Things to do in Rome

Rome is an open-air museum that also happens to be a lively, noisy, delicious modern city. Ancient ruins sit beside baroque piazzas, the Vatican holds some of the world's most celebrated art, and every neighbourhood has a trattoria worth lingering in. The historic centre is compact enough to explore largely on foot.

The most comfortable months are April to early June and late September to October, with warm days and manageable crowds. July and August are hot and busy at the main sites; winter is mild, quieter and a good time for museums. Book the Colosseum and Vatican well ahead, especially from spring to autumn.