Rome, capital of Italy is called The Eternal City and for good reason. Rome is one of the most important tourist destinations of the world, due to the incalculable immensity of its archaeological and art treasures, as well as for the charm of its unique traditions, the beauty of its panoramic views, and the majesty of its magnificent parks.
In Rome, classical ruins and early Christian places of worship stand next to – or lie beneath – Renaissance palazzos and Baroque fountains. But there are also great neighbourhoodtrattorias (Italian restaurants), quirky shops and a buzzing scene. The city’s mild Mediterranean climate is another persuasive draw for visitors from the cool north, but the main draw will always be the pulsating energy of a place which lives life as a form of theatre.
In Rome, you can drink from a street fountain fed by an ancient aqueduct or see the same profile on a statue in the Capitoline Museum and the guy making your cappuccino. Rome’s two most popular tourist destinations are the Vatican Museums (37th most visited destination in the world) and the Colosseum (39th most visited destination in the world). Rome has been one of the world’s most visited cities for the past two millennia.
The challenge is deciding what not to do: there are so many churches, archaeological sites, piazzas and paintings to see that a lifetime is hardly enough. Don’t try to cram too much in: Rome moves at a slower pace than many northern cities, and to enjoy it you should take time out in pavement cafés as well as shuffle round the Sistine Chapel.
Rome is a city that combines the intimacy and human scale of a village with the cultural draws of a European metropolis. Every single person should be able to experience the beauty that is Rome at least once in their lifetime.
Tags: International destination Rome
