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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

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.

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, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Guided Walking Tour

Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Guided Walking Tour

INSTANT

For those visiting Rome, the Colosseum is a must and, with this tour, you have the opportunity to discover all its secrets thanks to an expert guide who will take you on a journey through the millenary history of Rome. Meet your tour guide and enter the Colosseum without waiting in long lines. Once inside, you will visit the main levels and learn how the gladiator shows were organized, and how they fought for their lives for the entertainment of the population. In addition to the Colosseum, your tour will also include a visit to the Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum: be prepared to discover places full of charm and history, listening to anecdotes about the life of the ancient Romans. You will also have the opportunity to take spectacular photos from the panoramic terrace, to keep the memory of this experience and your trip to Rome with you!

4.8 (68 reviews)

From $64 USD

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Attractions

5.0 (24 reviews)
Private and Customisable tour of Rome from Civitavecchia

Private and Customisable tour of Rome from Civitavecchia

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

A private tour (we do not combine groups) and fully customizable. Your private driver will be waiting right at the exit of your ship to meet you at 7:30AM. You will not need the shuttle bus. You will leave immediately for Rome, where you expect to arrive in about an hour approximately. On the way from the port to Rome you can talk to your driver and decide your itinerary to customize the tour. You will have about eight hours to visit Rome before driving back to the port. You can request our office to purchase your skip-the-line tickets of the Colosseum (Eur 40,00 pp), Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel (Eur 55,00 pp) and Pantheon (Eur 10,00 pp). PRICE OF THE TICKETS IS NOT INCLUDED. We can book for you a tour guide for the 3 hours private walking tour of the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica (3hrs) Or Colosseum and Forum (3hrs).

From $570 USD

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5.0 (6 reviews)
Rome Private Full Day Shore Excursion 9 hours

Rome Private Full Day Shore Excursion 9 hours

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Best way to see Rome in a Day.  Departure point Civitavecchia Cruise Terminal • 9 hours length • Pick up Time 07.30 am • Return Time 04.30 pm Overview  From the Colosseum to the Pantheon, see Rome’s top sights like a VIP on a private tour driven by your own driver. You’ll travel by private sedan or minivan to visit the Eternal City’s famous piazzas, churches and ancient landmarks at your own pace, plus listen live commentary of your private driver.Enjoy comfortable transportation by private vehicle and see the main major Rome attractions.Your driver is not a licensed tour guide. Due to strict Italian laws and regulations in place to protect officially licensed guides, drivers can comment and explain attractions only from inside the vehicle. Drivers cannot elaborate on the attractions when they are outside of the vehicle.

From $560 USD

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4.8 (9 reviews)
Civitavecchia Private Excursion to Ancient Rome & Vatican Museums

Civitavecchia Private Excursion to Ancient Rome & Vatican Museums

MANUAL

PRIVATE TOUR OF ROME FROM CRUISE PORT VATICAN & COLOSSEUM Take a private tour of Rome in a luxurious Mercedes Vehicle with this 9-hour shore excursion from the port at Civitavecchia. Enjoy the convenience of a personal driver who is at your full disposal. Vatican Museum,Sistine Chapel and St.Peter Basilica will be visited by a Private Art & Historian Guide  for 3 hours,skip the line tickets included. Your personal chauffeur will show you around and will give you a live commentary of the best highlights of the Eternal City driving you as close as possible to the sights avoiding long walks. Colosseum tickets included. Your driver is not a licensed tour guide. Due to strict Italian laws and regulations in place to protect officially licensed guides, drivers can comment and explain attractions only from inside the vehicle. Drivers cannot elaborate on the attractions when they are outside of the vehicle.

