Rome has so many layers of history and architecture that it takes a lifetime to discover all its riches. This magnificent city should be savored rather than devoured, since its artistic treasures alone can be quite overwhelming.
In an ancient and complex city like Rome, we recommend that travelers sightsee at a leisurely pace. Andrew Harper partners with several excellent destination specialists in Italy, like Absolute Italy and IC Bellagio, that can assist in making your trip to Rome even more memorable.
Below, the Andrew Harper Travel Office shares ideas to inspire your own unforgettable trip to Rome to "La Cittá Eterna."
Our itineraries are for your inspiration. Please contact a travel advisor to customize this itinerary to fit your needs.
Arrive in Rome and check in at one of six chic hotels that provide exclusive benefits to Andrew Harper subscribers.
Relax before taking a short walking tour, including the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain.
This property is an elegant turn-of-the-century hotel near the Via Veneto and the Spanish Steps. Editors' Note: No longer recommended; see listing for details.
This legendary hotel owned and managed by the engaging Roberto Wirth is set in a turn-of-the-century palace located atop the Spanish Steps.
This stylish hotel is conveniently located near the Spanish Steps and lovely Baroque Piazza del Popolo.
This elegant boutique hotel within a century-old stone mansion is situated near the Quirinale presidential palace.
Focus on ancient Rome today, starting with a visit to the Colosseum. Explore the ruins of the adjacent Forum, the former heart of Roman civic life. Just up the hill, visit the Capitoline Museums, repositories of ancient masterpieces such as "The Dying Gaul," the "Capitoline Venus" and the "Capitoline Wolf," the symbol of Rome.
Turn your attention to papal Rome with a special visit to the Barberini Garden, the official gardens of the Vatican that opened to the public in 2014. Enjoy lunch nearby before visiting the Vatican Museums, where a reservation ensures easy access. View Michelangelo's famed Sistine Chapel frescoes and his moving "Pietà," located in the immense St. Peter's Basilica.
The 16th-century Villa Giulia houses an incredible array of unique Etruscan artifacts, including furniture, sarcophagi and sculptures. After visiting this uncrowded jewel of a museum, take an afternoon at your leisure, starting with a gourmet picnic lunch in the nearby Borghese Gardens.
After shopping for fresh produce, meet with a top pizzaiolo for a private pizza-making class. Once you've perfected your technique, dine on your creations for lunch.
Thus fortified, view Bernini's stunning "Ecstasy of St. Teresa" at Santa Maria della Vittoria, then head to the elegant Borghese Gallery. Never crowded, this museum boasts masterpieces by Bernini, Caravaggio and Raphael.
Take a gastronomic walking tour this morning, visiting the Palazzo Spada, a local baker and the colorful market of Campo de' Fiori. Finish with wine, salumi and cheese in a gourmet salumeria.
Explore the city's ancient catacombs during the afternoon.
Enjoy a leisurely morning in Rome.
Check out of your hotel and transfer 45 minutes to La Posta Vecchia, a sumptuously restored 17th-century villa overlooking the Mediterranean, formerly the retreat of J. Paul Getty.
Make an excursion to nearby Cerveteri, site of a monumental Etruscan necropolis. Continue to tranquil Lake Bracciano, dotted with medieval villages and castles and perfect for canoeing (weather permitting).
Enjoy a relaxing day at the beach of Fregene, visit medieval Viterbo or tour the ruins of Ostia Antica, ancient Rome's thriving port city.
Return to Rome's Fiumicino Airport and depart.
Contact a travel advisor to book your custom itinerary. Fill out the form or call (630) 734-4610.
Andrew Harper members have access to full travel-planning services through Andrew Harper Travel.
1 (800) 375-4685
Open M-F 8:30AM-5:30PM CT
