Rome, Italy is one of the most famous, beautiful and captivating cities in the whole world. The symbolism of the Vatican, the timelessness of the Forum, the staying power of the Colosseum, and the beauty of the Trevi Fountain all add to the wonder that is Rome.

Roma, Italia, as it is referred to by the Italians, is halfway down Italy's western coast, 12 miles inland. Rome, with a population of over 3 million is the capital of Italy and home of the pope, whose residence, Vatican City, is a sovereign state within the city of Rome. Rome is also the capital of Latium, a region of central Italy. It lies on both banks of the Tiber and Aniene Rivers and is nestled between the Apennine Mountains and the Tyrrhenian Sea. 

Rome means history.  You cannot go anywhere in Rome without seeing its vast and complicated history evident through its landmarks. As a basic overview of a very long and complex history: people have lived in Rome for a very long time. Roman history is usually divided into three main periods: before the rise of Rome, the Roman Republic, and the Roman Empire. All of which had a great impact on the city that Rome is today.

While a large part of Rome is centered on its amazing history, that is not all that Rome has to offer. Rome is a city bursting with tourists, friendly people, delicious cuisine, and unparalleled culture. The main tourist season in Rome starts at Easter and runs until October, where Rome is alive with festivals and events to keep everyone interested. One of the main events in Rome is Holy Week where people from around the world make the journey to Rome to hear the Pope give his address at the Vatican and to take part in this very unique event. Rome also means attractions. Rome is packed to the brim with numerous attractions that symbolize Rome in an unparalleled way. The Colosseum, Pantheon, Roman Forum, Trevi Fountain, Vatican City and Spanish Steps are just a few of Rome’s world famous attractions that are not to be missed by anyone visiting Rome. Below is some information about the most popular tourist attractions in Rome:

The Colosseum
The Colosseum, with its history, awe factor, and architectural brilliance, is the recognized symbol of Rome. The Colosseum has truly stood the test of time. When visiting the Colosseum, especially on the weekend, be prepared to stand in line for several hours to get the chance to see the inside. Also be prepared to pay a quite substantial fee for going inside. The going rate is usually ten euros and up. But once inside, it will be well worth the wait and the added cost. Around the outside of the Colosseum will be a number of street vendors and people trying to sell souvenirs. If they see anyone who looks like a tourist, they will likely come up and try to sell you something. These vendors are usually harmless, but everyone, especially women, should take extra caution here and everywhere else in the city. The Colosseum is truly a wonder that is not to be missed when visiting Rome.

The Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is one of the most popular tourist attractions in all of Rome. With its stunning architecture, it is easy to see why. The Trevi fountain is a must-see by anyone visiting Rome, but just be prepared for crowds when you go, especially in the summer months.

Vatican City
The Vatican is the symbol and heart of the Catholic Church, Vatican City is an independent country lying in the center of Rome. As with many other of the attractions in Rome, when you visit the Vatican be prepared for long lines and crowds. When I was in Rome, the wait to get inside the Sistine chapel alone took three hours. But once inside, it was well worth the wait. As with many of the other cathedrals and churches throughout Italy, to be allowed admittance into the Vatican, shoulders, stomachs and upper legs must be covered. A stunning and culturally significant site, Vatican City is one not to be missed.

The Spanish Steps
The Spanish Steps are one of the truly unique and beautiful symbols of Rome. Aside from being a beautiful and culturally significant site, there is also great stores, such as Gucci and Prada, within feet of the steps that will please even the most seasoned shopper. 

Rome, often called the Eternal City, is one of the world's richest cities in history and art and one of its greatest cultural, religious, and intellectual centers.