Belford Ros - DK Eyewitness Travel Guide Rome

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t St Peters Square and colonnade

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t Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi on Piazza Navona

Hugely photogenic, with its spectacular piazzas, cascading fountains and exuberant street life, Rome is a Baroque extravaganza just waiting for you to join in la dolce vita. Linger over a Campari Spritz in a pavement caf, marvel at world-famous art, immerse yourself in ancient history and spook yourself in underground catacombs.

Rome brings history to life like no other city.Whether visiting the Colosseum, the temples and basilicas of the Forum, or the Pantheon, you can travel back in time to ancient Rome. At the Baths of Caracalla and Palazzo Valentini digital technology restores ancient ruins to their former glory. For spectacular views over the whole city climb to the cupola of St Peters, then see God create Adam on the world-famous Sistine Chapel ceiling. Immerse yourself in the Baroque euphoria of Piazza Navona, float down the Spanish Steps, throw a coin in the Trevi fountain, dive into the food markets of Campo de Fiori and Testaccio and experience the vibrant nightlife of Trastevere and the hipster bars and restaurants of Monti.

Romes large central park, Villa Borghese, provides a peaceful green refuge, where you can also see an extraordinary collection of Bernini sculptures in the Museo Borghese. For dramatic modern architecture and art visit Zaha Hadids MAXXI or MACROs site in a converted beer factory. The villas of Tivoli and the ancient Roman city of Ostia Antica provide fascinating day trips from the city.

Its not surprising that Rome, with a huge number of ancient sites, museums, churches and galleries, can feel a little overwhelming. To help, our Roman experts have picked out themes and planned detailed itineraries to whet your appetite. The city has been broken down into easily navigable chapters with colourful, comprehensive maps and insider tips to help you plan the perfect visit. Whatever your dream trip includes, this DK Eyewitness Travel Guide to Rome is your ideal companion.

Detail of The Coronation of the Virgin mosaic in Santa Maria Maggiore

The Roman Forum

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This dynamic city is full of ancient ruins, Renaissance palaces, Baroque churches, world-famous art, elegant shops and culinary delights, offering a unique tapestry of history, art and entertainment.

t Rome is full of gloriously cinematographic piazzas with cascading fountains, great for people-watching over a coffee.

Discover Reasons to Love Rome

t Let your imagination run riot as you explore the myriad ruins of one of the worlds most ancient cities splendid palaces, amphi- theatres and triumphal arches, as well as baths and markets.

Discover Reasons to Love Rome

The Aperitivo

t The aperitivo, a pre-prandial drink with snacks, is an Italian tradition. Romans love to unwind over a wine, Aperol or Campari Spritz with olives, canaps or a buffet while watching the world go by from a pavement caf.

Discover Reasons to Love Rome

Piazza San Pietro at Dawn

t Designed by Bernini, Piazza San Pietro is one of the most magnificent public spaces in the world. To see it at its best, get up at the crack of dawn.

Discover Reasons to Love Rome

Designer Shopping

t Romans would never shop for serious clothes in jeans and trainers, so to truly relish the experience, don your glad rags for an indulgent few hours drifting in and out of boutiques.

Discover Reasons to Love Rome

Exceptional Gelato

t On a steamy afternoon or balmy night, strolling the cobbled streets of the centro storico with a coppetta or cono of ice cream is a time-honoured Roman tradition.

Discover Reasons to Love Rome