Football: it gœes almost without saying that football is hugely popular in Rome, as it is throughout Italy. The two major Roman clubs SS Lazio and AS Roma both play their matches in the Stadio Olimpico, both clubs have large groups of passionate supporters and there is a fierce local rivalry.

The stadium is located just to the north of the city centre and the season takes place from September through to May. The majority of Serie A league games take place on Sunday afternoons, with European and domestic cup ties happening midweek, usually on a Tuesday or Wednesday. If you are able to get tickets for a game while you are here, it is sure to be a memorable experience.

Italy also plays their home matches at the Stadio Olimpico which you can reach by tram. Six Nations matches take place in February and March.

Other sports: if you must get your exercise hit while in Rome then you will have plenty of options. Cycling is popular and there are plenty of cycle tracks around the city, but you will need to keep your eyes open for erratic local driving styles.

Shopping: is a popular leisure activity for Romans; they simply love to shop, and why not since Rome has it’s fair share of fashionable shopping areas and boutiques, with goods from all over the country on sale.

For genuine Italian style head to Via Borgognon, this street is a magnet for the mega rich chic folks of Rome, with prices to match, but if you’re not buying it’s an interesting place to window shop and people watch. Fashion and general examples of modern Italian design are good things to shop for in Rome.