Rome is already the kind of destination that endless people have on their bucket list and dream of visiting at least once in a lifetime. As the major stop on the Grand Tour, a practice by which British and European nobles set out for months or years to travel and take in Europe after finishing their studies, Rome has also historically been one of the world's major tourism destinations since even before mass tourism was established and there are plenty of good reasons for that. It is undeniably an astounding centre of western art and incredible creations from the time of the Ancient Romans to the present day. History is wherever you turn, there are famous landmarks dotted throughout, and there is a truly endless list of things to see and do. In fact, it has been estimated that one would need several years of unbroken excursions throughout the city to visit all of the Eternal City's attractions. However, if you don't have years and years to spend on travelling and you're looking for some good reasons to finally plan that vacation in Rome today then here are just five excellent traits that make it a perfect holiday destination and that might sway you into action...
1. History truly is everywhere you go...
There are lots of destinations across Italy where a rich historical heritage has been well-preserved and lives on to this day. Rome is, of course, one of the very best examples of this that there is. Many different periods throughout history can be seen and felt in monuments and architectural styles littered all around you. As you wander about, certain pockets of the city can even feel as though time has somehow stood still there. It is a truly magical thing to experience and witness. Whether you are visiting Ancient Roman ruins and world-class tourist attractions and landmarks such as the iconic Colosseum and the stunning Pantheon or you are touring the endless array of lesser-known ruins, baths, temples, works of art, gladiatorial games acted out by performers, recreations of ancient life and settlements, and more, you'll find that the Empire that once ruled a large chunk of the world is not actually completely gone and can very much be felt today. If you are interested in the Middle Ages, meanwhile, you'll find astounding churches, amazing works of art, and fascinating areas such as the medieval Trastevere neighbourhood across the Tiber with its bohemian tangle of little old streets lined with bars and eateries. Of course, the Renaissance and the Baroque periods are also well-represented with the grand architectural works of later papal regimes and galleries stuffed with the paintings and sculptures by great masters located all over the city.
There are lots of destinations across Italy where a rich historical heritage has been well-preserved and lives on to this day. Rome is, of course, one of the very best examples of this that there is. Many different periods throughout history can be seen and felt in monuments and architectural styles littered all around you. As you wander about, certain pockets of the city can even feel as though time has somehow stood still there. It is a truly magical thing to experience and witness. Whether you are visiting Ancient Roman ruins and world-class tourist attractions and landmarks such as the iconic Colosseum and the stunning Pantheon or you are touring the endless array of lesser-known ruins, baths, temples, works of art, gladiatorial games acted out by performers, recreations of ancient life and settlements, and more, you'll find that the Empire that once ruled a large chunk of the world is not actually completely gone and can very much be felt today. If you are interested in the Middle Ages, meanwhile, you'll find astounding churches, amazing works of art, and fascinating areas such as the medieval Trastevere neighbourhood across the Tiber with its bohemian tangle of little old streets lined with bars and eateries. Of course, the Renaissance and the Baroque periods are also well-represented with the grand architectural works of later papal regimes and galleries stuffed with the paintings and sculptures by great masters located all over the city.
From cobblestones older than many countries to pretty little tangles of alleys, to famous attractions, to museums and galleries, to views little changed by time and beyond, Rome's rich historical tapestry is picturesque, fascinating, readily felt, and all around. History-lovers and those who want to fall back in time from modernity for moments at a time will feel very much at home if they find a villa in Rome and come experience it for themselves.
2. Art and Architecture
Of course, when we talk about the history of Rome, it includes the rich artistic and architectural heritage of the city. However, these two elements are worth mentioning in their own right. Beyond their historical context and wider importance, the unbelievable power of their pure aesthetic value is undeniable and, if you have found a vacation rental in Rome, you will quickly come to realise that there are enough extraordinary masterpieces in the city to keep you endlessly stunned. As noted above, just wandering about the city is delightful and you'll find plenty of impressive architectural and artistic beauties to admire such as objects that might be banal in other places like the city's wonderful fountains, amazing murals and contemporary street art projects in areas like Quadraro and Ostiense that pop up all the time, famous and large-scale architectural projects like Bernini's work at St Peter's basilica, and more. If you then plan trips to the city's specific attractions you'll get to see mind-boggling and culture-defining works of art like Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel, the priceless art horde of the Vatican Museums, and palaces and noble homes with art collections in situ. More serious art lovers, meanwhile, can really devote more intense itineraries to following the likes of Caravaggio and Michelangelo and their life and works all over the city. The world of art in Rome is your oyster!
