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The Colosseum - Entry €11 (€9 if you're under 25). Expect a long queue and an even longer wait. You can skip the queue if you decide to take a tour, but if you don't want a tour, you can STILL skip the queue. If you walk across the street to the Roman Forum, you can buy a day-long pass for €10,better still, a 7-day pass for €20 or a standard Colosseum + Palatine ticket at €11. This pass gets you in to the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, the Baths of Caracalla, and the catacombs. If you don't want to cram it all into one day, get the pass. Plus, it is nice to buy a slice of pizza and eat in the gardens of Palatine Hill. There are lots of people offering tours in English just outside the entrance to the Colosseum. Inside you can take a tour (English, Spanish, or German) every 30 minutes or so for an additional fee of €3.5 per person. The tours are given by knowledgeable archeologists, but they don't take you to any areas you couldn't visit on your own.

The Pantheon - A marvel of ancient architecture, this ancient temple to all the gods is celebrated for its large dome, copied during Greek and Roman revival periods by such designers as Thomas Jefferson, who modeled his Monticello and the Rotunda at the University of Virginia on it. Built during the reign of the emperor Hadrian (AD 125-128), the Pantheon carries a dedication to Marcus Agrippa, who built the original structure on this spot in 27 BC. As it is still a functioning church, silence is requested during your visit. From inside the Pantheon, you'll see a hole in the dome; during the reign of Pope Urban VIII, the Pope ordered the bronze ceiling of the Pantheon's portico melted down. The bronze was used to make bombards to for the fortification of the Castel Sant' Angelo. Free admission.

Roman Forum - If stones could talk: these hallowed ruins were the most powerful seat of government in the world. The Forum is much less crowded than the Colosseum and, from a historical perspective, much more interesting. Free admission, except for an audio guide, which is highly recommended. To stand in the political, legal and religious centre of the whole Roman Empire brings shivers down one's spine. It is the best way of imagining the splendour and glory of ancient Rome.

Palatine Hill - right next to the Roman Forum, contains the ruins of several large villas that belonged to wealthy Roman families. You can buy a combined ticket for the Palatine Hill and the Colosseum here, avoiding the long lines at the Colosseum.

Fori Imperiali - Entry €7 (cheaper for EU nationals, free for EU history students). The inside of the fort is very similar to a museum, with a lot of rooms containing items in glass cases. It is a bit of a maze and takes time to orient yourself, but it is worth climbing to very top for a view of the city and the Vatican.

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Museums

The Capitoline Museums Also contain a good collection of classical art, as well as ancient sculpture. The Capitoline piazza, between the two museum buildings - designed by Michelangelo, is beautiful. Explore these museums, then head out the back of the square to the Forum, where you'll find the remains of the Temple of the Vestal Virgins, among many other buildings on the way to the Colosseum.

Palazzo Massimo A magnificent collection of ancient Roman sculptures, mosaics and wall paintings, including the famous paintings from the Imperial-era villa discovered under the Villa Farnesina, as well as the bedroom from the Empress Livia's villa at Prima Porta. Located across the piazza from Termini, opposite the Baths of Diocetian.

Galleria Borghese A small museum that concentrates on the quality rather than the size of its collection. There are some very notable works by Antonio Canova and Gian Lorenzo Bernini here. The number of people admitted is limited to 200 every 2 hours. Make a reservation on-line well in advance for the time slot you want. Admission costs 8.50€. No cameras are allowed.

Villa Giulia Museum The most extensive collection of Etruscan art and artifacts anywhere, well worth the 4 euro admission charge. They do, however, make you lock up your camera. A difficult museum to find, but a lovely display in a beautiful villa setting.

Vatican Museums http://mv.vatican.va/3_EN/pages/MV_Home.html

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Churches

If you aren't familiar with Roman Catholic churches, take a look inside of any one of these. You'll find the richness and range of decor astonishing, from fine classical art to tacky electric candles. Please note that some churches in Rome deny admission to people who are dressed inappropriately. You will find "fashion police" at Rome's most visited churches - near the front doors of St Peter's, St Paul Outside the Walls, and often Sta Maria Maggiore and San Giovanni in Laterano. Bare shoulders, short skirts, and shorts are officially not allowed. However, long shorts and skirts reaching just above the knee should be no problem. The stricter churches usually have vendors just outside selling inexpensive scarves. Few other churches in Rome enforce dress codes. You can wander into lesser known churches like Sant'Ivo and Sta Maria in Trastevere wearing shorts, sleeveless shirts, or pretty much anything without problems. It is, however, good to keep one's dress tasteful, as these are still churches and houses of prayer for many people.

