Rome is a timeless city where the old and the new blend seamlessly. The memory of ancient gladiators mingles in modern cafes, and walking the cobblestone streets transports visitors back in time. This Italian capital is truly an enchanting place, and it can turn just about anyone into a lover of art, history, food, and life itself. 

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to explore Rome, starting with the luxury of a comfortable business class flight. Whether you’re planning on spending your trip in museums, shopping, or eating your weight in gelato, this guide will help you navigate Rome’s treasures with ease and sophistication. Prepare to embark on a journey where every moment is charming and exciting! 

Business Class Travel to Rome

To make your voyage to Italy as delightful as the country itself, start your trip with a business class flight to Rome. This premium experience not only enhances your comfort but also sets the stage for an exceptional vacation.

Flying business class typically means spacious, lie-flat seats that turn into beds, gourmet meals, and access to luxurious airport lounges. There’s also the perk of personalized service, priority boarding, and complimentary baggage. All of these amenities transform your experience into a seamless and indulgent one, ensuring you are refreshed and ready to hit the ground running in Rome.  

When selecting the right airline, focus on its reputation for service, quality of its business class, and routes. Loyalty programs can help you maximize your rewards and get a better deal, and reviews and articles on our blog can help you find the best airlines to Italy. 

Even with the luxury of business class, smart packing can enhance your trip. Remember essentials like noise-canceling headphones, a neck pillow, and your favorite toiletries. Don’t forget versatile, stylish, and comfortable outfits, such as walking shoes and a light jacket. These preparations will ensure you’re ready for anything on your Italian adventure!

Arriving in Rome: Essential Information

Navigating the city starts with your arrival at Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport. Here’s what you need to know to transition seamlessly from your flight to exploring the Eternal City. 

Immigration and Customs

At Fiumicino Airport, follow the signs to immigration, where you will need to present your passport and any necessary documentation. Customs is straightforward if you are not bringing in any restricted items. Simply proceed through the green channel. 

Transportation

For getting to your hotel or lodging, you have several options. First, there are taxis, which are readily available at the airport. The Leonardo Express train offers a quick 30-minute ride to Rome’s central Termini Station. You can also book a private transfer for a more comfortable experience. 

If you plan on renting a car for day trips, your best bet is to wait until after you’ve finished exploring the city center. Parking can be scarce and expensive, making renting a car a hassle instead of a convenience.

 A better option is to use public transportation to move about the city, and it may also be the best choice for exploring other parts of Italy. The country is connected by trains that are reasonably priced and quickly get you from place to place. Visit Florence, Venice, and even lesser-known towns in Tuscany without the worry of driving in a foreign country! 

Exchanging Currency

The best way to exchange currency in Rome is at ATMs. These tend to have the most competitive rates. You can use local exchange offices as well, but be aware of the current rate so you can choose wisely. And, if you do use these, avoid exchanging money at your hotel or the airport, where rates are generally less favorable.

If possible, aim to use a credit card with no international transaction fees. This will minimize the amount of cash you need and the fees you pay to exchange currency. 

Must-See Rome Landmarks

Rome is a treasure trove of landmarks that embody the rich and vibrant culture. Here are some of the most extraordinary sites in Rome and perhaps Europe itself. You won’t want to miss any while sightseeing, so circle them in your guidebook! 

• Colosseum: An iconic symbol of ancient Rome, this gigantic amphitheater was the venue for gladiator battles. 
• The Roman Forum: This landmark, which used to be the local marketplace, offers a glimpse into the ancient city’s political and social life.
• Trevi Fountain: Toss a coin into this Baroque fountain, and legend says that you’ll ensure your return to Rome.
• Pantheon: Marvel at the splendor of the Pantheon’s impressive domes, remembering it was completed approximately 2000 years ago! 

