Why visit
Rome layers 2,500 years in walking distance. Colosseum, Forum, Pantheon, Trastevere's trattorias, and the Vatican. Every district is a history lesson.
Rome at a glance
City population
2.9 million
Metro: 4.3 million
Elevation
21 m
69 ft
Time zone
UTC+1 (UTC+2 DST)
Europe/Rome
Airport
FCO
Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino
Founded
753 BCE (by tradition)
Getting around
Metro (3 lines), trams, buses
Signature dish
Cacio e pepe, carbonara, supplì, Roman-style pizza
Neighborhoods for travelers
TrastevereMontiCentro StoricoTestaccio
Italy at a glance
Country center
42.8°, 12.8°
Coast
Has coastline
Country area
301,336 km²
116,346 mi²
Country population
58.9 million
195/km²
Subregion
Southern Europe
Currency
Euro (€)
EUR
Dial
+39
Language
Italian
Demonym
Italian
Internet
.it
UN
Member state
ISO code
IT / ITA
Where in the world
42.8° · 12.8°
Italy
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Did you know
- Romans built roads so well that some are still used today: the Appian Way is 2,300+ years old.
- The Trevi Fountain collects ~€1.5 million per year in thrown coins, donated to Catholic charities.
- The Colosseum had retractable awnings (velarium) operated by sailors to shade 50,000+ spectators.
- Italy has more UNESCO World Heritage Sites than any other country (60+).
- Venice is built on over 100 small islands in a lagoon, connected by 400+ bridges.
Bordering Italy
Traveler notes
- Vatican Museums book in advance
- Rome Pass covers transport + first two museums
- Testaccio for food markets less packed with tourists
Plan checks
- Choose a neighborhood first: many capitals have tourist centers that are not the best places to stay.
- Public transport passes usually beat taxis and rideshares for multi-day visits.
- Reserve top restaurants 2–4 weeks out and plan two standout meals per city.
- Check opening days. Major sites close on Mondays or Tuesdays in many countries.
Explore more
Frequently asked about Rome
What currency is used in Rome?
Rome uses the Euro (€), ISO code EUR.
What languages are spoken in Italy?
The primary language is Italian.
What is the international calling code for Italy?
The calling code is +39.
What airport serves Rome?
Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino (IATA: FCO).
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