Rome

The Eternal City is a living museum where ancient ruins sit alongside Renaissance masterpieces and vibrant street life. Every corner reveals layers of history spanning nearly 3,000 years.

Rome skyline
Best time to visit

Apr, May, Oct, Nov

Essentials

Currency: EUR
Language: Italian
Timezone: Rome

Average temperatures
Jan 12°Feb 13°Mar 15°Apr 18°May 23°Jun 28°Jul 31°Aug 31°Sep 27°Oct 22°Nov 16°Dec 12°

Things to do

Explore the Roman ForumThrow a coin in the Trevi FountainVisit Vatican City and the Sistine ChapelEat pasta in TrastevereTour the PantheonEnjoy gelato on the Spanish Steps

Local cuisine

CarbonaraCacio e pepeSupplìGelato

The Colosseum, completed in 80 AD, once held 50,000 spectators for gladiatorial contests. It remains the largest ancient amphitheatre ever built and a powerful symbol of Imperial Rome.

Travel Tips for Rome

Best Time to Visit

The ideal months to visit Rome are April, May, October, November, when the weather is at its most pleasant for sightseeing and outdoor activities. During these peak months, you can expect average highs of around 18°C in April, 23°C in May, 22°C in October, 16°C in November. Temperatures across the year range from 12°C to 31°C, so pack light, breathable clothing if you're visiting in the warmer months and don't forget sun cream. Right now in May, the average high in Rome is 23°C.

Getting There

From the UK, you can reach Rome in approximately 2h 30m. Direct flights make this a convenient destination to reach from most major UK airports. Booking early and staying flexible with dates will help you secure the best fares.

Money and Language

The local currency is the EUR. Euros are easy to obtain from most UK banks and currency exchange services. Card payments are widely accepted across Europe, but carrying a small amount of cash is handy for markets and smaller establishments. The main language spoken is Italian. While you may encounter some English speakers in tourist areas, learning a few basic phrases in Italian will go a long way and is always appreciated by locals.

What to Expect

The Eternal City is a living museum where ancient ruins sit alongside Renaissance masterpieces and vibrant street life. Every corner reveals layers of history spanning nearly 3,000 years. Whether you're interested in explore the roman forum or throw a coin in the trevi fountain, there's something for every type of traveller. Rome is also known for its food scene, with local specialities including Carbonara, Cacio e pepe, Supplì. Plan your visit for the best months to make the most of what Rome has to offer.

Popular Activities in Rome

Rome offers a fantastic range of activities for every kind of traveller. From cultural experiences to outdoor adventures, here are the top things to do during your visit.

Explore the Roman Forum

Wander through and discover hidden gems at your own pace.

Throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain

Join in a beloved tradition that's stood the test of time.

Visit Vatican City and the Sistine Chapel

A must-see attraction that draws visitors from around the world.

Eat pasta in Trastevere

Treat your taste buds to authentic local flavours.

Tour the Pantheon

Get an in-depth look at one of the destination's highlights.

Enjoy gelato on the Spanish Steps

Sit back and savour one of the destination's finest offerings.

Food & Drink in Rome

No trip to Rome is complete without sampling the local food and drink scene. From street food to sit-down restaurants, there's an incredible variety of flavours to discover. Here are some dishes and drinks you absolutely must try:

Carbonara

The signature dish of Rome that every visitor should try at least once.

Cacio e pepe

A beloved local favourite that showcases traditional flavours and techniques.

Supplì

Ask any local for their recommendation and you're in for a treat.

Gelato

A delicious way to round off your culinary exploration.

Practical Information

Everything you need to know before travelling to Rome. Use this quick-reference guide to help plan your trip.

Currency

EUR

Language

Italian

Timezone

Rome

Visa (UK citizens)

No visa required for UK citizens (up to 90 days)

Best months to visit

Apr, May, Oct, Nov

Temperature (May)

23°C average high

Flight time from UK

2h 30m