Rome Vacation Rentals

The weather in Rome has always made trips to the city appealing. Even in the coldest winter months, you can still expect the weather to be pretty pleasant. Even if it’s not T-shirt warm, it’ll likely still be sunny, as Rome receives among the most hours of sunlight anywhere in Europe. In summer, you can expect weather to be hot and sunny and should bring some sun cream along to your Roman vacation home.

It can get humid, and it’s also not uncommon for visitors in summer to witness terrific thunderstorms and heavy rain, so make sure there's some waterproof clothing on hand at your Rome vacation rental.

It’s no surprise that Rome is a city full of great attractions. After all, it has been a hub of cultural life for more than 2,000 years. Walk just about anywhere in the city from your Rome vacation rental and you’ll find a historic building or a scene that could only exist here.

Although Vatican City is not technically part of Rome, this is a must visit one-of-a-kind site. St. Peter’s Basilica dates back to the 16-17th centuries and is one of the most famous structures in the world. Head inside and don’t forget to visit the top for a great view over the city. St. Peter’s Square will be a highlight of your trip, and if you’re lucky you may even see the Pope. Make sure you visit the Vatican Museum, home to the world famous Sistine Chapel as well as many other significant works of art.

The city’s old buildings are what bring a lot of tourists to Rome. The Pantheon, a remarkably well-preserved building that dates back to 120 A.D., is an essential visit. Try and visit when it’s raining, as the rain will fall through the opening at the top to create an eerie atmosphere. The Colosseum is an essential stop, as is a trip to the famous Trevi Fountain. The Roman Forum, a large space not far from the Colosseum, used to be where Roman citizens would congregate to meet, talk and exchange ideas. It now lies in ruin, but with a bit of imagination you can picture what it used to be like.

1. Gladiator School and Museums

Start your exploration at the Forum, the largest ancient Roman site. Then take your children to the Gladiator School and Museum where they can witness life as a gladiator and take a short gladiator training session, which includes a costume. Straight after, take them to the Colosseum to let them put their gladiator knowledge into practice.

2. Family Tour of the Vatican City

Take a tour where a knowledgeable guide will tell you about the St. Peter's Basilica with entertaining stories. Don’t miss a visit to the Trevi Fountain and the Mouth of Truth. At the Trevi Fountain, your children can have fun throwing coins in the water and making wishes. The Mouth of Truth – a marble face located outside a church - is said to bite the hands of liars; kids love trying it out.

3. Children's Museums in Rome

Rome doesn’t fall short of children’s museums. Kids can go back in time and become protagonists of the Roman Empire at the Time Elevator Rome, an interactive museum using stereoscopic technologies. Another great museum for all ages is the EXPLORA, a hands-on children’s museum offering daily activities.

4. A Trip to Rome's Amazing Parks

For a relaxing afternoon, explore one of Rome’s amazing parks. The Borghese Gardens feature a beautiful garden design, a lake, and breathtaking views over the picturesque rooftops. Last but not least, let your children eat lots of delicious pizza and ice-cream. The famous Giolitti ice-cream shop in the centre is a must-try.

They take their food seriously in Rome and you’ll find the streets bustling with life in the evenings, especially during the weekends. Explore the area surrounding your vacation home in Rome and enjoy dinner as the locals do, with a long, leisurely feast. There are outstanding restaurants all over the city, so your best bet is to go for a stroll and see what takes your fancy. Naturally, pizza and pasta are the local specialties, but you’ll also find great vegetarian food and other options while you’re in town.

It’s a good idea to stay away from the most touristy routes in Rome, as restaurants here are likely to be overpriced. Walk in any direction for 5-10 minutes and you’ll find excellent restaurants more frequented by the locals. If you’re looking for a specific neighbourhood to visit for the evening then make it Trastevere, a cobbled-street labyrinth with great restaurants and a typical Roman atmosphere. After dinner, make sure you buy a gelato cone for the walk back to your Rome vacation rental.

Colosseum

The Colosseum, or Flavian Amphitheatre, in Rome's center is the largest amphitheatre ever built. Only partially ruined, it is a global icon, open for visitors to walk in the footsteps of gladiators.

Pantheon

This ancient temple now serves as a church, and is extremely well preserved. It is also the burial site of many renowned figures, including the artist Raphael.

Archbasilica of St. John Lateran

With the current building being completed in 1735, this is Rome's primary cathedral. Look out for the stunning Baroque and neoclassical architectural features.

Borghese Gallery

This Gallery is home to some of the world's most beautiful artworks, dating back to as early as the 1st century AD. Highlights include works by Caravaggio, Raphael, Titian and Rubens.

Piazza Navona

This storied piazza is home to the famous Fountain of the Four Rivers, and two other 17th-century fountains. The piazza itself is a striking example of Baroque architecture.