Undecided about your travel destination this summer? Ever considered Rome? With Rome’s abundance of beauty, history, culture and sun, it remains one of the most attractive cities in the world. Whether you enjoy spending your time exploring museums, visiting the theatre, roaming through the streets or simply lounging in a café soaking up the atmosphere and sampling the local cuisine, Rome certainly won’t disappoint. The city is rich with antiquity yet breathes a young vibe; cultural artefacts and historical buildings inspire the mind by day while the lively piazzas are the perfect place to relax and enjoy an aperitivo at night. This summer, with so many exciting events taking place in Rome, we’re sure you’ll find something to tempt you to travel to the Eternal City.
Here are our top Roman highlights for this July and August:
Music:
Imagine listening to the finest Italian Opera singers or watching a first-class Ballet performance underneath the stars on a warm Roman evening as Teatro dell’Opera relocates its shows to the open-air ancient ruins of the Baths of Caracalla this summer. What could be more relaxing than that? If pop concerts are more to your liking, there is no shortage of famous voices taking to the stage this July and August in Rome. The Cure, James Morrison, Paolo Nutini and Morrissey are among many others performing in Rome this summer. This broad variety of musical entertainment perfectly complements the diversity of Rome’s culture and history.
Useful Links: Teatro dell'Opera
Festivals:
The many Roman festivals that take place during the summer months bring to life the art and culture of this historic city. Whether it is watching a dynamic dance show in the squares of Rome, sampling local artisan foods and wines or enjoying the open-air cinema on Tiber Island, the Roman festivals offer it all. Some key festivals to look out for include Estate Romana which runs from 16 June until 28 September and brings to the city a whole variety of exciting events, from jazz concerts and art exhibitions to dance performances and writing workshops. Expo Tevere is an authentic arts and crafts festival which runs throughout June and July and is the perfect place to purchase traditional Roman gifts.The Gran Ballo di Ferragosto is held on Assumption Day, August the 15 and brings together the Roman community in a lively celebration of energetic dance shows and a great concert held in the Parco Archeologico of Teatro Marcello.
Useful Links: Estate Romana, GoItaly
History:
Interested in digging up the past? For the first time ever, the Vatican has opened its Secret Archives. This summer you can read through some of the most fascinating documents in history, including letters from Henry VIII regarding the dissolution of his marriage to Catherine of Aragon, the abdication of Queen Christina of Sweden and the 1521 decree excommunicating Martin Luther. Just head to the Musei Captiolini from Tuesday to Sunday and you can make the most of this fantastic opportunity to delve into the past.
Useful Links: Vatican Secret Archives
Where to stay?
As always check our website to find the best deals for short-term accommodation. Click here and start searching for rooms and flats in Rome. Or take advantage of our Expert Search, a free 'matchmaking' service for guests to find perfect accommodation & hosts.Buon viaggio!