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Picture of Rome, Metropolitan City of Rome Capital, Italy

Travel Guide for
Rome

Italy

Mediterranean: hot summers, mild winters

Introduction

Rome, the captivating capital of Italy, is a treasure trove of ancient ruins, vibrant piazzas, and world-class art. Founded over 2,700 years ago, the city breathes history with landmarks like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon.

In August, Rome’s sunny days and hot temperatures—often in the high 80s or 90s °F (30–35°C)—invite early-morning strolls and late-evening walks. For solo travelers on an average budget, savor espresso at a local café, wander through Trastevere’s charming streets, and soak up culture at free attractions like St. Peter’s Square and Villa Borghese gardens.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleSolo

Dates09-12 August 2025

BudgetAverage budget

AccommodationHotel

Interests and Activities:

sightseeing and toursnightlife and entertainmentfestivals and eventsgastronomyarts and cultureoutdoor adventures

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Picture of Rome, Metropolitan City of Rome Capital, Italy

Itinerary

Set out to immerse yourself in the timeless wonders of Rome, uncovering its rich ancient history, iconic architecture, and bustling city life. Explore world-renowned ruins, vibrant piazzas, and embrace the spirit of Italian urban adventure.

Colosseum and Roman Forum Guided Tour

Begin your Roman adventure with an immersive guided tour of the Colosseum and Roman Forum. Discover the legends of gladiators, marvel at ancient engineering, and envision daily life in this heart of Imperial Rome. Early morning visits beat the heat and crowds!

Wander through Piazza Venezia & Via del Corso

Stroll from the striking Altare della Patria through lively Piazza Venezia and down Via del Corso, soaking in Rome's energetic pulse, magnificent buildings, and bustling local life. Great for people-watching and street photography!

Visit the Pantheon

Marvel at the awe-inspiring Pantheon, an ancient temple turned church. Admire its massive dome and oculus, and discover architectural ingenuity that’s still studied today. Enjoy a gelato break nearby afterward!

Colosseum and Roman Forum Guided Tour

Colosseum and Roman Forum Guided Tour

INSTANT

This incredible tour goes to the very heart of ancient Rome and takes in the Empire’s most iconic monuments. Our experienced guide will take you back to the time of gladiator fights at the Colosseum and reveal the secrets of the Roman Forum, which was the political and economic centre of the city and, therefore, of the entire empire. No tour of this area would be complete without exploring the Palatine Hill – the Beverly Hills of ancient Rome, where emperors and nobles resided, high above the riff-raff below.

4.2 (86 reviews)

From $72 USD

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Key Facts

Location

Lazio, Central Italy

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Religion

Roman Catholicism

Population

4,357,000

Language

Italian, English widely spoken

Electricity

230V, 50Hz, plug types C, F, L

Time zone

UTCCET/CEST (UTC+1)

Country code

+39

Internet access

High-speed broadband, 4G/5G, affordable

Climate

Mediterranean: hot summers, mild winters

See More Italy Facts

Language:

Italian

  • hello

    ciao (chow)
  • goodbye

    arrivederci (ah-ree-veh-dehr-chee)
  • yes

    (see)
  • no

    no (noh)
  • how much

    quanto costa? (kwan-toh koh-sta)
  • please

    per favore (pair fa-vo-ray)
  • thank you

    grazie (grah-tsyeh)
  • excuse me

    mi scusi (mee scoo-zee)

Map

Logistics

Rome is easily accessible for solo travelers on a budget. The main international gateway is Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport, with many flights arriving daily. From the airport, you can take the Leonardo Express train to the city center or opt for affordable airport buses.

Traveling from other Italian cities, fast trains like Frecciarossa and Italo are comfortable and time-saving. Long-distance buses such as FlixBus offer budget-friendly options. Ferries mostly operate from ports further west, not directly to Rome, but you can reach the city by train after arriving at Italian coastal ports.

During August, Rome is hot and can be crowded. While public transport operates normally, flights and trains might be busier due to summer holidays, so book tickets early to avoid last-minute issues. No major weather disruptions are typical.

Weather

Rome enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. The best sightseeing and tours are popular year-round, but summer heat can be intense, especially in July and August. Evenings are warm, great for nightlife and entertainment, while outdoor festivals, gastronomy events, and arts and culture thrive in summer.

