The old collides with the new in Rome, where visitors can sample both traditional and creative cuisine, classic architecture, avant-garde galleries and endless nightlife options. Video by the New York Times.
Rome is the world's greatest open-air museum. From ancient ruins to baroque grandeur, where else can you can take a wander through more than 2000 years of history without ever being more than a few steps away from a restoring glass of vino?
Ancient pilgrims were gobsmacked by the wonders of Rome and even today, it is easy to get overwhelmed. Limit yourself to one major sight a day – whether that's the Colosseum, the Vatican or the marvellous Galleria Borghese – and allow yourself time to explore the smaller, often overlooked marvels such as the Basilica di San Clemente . At this layer cake-like edifice, a 12th-century church sits on top of a 4th-century church built on top of a 2nd-century pagan temple and a 1st-century Roman house, and you can visit them all.
Gourmet travellers usually arrive in Rome with a list of culinary experiences to tick off. For local classics start with Flavio al Velavevodetto in Testaccio : the tripe is superb but if that's not your cup of tea, try the pasta all'Amatriciana or spaghetti carbonara. Rome's Jewish delicacies can be enjoyed at Piperno in the Ghetto – go for the fried artichoke – while for a buzzing vibe and creative flavours, Glass Hostaria , a collection of chic apartment-style suites near the Piazza del Popolo. If you prefer a more luxurious lodging, make like George Clooney and head for the Hotel de Russie , built around an immense terraced garden filled with climbing roses and yew trees.
Rome in summer can be ghastly, its streets clogged with tourists and endless queues at the big attractions. Come in the off-season for a much more pleasant experience.