St. Pietro - St Peter's - where the Pope resides. Long queues for entry, said to be the finest church on the planet.
San Carlo alla Quattro Fontane - a very small and beautiful church, the first design commission of Francesco Borromini.
Sant' Ivo della Sapienza - This little church is hard to find but well worth the extra effort. It is located only a block from Piazza Navona, but not usually visible from the street, as one must enter the courtyard of an old palazzo to reach the church. Sant'Ivo is a small church shaped like the Star of David, with an amazing star-shaped dome and whimsical steeple.
Santa Maria del Popolo - with a couple of paintings by Caravaggio.
San Luigi dei Francesi - This church is roughly halfway between Piazza Navona and the Pantheon. It is most notable for a side chapel which contains three Caravaggio paintings, including "The Calling of St. Matthew."
Sant'Agnese in Agone in Piazza Navona - This lovely basilica church is small with an almost circular interior. It is undergoing rehabilitation and the facade and dome are hidden in scaffolding. It seems to be open only until noon.
San Giovanni in Laterano - this is the cathedral church of Rome and first of the major basilicas. It's also the Pope's (as Bishop of Rome) Church. Be sure to check out the fourth century baptistry (still in use) and the medieval cloister.
Santa Maria Maggiore - This ancient basilica crowns the top of the Esquiline Hill. Tons of gold decorate the interior.
San Paolo fuori le Mura - also known as St Paul's Outside the Walls. This is on the outskirts of Rome in an otherwise drab modern neighborhood. The church is a faithful reconstruction of the ancient basilica which burned down in the early 1800s. Don't miss the medieval cloister, which survived the fire.
S. Passera Even though it isn't worth a trip, this church can be a interesting deviation if you live or pass through its neighbourhood. This church is believed to be the grave of the Saints Ciro and Giovanni, killed during the time of the Emperor Diocletian. The church is now know as Saint Passera because of the several changes its name has undergone. The oringal name was Abba Cyrus and through Appaciro and then Appacero finally it got Pacera, that's very close to today's Passera. The building on top is a 3rd century building still visible in the lower floor and in the underground. The main part of the building dates back to the IX century as the frescoes on the higher floor. Some of th frescoes are too spoiled to be enjoyed, but some of them have recently been restored and depict the Saints Paolo, Pietro, Giovanni Battista and Giovanni Evangelista in the vault and Our Lady together with Jesus, Saints Giacomo and Antonio and the Archangel Michele in the apse. Downstairs there is a small quadrangular room and the underground, where the rest of the two Saints should be. Frescoes in these floor date back to XIV century but are almost completely ruined, but in the underground there are still visible III century traces of Roman age frescoes; in front of the stair you can enjoy a small bird, the Justice, and an athlete while in the vault some eight apex stars. Bus 128,780,781,775 (first stop in Via della Magliana)
San Clemente - a great little cathedral to visit, with an excavated older church below and a pagan temple below that. The only place in Rome to hear the underground river that flows beneath the city. Very close to the Colosseum.
Santa Maria in Trastevere - one of the oldest churches in the city. The nave is lined with a mismatched collection of columns taken from ancient Roman buildings. The apse is covered in gold mosaics from the 13th century, arguably the finest mosaics in the city.
Santa Maria degli Angeli - this church was built inside the former baths of Diocletian. Very light and airy inside. Note the unusual art on the outside doors.
San Pietro in Vincoli - The chains that held St. Peter are displayed in a case before the altar. Also contains a statue of Moses created by Michelangelo. It's close to the Colosseum, but a little hard to find
Santissima Trinità dei Monti - up above the Spanish Steps
Santa Maria in Aracoeli - Ballroom-like church which crowns part of the Capitoline Hill. Don't be fooled by the plain stone exterior
Santa Maria alla Minerva - This church is literally right behind the Pantheon. It is Rome's only gothic church, and well worth seeing, although its plain square façade makes it look inconspicuous.
Il Gesù - not far from Piazza Venezia. The interior is Baroque art on steroids. Simply astounding.
Sant'Ignazio - Not far from the Pantheon. A stunning example of Baroque art. The ceiling frescoes are especially fine, including a trompe l'oeuil dome.
Capuchin Monastery - On Via Veneto, right by Piazza Barberini. The crypt of the church contains a macabre display - a series of chapels decorated with the bones of thousands of dead monks. The bones are glued to the walls and ceilings in bizarre and striking decorations.

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Public squares

Largo di Torre Argentina - an excavation of four roman temples and Pompeys theater. The largo is also home to a large amount of cats which are tended by the local animal rights organization.
Piazza di Trevi - where you can find the famous Fontana di Trevi. It's not a very big piazza and gets very crowded very quickly.
Piazza di Spagna - under the "Spanish Steps"
Piazza Navona - Used to be an ancient stadium built by the emperor Domitian and still retains the shape. The fountains are by Bernini and are very notable. Piazza Pasquino is just round the corner.
Campo de' Fiori - not far from Piazza Navona. Used as a marketplace. In nearby via dei Giubbonari the salumeria Roscioli is worth checking out.
Piazza Pasquino - piazza about 20m from Piazza Navona. There is a statue here named "Pasquino", apparently named after a tailor working nearby who had a reputation for complaining. The statue is now used as a place to hang messages, complaints and other opinions which has to be shared with the world. The piazza is also home to Cul de Sac, one of the best enoteca in Rome.
Piazza del Popolo - with the twin churches
Piazza della Minerva- a small piazza just behind the Pantheon. The centerpiece is a statue of an elephant by Bernini with an ancient obelisk on its back
Piazza delle Coppelle
Piazza di Sant'Ignazio- small and attractive piazza tucked away in a neighborhood near Pantheon
Piazza Montecitorio - where you can find the building of the House or Representatives
Piazza Colonna - where there is the building of the Italian Government, Palazzo Chigi. Also there is a marvelous carved column (hence the name) dating back to Imperial Rome
Piazza Barberini - with Bernini's famous Triton Fountain. Via Veneto starts here too.
Piazza della Rotonda - where you can see the Pantheon
Piazza Venezia- more of an enormous traffic circle than a piazza, but a good central location. The centerpiece is the enormous Vittorio Emmanuale Monument (aka the Wedding Cake) with the Capitoline hill next door. Piazza Venezia is also very close to the Forum
Piazza del Campidoglio - On top of the Capitol hill. It was designed by Michelangelo. The Capitoline Museum is housed in the palaces flanking the piazza. You can walk behind the palaces and to a wonderful viewpoint which overlooks the entire Forum

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Historical Buildings

Palazzo Venezia In the very heart of the city center, the building was for centuries ago the seat of the Venice embassy. Today it houses a museum and galleries art.

