It doesn’t have to take a lifetime to find your feet in the Eternal City. Although one visit to Rome will never be enough to see everything, you can score off some of the most important sights and activities from your to-do list (and all you need is a weekend city break).

Absorb the history
A visit to Rome wouldn’t be complete without taking in the historical monuments that the city is famous for. The Coliseum is the perfect gateway to Rome’s ancient ruins (including the Pantheon and the Forum); and when standing in the large arena, you can’t help but imagine the fights that took place between gladiators thousands of years ago. Head to the Pantheon, and contemplate the mathematical precision that was put into the building: the diameter of the dome is equal to the height of the building, so a whole sphere would be able to fit inside.

Eat and drink in El Pigneto
One of Rome’s hippest neighbourhoods, El Pigneto, is a real hidden gem. Almost unknown amongst tourists, this area boasts some of Rome’s hippest restaurants and bars. It’s unlikely to break the bank, either. Since the middle of the 20th Century, the area has been a genuine bohemian hangout. Film buffs will be intrigued to know that Pasolini shot his film 'Accettone' in the neighbourhood.

Get gastronomical
Italian food is well loved across the world, and there’s nowhere better to sample a traditional pizza or gelato than in the capital itself. Hotels in Rome can usually offer a good recommendation for dining, but it’s hard to go wrong with a traditional pizzeria or gelato house in the city. Keep an eye out for the famous Il Gelato di San Crispino store; where ice cream is only sold in tubs, as waffle cones can interfere with the intricate flavours.

Make a wish at the Trevi Fountain
Each year millions of tourists toss money into the Trevi Fountain and make a wish. It’s unknown whether all of those wishes come true, but it is known that the money harvested from the fountain goes straight to the Red Cross. The fountain is situated in one of Rome’s beloved piazzas, and is near the famous Spanish Steps, which are often crowded with tourists and locals alike. This is the perfect place for a photo opportunity.

An Audience with the Pope at the Vatican City
Technically the Vatican City operates as a city state separate from Rome, but a visit to Rome wouldn’t be complete without a glimpse at St Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Pope himself. On particularly nice days, the Pope will hold an audience in St Peter’s Square: you may have to compete with Catholic devotees and tourists to get near him, however.

Hopefully this guide has inspired you to get the most out of your visit to the Italian capital. However, no matter what you do in Rome, it’s bound to be the city break of a lifetime.

Fiona Roy writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.