Of course, when we talk about the history of Rome, it includes the rich artistic and architectural heritage of the city. However, these two elements are worth mentioning in their own right. Beyond their historical context and wider importance, the unbelievable power of their pure aesthetic value is undeniable and, if you have found a vacation rental in Rome, you will quickly come to realise that there are enough extraordinary masterpieces in the city to keep you endlessly stunned. As noted above, just wandering about the city is delightful and you'll find plenty of impressive architectural and artistic beauties to admire such as objects that might be banal in other places like the city's wonderful fountains, amazing murals and contemporary street art projects in areas like Quadraro and Ostiense that pop up all the time, famous and large-scale architectural projects like Bernini's work at St Peter's basilica, and more. If you then plan trips to the city's specific attractions you'll get to see mind-boggling and culture-defining works of art like Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel, the priceless art horde of the Vatican Museums, and palaces and noble homes with art collections in situ. More serious art lovers, meanwhile, can really devote more intense itineraries to following the likes of Caravaggio and Michelangelo and their life and works all over the city. The world of art in Rome is your oyster!
3. Mild Weather
A great boon of the city is that it is perfectly located to boast mild weather throughout much of the year, making it easy to plan a holiday in Rome whenever you please. Head in the spring and you'll find temperatures steadily rising and plenty of sunny days while greenery bursts into life and flower petals tumble across the cobbles. This is when you can get a bit of sun without sweating overly as you dart all over the city and is a great time of year for those who want to see lots during their trip. Similarly, autumn in Rome is warm at the beginning of the season and not very cold even as winter approaches and is made even more beautiful with the soft light and golden and red hues of the leaves against the city's great marble landmarks and architectural gems. During winter it can get very cold and snow is not uncommon but once you're wrapped up, the twinkling lights and festivities of Christmas and New Year lend a special magic to the city. Finally, in summer, you'll find buzzing excitement and hot days for those who truly worship the sun and aren't put off by getting sweaty.
A great boon of the city is that it is perfectly located to boast mild weather throughout much of the year, making it easy to plan a holiday in Rome whenever you please. Head in the spring and you'll find temperatures steadily rising and plenty of sunny days while greenery bursts into life and flower petals tumble across the cobbles. This is when you can get a bit of sun without sweating overly as you dart all over the city and is a great time of year for those who want to see lots during their trip. Similarly, autumn in Rome is warm at the beginning of the season and not very cold even as winter approaches and is made even more beautiful with the soft light and golden and red hues of the leaves against the city's great marble landmarks and architectural gems. During winter it can get very cold and snow is not uncommon but once you're wrapped up, the twinkling lights and festivities of Christmas and New Year lend a special magic to the city. Finally, in summer, you'll find buzzing excitement and hot days for those who truly worship the sun and aren't put off by getting sweaty.
4. Food & Drink
Food and drink are always two pertinent reasons to holiday all over Italy as there will always be a host of delicious things to taste. However, Rome, in particular, boasts a truly endless selection of bars, restaurants, cafes, markets, grocery stores, and more. It is, furthermore, the birthplace of many of Italy's favourite dishes, making it the perfect place for serious foodies to sample Italian cuisine. If you have found a villa in Rome, there is an endless list of classic Roman dishes to try from Roman-style pizza which features dough that has been left to raise for one to three days, making the crust exceptionally light and airy and easy to digest, and is is unique to the city; to famous Roman artichokes served braised or fried; from delicious and rich Spaghetti alla Carbonara made perfectly in its hometown; to the traditional and simple but utterly wonderful Cacio e Pepe pasta. If you want to double up on foodie adventures, be sure to make time to head to the Campo dei Fiori, a town square in the centre of the city that is a bustling market with fresh produce, baked goods, souvenirs, and more during the day and a bustling hot spot by night where there are lots of eateries and bars to explore. Best of all, with pizza available all over the city by the slice as well as whole, many restaurants serving a pre-dinner unlimited buffet from as little as ten euro per person between around 6.30 and 8pm, and so much of the city's cuisine coming from its cucina povera (peasant cuisine) heritage, you'll be able to eat really well without breaking the bank while in Rome! Just avoid some of the more packed restaurants in touristy areas and you'll find plenty of tasty bargains. So, if you love to eat and you love to eat well, Rome is an ideal holiday destination!
