A labyrinth of narrow, winding, cobbled side streets that opens out onto magnificent piazzas…

Modern and ancient, the city of Rome encapsulates the essence of Italy. Once known as Caput Mundi – the Capital of the World – travel to Rome, is like an epic with its architectural wonders, outside cafes, people buzzing around on Vespas, whilst others are enjoying shots of espresso.

Centro Storico (Historic Centre) is a labyrinth of narrow, winding, cobbled side streets that opens out onto magnificent piazzas presided over by baroque churches, regal palaces and exquisite fountains. Rome is also famous for the romantic Piazza Navona with Berninis Fountain of the Four Rivers, Piazza di Spagna and its sweeping Spanish Steps, and the Trevi Fountain immortalised by Fellini’s La Dolce Vita (1959), all lie within walking distance of each other.

Travelling to Rome one must journey across the river, to the west, to visit the Vatican State - home to the Pope and spiritual centre of the Roman Catholic Church with its incredible Cathedral. South of the Vatican, one finds the bohemian quarter of Trastevere, packed with trattorie and small wine bars. Further south still is the Testaccio district, renowned for nightclubs and live music.

When to travel to Rome

The best time to visit this destination is in autumn (September/October) or spring (April/May) when the city is blessed with a warm Mediterranean climate.

In August, it is hot and sticky and most of the locals head for the coast - many shops and bars close for the summer break and the streets are strangely empty save for visitors.