Rome

Holidays by Destination Europe Italy Rome Where to Go 

The heart of Rome is the centro storico though the best part of this is remarkably short on hotels, the closest being around the Spanish Steps. The main archaeological sites lie to the south. To the southeast is the main rail station and an area of largely budget accommodation, though in the usual scuzzy surroundings of all major rail stations.

Alternatives include the Via Veneto, though this is noisy with traffic, notably expensive and nothing like the heart of the Dolce Vita that it once was. However, it is reasonably close to the Villa Borghese gardens which is good for running around space. Around the Vatican is rather dull but on the same side of the river Trastevere, Rome's Left Bank, is more attractive with the odd option.

Bear in mind that there is a long pause in the middle of the day when almost everything closes. This can make central accommodation particularly useful as you can all retire for an afternoon rest before continuing through to suppertime.