Capital and largest city of Italy
“Architecturally and culturally, Rome has some contrasts - you have areas with pompously huge majestic palaces, avenues and basilicas, which are then surrounded by tiny alleyways, little churches and old houses.”
Rome is the capital and largest city of Italy. It is also the administrative centre of the Lazio region and of the Metropolitan City of Rome. A special municipality named Roma Capitale with a population of 2.7 million in an area of 1,287.36 km2 (497.1 mi2), Rome is the third most populous city in the European Union by population within city limits. The Metropolitan City of Rome Capital, with a population of 4.2 million, is the most populous metropolitan city in Italy. Its metropolitan area is the third-most populous within Italy. Rome is located in the central-western portion of the Italian Peninsula, within Lazio (Latium), along the shores of the Tiber Valley. Vatican City—the smallest country in the world and headquarters of the worldwide Catholic Church under the governance of the Holy See—is an independent country within Rome's municipal boundaries, the only existing example of a country within a city. Rome is often referred to as the "City of Seven Hills" due to its geography, and also as the "Eternal City". Rome is generally considered to be one of the cradles of Western civilization and Western Christian culture, and the centre of the Catholic Church.
What it’s like to be here — and what to go and see.
Mild weather and blooming scenery set the stage for relaxed exploration.
Peak season buzz and golden light make every outing feel like an event.
Crisp air and golden colors set a peaceful backdrop for wandering.
Crisp, quiet days offer a peaceful way to take in the sights.
A rough, general read — not a precise guide.
Sights are a little more spread out, but still easily walkable.
Getting around by metro, regional trains, trams and buses is easy, and a car is rarely needed.
Heavy traffic is typical for a city this size, though taxis are a convenient way around it.
Pick a category to see what’s there.
