Flights from Melbourne (MEL) to Rome (FCO)

About Rome

Discover Rome

Why visit Rome?
Rome is a city where ancient monuments, grand piazzas, and leafy villas sit alongside lively cafés and contemporary galleries. You can wander between millennia of history in a single afternoon, yet still find quiet corners to pause with a coffee or gelato.

What to expect
The city is centred around landmarks such as the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Trevi Fountain, with characterful neighbourhoods spreading out along the Tiber River. Narrow cobbled streets, elegant boulevards, and open squares invite you to walk, linger, and explore at your own pace.

Plan your trip
Rome works well for a dedicated city break or as the starting point for wider journeys through Italy, from coastal regions to hill towns. With excellent rail connections and domestic flights, it is an ideal gateway for exploring other historic cities and scenic regions across the country.

Top sights in Rome

Colosseum

Step inside this vast amphitheatre to appreciate its monumental scale and learn about its place in ancient Roman life.

Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

Walk among ruins of temples, basilicas, and arches, then climb the hill for sweeping views over the historic heart of Rome.

Trevi Fountain

Admire the baroque sculptures and cascading water of Rome's most famous fountain, set within a lively maze of streets.

Spanish Steps and Piazza di Spagna

Climb the broad staircase for a classic city view and soak up the atmosphere of one of Rome's most elegant squares.

Piazza Navona

Relax in this grand oval square, framed by fountains, palazzi, and terraces where you can sit and watch the world go by.

Trastevere

Cross the river to this characterful district of narrow lanes, small piazzas, and traditional eateries that come alive in the evening.

Villa Borghese Gardens

Escape the busy streets in Rome's central park, where tree-lined paths, a lake, and viewpoints offer space to unwind.

Capitoline Hill and Museums

Visit the hilltop piazza designed by Michelangelo and explore museums that hold important sculptures, paintings, and artefacts.

Experience Rome's everyday rhythm

Getting around
Central Rome is compact enough to explore on foot, with most major sights linked by pleasant walking routes. For longer journeys, the metro, buses, and trams connect key districts, while taxis and ride-hail services help with late-night returns or luggage. Comfortable shoes make a big difference on the cobbles.

Local life & culture
You will notice a relaxed yet energetic rhythm, with mornings in cafés, busy lunchtime trattorias, and evening strolls along main streets and squares. Distinct neighbourhoods each have their own personality, from grand avenues near Via del Corso to quieter residential streets just a few blocks away.

Where to unwind
When you need a break, seek out leafy spaces such as the Villa Borghese Gardens or smaller neighbourhood parks dotted across the city. Riverside paths and lesser-known viewpoints offer peaceful places to sit, especially in the softer light of early morning or late afternoon.

A taste of Rome

Street food & local specialties
In Rome you can try classics such as thin-based pizza al taglio, supplì, and rich pasta dishes in local cafés and simple eateries. Areas near Campo de' Fiori and side streets off main squares are good starting points for discovering traditional flavours.

Casual & modern dining hubs
You will find many casual restaurants clustered around central streets, as well as modern food halls and contemporary bistros. Menus often encourage sharing several smaller plates, so you can sample different dishes across an unhurried meal.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable evening, seek out rooftop terraces or upper-floor restaurants with views over domes and terracotta rooftops. Some venues overlook major landmarks or wide piazzas, creating a special backdrop to a carefully paced meal.

Retail therapy in Rome

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Rome combines historic streets with modern retail spaces, where international brands sit alongside Italian labels. Larger shopping centres and lifestyle hubs offer fashion, homeware, and dining under one roof, making them convenient stops between sightseeing.

Markets & local crafts
For something more individual, explore smaller markets and side streets where artisans showcase leather goods, accessories, and design pieces. Districts around Campo de' Fiori, Monti, and Trastevere are known for small boutiques and independent workshops.

Evening retail scene
As evening falls, central shopping streets remain lively, with illuminated windows and relaxed browsing. Many areas stay active into the night, so you can fit in shopping after a day of exploring. Public transport and taxis make it straightforward to return to your hotel once you are finished.

Best time to visit Rome

Spring, or primavera (March to May), is a shoulder season with mild days around 15–22°C (59–72°F). Parks and terraces are welcoming, and outdoor sightseeing is comfortable, with longer daylight hours supporting relaxed exploration.

Summer, or estate (June to August), is peak season, with temperatures often between 25–32°C (77–90°F). Evenings are warm, encouraging late dinners outdoors and strolls through lively piazzas after the daytime heat softens.

Autumn and winter, or autunno and inverno (September to February), are generally considered low season, with temperatures from 8–20°C (46–68°F). Cooler air and softer light create pleasant conditions for museum visits, city walks, and quieter moments at major landmarks.

Frequently Asked Questions