Rome Insider Tips

Italy, Rome | For a unique view of St. Peter's Basilica popular with the locals, visit the Knights of Malta Gate and walk to Garden of Oranges for incredible views.

Italy, Rome | As amazing as Saint Peter's Basilica is, it does have a tourist atmosphere. The Basilica of Saint Paul, located outside Vatican City, exhibits a similar grandeur to Saint Peter's but is more intimate. Our favorite aspect of the Basilica is the chronology of Popes, whose portraits line the ceiling. Those lucky enough to visit during a mass celebration are in for a treat.

Italy, Rome | When in Rome, eat like the Romans do with a visit to Trastevere, a small traditional Italian town, filled with great restaurants and locals who enjoy the traditional fare. ~ Rachel Brodie, Destination Marketing Manager

Italy, Rome | It's well known that the Vatican is a must see while in Rome, however I highly recommend a guided skip-the-lines excursion, lines can take all day, even in the low season and this will allow you easy entrance at your allotted time. Plus, the guides are outstanding and will share the history with you behind each painting and sculpture. They will also take some time in the beginning to cover the work of the Sistine Chapel because you are not allowed to speak once inside the chapel. ~ Rachel Brodie, Destination Marketing Manager

Italy, Rome | The Trevi Fountain's traditional legend holds that if visitors throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain, they are ensured a return visit to Rome. The coins are collected every night and given to an Italian charity called Caritas. They in turn use it on a supermarket program providing rechargeable cards to Rome's needy to help them purchase groceries.

Italy, Rome | Pope Francis declared an extraordinary Jubilee Year in 216. The Holy Year of Mercy began on December 8, 2015, with the opening of the special Holy Door of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. Additional Holy Doors at the basilicas of St. John Lateran, St. Mary Maggiore and St. Paul's Outside the Walls were also opened. The faithful believe that a walk through the Holy Doors offers forgiveness from sins. Jubilees have taken place every 25 - 50 years, with the last one being called by Pope John Paul II in 2000. ~ Rachel Brodie, Destination Marketing Manager