Firpo Erica - Insight Guides: Experience Rome

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From hub of an empire to Papal headquarters, Romans have long considered their home to be Caput Mundi, capital of the world. While Romes influence may not be as global as it once was, the evident attractions of the city that have brought travellers for centuries remain as they always have been. It has incomparable art and architecture, lively and generous people, exciting cuisine and world-beating coffee and gelato . But the 21st century has brought a breath of fresh air to this ancient city.

In recent years, Rome has seen a swathe of renovations and openings. The most radical of these is MAXXI, a grand project by British-Iraqi architect Zaha Hadid, which sees a former army barracks reborn as the Museum of 21st-Century Arts. Theres also Richard Meiers light-filled pavilion for the Ara Pacis, an ancient Roman altar, and the Centrale Montemartini museum, an imaginatively converted power plant in Ostiense that houses part of the Capitoline Museums vast collection of ancient statuary. Romes dynamic arts scene includes one of the most vibrant music venues in Italy, Renzo Pianos Parco della Musica, where beetle-like pods create perfect acoustics in settings suitable for symphonies or soul. While not exactly a new Dolce Vita, there is a cinematic gloss to the contemporary city: a funky club scene, sleek cafs, boutique hotels, eclectic festivals, and a more cosmopolitan air. And after almost a decade of works, the third subway line, Metro C, is slowly starting to work, with the first peripheral stations inaugurated in 2015.

Days and evenings are to be enjoyed to the fullest. At any given moment, you will find cafs, bars, restaurants and squares buzzing with life. Romans are fearless and they expect you to be as well whether zipping around on a Vespa or indulging in the local quinto quarto cuisine.

In the Mood for

romance

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As many a Roman will proudly point out, the name of their great city is Amor spelt backwards. Roma certainly qualifies as one of the worlds most romantic travel destinations. This is where English Romantic poets (for more information, ) when all it takes is one small coin to ensure true love.

fine dining

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The true gourmand knows that a getaway in Rome means a reservation at La Pergola , Romes only Michelin 3-star restaurant (for more information, ).

ancient history

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Rome is the worlds most beautiful walking museum. For centuries people have been visiting to see for themselves what the fuss is all about. Youll soon find out with a stroll through the Roman Forum (for more information, ) and enjoy the best of Italian music in a suggestive under-the-stars setting.

local flavour

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When in Rome, everyone wants to feel like a local, and theres no better way to do so than by sampling the cooking. The fearless gastronome will head to Testaccio (for more information, ).

staying out late

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Rome is a great place for late-night adventures. Head away from the historic centre to Testaccio for dancing and clubbing (for more information, ) amasses the study-abroad crowd until the police send them home.

modern and contemporary art and architecture