Rome travel guide

When to go, what to book ahead and how to get there.

Best time to go

April, May, September and October are the most comfortable months for walking the city, with warm days and cooler evenings.

July and August are hot and crowded, so plan outdoor sights early in the morning and museums for the afternoon. Winter is cooler and wetter but quieter at the main sights.

Good to know

  • Colosseum tickets are issued in the holder's name and you must show ID at the entrance. Entry needs a reserved time slot, and tickets go on sale 30 days before the visit.
  • The Vatican Museums are open Monday to Saturday and closed on Sundays, except the last Sunday of the month, when entry is free in the morning.
  • Much of the historic centre is a limited traffic zone (ZTL) where unauthorised cars are fined, so leave the car outside the centre.

Top attractions

Colosseum and Roman Forum

Book a time slot for the Colosseum and bring the ID that matches your ticket. In summer, the first slot of the day is the coolest.

Tickets on Tiqets

Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel

Closed on most Sundays and on several religious holidays, so check the calendar before you pick a date.

Tickets on Tiqets
All Rome attractions on Tiqets

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Car hire

You will not want a car in central Rome, but one is handy for day trips to the countryside or the coast. Check rental terms for city-centre traffic restrictions.

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Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to visit Rome?

April, May, September and October offer the best balance of weather and crowds. August is the hottest month.

Do I need ID for the Colosseum?

Yes. Tickets are issued in the holder's name, and you must keep an ID document with you at the entrance.

Are the Vatican Museums open on Sunday?

Only on the last Sunday of the month (with free entry in the morning), unless it falls on certain holidays.

More destinations

Sources (checked 2 November 2026): colosseo.it, museivaticani.va