From August 9 to August 12, visitors can expect daytime highs around 33–36°C (91–97°F) and warm nights. Occasional heatwaves can push temperatures even higher, so stay hydrated during outdoor adventures. While rain is unlikely, extreme heat can affect comfort, making early morning or late evening outings most pleasant.

Food & Drink

Rome’s cuisine showcases local favorites like carbonara, amatriciana, and cacio e pepe pastas. Don’t miss street food classics such as supplì (fried rice balls) and Roman-style pizza. The city is also known for rich gelato, traditional espresso, and refreshing aperitivo drinks like Aperol Spritz.

For solo travelers on a budget, cozy trattorias such as Trattoria da Enzo al 29 and Pizzeria Ai Marmi offer authentic flavors and communal dining. Explore the Testaccio and Trastevere districts for lively bars and cafes, including Bar San Calisto for a relaxed vibe. Most Romans don’t tip; service (coperto) is often included, but rounding up small change is appreciated.

Vegetarians will find many plant-based pasta options, but gluten-free choices are less common, so plan ahead. Lunchtime menus are generally more affordable. Reservations are suggested for popular spots, especially during busy seasons. Enjoying meals al fresco is a Roman tradition—soak in the atmosphere!

A picture of Pizza

Pizza

Pizza is one of Italy's most famous and beloved foods. It features a thin, crispy crust topped with...

A picture of Lasagna

Lasagna

Lasagna is a classic Italian pasta dish consisting of layers of wide flat pasta, rich tomato sauce, creamy...

A picture of Risotto

Risotto

Risotto is a creamy and comforting Italian rice dish cooked with broth until it reaches a velvety consistency....

A picture of Tiramisu

Tiramisu

Tiramisu is a luscious and decadent Italian dessert made from layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone cheese, and...

A picture of Ossobuco

Ossobuco

Ossobuco is a traditional Milanese dish featuring braised veal shanks cooked with white wine, broth, and aromatic vegetables....

Accommodation

For a solo traveler on an average budget, look at hotels in lively neighborhoods like Trastevere, Monti, or near Termini Station. These areas offer convenient access to top attractions and vibrant local life. Reliable booking sites include Booking.com and Expedia, with user reviews helping you find good value hotels.

Top mid-range options include Hotel De Russie near Piazza del Popolo, Hotel Artemide on Via Nazionale, and K Boutique Hotel in Monti. During August 9–12, book early, as Rome can be busy with festivals and summer tourists. Air conditioning is a must in August’s heat, so filter your search accordingly.

Attractions

4.6 (752 reviews)
Florence and Pisa from Rome: Enjoy a Full Day Small Group Tour

Florence and Pisa from Rome: Enjoy a Full Day Small Group Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Experience the ultimate day of Italian art and history on a full-day tour from Rome to Pisa and Florence! In Pisa, marvel at the iconic Leaning Tower from the outside and explore the dazzling Baptistery and Duomo, all gleaming in white marble. Then, head to Florence, the legendary cradle of the Renaissance. After a stop for lunch at your own expense, join your expert guide for a walking tour through the city’s artistic treasures. See masterpieces by Leonardo da Vinci, Botticelli, and Michelangelo, including the world-famous David at the Accademia. Explore the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Brunelleschi’s magnificent dome, Giotto’s Bell Tower, and the Baptistery. Stroll through Piazza della Signoria and admire the historic Ponte Vecchio spanning the Arno River. End your day at Piazzale Michelangelo with a jaw dropping panoramic view of Florence....a perfect finale to an unforgettable Italian adventure.

From $309 USD

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4.9 (7602 reviews)
Skip the Line Vatican Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's | Small Group

Skip the Line Vatican Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's | Small Group

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Why book this tour? You visit the Vatican once in a lifetime! Skip-the-line access means you’ll have more time to explore millennia of art and history within these hallowed walls without waiting in the long general admission lines. In 3 hours, explore the highlights of the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica in a small group. Get straight inside with skip-the-line access to see a host of treasures of the Vatican City, all with enlightening storytelling from a passionate guide. Dive into the Vatican’s must-see attractions with the highlights you absolutely can't leave Rome without. This tour has been specifically designed to get you inside as quickly as possible with skip-the-line entry. This is the perfect tour for families traveling with small children or teens, people who "don't do" museum tours, or those who have limited time and want to see the Eternal City in less than an eternity. The tour includes the big 3: Museums & the Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's!