From $1114 USD

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4.9 (6622 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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4.9 (2113 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 (217 reviews)
VIP Tour of Rome (3/5/8hrs) Colosseum & Vatican Museums

VIP Tour of Rome (3/5/8hrs) Colosseum & Vatican Museums

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

An Exclusive Private & Customizable tour (we do not combine groups) with licensed Tour Guide & Chauffeur, with MERCEDES VAN or GOLF CART. Your 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. Meet your guide at your hotel, Airbnb, Train station, Airpot or Port of Civitavecchia. The tour includes a visit to the most important artistic and archaeological attractions of Rome. You can customize your tour by contacting our office or on the same day of the tour by speaking with your private guide. 1. The Vatican Museums can only be included in 8/10-hour tours. 2. Tour from Civitavecchia can be only 10-hour. The 5 or 8-hour tour is not possible from the port of Civitavecchia. Upon request, our office can purchase your tickets (NOT INCLUDED): - Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel (Eur 55 cash pp) - Colosseum (Eur 40 cash pp) - St. Peter's Basilica (Eur 10 cash pp) - Pantheon (Eur 7 cash pp)

From $570 USD

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5.0 (76 reviews)
Exclusive Rome tours, Driver & Tour Guide, Colosseum & Vatican

Exclusive Rome tours, Driver & Tour Guide, Colosseum & Vatican

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

An Exclusive private and customizable tour of Rome from the port of Civitavecchia or from your hotel in Rome with Driver & Tour Guide. Your 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. You can choose to book the ten-hour tour from the port of Civitavecchia. Two hours will be needed just for the transfers from the port to Rome and vice versa. Your driver will pick you up from the exit of the ship at 7:30AM. At the end of the tour, approximately at 5:30PM you will be back at the port. If you are staying in Rome and have chosen the eight-hour tour from Rome, you will meet your guide at your hotel, Airbnb, Train station. A one-hour lunch break is scheduled from 1PM. TICKETS ARE NOT INCLUDED. You can request our office to purchase your skip-the-line tickets: - Colosseum (Eur 40 PP) - Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel (Eur 55 PP) - St. Peter's Basilica (Eur 7 PP) - Pantheon (Eur 7 PP)

From $559 USD

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5.0 (6 reviews)
Rome Vineyards Wine tasting Private Day Tour

Rome Vineyards Wine tasting Private Day Tour

MANUAL
Free Cancellation

Dear Guests, this excursion of 1 day has been designed for all those who wish to visit and discover the vineyards of Rome and its outstanding countryside, and experience interesting and delightful wine tastings in two of the most beautiful local wineries. So, you will be driven around the fascinating countryside of Rome and stopped in two of the villages located in the so-called Roman Castles area! But what's the Castelli Romani or Roman Castles area? The area of Castelli Romani indicates the entire geographical area located south-east of the city of Rome, around the Colli Albani, made up of a group of villages and towns, in part of the territory of Latium Vetus, Ancient Lazio region, surrounded by the roman countryside. The tour is conducted by an English-speaking driver, born and residing in the region of Rome and with an in-depth knowledge of history and features of the territory, ready to help you with the local language, advised and informed about local food, shopping and more.

From $475 USD

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4.7 (73 reviews)
Private Tour: Pompeii and Positano Day Trip from Rome

Private Tour: Pompeii and Positano Day Trip from Rome

INSTANT_THEN_MANUAL
Free Cancellation

Discover the rich history and dreamy coastal scenery that typifies southern Italy on this private day trip to Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast from Rome. Explore the UNESCO-listed ruins of Pompeii either independently or with an expert guide, and get a glimpse of what daily life was like before the tragic eruption of Mt Vesuvius some 2,000 years ago. Then, make for the breathtaking Amalfi Coast. Drink in sweeping vistas of the Mediterranean Sea and enjoy ample free time to explore the postcard-perfect town of Positano. Private transport included.

From $542 USD

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5.0 (4225 reviews)
Beyond the Landmarks: Rome by Golf Cart Private Tour

Beyond the Landmarks: Rome by Golf Cart Private Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Explore Rome by golf cart and take in top attractions in style on this private tour. Please keep in mind we could visit any of those sites listed on the tour info section, but we could not visit them all on a 3 hour tour. Please refer to this list as sites we could visit. As the tour starts your guide will enquire with you about the sites you'd like to visit on the day and we will do our best to have as many of them on your tour. Roll through the pretty streets by golf cart as a private guide brings Rome’s rich history to life. Along the way, take in famous landmarks and hidden gems such as the Trevi Fountain and the basilicas of Santo Stefano Rotondo and Santi Giovanni e Paolo. Spin through bustling squares like Piazza Barberini and Piazza Colonna, and admire panoramic city views from Aventine Hill or Caelian Hill — two of the city’s famous vantage points.

