Rome is one of the most beautiful city's in the world, and at more than 3000 years young, one of the world's oldest. Located in the west-central section of Europe's boot-shaped Italy, close to the Tyrrhenian Sea (part of the Mediterranean), weather is moderate in Rome with mild rainy winters and hot, dry summers.

Getting around Rome can be hair-raising whether on foot or in a vehicle. Parking spaces are limited, therefore, people double and triple park anywhere possible. Cars are quite commonly seen on the sidewalks and in some areas, walking the streets is downright risky. Nevertheless, the city is made for pedestrians, with lots of sidewalk cafes, colorful street markets, roving musicians, outdoor bars, shop-lined, narrow, cobblestoned streets, gushing fountains, and plenty of beautifully carved statue-strewn piazzas.

Rome's churches (particularly St. Peter's Basilica at the Vatican); its art galleries, museums and fountains that light up at night; and its world-famous Colosseum, attract visitors from across the globe.

Famous landmarks in Rome also include the Seven Hills, the Spanish Steps and the Fountain of Trevi. And of course, the most famous landmark of all (1/6 square mile in size): Vatican City, from where the leader of the Roman Catholic Church governs his more than one billion subjects. Located strictly within the confines of Rome and bounded on all but one side by an old Roman wall, it is the official home of the Roman Catholic Pope.