Rome Coach Holidays

Coach holidays to Rome

Language: Italy    
Currency:  Euro
Time Zone: GMT+1/UTC
Tipping: Service charges are generally added to the bill automatically, however it is standard to simply round up the bill by a few euros to make a round amount. If you have received excellent service a larger tip would of course be appreciated!

Rome - an introduction

The lives of the Romans have certainly been attracting the attention of people in the UK and this is partly due to the new exhibition at the British Museum focusing on the volcanic tragedy in Pompeii and Herculaneum. For those of you who wish to see these marvellously preserved towns for real, you can with Italy coach holidays to Rome. The majority of coach tours to Rome will feature an excursion that will allow you to explore Pompeii and find out what really happened on that fateful night in 79 AD.

Pompeii and Herculaneum are not the only places to visit in Rome, this is just the tip of the iceberg as there are a multitude of things to see and do, bearing in mind that this city is one big open-air museum! The magnet for tourists is the plethora of historic attractions to explore. Marvel at St Peter's Basilica which is said to be the saint's burial ground, gaze in awe at Michelangelo's beautifully painted ceiling in the Sistine Chapel and explore the Vatican museums. No tour of Rome would be the same without stepping inside its main attraction, the Colosseum or tossing a coin for luck in the Trevi Fountain. You could even pretend you're Audrey Hepburn and create your very own Roman Holiday by visiting the iconic Spanish Steps – challenge your loved ones to see who will be the first to reach the top?

Rome is literally overflowing with ancient ruins, piazzas and sculptures to please any culture vulture on holiday here. But don't wear yourself out with all this spectacular sightseeing on offer ensure you take time to relax especially in the heat of the summer sun. There are a variety of traditional restaurants and cafes located in and around the city where you can sample Italian favourites, enjoy a cool glass of prosecco or one of Italy's famous gelatos and watch the world go by before you embark on another round of sightseeing!

Tour packages tend to include: return coach or air travel, accommodation in a quality hotel, meals and excursions.

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Weather 

Thinking of travelling to Italy? Check out the average temperatures for when you plan to visit courtesy of BBC Weather

We doubt very much that you will run out of things to do whilst on Italy coach holidays to Rome. Here are just a few ideas to whet the appetite:

The Colosseum
Possibly one of the most famous landmarks in Europe, the Colosseum dates back from 72 AD. The vast arena which had seats for over 50,000 people was used for fierce battles between gladiators, slaves, wild animals and prisoners. When you visit, the closest you will get to seeing a gladiator are the ones standing outside waiting to have their pictures taken with tourists – beware they expect money in return for your photo so be prepared to part with your cash! 

Trevi Fountain
The largest baroque style fountain in the city, the Trevi Fountain, has become famous around the world.Legend states that if a visitor throws a coin in the Fountain they are ensured a return to Rome. It is thought that around 3,000 euros are thrown into the Fountain by tourists every single day.

Vatican City
When in Rome, you should explore the home of the Catholic Church; the Vatican City. The Vatican is a must-see for anyone visiting Rome with the highlights being: Saint Peter's Square, St Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel. The Chapel's spectacular ceiling is a particular draw for art enthusiasts as it was hand painted by Renaissance artists such as Michelangelo and Botticelli.

Pantheon
Possibly Rome's best preserved building, the Pantheon was built between 119-128 AD. Today, it allows us to glimpse at the marvellous world of Roman Architecture. Many famous figures from Italian history have been laid to rest in the Pantheon; this includes the artist Raphael and the Italian Kings Vittorio Emanueke II and Umberto I. 

To help you have an enjoyable holiday in Rome, take a look at these useful tips and advice provided by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO):

Health and Travel Insurance
When visiting Italy you should always obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) prior to departing from the UK. The EHIC isn't a substitute for medical and travel insurance, however it entitles you to state provided medical treatment should it become necessary during your trip. Any treatment provided is given on the same terms as Italian nationals. The EHIC does not cover medical repatriation, on-going treatments or non-urgent medical treatment, so in addition to having an EHIC you should ensure you have adequate travel insurance and accessible funds which will cover the cost of any medical treatment and repatriation. 

Crime
Crime levels are generally low in Italy but there are increased levels of petty crime in the larger city centres. Take care when riding on public transport and when visiting crowded areas in Rome, especially close to the main railway station 'Termini' and when riding the number 64 bus, which goes to St Peter's Square and back. Be vigilant if getting the train to or from the major airports in Italy (especially Fiumicino airport) and  also be careful when unloading your luggage from coaches and trains. Thieves have been known to rob sleeping passengers on overnight trains, so take necessary precautions.

Alcoholic beverages served overseas are often stronger than those in the UK. Never leave food or drink unattended at any time. Victims who have had their drinks spiked have been robbed or even assaulted in the past.

If you hire or drive your own car to Italy be aware that rest stops and motorway service stations are ideal targets for robbers. Be cautious of any offers for help with flat tyres, particularly on the motorway which stretches between Naples and Salerno.  Make sure you always lock your vehicle, avoid leaving valuables on display and never leave luggage in your car for any length of time.

European police forces have issued warnings about counterfeit Euro notes being in circulation. Ensure notes received from sources other than banks are genuine.

Local Laws and Customs
Italian Law states you must be able to show identification at all times. It is sensible to carry a photocopy of the data page from your passport, but be aware you might be asked to collect the original document to show to the police officers or you may be asked to produce it within twelve hours. If you are stopped by Police, whilst driving, you will most likely be asked to present your full passport.
In Rome and the surrounding area, restaurants have to display a menu outside. Only if the customer specifically requests it, can they can charge for bread and they must inform the customer of the prices that are being charged when he/she orders it. They must also give a proper receipt and must not make any cover charge (coperto).

In Venice and Florence, you may be fined should you drop litter. In Florence, in the vicinity of the main public buildings and churches it is an offence to eat and drink or to sit on steps/courtyards.
Illegal traders often operate on the streets of major Italian cities, particularly Florence and Rome. Do not purchase anything from the illegal street traders, you may be stopped by the local police and fined.

Entry Requirements
British nationals don't need a visa to visit Italy. Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay when under three months. Italy does not insist on your passport having an additional period of validity beyond this.

Any other nationality looking to visit Italy must contact the local embassy to check visa requirements.

Tourist office
To find out more about visiting Rome, check out the official tourism website at turismoroma.it