Food and drink are always two pertinent reasons to holiday all over Italy as there will always be a host of delicious things to taste. However, Rome, in particular, boasts a truly endless selection of bars, restaurants, cafes, markets, grocery stores, and more. It is, furthermore, the birthplace of many of Italy's favourite dishes, making it the perfect place for serious foodies to sample Italian cuisine. If you have found a villa in Rome, there is an endless list of classic Roman dishes to try from Roman-style pizza which features dough that has been left to raise for one to three days, making the crust exceptionally light and airy and easy to digest, and is is unique to the city; to famous Roman artichokes served braised or fried; from delicious and rich Spaghetti alla Carbonara made perfectly in its hometown; to the traditional and simple but utterly wonderful Cacio e Pepe pasta. If you want to double up on foodie adventures, be sure to make time to head to the Campo dei Fiori, a town square in the centre of the city that is a bustling market with fresh produce, baked goods, souvenirs, and more during the day and a bustling hot spot by night where there are lots of eateries and bars to explore. Best of all, with pizza available all over the city by the slice as well as whole, many restaurants serving a pre-dinner unlimited buffet from as little as ten euro per person between around 6.30 and 8pm, and so much of the city's cuisine coming from its cucina povera (peasant cuisine) heritage, you'll be able to eat really well without breaking the bank while in Rome! Just avoid some of the more packed restaurants in touristy areas and you'll find plenty of tasty bargains. So, if you love to eat and you love to eat well, Rome is an ideal holiday destination!
5. La Dolce Vita
Rome is a serious looker, there is really no denying it. As you wander about, you will be able to take in world-famous sights and pretty little streets and incredible feats of architecture. As you climb hills, walk out onto terraces, and head to the roofs of different buildings you'll take in the most exceptionally beautiful skyline and watch majestic sunsets as the sun dips behind that lovely cityscape. As you simply sit to take a break and enjoy a coffee or a gelato, you'll see stylish locals stroll past, families enjoy long and luxurious meals together, and life moving slower than many other places around the world, despite it being a major global capital. Life is, indeed, rather sweet in Rome. Sure, there is chaos and not everything is perfect, as is the case with any major metropolitan area but many Romans maintain a pretty good work-life balance and life here is quite relaxed. Coming on holiday to Rome means doing as the Romans do and prioritising relaxing with your loved ones, loosening your shoulders, slowing your own pace, eating good meals and drink good wine over the course of a couple of hours, forgetting your worries, ignoring minor mishaps or annoyances that might normally irritate you, and fully giving into the undeniable magic of the city. Take in those incredibly famous sights, make a wish at the Trevi Fountain, take a break and sit on the Spanish Steps, see the wonder of the Sistine Chapel with your own eyes, and fall completely in love with Rome.
If you have ever considered finding a luxury villa in Rome and coming to see the Eternal City for yourself, these are just five of the many, many, endless reasons as to why it makes a truly extraordinary holiday destination in Italy. Finally tick it off that bucket list and come and experience the majestic beauty and the utterly unique charms of the city first-hand...
Rome is a serious looker, there is really no denying it. As you wander about, you will be able to take in world-famous sights and pretty little streets and incredible feats of architecture. As you climb hills, walk out onto terraces, and head to the roofs of different buildings you'll take in the most exceptionally beautiful skyline and watch majestic sunsets as the sun dips behind that lovely cityscape. As you simply sit to take a break and enjoy a coffee or a gelato, you'll see stylish locals stroll past, families enjoy long and luxurious meals together, and life moving slower than many other places around the world, despite it being a major global capital. Life is, indeed, rather sweet in Rome. Sure, there is chaos and not everything is perfect, as is the case with any major metropolitan area but many Romans maintain a pretty good work-life balance and life here is quite relaxed. Coming on holiday to Rome means doing as the Romans do and prioritising relaxing with your loved ones, loosening your shoulders, slowing your own pace, eating good meals and drink good wine over the course of a couple of hours, forgetting your worries, ignoring minor mishaps or annoyances that might normally irritate you, and fully giving into the undeniable magic of the city. Take in those incredibly famous sights, make a wish at the Trevi Fountain, take a break and sit on the Spanish Steps, see the wonder of the Sistine Chapel with your own eyes, and fall completely in love with Rome.
If you have ever considered finding a luxury villa in Rome and coming to see the Eternal City for yourself, these are just five of the many, many, endless reasons as to why it makes a truly extraordinary holiday destination in Italy. Finally tick it off that bucket list and come and experience the majestic beauty and the utterly unique charms of the city first-hand...