Basilica di San Pietro: is the largest church in the world and a must see for any visitor to Rome. There is a rich history here, beginning with the fact that the church was built over the tomb of St Peter. Within the walls you will also find a fantastic collection of Italian art.

The most significant art is perhaps Michelangelo’s Pieta, but the Vatican treasury and the historical museum also contain some interesting items. The present basilica is really quite inspiring, and was completed in the 16th and 17th centuries. The grottœes contain the tombs of St Peter and all the popes, and are well worth a visit. The strict dress code should be noted: shorts and skirts above the knee are forbidden and shoulders should be covered.

The temple is located in the Piazza della Rotonda, a lively area dotted with cafes making it a good place to sit back and watch Rome go by. The Piazza itself is of great historical interest as the place where Julius Caesar was stabbed and killed by Brutus.

Coliseum: is probably the most recognisable of Rome’s attractions. The coliseum is a huge arena in the centre of the city that was once used for gladiatorial battles and public spectacles in front of 50,000 passionate Romans.

Catacombs of St Domitilla: are the oldest in the city and also the best to visit. The guided tours only allow small groups to be taken through the narrow vaults and generally the guides are a wealth of knowledge as well as being entertaining.

The entrance is via an impressive 4th century church, and tours last between 30 minutes and an hour. It’s an interesting way to learn more about the history of the city through these ancient underground burial places, and well worth a visit.

Situated at the mouth of the River Tiber, Ostia is believed to have been established by Ancus Marcius in the 7th century BC, but the archaeological remains found at the site so far have been dated back to the 4th century BC. Ostia held vast power for 800 years, as indicated by the number of temples and grand homes.

San Luigi dei Francesi: this church designed by Giacomo della Porta in the 16th century, is a must visit for art enthusiasts as it contains three famous Caravaggio paintings. In 1599 and 1600, the Baroque master completed a range of paintings about the life of St Matthew, the three most famous being The Calling of St Matthew, The Inspiration of St Matthew, and the Martyrdom of St Matthew.