One Week in Rome

What You Should Know Before Going On A Rome Tour

Best Time to Visit Rome

As one of the most popular tourist destinations on Earth, Rome is one of those cities where the time you decide to visit can really make or break your trip. Rome is well known to get very crowded, especially during the summer months when the temperatures skyrocket and the number of people at attractions and in the streets can be overwhelming.

The best seasons to visit are the Fall and the Spring, when temperatures are still pleasant, but the number of tourists are reduced. The winter is also a great time to visit and experience the many pop up festivals and Christmas markets -- temperatures, on average, don’t go below the mid-50’s (Fahrenheit), so even in the coldest months you won’t have to worry about harsh weather or snow.

Food Tours in Rome

Italy is well known to be the land of pizza, pasta, and wine -- among many other delicacies -- and so it make sense that thousands of tourists flock to Italy each year on food & wine tours. Rome, in particular, is a great destination for a food tour.

However, taking a food tour in Rome isn’t about just trying the more authentic version of the dishes you love. It’s also about expanding your palate by trying new foods, and learning the history and process of making the things you get to eat. A good food tour will take you beyond margherita pizza and cannolis, and introduce you to different and unique tastes.

For example, you may not be eating main courses exclusively on your food tour. You may, instead, learn how to taste Italian wine, and distinguish between its varieties. You might also try different kinds of olive oil and balsamic vinegars, two products that Italians are very proud of.

Day Trips from Rome

If you’re going on a tour of Italy, you may find yourself based in Rome. Rome is on the West Coast of central Italy, and while you will, of course, spend some time touring this world renowned travel location and all it has to offer, it’s likely that you will also go on several day-long excursions, and even travel to different parts of Italy.

If you are going on a private tour of Italy or customizing your itinerary, here are some examples of the best day trips from Rome:

1. Pompeii - This illustrious archaeological site is on many a traveler’s bucket list, and is only slightly south of Rome. The complete town takes about 3 hours to tour completely, but it’s worth the time and effort.
2. Florence - Florence can be reached in under two hours, and if you don’t have time to experience the city in full, it definitely deserves at least a day trip while you’re staying in Rome. Seeing the Duomo, and visiting the Firenze Musei should top your list of activities.
3. Ostia Antica - Today, Ostia Lido is one of the best preserved ruins of a Roman sea port, and is currently a well-maintained archaeological site.
4. Tivoli - Take a break from the rush of citylife to see this beautiful small town in the countryside. Tivoli is well known for its elaborate fountains and beautiful gardens.
5. Cerveteri - This town is best known for its city of Etruscan tombs, which lie just outside of the main town. You can visit the local museum to learn more about the Etruscans before you visit.
6. Orvieto - This beautiful medieval town is perched on the hilltops, and its cobblestone streets are lined delicious restaurants and cute boutiques. It is also home to the Orvieto Duomo, a massive cathedral featuring famous facade.