How to Plan a Trip to Rome
The complete 2026 guide — flights, hotels, things to do and airport transfers, all in one place. Everything a first-time visitor to Italy needs.
Your 4-step Rome plan
Step 1 — Book flights to FCO
Leonardo da Vinci Airport (FCO) is the main gateway to Rome. Compare fares across major airlines and OTAs before locking a date.
See flight deals to FCOStep 2 — Pick a neighborhood
Base yourself in Trastevere Neighbourhood for the best first-time visit — Medieval village within the city — cobblestone streets, ivy-covered facades, and the best trattorias in Rome.
Where to stay in RomeStep 3 — Plan your itinerary
Start with Trastevere Neighbourhood, then build outward. Most first-time visitors need 3-5 days to see the highlights of Rome.
Things to do in RomeStep 4 — Sort your airport transfer
Leonardo Express (to Roma Termini) is €14 and takes 32 min. Pre-book a private transfer for stress-free arrival.
FCO arrival guideBefore you book — visa check
Italy is Schengen. Visa-free for US, UK, AUS, Canadian passports for 90 days. ETIAS launching 2025 for currently visa-free visitors.