From $182 USD

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5.0 (75 reviews)
Civitavecchia to Rome City: Private Tour of Rome Highlights

Civitavecchia to Rome City: Private Tour of Rome Highlights

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

We will give you an unforgettable experience in Rome taking you to the most beautiful places in a completely private tour! Our drivers have years of experience on the field which make them the most professional English speaking knowledgeable about Rome, therefore although they are not guides, you will get the feeling as they were, as they will always be ready to answer all your doubts and take special care of you at all times! In addition, it’s also good to highlight we are always open to customize our tour according to your preferences; we know for sure this is an added value you will appreciate for your Rome shore excursion that will make this experience a very special one with us!

From $428 USD

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5.0 (37 reviews)
 Chauffeured Private Tour of Rome

Chauffeured Private Tour of Rome

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Discover the Eternal City in unparalleled comfort and style with our Chauffeured Private Tour of Rome. Perfect for travelers who value flexibility, privacy, and luxury, this tour offers an exclusive way to explore the most iconic landmarks and hidden gems of the Italian capital. Tour Highlights Customizable Itinerary Your journey begins with a personalized itinerary tailored to your interests and schedule. Whether you want to immerse yourself in ancient history, marvel at Renaissance art, or enjoy a leisurely stroll through Rome’s piazzas, our expert drivers will ensure a seamless experience. Luxury Transportation Travel in a spacious, air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz vehicle, providing you with the utmost comfort and style. Your professional, English-speaking chauffeur will share local insights and stories to enhance your journey.

From $424 USD

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5.0 (3 reviews)
Rome in 2 Days Colosseum, Vatican and Appian Way Catacombs Tours

Rome in 2 Days Colosseum, Vatican and Appian Way Catacombs Tours

INSTANT_THEN_MANUAL

BEST OF ROME EXCLUSIVE SMALL GROUP TOUR | Discover the best of Rome in 2 days guided tour! Go back and learn about one of the most significant civilizations with the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum guided tour. Take a small break and start an in-depth experience in one of the Catacombs on the Ancient Appian Way. Descending into a complex network of underground tunnels, among the longest in the world, you'll marvel at ancient frescoes, crypts, and mausoleums. You'll also find the burial of famous people like popes, martyrs, and, according to legends, even some apostles. The catacombs we'll visit (San Calisto, San Sebastiano, or Santa Domitilla) will change depending on the day. Continue your experience on the very next day with the Vatican Museum Tour. Explore one of the world's most extraordinary collections of art; pause in the Sistine Chapel, admire Michelangelo's masterpiece, and then visit at your own pace St. Peter's Basilica.

From $392 USD

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5.0 (4 reviews)
Civitavecchia Cruise Port Shore Excursion: Rome Tour Option

Civitavecchia Cruise Port Shore Excursion: Rome Tour Option

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

This impressive Shore Excursion touches the most significant highlights of Rome and Vatican City: • Pantheon • Trevi Fountain • Spanish Steps • Venice Square and the Wedding cake • Roman Forum • Colosseum • Arch of Constantine • Circus Maximus • Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel • St. Peter’s Basilica Square Lunch included in a typical roman restaurant. In Private options are included Skip-The-Line tickets to the Pantheon, Colosseum, Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel St. Peter's Basilica visit and Licensed Tour Guide. Pickup and Dropoff your ship. Worry-free Shore Excursion: We will ensure your timely return to Cruise Port for this activity.

From $701 USD

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5.0 (16 reviews)
Rome and Vatican full day tour

Rome and Vatican full day tour

INSTANT

A private exciting tour of the Eternal city. Pick up and drop off in your Hotel or any other requested location in the city center. Then the tour starts officially: a full tour of major landmarks of Rome, such as Colosseum (from the outside, which is just as amazing), Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Pantheon, Roman Forum, Saint Peter's Square and more. A fun, entertaining private tour driver to whisk you to each location, providing insights, anecdotes and all the information, to learn more. And, cherry on top, An exclusive tour of the Vatican with one of our professional guides, for a private guided tour of Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel (VATICAN SKIP THE LINE TICKETS INCLUDED) After this fun tour, you will reunite with your tour driver and return to your location in Rome for drop off.

From $833 USD

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