From $118 USD

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5.0 (17 reviews)
Exclusive ROME - Golf Cart City Tour with Italian Gelato

Exclusive ROME - Golf Cart City Tour with Italian Gelato

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Unveil the city's secrets as our local guides blend history and charm, navigating through hidden gems and iconic landmarks. Glide effortlessly through narrow cobblestone streets, accessing areas off-limits to larger vehicles. Discover more in less time! Our personalized experience ensures an intimate exploration of Rome's rich history, art, and culture. Book now for a unique, eco-friendly adventure that promises memories to last a lifetime. During the Tour you'll have a chance to enjoy an authentic Italian, delicious original gelato. This Tour will have to remain in your heart! During winter months, stay cozy with transparent covers and warm fleece blankets. Furthermore, unlike others, we will pick you up at the hotel where you are staying!

From $190 USD

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5.0 (4624 reviews)
Rome by Golf Cart Private Tour: Beyond the Landmarks

Rome by Golf Cart Private Tour: Beyond the Landmarks

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Explore Rome by golf cart with a private guide. Craft your route, see iconic landmarks and hidden gems, and cover more in less time. Family-friendly & effortless. Discover Rome in style on a private golf cart tour. Glide through charming streets and lively piazzas while your expert guide brings the Eternal City to life. At the start, your guide will confirm the sites you most want to see and plan the smartest route. Please note: in 3 hours we can’t visit every site on the list—use it as inspiration for what we could include. Ready to roll? Book your Rome golf cart tour and craft a route that matches your day.

From $215 USD

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4.7 (95 reviews)
Florence and Pisa from Rome: Enjoy a Full Day Private Tour

Florence and Pisa from Rome: Enjoy a Full Day Private Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Departure from Rome for a full-day tour to the “Cradle of the Renaissance”. First stop Pisa, you will see “Piazza dei Miracoli” with its famous Leaning Tower and you will visit the Baptistery and the “Duomo”, all monuments in shining white marble. Continuation to Florence, the legendary city of artists and architects from the 14th to 17th centuries. Stop for lunch. At 2:30 pm meet with the guide for a walking tour of Florence. Once in the city center, you can breathe the atmosphere of medieval streets and craftsmen’s workshops and see masterpieces by Leonardo Da Vinci, Botticelli and Michelangelo, including the famous David located inside at the “Accademia”. See the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, with its beautiful dome projected by Brunelleschi and admire the Baptistery as well as Giotto’s Bell Tower. The tour ends with a breathtaking view from Piazzale Michelangelo, a superb panoramic view of Florence with its monuments, group photo and departure to Rome.

From $309 USD

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4.9 (2480 reviews)
Rome: Complete Early Morning Vatican Tour | Small Group

Rome: Complete Early Morning Vatican Tour | Small Group

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Meet at our comfortable offices less than a block from the museum entrance. Join our small group Vatican tour in the early morning with a top-notch tour guide and get the earliest entrance available to the museums, Sistine Chapel & Raphael Rooms. In a small group, you will be able to discover with no rush the extraordinary abundance of history and art. Your guide will tour you through these corridors and halls, pointing out the exhibits on display. Once through, the Sistine Chapel awaits you. The finale of our early entry Vatican tours culminates in St. Peter’s Basilica. Majestic and inspired, it is the perfect place to come full circle on the morning’s itinerary. Feast your eyes on Michelangelo’s Pietà and admire the stunning interior of the dome he designed, as well as Bernini’s massive bronze baldachin sitting over the Pope’s private alter directly above St. Peter’s tomb and other little-known details that can only be spotted when inside!

From $130 USD

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5.0 (742 reviews)
Rome Pasta Making Class with Italian Sauces and Wine Included

Rome Pasta Making Class with Italian Sauces and Wine Included

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Small groups pasta-making class with local chefs. In this masterclass, you'll be able to learn how to make the famous Italian handmade pasta and pair it with fresh sauces. You will make and cook ravioli, fettuccine, and spaghetti alla chitarra with three iconic Roman sauces made from scratch. Top quality products, selected wine during the whole experience, are our secret ingredients to make this experience so unique and special!

