Rome, the Eternal City, has long been a dream destination for travelers from around the world. Its ancient ruins, charming piazzas, and world-class cuisine have captivated hearts for centuries.
But now, with the recent election of the first American-born Pope, Robert Prevost, interest in Italy—especially among U.S. travelers—has surged to new heights.
No matter if you’re drawn by faith, fascinated by history, or simply chasing la dolce vita, there’s no better time to explore Rome. The city offers a perfect blend of cultural richness, romantic ambiance, and modern energy. It’s a place where every stone tells a story, every plate of pasta is a masterpiece, and every evening ends with wine under the stars.
A Spiritual Connection Renewed
For many Americans, the Vatican has always held religious significance. But now, with an American Pope leading the Catholic Church, visiting Vatican City feels even more personal.
People from Florida to California are planning pilgrimages to St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, not only for their breathtaking architecture and historical value but also to feel connected to a moment that has made history back home.
It is a humble sensation to be in Peter’s Square, encircled by the magnificent colonnades of Bernini. The basilica itself is a marvel of Renaissance engineering, while the Sistine Chapel continues to amaze visitors with Michelangelo’s frescoed ceiling—a work of art that changed the world.
Where Romance Meets Ruines
Beyond its spiritual sites, Rome is also a city that seems to have been designed for love. Much like Paris, Rome casts a romantic spell on its visitors. The narrow cobblestone streets, golden-hued sunsets, and charming outdoor cafés invite couples to slow down and savor the moment.
In summer, restaurants spill out onto piazzas, offering candlelit dinners and live accordion music. As you twirl your fork through fresh pasta and sip a robust red wine, it’s not uncommon to hear soft melodies drifting through the warm night air.
Moments like these are made even more memorable on a food tour Rome lead by experts, where you can taste the city’s culinary soul one bite at a time.
And just steps away from this idyllic scene, the mighty Colosseum stands proudly. Once the heart of Roman entertainment, the amphitheater is still one of the most visited monuments in the world. Touring the Colosseum at dusk, with lights casting shadows on its ancient walls, transports visitors back to the age of gladiators and emperors.
You can even visit the underground chambers where fighters and wild animals were held before combat—spaces shrouded in history and drama, now made accessible thanks to modern preservation efforts.
Living History On Every Corner
Rome’s roman history is revealed in new ways at every turn. One moment you’re sipping espresso on a modern terrace, and the next, you’re walking through ruins that once formed the political and religious heart of an empire.
Don’t miss the Roman Forum, once the center of Roman daily life. Here, among the fallen columns and broken temples, you can almost hear the whispers of senators and merchants negotiating the future of the empire.
One of the oldest areas of the city and the fabled birthplace of Rome itself, Palatine Hill, rises behind it.
The Pantheon is nearby. This incredibly well-preserved temple honors all of the pagan gods of ancient Rome and features a huge domed roof with an oculus that lets light stream into the middle of the structure.Built nearly 2,000 years ago, it remains a testament to Roman ingenuity and their deep reverence for the divine.
One of the most fmaous Baroque monuments worldwide, the Trevi Fountain, is another must-see destination. According to legend, you can guarantee your return to Rome by throwing a coin into the fountain with your right hand over your left shoulder. The magic of the moment is undeniable, regardless of whether the tale is genuine.
Nightlife in the Eternal City
While history takes the spotlight during the day, Rome’s nightlife is equally unforgettable. The city truly comes alive after dark. Start your evening at Piazza Venezia, a traditional square where locals gather over cold beers and aperitivos.
Rome strikes a perfect balance between old and new—something that becomes clear when you’re dancing in a club built inside a centuries-old palace or sipping cocktails where emperors once walked.
Why Food Is At The Heart Of Rome
Italian cuisine is one of the country’s most compelling draws, and nowhere does it shine quite like it does in Rome. From cacio e pepe to supplì, every region of Italy boasts its own culinary identity, but Rome’s traditional recipes are among the most beloved.
To truly understand the flavors of the Eternal City, many travelers are opting for a food tour Rome experience. These tours go far beyond just eating; they take you into hidden trattorias, bustling markets, and even local homes where recipes have been passed down for generations. You’ll taste the real Rome.
Food is storytelling here. It’s family, tradition, and pride all served on a plate. So if you’re planning your Italian adventure, leave room in your schedule (and your stomach) for at least one culinary tour.
Practical Tips For American Travelers
If you’re among the growing number of Americans feeling the call to Italy—whether inspired by the new Pope or a lifelong fascination with Roman history—here are a few tips to enhance your trip:
- Book in advance: Rome is more popular than ever. Reserve your Colosseum and Vatican tours online to avoid long lines.
- Wear comfortable shoes: The city is best explored on foot, and the cobblestone streets can be rough.
- Brush up on local etiquette: A simple “buongiorno” goes a long way.
- Stay central: Choose accommodations near the historic center to maximize your time and energy.
- Respect the culture: From dress codes at religious sites to quiet hours in neighborhoods, Rome values tradition and decorum.
Rome: More Than Vacations
What makes Rome unforgettable isn’t just its ruins or pasta, but how it makes you feel. It’s the quiet awe you experience walking through the Vatican. The exhilaration of your first glimpse of the Colosseum. The warmth of a smile from a local chef as they share a family recipe. The laughter over a late-night espresso in Trastevere.
With an American Pope now at the helm of the Vatican, many Americans are seeing Italy with fresh eyes—as a land of personal connection, spiritual resonance, and timeless wonder.
And while every trip ends, Rome stays with you. In a way, that’s what makes the Trevi Fountain’s coin tradition so believable—because once you’ve been to Rome, you’ll always find a reason to return.