Palazzo della Cancelleria

Palazzo Farnese

Palazzo della Sapienza - 8, Corso Rinascimento tel 06 686 4987. Bus 70 81, 87, 492. Close to Navona square, this building housed the University of Rome since the middle of the 15th century until 1935. The splendid interior courtyard was created by Giacomo della Porta. The inside church of St Ivo is one of the masterpieces of Architect Borromini.

Palazzo Altemps - 8, Sant' Apollinare street tel.06 6897091. Bus 70, 81, 87, 492. Simple and elegant lines make up this building, whose construction began in 1480 for Count Girolamo Riario, nephew of Papa Sisto IV and was taken up by architect Martino Longhi for the new owner, Cardinal Marco Sittico Altemps.

Palazzo Taverna - Via di Monte Giordano. The building is located in one of the most set-apart corners of the city center among the Navona square and Castel Sant Angelo. It served as residence for the Orsini Family. Nowatdays it is a private property and one can only glance at the courtyard and the inside amazing fountain erected in 1618 by architect Antonio Casoni. However, the brief moment is worth it.

Palazzo Crivelli - Via dei Banchi vecchi, 22 This building also know as the Doll House was built in the 16th century. It is unique for the quantity and quality of the decorations - lions heads, satyrs and disfigured heads that adorn the facade attributed to the sculptor Giulio Mazzoni.

Palazzo Spada Piazza Capo di Ferro - This building was erected in the 16th century by Giulio Merisi Caravaggio for Cardinal Capodiferro. One century later it was acquired by another powerful Cardinal, Bernardino Spada and was restored by Borromini.

Palazzo Barberini

Villa Farnesina This Renaissance house is in Trastevere, very close to the river and not far from the Vatican. You can tour several beautiful rooms covered in frescoes, including some by Raphael.

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Others

Castel Sant'Angelo - Originally built between 135 and 139 AD by the emperor Hadrian for use as his mausoleum, it rivalled Augustus' mausoleum just across the Tiber (Tevere) River. The mausoleum was later used as a fortress and a prison until 1870, but now houses a museum.
Trastevere
Il Gianicolo
Piramid, at the Piramid metro station.

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Activities

Walk and feel the energy of the place, sights are everywhere waiting to be discovered. Explore the Trastevere neighbourhood for some great cafes and trattorie, and a glimpse at a hip Roman neighbourhood.

Partying in Rome is a pretty easy thing to do. Given a heart for exploration, Testaccio is the place to wander. Head down there around 11pm and listen for music. The outsides of the clubs will give you NO idea what the insides are like. There are usually loads of people simply walking through the street or looking for parking. Be brave, walk in, meet some wonderful Romans, but never buy them drinks unless you are looking for sex (in this case, better to be sure you are inviting the right person). This area is best in the summer when the dancing moves outside. In the winter, most clubs close.

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Events

White Night - Various Events and plus shops and restaurants, museums stay open while the Roman Notte Bianca stages music, dance and theater events;
Estate Romana Festival (Roman Summer Festival) - From late June through early September offers various musical events of jazz, rock, and classical music, and film, sport, theater and children’s fun.

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Tours

Dark Rome Tours, ☎ 0039 3385006424 (INFO@DARKROME.COM), 8. offers group and private tours. They are famous for organizing the official Angels and Demons Tour and some other fun tours.

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Learn

Rome is replete with foreign language and cultural institutions. Of course, learning Italian is a worthwhile activity while in Rome.

Be a good guest if you do not speak Italian. Being extra polite will keep you out of trouble.

The regional government and two historical societies are offering free Latin classes to tourists. Contact mailto:ilregnodicamelot@libero.it.
The Historical Group of Rome runs a gladiator school. 18 Via Appia Antica. ph 00396 51607951. email mailto:scuola@gsr-roma.com. http://www.gsr-roma.com/english/gladiatori/

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Work

If you want to work during the tourist season, ask around at the hostels, hotels and restaurants with that touristy feel. It is quite easy to get a job, and it is a lot of fun even if it does not usually pay well. There are differing views on how easy it is to get a job out here. There is high unemployment and most jobs seem to go on a family - friends - other romans -other Italians - white EU - other foreigners pecking order. Italian helps. And be wary about making any financial commitments before you've actually been paid - late and non-payment is common here, and you may find as a non-Roman you are more likely to be seen as an easy target for this. You will also need a permesso di soggiorno, whether or not you are an EU resident. Legally, you are required to have a working visa, although it is very easy to work and live without one.

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Buy

Be aware that clothing bigger than a UK size 12/US 16 isn't always easy to find. Quality of clothing varies, from the high-quality (and expensive) Prada, to the poor quality goods found in some local shops. Via del Corso has affordable clothing, some brands (like Miss Sixty and Furla) are excellent. Some are not as good- be sure to feel garments and try them on. There are great quality shoes and leather bags at prices that compare well to the UK and US, quality for quality. Children's clothing can be expensive - basic vests (tank tops) can cost 21 euro in non-designer shops. Upim is a good shop for cheap clothing of workable quality. Lots of fake plastic 'Louis Vuitton' bags on sale from immigrants. Make sure you haggle; unsuspecting tourists pay up to 60euro for them.

If you need stamps get them at the post or tobacco shops.

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Nice shops

Frengo's music One of the few CD shops in the center of Rome still run by a music lover instead of a shop assistant in a franchising chain. You can find a nice selection of CDs, DVDs, Console games and Dolby Surround home stereos. Via della lungaretta, 65 - 00153 Roma (Trastevere) - Tel. 06 58 33 24 02'

Archeo Art Not far from the bottom of the Campidoglio steps. This shop sells beautiful reproductions of ancient sculptures; not the tacky kitsch sold by many of the street vendors, but museum quality miniatures that look incredibly close to the real things. Not cheap, but definitely unique and classy souvenirs. Also stocks reproductions of ancient Roman arms and armour, including full centurion outfits! On Via del Teatro di Marcello.