• Vatican City: Technically its own country, a visit to Vatican City is worthwhile even for visitors who aren’t Catholic, with impressive art, the Vatican Museums, and beautiful architecture like the Sistine Chapel. 
• St. Peter’s Basilica: This Renaissance masterpiece was designed by Michelangelo and Bramante, and it is awe-inspiring to see it in person.
• Spanish Steps: This charming gathering place leads from the Piazza di Spagna to the Trinità dei Monti church, making it ideal for people-watching and relaxing. 
• Capitoline Museums: At Capitoline Hill, you’ll find an impressive collection of statues, artifacts, and artworks that provide a deep dive into ancient history. 
• Borghese Gallery: The Galleria Borghese boasts extraordinary collections and is set in an elegant villa surrounded by lush gardens. 
• Villa Borghese Gardens: Stroll the pristinely landscaped grounds or rent a bike to explore the gardens. 
• Piazza del Popolo: The largest piazza in Rome and what used to be a traveler’s first view of Rome when arriving on the Via Flaminia. 
• Piazza Navona: Home to some of the most beautiful fountains in Rome, you can’t miss this stadium-shaped piazza. 
• Palatine Hill: Called the “first nucleus of the Roman Empire,” this hill is where you can still view the ruins of palaces built by Augustus, Tiberius, and Domitian, which are nearly 2,000 years old! 

Since Rome is so rich in history, it’s a great idea to hop on a guided tour of the city, where locals explain the significance of the sites in greater detail. After, why not reward yourself with a food tour featuring local Mediterranean specialties?

Neighborhoods to Explore

Exploring Rome’s neighborhoods reveals the character and charm of the past and present, with some neighborhoods offering a more accurate representation of the modern Roman experience and others showcasing remnants of the past. 

Central Rome is perfect for a walking tour. We recommend starting in the Trevi Fountain area, where you can admire the fountain and wander through charming streets lined with boutiques and cafes. (Remember to have a cappuccino in the morning and an espresso in the afternoon for an authentic experience!) Nearby, the Pantheon invites you to marvel at the ancient structure and enjoy the piazzas and local eateries. Have gelato before hitting up the Trastevere district—a must for lively atmospheres, cobblestone streets, and authentic Roman trattorias. 

Trendy areas of the city have a more contemporary vibe, and Monti is one of these neighborhoods. It is known for its bohemian atmosphere, artisanal coffee bars, and unique shops. Testaccio is a traditional neighborhood where you can find average Romans living their daily lives, which include eating street food, shopping at bustling markets, and enjoying lively nightlife. 

Prati is more upscale and relaxed, with a residential feel and elegant shopping. If you prefer a luxurious area of the city, head to Via Veneto. It is famous for high-end boutiques and chic restaurants.

Shopping and Dining 

Rome offers an array of eating experiences, so visitors should have no problem finding a restaurant that caters to their tastes. The same is true for shopping, which ranges from traditional markets and artisanal goods to designer clothing boutiques. 

Via Condotti and Via del Babuino are Rome’s premier shopping streets, lined with exclusive brands and shops. If you prefer charming stores with vintage clothing, handmade jewelry, and other local goods, Monti is the best place to shop. 

As for cuisine, most restaurants serve classic pasta dishes like cacao e pepe and carbonara. You can also indulge in an authentic pizza with a crispy, thin crust. Finish the night with gelato, which you will likely eat over the course of the evening!

Nightlife and Entertainment

As evening falls, Rome’s vibrant nightlife provides endless social and cultural experiences. There are world-class performances, such as operas and ballets at the Teatro dell’Opera di Roma. Additionally, the city is home to jazz clubs, concert halls, and lively bars and nightclubs that range from sophisticated to energetic. 

Embark on Your Roman Adventure with Business Class Experts

Rome is an unforgettable city, no matter what kind of travel experience you seek. Whether you spend your days immersed in museums, enjoying world-class dining, or socializing with locals, you’ll cherish every minute of your stay in the Eternal City with the help of these travel tips. 

Your Roman holiday should start off on the right foot with the comfort and luxury of a business class flight. Let spacious seats, gourmet meals, and exceptional service set the tone for the kind of vacation you will experience with the help of Business Class Experts. Contact us today to get help booking your business class flight to visit Rome!