Three reasons why you have to visit Rome
Many cities impress, but Rome is a city that astonishes. Beneath its sun-warmed stones lies a story that never stops unfolding. Ancient monuments rub shoulders with modern boutiques. Espresso bars buzz beside ornately carved fountains, and Renaissance art still feels gloriously alive.
Whether you come for the ruins or the irresistible rhythm of La Dolce Vita, Rome has a way of turning every moment into a masterpiece. But if you need further persuasion, here are three reasons why Rome must be your next luxury travel destination.
1. Historical intrigue is boundless in the Eternal City
The first reason to visit Rome is all about the past. History is never a distant echo or a faint whisper here. Visitors to Rome encounter an evocative realm of ruins, palazzos, secluded churches and monuments to human achievement.
According to myth, Romulus and Remus founded Rome in 753 B.C. Since then, the city has been an imperial colossus, a global religious centre, a hub of artistic Renaissance and the capital of modern Italy. Every age has left its mark, and every corner of Rome tells a story.
Whether you are pondering greatness and nobility in the Pantheon or exploring the catacombs, Rome has an inexhaustible trove of tales to tell. Summon images of gladiators in the Colosseum or stroll with Senators through the ancient forum.
The Spanish Steps tell stories of Hollywood glamour, papal magnificence and even poetic despair (Keats' final home lies beside the steps and welcomes visitors). Via Veneto is full of cinematic lore, tempting travellers to walk in the footsteps of Fellini. Surprises even await in humble squares like Trastevere's Piazza San Cosimato, where Augustus staged lavish naumachia (naval battles) involving 3,000 participants.
These are just a few examples. The wonderful thing about Rome is that everyone experiences the city in their own way. History feels personal, as if the city has chosen to share a piece of its soul with you alone. Few destinations can match that appeal.
2. Art and architecture that enraptures the senses
Our second reason to visit is all about Rome's sensual allure. Rome has always been designed to impress. Emperors, popes and modern rulers fashioned the city to display their awesome power. Meanwhile, artists supplied dazzling creations to showcase their talents and the generosity of patrons.
Jaw-dropping architecture lies around every corner. Icons like the Colosseum, St Peter's Basilica and Borromini's exquisite churches attract endless attention. But a brief afternoon walk takes you past softly sunlit piazzas and fountains that shimmer with centuries of craftsmanship.
Rome's limitless artistic wealth also rises above its rivals. Enjoy time with globally-recognised masterpieces like Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel ceiling or Caravaggio's "Judith Beheading Holofernes" in the Palazzo Barberini. Or spend hours in hidden gems like the Museo Pietro Canonica in the Villa Borghese.
What's more, artistic treasures constantly re-emerge. For instance, travellers can see 16th-century frescoes at Villa Farnesina that were uncovered by an electrician in 2024. Other wonders like Pietro Cavallini's "Last Judgement" are tucked away in secluded convents, waiting for the gaze of discerning visitors.
Anywhere else, art of that quality would be promoted as iconic. Rome's creative riches are so vast that they seem unremarkable until you see them face-to-face.
3. La Dolce Vita and beyond: A uniquely vibrant urban energy
The final reason to make Rome your next destination is probably our favourite. Rome is an unrivalled place to relax, absorb local culture and feel just like a local.
The city is full of atmospheric neighbourhoods that invite exploration. In the labyrinths of Trastevere, cobbled lanes hum with laughter, candlelight and the aroma of real Roman cooking. It's a place where visitors can learn how to craft classic pasta dishes under the eyes of artisan chefs or spend intriguing hours discovering hidden chapels that few visitors see.
Just outside the centre, Testaccio draws you in with local delicacies like rigatoni alla pajata or coda alla vaccinara (oxtail stew) while the renovated Mattatoio slaughterhouse hums with artistic creativity.
East of Termini, San Lorenzo offers something else again. Home to a restless community of students and artists, San Lorenzo is dedicated to the bohemian life. Take in cabaret performances, sip aperitivos with writers and artists at Giufà Libreria Caffè or harmonise music and gastronomy with a meal at Mazzo. Then there are stylish districts where boutiques thrive and dressing well is a local obsession. For instance, Prati is the place to head for athleisure masterpieces on Via Cola di Rienzo. Art Nouveau esplanades and tranquil green spaces make it one of Rome's most attractive spots, and the living embodiment of Roman elegance.
The truth is that wherever you venture, Rome surprises and enchants. From hunting vintage finds at Porta Portese to morning espressos in the Pantheon's shadow at Sant' Eustachio Il Caffè, Italy's capital is an intoxicating place to experience.
Explore history, art and hidden gems at Corinthia Rome
There are many reasons to visit the Eternal City, where every arrival adds a new chapter to an endless tale of grandeur and elegance. Staying at Corinthia Rome brings the city's stories to life.
Immerse yourself in art, architecture, history, food - and the boundless energy that makes Rome so appealing. And return to luxury accommodation to enjoy every moment to the full. Book a curated stay today and discover your own personal Rome.