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Eating

The Trastevere neighbourhood and the old Jewish quarter have some of the best trattorie and ristoranti in Rome.

In Rome you can ask for:

Carciofi alla romana (artichokes, Roman style)
Carciofi alla giudia (artichokes, Jewish style)
Puntarelle
Bucatini alla Amatriciana
Spaghetti (or Rigatoni) alla "Carbonara", a sauce made with egg and pancetta (bacon)
Abbacchio alla "scottadito"
Rigatoni con la "Pajata" (not always available)
Scaloppine alla romana
Coda alla "vaccinara"

Pizza. Lots of the better places only serve pizza in the evening as it takes most of the day to get the wood oven up to the right temperature. Try some of the fried things like baccala (battered salt cod) for a starter, followed by a pizza for a really roman meal. For one of the most famous places for pizza try 'Da Baffetto' (Via del Governo Vecchio). Roman pizzas tend to be very thin crusted.

Avoid the tourist areas where you'll often pay double the going rate just to get a badly reheated frozen pizza. Instead, head for a pizzeria like 'Pizzeria Maratoneta' in via dei Volsci / via del Sardi, San Lorenzo area, where you'll find a fine atmosphere of families and groups of students, and you'll get a good meal with a bottle of local plonk at a very reasonable price. You'll get an English menu, too.

Pizza al taglio. Pizza by the slice. A good cheap way to get something to fill you up and makes a good lunch. Point to the one you want, indicate if you want more or less than your server is indicating with the knife. Its sold by weight (the listed price is usually per 100 gm) and a good quick lunch or snack.

Panini. If you don't speak Italian the question you won't understand and will always be asked once you've pointed out the sandwich you want is 'do you want it toasted'. If not, you can simply state 'caldo, per favore' (make it hot, please). Please note: singular is panino, and plural is panini. Never say "2 paninis" or "1 panini". It makes you sound like an idiot.

Ice cream. Look for a gelateria with a big plastic sign with a big 'G' on it outside. This means it has a kind of guild association and will be good quality. Remember it costs extra to sit inside. You pay for your ice cream first...take your receipt and go fight your way through the throng to choose your flavors. You will be asked Panna? when it's almost made - this is the offer of whipped cream on top. If you've already paid, this is free.

Trippa - is tripe. Offal is a roman tradition, e.g. osso buco, bone marrow.

Vegetarians - should have an easy time. Buffets usually have a good range of delicious vegetarian stuff too - eg gratinated roast peppers/aubergines, etc. Vegans should do OK, too. Pizzas don't always have cheese - a Marinara for example, is just tomato, garlic and oregano. Remember, though, that Parmesan cheese is not permitted to vegetarians.

There are a few vegetarian restaurants in Rome. 'Arancia Blu' on Via Dei Latini (Via Tiburtina) is posh, overpriced and not that good, but the wine list looks impressive.

Coffee. Starbucks has a lot to answer for. A "latte" in Italian is just a glass of milk. If you're expecting coffee in that glass, you should ask for a "caffe' latte." A "latte macchiato" (meaning "stained") is steamed milk stained with a smaller shot of espresso. "Espresso" or "normale" is just that, but more commonly just refered to as "caffe'". "Espresso doppio" means a double shot of espresso, while "espresso macchiato" is espresso 'marked' with a dab of steamed milk. "Americano" — the one to order if you like filter coffee — is espresso diluted with hot water and not drunk much by Italians. "Cappuccino" is well known outside of Italy, but be warned: it is considered very un-classy, and somewhat childish, to order one after 11am (and certainly after a meal). "Decaffeinato" is self explanatory, but often referred to by the common brand-name "Caffe' Hag." It is usually instant coffee, and not nearly as good as the real thing.

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Restaurants, Pizzerie and Trattorie

La Pergola. Hotel Cavalieri Hilton, Via A. Cadlolo 101, 00136 Rome. This restaurant is awarded three stars in the Guide Rouge. The chef, Heinz Beck, is german of origin, and has set a style which combines italian fresh produce with exceptional creativity and presentation. The restaurant overlooks Rome, so be sure to get a table by the window. The wine cellar is exceptional. Expect to have to book months in advance, but the trip is well worth it.

Taverna Cestia, Via Piramide Cestia, 65 (at METRO Piramide), Tel: +39 065743754. Excellent traditional roman restaurant. Menu only in italian and the waiters do not speak much English. They have a good selection of seafood and the seafood spaghetti is great.

Osteria dell'Aquila, Via Natale del Grande, 52/53, (take the H bus to Trastevere), Tel/Fax: 06.5810924, Great merranean style restauraunt. Menu is in Italian and English, and the waiters speak both languages. Open for lunch and dinner, (closed only on Tuesday). The meals here were excellent, and at very good prices. Make sure to try the seafood appetizers. All of the first and second plates that I tried were quite tasty.