From $102 USD

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4.9 (49 reviews)
Rome Food Tour by Night in the Jewish Ghetto & Campo Marzio with Wine Tasting

Rome Food Tour by Night in the Jewish Ghetto & Campo Marzio with Wine Tasting

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Fun and informative evening that combines great curiosities about Italian culture and cuisine with historical facts. Perfect for all ages this 4-hours tour will give you the chance to explore the old Jewish Ghetto and a huge area which was once occupied by the Theatre of Pompeo. While walking, your tour guide will introduce you several regional dishes like the roman style artichokes, high-quality salumi and cheese, Roman pizza, artisanal gelato and a lot more, together with a brief description of the historical spots you will come across. Have lots of fun with us during this experience, we promise it will be unforgettable!

From $106 USD

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5.0 (19 reviews)
Golf Cart tour with English speaking driver guide (3h/5h)

Golf Cart tour with English speaking driver guide (3h/5h)

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

An Exclusive private and customisable tour. The tour includes an English speaking driver-guide who will take you to discover Rome's most important historical sites. The driver will wait for you in the vehicle while you visit the sites you stop at and will not accompany you inside the archaeological or historical-artistic sites. The price for the guide is not included in the tour. You can ask our office to book a local tour guide who will accompany you for a three-hour guided tour inside the sites. Your licensed tour guide will hop-off the vehicle with you at each stop and walk you through the attractions to provide the most complete insights of every attraction. The extra cost for the guide is €250 in cash to be paid on the day of the tour. You will start your tour at your hotel. Due to the low speed of the golf carts, your tour must necessarily begin inside the Aurelian Walls. At the end of the tour, your driver will take you back to your hotel.

From $239 USD

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4.9 (244 reviews)
Highlights of Rome Bike Tour (Including Jubilee Sights)

Highlights of Rome Bike Tour (Including Jubilee Sights)

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

This 3-hour bike tour offers a fun and relaxing way to discover Rome, the Eternal City and the heart of Italian history! Whether it’s your first visit or you’re returning to explore more, this tour takes you to Rome’s iconic landmarks with insightful stories that bring them to life. Along the way, you’ll enjoy plenty of photo opportunities, hear fascinating anecdotes, and be well taken care of by your guide. Experience Rome’s incredible ancient wonders and vibrant modern energy as we pedal through its streets and help you fall in love with this amazing city!

From $54 USD

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4.9 (1557 reviews)
Rome Sights by Segway Tour

Rome Sights by Segway Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

See the sights of Ancient Rome by Segway on a 3-hour tour, passing incredible monuments like the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Circus Maximus. On a self-balancing electric scooter, follow a guide around Rome’s 2000-year-old ruins, while hearing their history from a live guide. Stop for photos by iconic sites and test Rome’s very own lie detector – the Mouth of Truth (Bocca della Verità)! This tour includes an amazing Virtual Reality experience that will put you in the centre of ancient Rome. This small-group tour is limited to eight people, ensuring you’ll receive personalized attention from your guide.

From $90 USD

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4.9 (98 reviews)
Rome : Custom Walking Tour With A Guide (Private Tour)

Rome : Custom Walking Tour With A Guide (Private Tour)

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Rome’s vast history and iconic landmarks can feel impossible to fully grasp in one visit. Explore the Eternal City with a local on a private walking tour designed to match your interests. This personalized tour allows you to discover the exterior of monuments and museums while learning about the city’s history and culture. Please note that museum visits are not included. If you would like to visit a museum inside, you will need to contact us in advance, and a supplement will apply depending on the selected museum. By understanding your preferences in advance, your guide ensures a smooth and engaging experience. Perfect for families, solo travelers, and couples, this tour offers insider knowledge and a deeper connection to Rome.

