Rome is one of history's most important cities. Its influence on topics ranging from politics to architecture to sports cannot be overstated. Today, Rome is Italy’s most populated and most visited city with more than 2.7 million residents and 7-10 million tourists.
Most fly into Rome via Rome Leonardo da Vinci (Fiumicino) Airport (airport code FCO) on an Alitalia, NIKI, or Delta Airlines flight. Although 35 kilometres outside the city, Fiumicino handles more than 35 million passengers annually. Ryanair and EasyJet have the most flights out of Rome's smaller, but closer airport, Rome Ciampino Airport (airport code CIA), which accommodates 5 million passengers each year.
With so much history, there are many things to see and do in Rome. On top of most lists is a visit to the Coliseum. Constructed around 70 A.D., the Coliseum is famous for its bloody gladiatorial battles. Still standing today, it is a testament to the architectural acumen of the Roman Empire.
Nearby the Coliseum is the Forum. The Forum was the heart of ancient Rome and contained many municipal buildings, palaces, and was the site of chariot racing. Although the Forum is now ruins, with some imagination one can envision Roman political leaders gathering for business, politics, and pleasure.
Other locations that draw countless tourists are the Vatican, St. Peter's Basilica, the Pantheon, Sistine Chapel, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Piazza Campo dei Fiori, Villa Borghese Gardens, and Palatine Hill.
Food and wine lovers find paradise in Rome as the homemade pasta, Italian meats, never ending meals, and rich wine keep restaurants busy into the night.