Rome

Built under Emperor Vespasian in A.D. 70-72 and completed by his son Titus 10 years later, the Flavian Amphitheatre, or the Colosseum, is a massive stone arena, which at its peak, could accommodate 80,000 spectators. As in the movie 'Gladiator,' the Colosseum has hosted violent and brutal displays of gladiatorial combats and wild animal fights, all just for the delight of crowds. The inauguration lasted one hundred days, and approximately 9,000 animals and 2,000 gladiators were killed during the event. Today, the Colosseum is Rome's most visited sight, which never fails to leave visitors awe-struck. Be sure to also come here at night when it looks even more magical.

Designed by Salvi and completed by Pannini in 1762, the striking Fontana di Trevi amazes onlookers with its 26.3-metre height and 49.15-metre width, making it the largest Baroque fountain in the city and the most famous one in the world. Famous on screen in films such as Roman Holiday and Fellini’s La Dolce Vita, it remains a magnet for visitors who toss coins over their shoulders for luck.

Sandwiched between the Palatine and Capitoline hills, the Forum Romanum (Roman Forum) is an open-air forum that was once the commercial, political, social, and religious hub of ancient Rome. Throughout the Imperial period, Emperors like Julius Caesar and Augustus expanded the Forum to include temples, statues, monuments, a senate house, and law courts. Today, the Forum Romanum is one of the most visited archaeological sites in the world and offers fascinating insights into Roman civilisation.

An astonishing 2,000-year-old temple, now a church, the Pantheon is a remarkable building to visit when in Rome. Built as a temple to all gods, the Pantheon is the best-preserved marvel from ancient Rome. Its main and most fascinating feature is the design of the dome and open oculus, the only source of natural light. Tourists from around the world flock here to see what Michelangelo defined as an "angelic and not human design". The Pantheon also houses the tomb of the great painter Raphael. The square in front of the Pantheon is called Piazza della Rotonda. It is located near Piazza Navona and Campo de Fiori, so take the opportunity to stroll around in this area; there is much to see.

The elongated Piazza Navona with its three impressive fountains, including the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi with the Egyptian obelisk at its centre, is Rome's most famous and vibrant square. Built in the 1st century AD, the square used to be a stadium for athletic competitions and could accommodate over 20,000 spectators. The backdrop of Baroque architecture, tourists, street artists, restaurants, and bars makes it the perfect setting to cherish the moment.

Named after the nearby Embassy of Spain, the Spanish Steps link Piazza di Spagna with Piazza di Trinità dei Monti. The 135-step stairway is especially striking in spring, when azaleas bloom along the balustrades. The steps became famous all around the world thanks, in part, to Audrey Hepburn's film "Roman Holiday" and Bob Dylan's song "When I Paint My Masterpiece". Sitting on the steps is now prohibited, but the view across the piazza and the surrounding streetscape remains one of Rome’s most recognisable sights.

Italy not only attracts tourists with the beauty of its landscapes and mesmerising ancient sites. Italy's exquisite cuisine and passion for all things culinary are, arguably, an even more powerful draw. And for a truly memorable experience in Rome, consider joining a cooking class. This one, in particular, will teach you how to make your own pasta by hand with the help of an expert Italian chef.

Hop on a vintage Vespa and explore the wonders of Rome, just like Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck in the film 'Roman Holiday', in this fun and memorable evening tour. It's a 3-hour sightseeing tour with a professional guide, which will take you around the Eternal City's most famous landmarks, including the Colosseum, the Mouth of the Truth, Circus Maximus, Palatine Hill, Saint Peter's Square, and the stunning Trevi Fountain. A quick stop for gelato and coffee is also included.

The Mostra Leonardo da Vinci in Rome is a fascinating exhibition that pays homage to one of history's most brilliant minds, Leonardo da Vinci. Located in the heart of Rome, this extraordinary showcase celebrates the Renaissance master's unparalleled contributions to art, science, and invention. Through a remarkable collection of his drawings, inventions, and artworks, visitors are transported into the world of da Vinci, gaining a profound appreciation for his innovative ideas and visionary concepts.

Built under the reigns of Emperors Septimius Severus and his son Caracalla, the Terme di Caracalla is what remains of once functioning ancient public baths. It is, as of today, one of the best (and largest) remaining examples of a similar structure.

Once the temporary retreat and later home to decorated Roman Emperor Hadrian, Villa Adriana dates back millennia when it was conceived as an 'ideal city' with baths, pools, fountains, and lush gardens. The structure combined elements of Greek, Roman, and Egyptian influences. Since 1999, Villa Adriana has been on the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites.