â??When in Rome, do as the Romans doâ?â?? delve into the cityâ??s many formidable museums and basilicas, tantalize your taste buds with the unparalleled flavor of Italy and surround yourself with the pervading sense of history that is the Eternal City.

The range of landmarks within the bounds of the city is staggering: there is the grand Colosseum and lavish Vatican City, the Sistine Chapel and so much more. â??Romaâ? is a magnificent combination of old and new, and positively hums with lively markets, cheery caf�©s and of course, traffic. Rome is testament to the momentous Italian past - whichever way you look, Rome will mesmerize, amuse and enlightenâ?¦ and have you planning your next visit before youâ??ve even left.

Quick Facts:

Population: 3.8 million
Language: Italian
Currency: The Euro 1â?¬ =100 Cents
Time Zone: GMT +1

Weather: The weather in Rome is generally pleasant due to the mild Mediterranean climate, however summers are hot and spring and autumn, sunny.

Average January Temperature: 8�ºC / 46�ºF
Average July Temperature: 25�ºC / 77�ºF

Most Popular Sites:

The Vatican City - The Vatican city is worth a visit.  Not only is St Peters the largest church in the World, but we highly recommend a tour of the Sistine Chapel, whose ceiling is home to Michelangeloâ??s mural masterpiece.
Colosseum - Known to the Ancient Romans as the â??Flavian Amphitheaterâ? this symbol of the Roman Empire was host to 450 years of gladiators, lion feedings and â??gamesâ?. It is a truly impressive sight.
Trevi Fountain - A beautiful rococo design, the Trevi Fountain is the place to stir romance. Legend has it by throwing a coin over your shoulder, into the fountain, you will return to Rome.
Pantheon - Nearly 1900 years after its construction this 2nd century AD pagan temple to the gods is remarkably still intact. Converted to a church in 608AD, Marcus Agrippaâ??s extraordinary dome is the largest masonry vault ever built.
Spanish Steps â?? Nicknamed Romeâ??s living room, the Spanish Steps are the perfect place to sit and people watch. Both tourists and locals can be seen sitting and relaxing on the steps that overlook the piazza.

Shopping:

The Italians smooth sense of style has made Rome a center for chic shopping. The many different districts provide ample opportunity to wander down the street looking for antiques, sunglasses and shoes.

Italian shoes are world famous and leather goods also are a great buy. At the base of the Spanish steps, in the Piazza Di Spagna, youâ??ll find Italian designers like Armani, Versace, Prada and Gianfranco Ferr�©. Be advised that shops generally do not open on Sundays.

Food:

Eating in Rome is a truly communal affair and eating out is a crucial part of Roman life. Neighborhood Trattorias are the cornerstone of dining and youâ??ll often still find them still run by families with Mamma in the kitchen.

Traditional fare includes dishes like coda alla vaccinara (oxtail cooked with wine, tomatoes and peppers) and bruschette (slices of toasted bread with tomato or oil and garlic) on top of the normal pastaâ??s you know and love.

There are numerous Pizzeria and they are quick, easy and good value for money. Enjoy native pizza alla romana, pizzas with a thin crust and a crispy edge. Make sure however, it is from a wood fuelled oven for maximum flavor. Something to indulge at every opportunity is the very decadent Italian ice cream or Gelato.