Rome, a crucible of Western culture with a history over 2,700 years, has been a powerful empire and a center of civilization since its legendary foundation in 753 BC. Rome's history is a fascinating tapestry of triumphs, conflicts, and cultural achievements. How to Enjoy Rome to the Fullest Fariza Zahid Dos: Dress Modestly When visiting churches, especially the Vatican, make sure to dress modestly. Learn Basic Italian Phrases While many Romans speak English, make an effort to speak a few Italian phrases. Leave Small Tips It is customary to leave a tip in diners, typically around 10% of the bill. Don’ts: Skip Street Hawkers Don’t be swayed by street vendors trying to sell you items near tourist places. Don’t Take Photos Everywhere Respect the strict "no photography" policy that some churches and museums have. Don't J-Walk or Jaywalk Traffic can be chaotic. Avoid crossing the street outside of pedestrian crossings. By adhering to these dos and don'ts, you can appreciate the richness and diversity of Rome's customs. Respecting Rome’s traditions will enhance your connection with the Eternal City's identity. Roaming in Rome "We wander for distraction, but we travel for fulfillment." — Hilaire Belloc A Cultural Trip to Rome, Italy The Ancient Sites and Ruins Rome, the Eternal City, is the capital of Italy and a global symbol of ancient history, art, and culture. It is renowned for its iconic landmarks, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and travelers worldwide. Among the many cultural locations, these are a few that distinctly stand out: The Vatican City The Pantheon The Trevi Fountain The Roman Forum The Capitoline Museum The Colosseum The Palatine Hill The Cultural Values & Cuisine Ancient Roman culture, deeply influenced by Greek traditions, used to emphasize values such as discipline, duty, and honor. The culture's enduring legacy can be seen in its architectural marvels. A Guide to Travelling Rome Rome's contemporary culture, however, blends tradition and modernity, focusing on family, cuisine, arts, history, and a relaxed approach to life, which fosters a strong sense of community. It is a captivating mix of the old and the new. Rome is a big city that can be somewhat overwhelming to explore. So, to help you make the most of your trip, here's a detailed 3-day itinerary for Rome with estimated costs for a mid-range budget: Unlike its intricate cultural heritage, Roman cuisine is renowned for its simplicity and fresh, local ingredients. It features signature pasta classics like carbonara and cacio e pepe. Day 1 Check into a mid-range hotel (3 nights) Use airport transfer to your hotel Estimated Per Night Cost: $150-$200 Estimated Daily Food Cost: $40-$60 Day 2 Explore the Vatican City & Pantheon Visit the Roman Forum & Colosseum Stroll through the historical center. Estimated Activities Cost: $30-$40 Day 3 Visit the Capitoline Museums Tour the Palatine Hill & Trevi Fountain Estimated Activities Cost: $10-$20 Check-out & leave with airport transfer Total Estimated Cost: $460-$640