Flights from San Francisco (SFO) to Rome (FCO)

About Rome

Discover Rome

Why visit Rome?
Rome is a city where ancient stones, elegant piazzas, and lively streets come together in a single captivating setting. You will find iconic landmarks at almost every turn, along with everyday neighbourhoods where people gather in cafés and leafy squares.

What to expect
The historic centre is compact and walkable, framed by sights such as the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Trevi Fountain. Beyond these landmarks, areas like Trastevere and Monti offer a relaxed village feel, with narrow lanes, small boutiques, and local hangouts that reveal Rome at a gentler pace.

Plan your trip
Rome is a rewarding destination in its own right and a natural gateway to the rest of Italy. High-speed trains link the capital to cities such as Florence, Naples, and Milan, while nearby countryside and coastal towns make easy day trips during a longer stay.

Top sights in Rome

Colosseum

Explore the vast amphitheatre that once hosted grand spectacles and enjoy views over the surrounding ancient ruins.

Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

Walk through the heart of ancient civic life and climb Palatine Hill for sweeping views of Rome and its archaeological sites.

Trevi Fountain

Visit this exuberant Baroque fountain, where sculptures, cascading water, and surrounding palaces create a striking city scene.

Spanish Steps

Climb the elegant staircase connecting Piazza di Spagna to the Trinità dei Monti area and watch the city flow around you.

Piazza Navona

Spend time in this oval-shaped square, known for its fountains, street artists, and lively café terraces.

Trastevere

Cross the river to wander cobbled lanes, discover small shops, and enjoy the relaxed, local feel of this historic district.

Villa Borghese Gardens

Stroll or cycle through these central gardens for greenery, viewpoints over Rome, and access to the renowned Galleria Borghese.

Capitoline Museums

Step into one of the world’s oldest public museums to see classical sculptures, paintings, and panoramic views of the Forum.

Experience Rome’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
You can explore much of central Rome on foot, with the metro and buses helping you cover longer distances efficiently. Taxis and licensed ride-hailing services work well late at night or with luggage. For a different perspective, consider a guided cycling tour along the river and quieter streets.

Local life & culture
Daily life in Rome unfolds in neighbourhood piazzas, where locals meet for coffee in the morning and conversation in the evening. Small galleries, theatres, and cultural venues host exhibitions and performances throughout the year. As you move between districts, you will notice subtle shifts in pace and character that reveal the city’s many layers.

Where to unwind
Green spaces such as Villa Borghese, Villa Doria Pamphilj, and the Appian Way Regional Park offer welcome escapes from the city’s busy streets. Early mornings are ideal for quieter walks and soft light over the rooftops. In the evening, parks and terraces become pleasant spots to sit, relax, and enjoy the cooler air.

A taste of Rome

Street food & local specialties
In Rome, you can try classics such as thin-crust pizza by the slice, supplì, and fresh pasta in traditional trattorias. Areas around Testaccio, Trastevere, and the historic centre are known for long-established eateries and modern takes on local recipes.

Casual & modern dining hubs
You will find many relaxed restaurants and wine bars in neighbourhoods like Monti, Pigneto, and Prati, as well as in contemporary food halls. Menus often mix Roman favourites with wider Italian flavours, and smaller portions or shared plates make it easy to sample a variety of dishes.

Signature & scenic dining
For a special occasion, consider dining on rooftops or terraces with views of domes and monuments, or in elegant townhouses converted into restaurants. Some venues overlook major landmarks or quiet courtyards, creating memorable settings to pair with carefully prepared menus.

Retail therapy in Rome

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Rome offers a mix of central shopping streets and larger malls on the city’s edge, where you can find international brands, Italian labels, and entertainment facilities. These centres are convenient places to combine shopping with dining and a relaxed afternoon indoors.

Markets & local crafts
Neighbourhood streets in areas such as Monti, Trastevere, and around Campo de’ Fiori host small boutiques, vintage shops, and stalls selling locally made items. Here you can look for accessories, homeware, and design pieces that reflect the city’s style.

Evening retail scene
In the evening, streets near Via del Corso and the Spanish Steps remain lively, with illuminated shopfronts and cafés extending your time in the area. Occasional night markets and extended opening hours add to the atmosphere, and public transport makes it straightforward to return to your accommodation afterwards.

Best time to visit Rome

Primavera (spring, March to May, 10–22°C / 50–72°F, shoulder season)
Spring in Rome brings mild temperatures, blossoming parks, and longer daylight hours. It is a pleasant time for walking tours and outdoor cafés, with a generally relaxed atmosphere as the city warms up.

Estate (summer, June to August, 20–32°C / 68–90°F, peak season)
Summer is warm to hot, with bright days and lively evenings in piazzas and open-air venues. Many events move outdoors, and early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for visiting major sights and enjoying city views.

Autunno e inverno (autumn and winter, September to February, 4–20°C / 39–68°F, low season)
Autumn starts mild and gradually cools, while winter stays relatively moderate compared with many northern cities. This period often feels calmer at key attractions, with softer light for photography and a slower pace in many neighbourhoods.

Frequently Asked Questions