Sapore&Arte Really good and fresh food, this place run by young people make a large use of biological and fair trade food. The have very good dressed potatoes and salads, but also brushcetta and sweet cakes. Mid-range at lunch and cheap at dinner, don't miss it if you visit the very near Basilica di San Paolo fuori le mura Via efeso 24/26 - 00146 Roma - Tel. 06 59 60 03 40 - Metro B San Paolo Basilica

Tapa Loca Spanish food near Piazza Navona 'Via di Tor Millina, 5 - 00186 Roma - 06 68 32 266'

Taverna Pio Bove Good steak house in the suburbs, but not so far from Basilica di San Paolo fuori le mura. Maybe you'll never reach this place if your stay is one week or shorter, but in the case you'll stay will be longer, this place could be a nice choice the day you want to go out for a steak with friends. Open at 19:00 everyday. 'Via Alessandro Cruto 9 - Tel. 06 553 011 35 - Bus 128, 775'

Trattoria de "Gli Amici" Very interesting place in the heart of Trastevere discrict, this place is fully run by very kind handicapped people and has a nice cousine. Closed on sunday. Open every day from 19.30 to 23.30. 'Piazza Sant'Egidio, 8 - 00153 Roma - Tel. 06 580 60 33'

Le Bistrot Creative, french and vegetarian cousine in the same place toghether with a very kind staff and a homely enviroment. Better to reserve. 'Garbatella - Via delle sette chiese, 160 - 06 512 89 91'

Al peperoncino Very close to the Basilica di San Paolo fuori le mura and the Metro B San Paolo Basilica station, this piezzeria has a good roman style pizza (the thin one) and also a good choise of fried vegetables and appetizers. Price is low to mid-range, food quality and service are medium. Via Ostiense, 369 - Tel. 06 54 10 192 - 00146 Roma (San Paolo)

Planet Kebab Good turkish food, from Kebab to Falafel. This place is very clean and the guys working there are very friendly. They claim to be open every day of the year, so remember this place when you are hungry and you can't find any open shop. Via Natale del grande, 17 - 00153 Roma (Trastevere) - Tel. 06 581 98 63

Casetta di Campagna Into the natural park Valle dei Casali they have very good meat. They also offer a fixed price menu for pizza (only for more than 4 peopole) which is good for a large gathering dinner. You need a car to reach the place. Closed on monday. Sunday, Saturday and holidays also open at noon. Via Affogalasino, 40 - 00148 Roma (Casetta Mattei-Trullo) - Tel. 06 6574 32 30

Est! Est!! Est !!! Established in 1900 this pizzeria is something you cannot miss in Rome. Situated in the area of Piazza della Republica is very easy to reach by the Metro B line. They make a relatively small but amaizingly good pizza, on top of a learnedly cooked base you'll find extremely high quality food. Every pizza here is outstanting and calzone, one of their specialities, too. Staff speak english (is one of the few places plenty of tourits but with very good food). Reservation is advisable. Closed on monday. Via Genova, 32 - 00184 Roma (Via Nazionale/Piazza della Repubblica) - Tel. 06 48 81 107 - Metro B Republica In the same neabourhood there's another EST,EST,EST pizzeria, watch out at the difference!

Il conte tacchia Roman cousine at dinner. Vicolo del Bologna 87 - 00153 Roma (Trastevere) - Tel. 06 58 13 189

Supperclub Don't come to supperclub if you're in search of a traditional restaurant, have lazy taste buds or are scared of new experiences. However, if you're looking for an unusual dinner experience in an unexpected place and are not afraid to discover the creative corners of your personality, then knock on supperclub's door. Have fun, eat, listen, dance and enjoy your evening. Nothing is obligatory. Everything's possible. Be yourself and anything can happen to you, at supperclub. Via de'Nari, 14 (Pantheon) - 00186 Roma - Tel. 06 6880 7207

Cul de Sac Piazza Pasquino 73. One of the best enoteca in Rome, serving a wide range of small dishes. The pate selection is a must-try.

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Tea Room and Icecream

Gelateria Salus

Very good icecream (only at the table) in a particuraly nice enviroment, prices are mid-range but icecream and service does worth the price. Lungomare Paolo Toscanelli, 117 - 00121 Roma (Ostia) - Tel. 06 976 13 117

Il gelato Nice place to have some wired flavour of icecream. You'll choose among maybe 50 different and sometime unusual flavour (such as Gorgonzola or Mortadella). Great variety of chocholates and fruits. Closes around at 23:00. Via dell'Aeronautica, 105 - Bus 764 - Metro B Laurentina

Bibelot Arthè Cosy tea room in Via Appia nuova. The also offer free table games and they serve excellent milk and friut shakes and tea and coffee blends as well. Prices are mid-range to expensive but the place is very nice and well furnished. It's possibile you'll find a queue, perfect for couples. 'Piazza dell'Alberone 13/bis - 347 33 18 178'

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Drink

Regional wines are cheaper and very good. House wines are almost always drinkable and inexpensive (unlike, say in the UK). Most trattorie wouldn't be caught dead serving poor wine. This doesn't apply to those places that look really tourist-trappy! (And why would you want to eat there?)

Water is free at most designated water fountains. Some of these date to ancient times, and the water is still very good. It's fresh spring water and safe to drink. If you carry an empty bottle, fill it up for the rest of the day. Look for the drinking fountain with constant running water, plug the bottom hole, and cool water will shoot up from a smaller hole on top of the tap.

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Accommodation in Rome

If you're arriving in Rome during high season, be sure to book your accommodation at least a couple of days in advance. The area east of Stazione Termini (the side where you find track 1) is full of cheap accommodation for backpackers. If you are staying for a week or more, haggle for a better price or book vacation rentals ahead of arrival, that will save you up to 70% on hotels on a scale of space and location.

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Budget

Ostia is the Capital's beach and the well-known "Tourist Port of Rome" with moorings for boats from 8 to 60 meters in length. Every angle of this geographic area reminds the visitor of the Roman coast brilliant past. There are no words to describe it, so come in person….

Agli scavi di Ostia Antica, Via della Stazione di Ostia Antica 7. A small villa steeped in the green of the roman countryside. It is located only 100 meters from the archaeological excavations of Ostia Antica and about 50 meters from the bus and the train stops.

