Rome Short Breaks Guide

A corner stone of western civilisation, Rome is arguably the most historically significant city in Europe. It began as a small kingdom about 800 years BC before the kings were overthrown to make a republic 500 years BC. What then followed was the growth of the Roman Empire which dominated much of Europe until its fall in the 5^th century. Rome was the most powerful and most wealthy city in Europe for over a thousand years leaving a legacy which last to this day with monuments and buildings amongst the most visited in the world. The Roman Colosseum receives no less than 4 million visitors a year.

Rome became the seat of the Pope in the 1^st century where the Papacy has remained apart from a brief annexation to Avignon during the 12^th century and the Catholic Schism. The Vatican City has drawn Catholics in their millions who make the pilgrimage to St. Peters Square and its museums.

Rome’s most famous monuments include the Trevi Fountain, the Colosseum, the Arch of Constantine, the Column of Marcus Aurelius, the Spanish Steps, and the Monument to Vittorio Emanuele II.

Getting to Rome
There are many airlines, both low costs and national flying direct to Rome from the UK. Visit our cheap flights to Italy page to find the best deal.

Taking the overnight train from Paris to Rome is now becoming more popular, but you need to book well in advance to get the best fare. The Artesia night train leaves Paris at 18:54 and arrives in Rome at 10:12.

Arriving in Rome
There are two main airports in Rome, Ciampino and Fiumicino. The latter is where the major scheduled airlines like BA fly to while the low cost airlines generally fly to Ciampino. The Airport Express train is a guaranteed service running even during periods of strike action taking 30 minutes to get to the centre of Rome at a cost of 14 Euros. The Metro service (8 Euros) takes somewhat longer, stopping at a number of major termini.

Getting around
You can buy a 1, 3 or 7 day pass to use the public transport system costing €4.00, €11.00 and €16.00 respectively. The Roma pass is €25.00 but only allows you free entrance to the first two museums, after that you get a discount.

Where to stay
Choosing to stay at apartments in Rome is a guaranteed way to ensure you’ll enjoy a wonderful experience of the Eternal City. Equipped with all the essential facilities such as sheets, towels, cooking utilities and more, you’ll be grateful to be able to relax in your own private space after an enjoyable day exploring the sights.