The Eternal City

Rome is the city that had cultivated the brilliance of Michelangelo. In twin palaces on either side of his Piazza del Campidoglio, you will find the Capitoline Museums which comprise the longest-standing civic museum of art in the world. Their collection has been available to the public since 1734. It is here that you will marvel at the breathtaking works of Veronese, Titian, Caravaggio, Tintoretto, and as well as the superbly sculpted statues created by the skilled Baroque master, Bernini. It is also worthwhile to explore the Borghese Gallery and the Palazzo Barberini Galleria Nazionale d'art Antica.

Make a wish

The elegant Trevi Fountain donates all the coins that tourists toss into the water while making a wish. Hidden in a small piazza and surrounded by hordes of people, the fountain’s velvety travertine shimmers beneath surges of water and flashing cameras. It's a rococo performance of playful sea horses, conch-blowing Tritons and weathered rocks, exploding in front of the Palazzo Poli. Not far away sits La Città dell'Acqua, which integrates the ruins of an Imperial-era apartment complex, and a reservoir for the waters of the Acqua Vergine swirling beneath.

Climate

Rome's agreeable climate makes it enjoyable to vacation year-round; however, spring and autumn are clearly the best times to visit. You can expect sunshine, clear skies and mild temperatures (November is typically a rainy month). July and August are hot, and Romans customarily abandon the oppressively hot city in August. It is not uncommon to find many businesses closed during the months of July and August, thus it is best to avoid booking a vacation at this time of the year. December to February finds the climate to be quite brisk, but the sun continues to shine.

Dos and Don'ts

It is considered a gesture of disrespect to stroke your chin with the fingertips and thrust them forward. This hand gesture resembles the horn of the devil, which the Roman people find obscene. Pointing simultaneously with the index and pinkie finger implies that you are evoking ill-will upon an individual. It is most offensive to slap a raised arm above the elbow and thumb your nose.

Chewing gum in public, leaning against walls (or any object), as well as demonstrating poor posture is considered improper.
It is customary to see people holding hands or linking their arms in public. This practice is commonly observed in the evenings during leisurely walks known as "passeggiata". The Italian concept of personal space is quite different from what Northern Europeans or Americans are used to. It is the norm for them to converse in a manner that is much closer and more intimate.

Enjoy your stay in the City of Fountains!