Alice in Wonderland b&b, Via Appia Nuova 138, Tel ++393487994231, ++393483393199. A contemporary boutique bed and breakfast that offers stylish accommodation in an 18th century building just a few steps away from the San Giovanni Cathedral and a short walk from the Colosseum. A/C, Free Wi-Fi access, mini-bar, Cell phone use, travel booking office.

Alessandro Hostels,Alessandro Palace - Via Vicenza 42, +39.06.446.1958 fax +39.06.493.80.534, Alessandro Downtown - Via C. Cattaneo 23, +39.06.443.40.147, Alessandro Indipendzia - Via Curtatone 13, +39.06.44.61.958,. Has grown from a pensione into a small chain of three of the most popular backpacker hostels in Rome. All locations are 5 minutes on foot from Termini, include free breakfast, no curfew, cheap internet, video security, free pizza parties at the Palace pub, and free linens. Other amenities vary between the locations (ie the Palace has ensuite bathrooms and an in-house pub with cheap beers, while the Downtown location has communal bathrooms and a medium sized self-service kitchen.) Prices from €21 per person per night in low season, from €23 per person per night in high season.

Apartment Filippus Spanish Square, Via Casini, # This is a 110 square meters apartment, with a wonderful terrace. It includes two big double bedrooms ( one has a closet ), a bathroom with bath/shower, a very big living room with double sofa bed and a ceiling fan, and fully equipped kitchen.

Bed and Breakfast Chaplin Hostel, Via del Castro Pretorio 28, Apt. 12a, 00185 Roma (+39) 348 8037941. The Chaplin is one of the few hostels in Rome offering only private rooms. Its location, 2 minutes from the main railway station Termini, makes it easy to visit Rome itself, but also to make day trips out of town (Pompei, Tivoli, even Florence). Breakfast is ample. The owner speaks English, Italian, German, French, Spanish, Dutch and Danish. No curfew, no lock-out. Daily cleaning.

Colors Hostel On the west side of the city, a few blocks north of the Vatican (take the metro from Termini train station)

Freedom Traveller Hostel, Via Gaeta 25, (+39) 06 47823862. A four-minute walk from the central train station, this hostel has adequate dorms from €23 per night, including free breakfast, internet and dinner. Some dorms also have nice balconies, kitchens and communal areas. No curfew, but lockout is from 11.00 - 15.00.

Gullivers House, Via Palermo 36, (+39)-064817680. Small co-ed youth hostel. 10 minutes from Termini. Owned by a nice couple who speak fluent English. They'll help you plan your stay in Rome better then any travel agent would. Free breakfast is what you would expect, so not much. Show English-language movies in the evening. Clean. Cute dogs.

Hostel Colosseo. Located close Termini Stationand Colosseo, Esrooms is a Hostel, Bed&Breakfast for low-budget. Rooms Start from 40 eur,internet adsl connection.

Hotel Golden, Via Marche, 84, 00187 tel +39 06.4821659, fax +39 06.4821660. A hotel with a family atmosphere between Via Veneto and Villa Borghese, just a few steps away from Piazza di Spagna.

Hotel Felice, Via Tiburtina 30, 00185, Tel: +39 06.4453347 Fax: +39 06.4460290, Just a short walk from Termini Station, near to all the most interesting and charming places in Rome.

Hotel Mari 2 , Via Calatafimi, 40. 00185 Rome - Ph. +39 06.97603505 Fax +39 06.4828313 The Hotel Mari 2: near Termini Station and the shuttle terminal with connections to the Fiumicino and Ciampino airports. Twin from €35 doubles from €50.

Hotel Milazzo, Via Milazzo 3, 00185, Tel: +39 06.4452283 Fax: +39 06.4455102, 21. Hotel Milazzo is located in the heart of Rome with all the fantastic sights and sounds of our city are within easy reach of our hotel, not to mention the wealth of Top fashion designers, Clubs, Pubs and Restaurants all located within walking distance from our hotel.

Hotel Piave, Via Piave 14, 00187, Ph: +39 06.4743447/+39 06.42013741 Fax: +39 06.4873360. In the historical center of the city, just steps from the wonderful Villa Borghese, a comfortable, family environment.

Hotel Primus Roma, Via Giovanni da Empoli 11-13, 00154, Ph./Fax +39.06.57250515, Ph./Fax +39.06.57250515. Hotel Primus Roma: in the Testaccio district, which is famous for its embassies and nightspots, near the Roma Ostiense train station and the subway.

Litus Roma Hostel, Lungomare Toscanelli 186. The first hostel by the sea in Rome. Located near the new port of Rome and close to the excavations of Ostia Antica. It's easily reachable from the center of Rome by public transportations. Over 140 beds in comfortable rooms with ensuite bathrooms, TV color and a view of the sea.

M&J Place Hostel Roma, Via Solferino , 9, (+39) 064462802 (info @ mejplacehostel.com) is within spitting distance of the train station. Friendly staff and reasonable dorms, this popular hostel has a paltry free breakfast but no lockout or curfew.

Pop Inn Hostel Very clean & comfortable environment, & all our bathrooms are kept spotlessly clean so that you don’t have to be worried if you want to book a room with shared bathroom. All of the rooms are freshly cleaned everyday & the beds made. We have fans in the summer & in the winter heaters keep the rooms warm and cozy.

Plus Roma To keep your finger on the pulse check out Plus Camping Roma, in the heart of Rome, party at famous Sunset Hill bar, the fastest shuttle bus on four wheels to the Vatican and the best theme parties around. Via Aurelia, 831 (km 8,2)00165 Roma. Ph 0039 0662 3018

RomeBed Via Emanuele Filiberto, 109 Tel (+39) 3391580615

Yellow Hostel, 44 via Palestro, 00185, telephone: +39 06 49 382 682 ( info @ yellowhostel.com ), dorms from €23 per night.

