The Eternal City that’s as beguiling as ever
Rome, Italy
Italians have a saying for Rome: non basta una vita. Translation? For Rome, a lifetime is not enough. They aren’t wrong. Italy’s capital offers a thrilling mix of history and art, film-star fountains and world-famous buildings, plus amazing food in vine-clad trattorias. But the capital of Italy isn’t only about ticking off the blockbuster sights: it’s about sipping an espresso in a local café, gorging on gelato or enjoying an Aperol Spritz on a roof terrace. Little wonder then that while Rome is easy to reach, the Eternal City is hard to leave.
Get lost in the Colosseum
Rome’s headline act is the Colosseum, where gladiators used to slug it out for the crowd’s entertainment. The famous amphitheatre was commissioned by Emperor Vespasian, who viewed it as a gift to the Roman people. Of course, it can get crowded but Cosa can arrange a private, out-of-hours tour of the ruins. Get in touch to find out more.
Wonder at the Vatican Museums
Technically in the Vatican City and not Rome, the Vatican Museums are far more than the famous Sistine Chapel. Navigating the myriad museums, gardens, chapels and, yes, crowds (around 25,000 people visit the Vatican each day) can be overwhelming. We know where and when to go so that you’ll have an unforgettable experience.
Zip through the city on a Vespa
Make like Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck in Roman Holiday and breeze around on the back of a Vespa, the iconic Italian scooter. One caveat: Rome is notorious for its high-octane driving so why not swerve the stress and let Cosa organise an expert driver for you. The itinerary can be tailored to your tastes. La dolce vita indeed.
Italian food to die for
When in Rome, you should eat like the locals and we can show you where. Maybe a neighbourhood trattoria that serves up traditional favourites like cacio e pepe. Or an exclusive restaurant that creates the most exquisite art from artichokes. And of course, divine gelato. You certainly won’t go hungry.
Essential Rome
Founded in 753BC, Rome still has many ancient ruins, from the Roman Forum to the Pantheon, an ancient temple to the gods. You could also come for the art in Galleria Borghese and the street life in Piazza Navona. Or to walk down the Spanish Steps and climb up the dome of St Peter’s. Or simply relax and eat pizza. Best of all, Rome is a short hop by plane, or by train – the high-speed Frecciarossa takes only three hours from Milan. Just remember to toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain so that you can come back.
Where it is
Southern Europe
When to go
All year
Why go there
History
Food
Art
What to see
The Colosseum
The Vatican Museums
Roman ruins
