Rome is a beautiful city with a rich history that spans centuries. With so much to do and see in this bustling metropolis, there might be a lot of questions running through your mind. For example, where is Rome, what makes Rome unique, what’s the weather like, and many more. Well, without any further delay, let’s get to it!
Where Is Rome?
Where Is Rome?
Rome is the capital of Italy, and it’s also one of Europe’s oldest cities. The city has a metro population of over three million people, making it the country’s largest municipality by both area and population. Rome is located in central Italy on a large river with the same name (Tiber River). It’s situated about 80 kilometers away from both Tuscany and Campania. Hope this helps you answer – where is Rome!
Where Is Rome On The Map?
How To Get There?
To get here by air, you will need to fly into either Rome’s Leonardo Da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport or Ciampino Airport, which are 39km apart from each other. Both airports provide transportation services for local loops around the city centre and direct lines outside of it like the Fiumicino Express train service. To get here by train, you will want to use the Rome Termini station, a central hub in Rome with direct connections all around Europe and beyond.
If your looking for transport within the city itself, then look no further than bus lines COTRAL (local) or ALIBUS (longer distances). You can catch a taxi right outside of Fiumicino Airport without any difficulties but make sure they turn on their meter before departing towards the city town centre.
Transportation options in Rome vary greatly depending upon your budget. There are many public transportation options available: buses, trams, and the metro. The bus system in Rome is extensive, and it will get you anywhere for a very affordable price! Uber is also very convenient and available throughout the city.
Facts About Rome
- Rome was founded on 21 April, around 27 BC, by Italian leader Octavian who later became known as Augustus Caesar after defeating his rivals, Mark Antony and Cleopatra.
- Rome was initially called “Aenaria”. The term comes from the Latin ‘insula,’ which means island.
- Rome’s population is around three million people.
- The Colosseum, located in Rome, is the largest amphitheater in the world. It was built by the Romans over 2000 years ago for gladiator games.
- There are over 300 churches within Rome itself!
- St Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City, and Sistine Chapel make up a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s worth a visit.
- An important fact about Vatican City – It is the world’s smallest country and is located within Rome. It covers just 0.44 square kilometers and has a population of around 840 people.
- Rome gets pretty hot during the summer months – temperatures can hover between 30˚C to 40˚C. Much like most Mediterranean climates, it does tend to be very rainy between November and March though.
- All you need to enjoy your time in Rome is a camera, a credit card, and a lot of patience as it can get quite crowded. Rome has and will always be a very popular tourist destination!
- Italy’s flag has three vertical bands in it – green, white, and red. These colors were also used by the French when fighting for their independence during the early 1800s, but after Napoleon came along they became popularized as Italian national colors too.
Places To Visit In Rome
There is no shortage of things to do when visiting Rome. A few notable attractions include:
- The Colosseum: The Colosseum is the largest amphitheater in the world and was built by the Romans for gladiator games over 2000 years ago.
- Piazza Navona: It has three fountains designed by Bernini (the most famous architect in Italy and of all time). It also features many sculptures created by other notable artists including Fontana, Algardi, and Carpegna.
- Fontana Di Trevi: If you’re looking to get lucky then throw a coin into Rome’s iconic fountain located in Piazza di Trevi! The fountain was designed by Nicola Salvi and work began in 1732. There are many rumours surrounding the Trevi Fountain, including one that says if you throw a coin into it then you’ll return to Rome some day. We have tested the rumour and stand behind it wholeheartedly!
- The Pantheon: Another amazing attraction near Piazza di Trevi is the Pantheon which dates back to 125 AD. Its construction was started by Agrippa during the reign of Augustus. It used to be a Roman temple but is now a church! Dedicated to all the major deities including Jupiter (the chief god), Minerva (goddess of craftsmen), and Juno (Queen of Gods), the Pantheon has been standing for over 2000 years but due to its location, it wasn’t preserved until the 14th century AD when Pope Boniface VIII decided it should be a church instead.
