Rome Vacations

The Eternal City marries fantasy with history at every turn. Scale the Palatine Hill for views of the Roman Forum and the Circus Maximus. Stroll down tiny streets where Vespas whiz through sculpture-laden piazzas and starry-eyed lovers throw coins into 15th-century fountains. Visit the lush Villa Borghese or the terraced hills above the Piazza del Popolo. Top it off with handmade pasta and cannoli in Campo de'Fiori.

Whether you're here for the shopping, the Vatican or the vino, let Orbitz help you create your Roman holiday. Our Rome vacation guide details the best time to go, top 10 highlights and insider tips on the Seven Hills.

In a vibrant, international city such as Rome, a vacation is ideal year-round. If sunshine and packed piazzas are what you seek, plan a trip in June, July, September or October. During Christmas and Holy Week (the week before Easter), Rome is alive with religious ceremonies, concerts and festive traditions.

January, February and August are quieter months, bringing cheap hotel rates and fewer crowds. And from August 15 (Ferr-Agosto) to the end of the month, the city empties as Italians escape the heat for seaside towns.

Weather-wise, April to June and September to October are most pleasant, and temps range from the mid 60s to the low 80s. Winters are chilly and rain spells are frequent.

Wine and dine like a local at this traditional enoteca steps from the Chiesa San Lorenzo Panisperna. Try the white Frascati, grappas or whiskies paired with homemade caponata.

As if scaling a hilltop of bell towers, domes and greenery isn't romantic enough, stop at Ponte Milvio, where young lovers hang padlocks as a sign of affection, and then toss the keys into the Tiber.

This famous Baroque square is always abuzz with cafes, tourists and fountains. At Christmas it transforms to a festive market alive with nativity scenes, toys, roasted chestnuts, even a merry-go-round.

No need to bother with fancy toppings or cones here; this is one of the best gelato shops in Rome -- and it's right near the Trevi Fountain.

While chapels of bones and skulls might sound creepy to some, this ossuary beneath Our Lady of the Conception church celebrates the lives of nearly 4,000 Capuchin friars.