Rome Holidays

When in Rome

You’ll step off the plane and back in time when you touch down in Rome. When it comes to historical hotspots, you’re spoilt for choice – this city is packed with intricate architecture and centuries-old ruins like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill and the Pantheon. When you need a break from sightseeing, make sure you visit Piazza Navona – one of the most popular squares in Rome, which is surrounded by restaurants. Plus, don’t forget to swing by the Trevi Fountain and toss a coin in for luck.

Ancient amphitheatre

Rome is known as the Eternal City, and it’s living up to the name – the Colosseum alone is over 2,000 years old. The Roman Emperor Vespasian had this amphitheatre built as an entertainment venue, holding up to 50,000 spectators. The Colosseum is mostly known for hosting gladiator fights, but it also put on the likes of plays, and even served as a venue for public executions.

Royal ruins

Palatine Hill is just opposite the Colosseum – it was one of the most affluent areas in Ancient Rome, so it’s no wonder some of the era’s most famous faces made their homes here. Here, you’ll see the likes of Emperor Augustus and his wife Livia’s houses, and even Casa Romuli – the home of Romulus, who founded Rome with his brother, Remus.

A country in a country

Vatican City, also known as The Vatican, is the world’s smallest state with a population of less than 500 people. It has its own telephone system, post office, radio station, pharmacy, and even its own football team. Don’t miss the Vatican museums, where you’ll find the Sistine Chapel – known for housing Michelangelo’s iconic Renaissance frescos – and St Peter’s Basilica, which is built on the burial suite of the apostle, Peter. Plus, if you hang around St Peter’s Square just before noon on a Sunday, you’re likely to see the pope appear in the window of the papal apartments to give his weekly address.