy carbonara and wine list that could make a sommelier weep. If you’re looking for more pizza than pasta, Emma Pizzeria is your place, serving up perfect Roman-style pizza with a crispy undercarriage and fresh toppings. Pizza Florida is also a staple in Rome, being only a 6 minute walk from your citizenM Rome Isola Tiberina hotel! Their thin, crispy, and generously topped pizza is the type of street food that fuel your sightseeing (and your existential revelations). If you like a bit of history infused with your meal, Largo di Torre Argentina is a must-visit. Step into the spot where - allegedly - Julius Caesar died at this iconic eatery where you can sip, snack, and chat about what really happened here.
When that clock strikes 5pm (or whenever you want, it’s vacation), Freni e Frizioni in the Trastevere neighbourhood pumps out creative cocktails and the kind of crowd that keeps things fun and light. With the building once being a mechanics garage, the old school charm still rings true. For a fancier evening out and about, Drink Kong serves high-concept cocktails in a neon-lit space based on your mood!
And for some sweet to top off your night? Giolitti is the iconic gelato shop that earns every bit of its hype, with creamy scoops of wild flavours like fig, pistachio or ricotta pear - yum! Pasticceria Boccione is also a great choice for dessert, especially if you’re looking for some legendary tarts like their sour cherry tart. Either way, you can’t go wrong in Rome.
If you’re staying with us at the citizenM Rome Isola Tiberina hotel (as you should be), you’re in a prime spot to explore the city’s most famous landmarks. We know what you’re thinking, “We’ve all seen the Colosseum on postcards and the Vatican in films,” - but trust us, they are so much better in person. Rome’s biggest sights are touristy for a reason: they’re jaw-dropping, history-packed, and totally worth braving the crowds to see. You might be shoulder-to-shoulder with some selfie sticks, but you will also be standing in the same place where emperors, popes, and gladiators once stood. Cool, right?
Let’s start at the Pantheon. A marvel of ancient architecture, just a short stroll away from the hotel. From the outside, it’s all grand columns and ancient glory. Step inside, and you’ll find a massive dome with the famous oculus (hole that lets in sunlight, or rain, pour in). It’s free to enter, and once you do, don’t forget to look not just up, but down to the floor, too. We won’t spoil the geometric masterpiece for you, you’ll have to see for yourself.
Next up: the Trevi Fountain. Not too far from the Pantheon, this iconic fountain is where all your dreams of coming back to Italy can possibly come true! All you have to do is toss a coin over your left shoulder with your right hand and you will return to Rome. Chuck in a second coin for love, and maybe a third for marriage - if you’re feeling lucky.
Making your rounds around Rome, get those steps in by heading towards the Colosseum. It’s big, bold, and full of stories of gladiator battles, roaring crowds, and emperors giving their infamous thumbs up or down. This arena was Rome’s ancient blockbuster venue, but with a bit more gore.
For some citizens, the touristy treasures are exactly what travelling is meant for. But beyond the big sights and buzzing piazzas, Rome has more than meets the eye. If you’ve ticked off the Colosseum or the Pantheon, it’s time to dig a bit deeper (sometimes literally) and explore the city’s lesser-known wonders. Our Rome hidden gems guide will show you all Rome has to offer, that’s easy on your wallet and definitely easy on the eyes. But for now, let’s go!
Starting underground with the Catacombs of Rome, these eerie tunnels stretch for miles beneath the city telling the history of the early Christians. The Catacombs of San Sebastiano and San Callisto are some of the most impressive passageways that make you feel separated from the busy streets above.
Then there’s the Pyramid of Cestius, Rome’s very own slice of ancient Egypt. Built in 18 BC as a tomb for Gaius Cestius, this pyramid is truly one of the city’s most unexpected sights, rising from the ground at 36 metres high. With either a guided tour of the inside or sightseeing outside admiring the ruins, it’s with the detour.
For something more peaceful (and less involved with death), gander at the beautiful paintings that can be found in churches around Rome. The best part? They’re free! Step into the Basilica di San Pietro in Vincoli to see Michelangelo’s powerful statue of Moses, or the Santa Maria del Popolo to find jaw-dropping works by Caravaggio. These stunning churches are calm and packed with art that rivals any gallery - minus the crowds.
Rome isn’t just about the famous architecture and buildings - it’s a patchwork of neighbourhoods, each with its own vibe, charm, and the best of it all, food options. From indie backstreets to elegant boulevards, there’s something for every kind of wanderer. And since you’re staying at the citizenM Rome Isola Tiberina hotel (because you’re a smart traveller), we sit right in the middle of it all, so you’re never far from a good meal or a better view! For a deeper dive into the neighbourhoods, our citizenM Rome neighbourhood guide will lead you through the best parts of the city.
Just across the bridge from the hotel is the neighbourhood of Trastevere. The cobble-stoned covered lanes, ivy-draped buildings, and aperitivo spots that spill out into the streets make the area effortlessly cool. Whether you choose to walk around during the day or the evenings, you’ll always be met with street musicians, strong spritzes, and the occasional cat lounging like they own the place.
Right behind the Colosseum is the Monti neighbourhood, considered as Rome's artsy little secret. Once a working-class area, now it’s full of vintage shops, local cafes, and buzzing bars. Monti is the perfect representation of being hip without trying too hard.
The next highlighted neighbourhood, Prati, is one of the most polished districts near the Vatican - with wide streets, fancy boutiques, and cafes that serve espresso like it's a religion (and in Italy, it is). Prati is a bit quieter than the city centre, but don’t worry, it is still buzzing with life, making for a great base for exploring the city without the chaos.
With all that sightseeing, wandering about, and eating all the delicious carbs Rome has to offer, we know you’re looking for an ultra cosy bed to sleep in. At our centrally located citizenM Rome Isola Tiberina hotel, you can rest and refresh for your next adventure. Or, head upstairs to our luxurious rooftop bar to get the best views of the city with a fresh Aperol spritz in hand. Come join us, citizens. Ciao!