The Colosseum
One of the most identified sights of Rome; The Colosseum is a striking sight even from a distance. However there is much more to this than its dramatic outward appearance, so to completely engorge yourself in it take a tour inside and look into its history.

The original purpose of this arena was to hold an audience of more than 50,000 spectators who came to see the lions and gladiators at work.

The area beneath the floor of the Colosseum is a complex of cells, holding areas and paths that were designed to allow animals, gladiators and human sacrifices access to the arena, all without mixing together.

The Pantheon
One of the best preserved sites in the city, The Pantheon is considered to be the forerunner of all modern places of worship, and is also the most copied and imitated of all ancient works!

You will also be able to see the biggest brick dome in the history of architecture, and the entire Pantheon is so stunning that Michelangelo proclaimed that this had to be in fact the work of angels, and not humans! Its location is also of importance to the Italians, as according to Roman legend it is the place where the founder of Rome; Romulus, at his death was seized by an eagle and taken off into the skies with the Gods!

The Pantheon in addition is the final resting place of Raphael; world famous for his paintings made during the Renaissance.

Squares and Fountains
Rome could not be imagined without the remarkable counterpoint of its squares and fountains! You will be able to find the squares of Rome scattered all over the city with numerous points of historical, architectural and tourist interest.

And there is not a square in Rome without a fountain! And each has its own architectural value and history.

Roman Forum
These ruins mark what was once the center of the city and still showcases the seats of power of ancient Rome. Expect to spend at least one afternoon at the Forum for it is a fascinating area with a breathtaking piece of history where Caesar and other emperors of the Roman Empire once walked.

There are numerous sites for you to examine, but the best are the Forum of Caesar, the Temple of Peace (Forum of Vespasian) and the Forum of Trajan. Also make another visit here in the night when the Forum area is illuminated: Head to the Piazza Venezia, and take the steps on the right side of the Monument Vittorio Emanuele II, up to the top where you can catch a dramatic view of the illuminated Forum area.

St Peter’s Basilica
After St Peter; the first pope and leader of the Church, St. Peter's Basilica was built in Rome and is both a breathtaking and inspiring sight and place. For a small fee you will be able to go up Michelangelo’s majestic dome and experience heavenly bird eye views.

St. Peter's is also an extraordinary museum and it is impossible to estimate the priceless worth of the infinite works of art that can be found here. The dress code is strictly no shorts, miniskirts or bare shoulders.

Vatican
A visit to the Vatican will be a highlight of your trip to Rome, whichever faith that you belong to. The areas open to the public are relatively limited, but is enough to inspire your mind and senses...

A thorough tour of the Vatican Museums will take at least half a day, so leave time for it as this is not something that you want to miss out on.

Audience with the Pope
You will be able to meet the Pope on Wednesday’s at 11 am at St Peters Basilica but will require tickets for it which are issued free of charge. For free tickets, write to the Prefettura della Casa Pontificia, 00120 Città del Vaticano.

If you're already in Rome, call or visit the Prefettura (06 698 84 631; h 09:00 - 13:00 ) In addition, when he is in town, the Pope also blesses the people in St Peter's Square on Sundays at noon and no tickets are required for this.

Arch of Constantine
This is the largest and best preserved of the ancient Roman arches, and is located between the Colosseum and the Roman Forums. It acts to give you a sense of history and the grandeur that was once the Roman Empire.

So take some time to examine this impressive monument in detail.

Piazza di Spagna
This includes the famous Spanish steps that lead from the piazza to the church Trinità dei Monte. It is almost a must for tourists to go here and be photographed on the Spanish steps!!!

There are also plenty of restaurants around here which are very popular amongst both locals and tourists.

The Romans eat and drink merrily
These are the modern day Romans. They eat, they drink and they are very chilled about everything! People in Rome encapsulate the spirit of the city.

When you pass a café the tables outside are animated with people drinking coffee, the way that only the Italians do. Food and drink is serious business and is not taken lightly. So do as the Romans and enjoy your vacation chilled out and enjoy both the good food offered and the process of eating it!

Costs
Rome is not Italy’s most expensive city, but then again it is only second to Venice! As a visitor, your biggest expenditure is going to be on accommodation.

The historic center is much more expensive to stay at than those around Stazione Termini so you might consider staying there.

When to go
Considering its in Europe, Rome enjoys a typically Mediterranean climate!

Summer is from June to September and it can get as hot as 37°C with high humidity! Winters tend to be moderate with temperatures averaging around 10°C to 15°C between December and February.

So the best times to visit Rome are during spring (March to June) and early autumn (September and October).

Getting there and around
Being a bustling city Rome can be easily accessed through direct flights from across the world and also hundreds of European connections.

Travelling around the city can be easily and cheaply done through Rome’s comprehensive public transport system.

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Singapore Airlines flies twice a week to Rome.

Book your flight to Rome on - www.singaporeair.com.lk