YWCA Foyer di Roma Youth Hostel is four blocks from Termini on the Via C. Balbo. Rooms are spotless, bathrooms are extremely clean, and towels and linens are changed once a day. Internet for €1 per hour. Fridge on every floor. Continental breakfast included in room rate. €26 per person per night for a bed in a 4-person room. €31 for a double, €47 for a private room. You have to be female to reserve a room; however, men can stay if accompanied by a woman. Via C. Balbo 4, 00184, telephone: +39 06 4880460 (foyer.roma@ywca.ucdg.it).

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Mid-range

Angel Hotel, Via M. Dionigi 45, Tel/Fax: +39 06.3204737. The Hotel Angel is very central, silent and very welcoming Hotel, the ideal place for a charming contact with the city of Rome. The Hotel is located in an ancient building in the historical, artistic and economical centre of the city only a few minutes away from the major cultural sites.The Angel Hotel is a charming property situated in the centre of Rome, only 10 minutes on foot from many of the city's major attractions including Saint Peter's Basilica, the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain.

Hotel Sant'Angelo, Via Marianna Dionigi 16, 00193, tel +39 06.3242000 fax +39 06.3204451. 29. The Hotel Sant'Angelo is a very central hotel, silent and very welcoming, the ideal place for a charming contact with the city of Rome. The hotel is located in the historical, artistic and economical centre of the city only a few minutes away from the Vatican city, the Vatican museum and Sistine Chapel, Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona, Via del Corso, the Pantheon.

Arena House Rome, via Marco Aurelio, 37, 00184, Rome, Italy, Tel: 0039 06 97615384 Fax: 0039 06 97615384, 30, 31. Guest house located near the Colosseo in Rome.

Antico Palazzo Rospigliosi, Via Liberiana, 21, 00185, Rome, Italy, Tel: 0039 0648930495 Fax: 0039 064814837, 32, 33. Relatively new 4 star city center hotel located next to the Church of Saint Mary Major and with easy access to Romes other historical attractions.

Art by the Spanish Steps, Via Margutta 56, 00187, Rome, Italy, Tel: 003906328711 Fax: 00390636003995, 34, 35. 4 Star Hotel location close to the Piazza Spagna and Spanish Steps.

Best Pantheon, Corso Vittorio Emanuele II 21, Tel: +39 392.5601.203, mail to: info@bestbb.it, 36. New MODERN B&B between the Colosseo and the Pantheon, very near Piazza Navona and the main shopping streets. EUR 100 to 190 for a double room.

Best Vatican, Via degli Scipioni 135, Tel: +39 392.5601.203, mail to: info@bestbb.it, 37. New MODERN B&B at 5 min. walking distance of the Vatican with the St. Peter's and at 60 m from the Ottaviano underground station. EUR 80 to 140 for a double room.

Caput Mundi, Via Rattazzi, 65 - Ground Floor, Lodging Caput mundi is a charming,comfortable and friendly accommodation, offering you comfort at very reasonable price!at the center of Rome, near to Coloseum. We are just 5 minutes away from Rome's Termini railway station, which has direct connections with both airports of Rome & Walking distance from almost all historic monuments.

Casa Della Palma, Via dei Sabelli 98, San Lorenzo Area, Casa della Palma is in the lively, safe and central area of Rome University in San Lorenzo, less then 1 mile from the Central Railways Station, 1,5 mile from the Colosseum, all the main attraction of city center easily reachable by direct public transportation. The quality of a good hotel for the inexpensive budget of a B&B, in this conversion of a small family house, which welcomes its guests in a few quiet spacious rooms, uniquely decorated, with ensuite private marble bathroom, direct phone, minifridge, safe, satellite TV, cd-dvd player, air conditioning, hairdryer... and a green quiet courtyard in front, where you will taste your cappuccino and enjoy the roman weather.

Castello della Castelluccia, via Carlo Cavina snc, 00123, Rome, Italy, Tel: 00390630207041 Fax: 00390630207110, 38, 39. Four star Hotel located in the middle of the Lazio countryside.

Colosseo Suites, Via Cavour, 261 00184 Roma, Italy, Tel: +39 06 4815736 Fax: +39 06 4885837, 40, 41. City center accommodation located 50 meters from the Colosseum and Roman Forum.

Empire Palace Hotel Rome, Via Aureliana 39, 00187, Rome, Italy, Tel: 0039 06421281 Fax: 0039 0642128400, 42, 43. The hotel is one of the largest in the city center with 113 rooms. It is near to the Borghese Gardens, Via Veneto, Via Margutta and the Spanish Steps.

Fonte di Papa Rome, Via di Valle Ricca, 70, 00138, Roma, Italy, Tel: +39 06 88588110 Fax: +39 06 88588110, 44, 45. Country guest house located in inside Marcigliana Nature Reserve in Salaria, less than 30 minutes from the centre of Rome.

Grand Hotel Beverly Hills Rome, Largo Benedetto Marcello 220, 00198, Rome, Italy, Tel: 0039068542141 Fax: 00390685350037, 46, 47. Four star city center hotel with 183 tastefully decorated rooms. Located very near Villa Borghese and Via Veneto.

Grand Hotel Plaza Rome, Via del Corso, 126, 00186, Roma, Italy, Tel: 00390669921111 Fax: 00390669941575, 48, 49. The 5 Star Grand Hotel Plaza is one of the most prestigious hotels to be found in the historical heart of Rome. It is very close to the Spanish Steps and Via dei Condotti.

