Among the many things to do in Rome, the Colosseum comes out on top. Built nearly 2,000 years ago, this amphitheatre once accommodated up to 50,000 spectators, many of whom travelled from all over the empire to witness gladiatorial contests and animal hunts. Today, it’s a testament to the feats of engineering and architecture achieved by ancient Rome. To enhance your visit (and skip the queues), it’s worth booking a guided tour of this unmissable historical site.

Rome may be known for its Renaissance art, but modern art is thriving, too. Visit the Museum of the Arts of the 21st Century (or MAXXI, for short) to learn about Italy’s most exciting and experimental modern artists. Designed by the late architect Zaha Hadid, the building is itself a work of art with its futuristic façade, stark lines and dramatic black-and-white stairwells.

What Rome holiday would be complete without sampling some of the country’s culinary delights? Whether perusing the fresh seasonal produce at Mercato Trionfale, indulging in gourmet street food at Testaccio Market or sampling artisanal antipasti at Campo de Fiori, food lovers will be spoiled by the colours, flavours and freshness of Roman cuisine.

Considered one of Rome’s hippest neighbourhoods, Pigneto is home to colourful street art, trendy book shops, chic boutiques, and plenty of bohemian cafes and bars. This lively district is a fascinating blend of old and new, tradition and modernity – the perfect microcosm of Rome. Film buffs may also want to visit Bar Necci, where the legendary director and poet Pier Paolo Pasolini once frequented.

An easy day trip about 30km from Rome, Tivoli is a charming hilltop village that’s home to mouthwatering local delicacies (try the porchetta) and two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the 16th-century Villa d'Este and the 2nd-century ruins of Hadrian's Villa. Once the summer retreats of Italy’s most powerful figures, including Emperor Hadrian, who ruled from 117 to 138 CE, these palatial estates showcase incredible Renaissance architecture, alongside sprawling gardens and ornate fountains.

With its ancient cobblestones, towering aqueducts and lush scenery, Via Appia Antica is no ordinary road. Built in 312 BC, it was one of the Roman Republic’s most strategically significant and well-travelled routes. As you walk or cycle in the footsteps of ancient Romans, pass by remains of villas, tombs, catacombs and bath complexes, while soaking up the countryside’s rustic beauty.

The best shopping in Rome can be found on this iconic avenue, which houses everything from the most illustrious Italian fashion houses – Gucci, Valentino, Dolce & Gabbana, and Fendi, to name a few – to high street retail brands and indie boutiques. After stocking up on stylish gifts and souvenirs, duck into Galleria Alberto Sordi to marvel at the historic shopping gallery’s Art Nouveau stained-glass ceilings and gleaming marble floors.