See and Do in Rome

Whether you're an expat who prefers exploring architectural wonders of old; gorging on world-famous pizza and pasta; or appreciating the artistic treasures of the Vatican City; there's countless things to see and do in Rome.

Nicknamed the Eternal City, Rome was once perceived as the capital of civilization and as one of the mightiest empires in the world. It rightly follows that monuments, memorials, museums and countless reminders of a magical history exist around every corner and even within every alleyway.

After you've digested Rome's historical centre, be sure not to miss out on some of the cultural nuances that give Rome its modern day charm.

Recommended sightseeing in Rome

Trastevere
Trastevere is one of the most well known Bohemian bubbles within this bustling metropolis. This medieval neighbourhood is made up of narrow cobblestone streets accented with colourful flower boxes and washing soaking up the sun. Cafés, quaint restaurants, and quirky boutiques abound; the area has long been home to artists, expats and many of Rome's most famous residents.

Capitoline Hill
Capitoline Hill is the current seat of the city's government and was also the original capitol of the   ancient city at its strongest.  A few ground level ruins are scattered about the area, but the major attraction is the stunning piazza surrounded by three palaces: the Palazzo dei Conservatori and the twin structures of the Palazzo dei Senatori and Palazzo Nuovo, which house the Musei Capitolini.

Within the Musei Capitolini expats will find the largest collection of classical statues in the world, including the Satyr, the Dying Gaul and the Capitoline Wolf with Romulus and Remus. Once you've had your fill of the immaculate sculptures take one of the paths that climb the side of the hill for panoramic views of the ancient sites of the Forum and Colosseum.
en.museicapitolini.org
Tel: 066 710 2475

Roman Forum (Foro Romano)
For centuries the Roman Forum was the nucleus of public life. The open rectangular area was the site of ancient Rome's commercial, political and religious wranglings - from elections to mercurial meetings. 

Some of the best preserved and most notable monuments surrounding the square include the impressive Arch of Septimus Severus - a construction designed to celebrate Roman victory over the Parthinians - and the former atrium of the House of the Vestal Virgins and Temple of Vesta. Also of note are the Temple of Antoninus and Faustina, and the Arch of Titus, built to celebrate Titus' destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70.

Today, archaeological excavation continues in accord with restoration and preservation efforts.

The Colosseum
This enduring symbol is considered one of most magnificent feats of the ancient Empire and one of the greatest engineering accomplishments. The massive amphitheatre could hold over 50,000 spectators and was mainly used for public spectacles and gladiatorial contests. Its architecture boasts an impressive array of Doric, Ionic and Corinthian columns and an underground network of cells, corridors, ramps and elevators that were used to transport animals from their cages to the arena. Years of erosion, pillaging and damage from earthquakes has left the structure a mere shell of its former state, but nonetheless, the Colosseum is not to be missed.
Tel: 06 700 4261

The Spanish Steps and Piazza di Spagna
Built in 1725, the Spanish steps are the widest and the longest in all of Europe. The staircase elegantly curves its way from the Piazza di Spagna to the Church of Santa Trinit dei Monti, a pastel tinted neoclassical building. Bernini's boat-shaped Barcaccia fountain can be found at the bottom of the steps, and the comparatively unassuming Keats-Shelley Memorial House to the right.

The Sistine Chapel & Vatican Museums
Michelangelo's glorious painted ceiling is without a doubt the most famous attraction found in the Vatican Museum. Still though, expats should take time to explore the illustrious wings and walls of the museum as a whole; it houses one of the world's greatest collections of art. Work by Raphael, Botticelli, Roselli and Ghirlandaio grace the building, and an impressive assembly of classical statues is among the masterpieces showcased within the building.
The Vatican Museum is located within Vatican City, the Pope's residence.
www.vatican.va