- The Roman Forum: This ancient marketplace was once used for business, politics and law-making. It’s another UNESCO World Heritage Site located within Rome itself and very close to the Colosseum!
- St Peter’s Basilica: The St Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City features many artworks including Michelangelo’s Pietà, his famous fresco on the ceiling, and finally sculptures by Bernini such as the Baldacchino.
- Sistine Chapel: Another one of Rome’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites that shouldn’t be missed when traveling to Italy. It was designed for Pope Sixtus IV and built between 1477 & 1480 AD. Michelangelo, being quite popular at the time, was commissioned to paint the Sistine Chapel ceiling between 1508 and 1512. The paintings include many iconic biblical scenes such as Adam and Eve’s expulsion from Eden along with God giving life to Adam; however, some people believe that the masterpiece also contains a self-portrait of Michelangelo himself.
- Vatican City: Vatican city covers just 0.44 square kilometers but it holds some incredible attractions including St Peter’s Basilica (see above), The Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel (see above), and finally the famous Raphael Rooms. The Raphael rooms are frescos painted mostly by Italian artist Raphael Sanzio who lived between 1483-1520 AD – worth checking out if you’re an art lover!
- The Spanish Steps: The Spanish Steps are an iconic landmark in Rome and were designed by the Italian architect Francesco de Sanctis. They lead up to a beautiful park which makes for a great spot to sit back, relax and take in some of the sites around you!
- Via Condotti (shopping street): Home to some of the most famous designer brands!
The Roman Cuisine
Rome is known for its amazing cuisine. There are so many different dishes to try when you visit the city, but among them, there are some particular ones that stand out from all of the rest. Some examples include pasta carbonara, spaghetti amatriciana and fettuccine alfredo.
One thing not to miss while in Rome would be visiting a restaurant with family or friends. A lot of people think that going on holiday means eating at McDonalds every day which isn’t true at all! You can eat very well here without spending too much money either. Another great activity during your time in Rome includes learning how to make Italian food with cooking classes. This is a great way to learn about local recipes and cuisine!
Weather In Rome & The Best Time To Visit
Rome’s climate is typical of Italy and it can get quite hot in the summer months. That said, you also run into a high chance of rain during those times as well so I would recommend visiting Rome during spring or autumn. This gives you the best weather without having to deal with extreme heat or cold temperatures.
We have been to Rome in February, July, and October. Without a shred of doubt, October was our favorite time of the year in Rome. The temperatures were warm enough to wander the cobble-stone streets in summer clothes without feeling too cold.
Another great thing about visiting Rome during these months is that they are low season, which means that it will be much easier to find accommodation and there won’t be as many people in the city when you do arrive. This means you will be able to enjoy Rome like a local and navigate the streets with ease!
Frequently Asked Questions About Rome
What Is The Capital Of Italy?
Rome is the capital of Italy.
Is Rome Safe To Visit?
One common question we get is how safe it is to visit Rome. Well, we can say from experience that the city is absolutely for tourists! Rome has a very low crime rate and the people here are extremely friendly. That said, you will need to be careful of pickpockets.
Is It Safe To Walk Around Rome At Night?
Another question that I get a lot is whether it’s safe to walk around at night which from my experience if you stay in popular tourist areas then yes. Some of Rome’s streets can be quite dark so avoid these and stick with well-lit places where there are likely to be other people walking down as well. It will make your time here much safer and more enjoyable too!
What Is Rome’s Time Zone?
The other thing that most people ask about when they’re considering visiting Rome would be knowing what time zone Italy uses, which is Central European Time (CET). This means that if you live in North America then expect there to be six hours between your bedtime and theirs!
Wrap Up
Rome is an absolutely amazing destination for tourists to visit. There are so many things that you can do here which will make your trip unforgettable! I hope this post has answered any questions about Rome, including where is Rome, and given you some ideas of what activities or sights not to miss when visiting.
Featured Image Credit: WelcomeTeam2020 /Depositphotos.com.