From $54 USD

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5.0 (222 reviews)
Rome's Best by E-bike: Guided City Tour (Small Group or Private)

Rome's Best by E-bike: Guided City Tour (Small Group or Private)

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

An electrifying adventure on two wheels awaits you! Become an explorer of the Eternal City by having fun with us on this lively electric bike tour, which will take you to discover the best places of interest in Rome! Some are very famous, others are real hidden pearls that you will discover as you pedal! Travel through time and effortlessly on ancient Roman roads passing majestic monuments and lively squares, feel the beating heart of the city! Be ready to listen to your local guide who will engage you with fascinating anecdotes and curiosities about the history of Rome. Priceless treasures are hidden in every corner, are you ready to find them with us? Don't be a tourist!, get on the saddle with us and feel like a true Roman! Do you want an even more authentic and personalized experience? Book the “Private Tour” option. You will have the local guide exclusively for you!

From $77 USD

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5.0 (46 reviews)
Explore the Best Highlights of Rome by Golf Car - Private Tour

Explore the Best Highlights of Rome by Golf Car - Private Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Have fun with a local guide in a golf cart around Rome The tour of Rome by golf cart is one of the best selling tours and something you must not miss while in Rome! It is the best way to get around Rome without walking, making it the perfect choice for families with kids and anyone who wishes to see the major attractions of Rome in a short time. We will pick you up at your Hotel, if within the city center. Your local guide will show you the most marvelous sites of Rome, including iconic places like the Colosseum, Circus Maximus, the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and Piazza Navona. You will admire the unbelievable architecture and history of Rome while listening to stories and legends about the city. Book this Eco-friendly Rome Golf Cart tour and forget the fatigue of walking all day, you can definitely make the most out of your time in Rome in this private customizable tour. Note: if your hotel is out of the city center, we can pick you up at piazzale delle Canestre

From $120 USD

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5.0 (708 reviews)
Rome Afternoon Sightseeing Vespa Sidecar Tour with Gourmet Gelato

Rome Afternoon Sightseeing Vespa Sidecar Tour with Gourmet Gelato

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Discover Rome on board of a Timeless Icon with the 1st tour company in Rome to offer this unique tour. An evening tour on board of our custom built, modern and comfy Vespa Sidecars will take you to the Iconic Highlights of our city as into its most precious and genuine insights. Our certified guide will accompany your tour with detailed narration via headphones. You'll cruise through Rome's Historic squares and monuments, and sometimes we'll stop and hop, we'll show you the unreachable within best picture spots. Why choose The Vespa Sidecar Tour: * Sit back and relax with a loved one in the most romantic city * We work with Licensed and Experienced Guides, and trust us this does make a difference! * Riding on a Sidecar is extremely safe and way more stable than a 2 wheeled motorcycle.
 * Last but not least, it costs less! You must consider 1 driver every 2 passengers. Get a glimpse of Roman Millenary History in the historic city alleys,

From $178 USD

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5.0 (2516 reviews)
Rome Highlights by Golf Cart Private Tour

Rome Highlights by Golf Cart Private Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Relax in comfort as you glide around the Eternal City on your private Golf Cart tour. Begin your visit either the morning or the afternoon with your expert tour guide and discover the very best of the Eternal City. The night tour lasts two hours and hit inevitably fewer highlights than those listed. Choose our food tour option if you are keen to indulge in traditional Roman specialties, or the lunch option if you'd rather have a longer tour with an accompanying delicious meal. The tour starts at your hotel, if it is located in the city centre. The tour is private, so if you want to see something that's not included in the route we suggest, we can change the itinerary for you. After seeing the best highlights of the Eternal City, we drop you off back to your hotel. This is by far the most comfortable way to tour a city like Rome.

From $182 USD

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5.0 (720 reviews)
Rome Golf Cart Tour : Half-Day Private or Small Group Sightseeing

Rome Golf Cart Tour : Half-Day Private or Small Group Sightseeing

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Discover the secrets of Rome on a 3-hour guided golf cart tour, fully sustainable and designed for you to admire the city's most iconic sights and hidden treasures. From the Colosseum to the Trevi Fountain, from the Pantheon to Campo de' Fiori, experience the timeless beauty and rich history of the Eternal City in total comfort. Our experienced local drivers, real Romans who know every corner of the city, will tell you fascinating stories, historical anecdotes and give you useful tips to make your stay in Rome unique. The itinerary is fully customizable and, on request, our drivers will do their best to meet your every need. Along the way, you can enjoy a Roman snack and immerse yourself in authentic city life. In just three hours, you will have a complete view of the highlights, history and culture of Rome, making this tour an unforgettable experience tailored to you.

From $154 USD

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