753 BC has traditionally been recognized as the established birth of Rome. Etruscan kings would rule the city until the Civil War and the end of the Republic in 31 BC. Rome would progress through the Roman Principate and later the era of Byzantine or Roman Empire. The city would host some of the most famous and infamous leaders in the eyes of history, from Julius Caesar to Mussolini. Architecture would be influenced by Greek cultures, while Italians would bring innovation to a new level with the invention of the Roman aquaduct. The city would inspire the Renaissance era, with its architecture, music and art still very much alive today. Michelangelo would complete one of the most famous creations in art history within the Sistine Chapel.

Today monuments to Italy''s celebrated past can be seen throughout the city, travel to the famous Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Castle Sant''Angelo, or the Catacombs of San Callisto. A walking tour through the Vatican where you can visit St. Peter''s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel will provide a days worth of inspiration. The sites and activities are numerous, be sure to bring enough film!

Leonardo Da Vinci airport in Fiumicino
Pastine airport in Ciampino

From the most thrifty bargain shopper to those travelers fortunate enough to sit in the pampered lap of luxury, Rome offers a plethora of shops and boutiques, markets and stores. Below you are sure to find a destination to add to your itinerary.

Piazza Colonna & Piazza Barberini - Many specialty shops include leather, bags, clothing and shoes. You will also find large department stores in this is popular commercial area, but expect the throngs during the high season summer months.

Campo dei Fiori - Fine quality food products can be found in this old world Roman market.

Via Del Corso - Trendy shops line the streets marketing their wares to more youthful clientele. Find clothing, sportsware, and accessories on this shopping thoroughfare.

Il Giardino d''Inverno - On Viale Romania you will find a fabulous introduction to market culture. Come haggle for goods. It''s fun!

Pantheon & Via Del Governo Vecchio - Bargains galore await you at some of the best second hand shops. You will also find some hip boutiques and many more traditional shops. During the summer months you will find that you can shop into the evening.

Via Frattina - Deals are readily found in this popular shopping spot.

Via Borgognona - Jet setters from around the world make their way to this chic shopping district.

Via Cola Di Rienzo - On the way to the Vatican you will find a vast array of shops peddling housewares, books, clothing, shoes, food and bags.

Via dei Coronari - Find fine goods such as crystal, glassware, furniture and decorative items.

Piazza Di Spagna - High end vendors, with higher end price tags. World renowned fashion icons have set up shop alongside classy chic boutiques at the foot of the Spanish Steps.

Via Francesco Crispi - Opposing it''s elegant down stairs counterpart, Piazza Di Spagna, Francesco Crispi is located above the Spanish Steps and offers a stroll of unique boutiques where you can find less expensive options.

Via del Babuino - A great spot for art and antiques.

Via Cola Di Rienzo - On the way to the Vatican you will find a vast array of shops peddling housewares, books, clothing, shoes, food and bags.

Via Nazionale - Conveniently located near the main Termini Rail Station, this shopping district offers familiar wares at moderate prices.

Via Vittorio Veneto - A popular tourist district the streets are lined with hotels and cafes, but for leather goods, this is where you will want to hunt. You will also find a market of enormous proportions offering great fun and exceptional bargains!

The Colosseum - Rome''s hallmark monument, ruins of a once opulent stadium where gladiators once fought to the death.

The Spanish Steps - A splendid representation of the baroque period, tourists from around the world flock to the site to take pictures and Rome''s summer sun.

The Forum - Once the commercial, political and religious epicenter of ancient Rome.

Trevi Fountain - This spectacular marble creation is surely not to be missed.

The Vatican City - The home of the Pope, St. Peter''s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel.

Piazza Nivona - The location of four fountains, the most recognizeable of which is the ''Fountain of Four Rivers''

Palazzo Farnese - Perhaps the most beautiful Renaissance palace in the city.

The Pantheon - A truly awe-inspiring example of architecture dating back to Imperial Rome.

Piazza del Campidoglio - On Capitoline Hill you will find a bronzed Marcus of Arelius.

Dining al Fresco

There is an abundance of great open-air cafes lining the streets and Piazzas of Rome. Many will offer a full range of Italian dishes ranging from coffee and pastries, to a full five course meal. You will find that ideal place for people watching from you dining vantage point. Relax and enjoy the locals and tourists alike as they head about their day. Al fresco cafes are most popular for a light lunch and snack food.

Recommendations:

With literally thousands of options, we''ve compiled a small list of restaurants you may want to try:

El Toula - Via della Lupa, offers a splendidly romantic atmosphere, and great cuisine. Prices are on the higher end.

Vecchia Roma - Dining al Fresco in style on the piazza. Enjoy unique and refreshing dishes on P. Campitelli 18. Prices are on the higher end of what you''ll find in the city.

Fantasie di Trastevere - Enjoy splendid cuisine and musical comedy in this gorgeously refurbished Roman establishment of culinary delight. Located on Via S. Dorotea in the heart of the Old City, prices are on the higher end, but include your evening entertainment.

Romolo - Dine in the garden portico of this historically recognized villa. Enjoy an array of hearty dishes and fine entertainment located on Via de Porta Settimiana. Prices are moderate.