Hotel Anglo Americano, Via Quattro Fontane, 12, 00184, Roma, Italy, Tel: 0039 06 472941 Fax: 0039 06 4746428, 50, 51. Four star hotel only 50 meters from the Spanish Steps and the Baroque city center of Rome.

Hotel Apollo Rome, Via dei Serpenti 109, 00184, Rome, Italy, Tel: +0039 06 4885889 Fax: +0039 06 4881989, 52, 53. 3 Star hotel situated near to famous attractions including the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps.

Hotel Ara Pacis, Via Vittoria Colonna, 11 - Ph. +39 06.3204446 - Fax +39 06.3211325 54. An elegant palazzo in the center of Rome, just a 10-minute walk from Via Condotti and 15 from the Spanish Steps, the Hotel Ara Pacis welcomes its guests to a refined environment. Single rooms from €104, doubles from €130, triples from €150, quadruples from €180 and suites from €190.

Hotel Arcadia, via campo romano 75, East Rome - Ancient Appian way area, The hotel ARCADIA is a 3 star hotel modern located near the roman ring in a green area far from the roman traffic with a free shuttle you will arrive to anagnina metro station and after 20 minutes you will be in the center of Rome. At the Hotel arcadia, our guests may enjoy a solarium, a gym, and all modern facilities in the rooms. The Arcadia Hotel is extremely well located for shopping at the largest roman malls and factory outlets.

Hotel Atlante Garden, Via Crescenzio, 78, 00193, Rome, Italy, Tel: 0039 06 6872361 Fax: 0039 06 6872315, 55, 56. Four star hotel located in the city center within two blocks of the Vatican City, five blocks from Navona Square and the Spanish Steps.

Hotel Atlante Star, Via Vitelleschi, 34, 00193, Rome, Italy, Tel: 0039 06 6873233 Fax: 0039 06 6872300, 57, 58. 4 star hotel located in the city centre just three minutes from the Vatican City and St Angel’s Castle, ten minutes from Navona Square and fifteen minutes from the Spanish Steps.

Hotel Cambridge Roma, Via Palestro 87, 00185, Rome, Italy, Tel: 0039 06 4456821 Fax: 0039 06 49384917, 59, 60. Cheap city centre hotel near the main railway station with internet room, private bathrooms in Rooms, tv and air Conditioning.

Hotel Caracciolo, Via Cairoli, 86, 00185 tel +39 06.4462983, fax +39 06.4440102. 61. The safest, cleanest, and friendliest hotel in near the main train terminal. Excellent deals in August, September and October.

Hotel Clarin, Via Palermo 36, Roman Forum - Coliseum area, The Clarin Hotel comprises of 21 guest rooms, all of which have been furnished with modern and comfortable fittings. Each room has an en suite bathroom and is equipped with a television, direct dial telephone and fan. The rooms are spacious and have been furnished in the same style with the only difference being the colour scheme; either red or green. The staff at the Clarin Hotel is always happy to provide any information which our guests; at reception we speak English, Italian, French, German and Spanish.

Hotel Columbus Rome, Via della Conciliazione, 33, 00193, Rome, Italy, Tel: +39.06.6865435 Fax: +39.06.6864874, 62, 63. 4 star hotel in central Rome near the Basilica of St. Peter's and the Vatican City.

Hotel Condotti, Via Mario de' Fiori, 37 - Ph. +39.06.6794661 - Fax +39.06.6790457 64. Elegant and luminous rooms, between Via Condotti and Piazza di Spagna. Rates: single rooms from €136, double rooms from €175, triple rooms from €209, quadruple rooms from €223.

Hotel delle Nazioni Rome, Via Poli, 7, 00187, Rome, Italy, Tel: 0039066792441 Fax: 0039066782400, 65, 66. 4 star city centre hotel situated near the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain and Via del Corso.

Hotel Dorica , Piazza Viminale, 14 - Ph. +39.06.483615 - 4818952, Fax +39.06.4815406 67. Classical recently renovated rooms blend with modern comforts for a pleasant stay in the heart of the Eternal City. Single rooms from €65 doubles from €75, triples from €90.

Hotel Embassy Rome, Via Antonio Salandra, 6 - 00187 - Rome, Tel +39064881402 - Fax +39064827205, 68, Hotel. 3 Star Hotel in Via Veneto area. Double room with continental breakfast from 80 to 170 euro per room per night.

Hotel Emona Aquaeductus, Via Statilia, 23, 00185, Tel +39 06.7027827 Fax +39 06.7028787. 69. A charming neighborhood in the center of Rome, offers discrete, attentive service for both business travel and tourism.

Hotel Euro House Inn, Via della Scafa, 422 | 00054 Isola Sacra, Ph. +39.06.6584114 | Fax +39.06.65024387. 70. Euro House Inn is the ideal hotel for tourism and business travel between Rome and Fiumicino, at only 2 km from Rome’s Fiumicino International Airport.

Hotel Europa Rome, Via Varese 26, 00184, Rome, Italy, Tel: 0039064462096 Fax: 0039064467406, 71, 72. Three star value for money hotel located close to Romes main attractions, metro stop and Termini station.

Hotel Forte Via Margutta 61, 00187, Tel. +39 06.3207625 - Fax. +39-063202707. 73. Only a few steps from Piazza di Spagna, on Via Margutta, one of the most elegant streets in Rome and the unforgettable setting for the movie Roman Holiday.

Hotel Forum, Via Tor di Conti 25, 00184, Roma, Italy, Tel: 0039066792446 Fax: 0039066786479, 74, 75. 4 Star hotel located across from the ruins of the Roman Forum and a short walk away from the Colosseum.

Hotel Giglio dell'Opera