Rome, Italy’s capital, is a city rich in history and culture, with roots tracing back over 2,500 years. Known as the "Eternal City," Rome is a captivating blend of ancient ruins, Renaissance art, and modern vibrancy. The city’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is famous for its iconic landmarks, such as the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Pantheon. Rome is also renowned for its contributions to art and architecture, with figures like Michelangelo, Raphael, and Bernini leaving a lasting impact.
Rome is home to numerous world-famous landmarks and attractions. The Colosseum, an ancient amphitheater, stands as a symbol of Rome’s grandeur. The Roman Forum, once the heart of ancient Rome, offers a glimpse into the city’s imperial past. The Pantheon, with its magnificent dome, is a marvel of ancient engineering. Vatican City, an independent city-state within Rome, houses St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel with Michelangelo’s iconic ceiling. Additionally, don’t miss the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps, and the charming neighborhoods of Trastevere and Monti. The city's attractions are complemented by beautiful piazzas, historic churches, and vibrant markets. The conference venue is centrally located, making it easy to navigate, with many attractions within walking distance. For convenience, consider picking up a city map.
Rome offers a range of public transport options for traveling from Leonardo da Vinci International Airport to the city center, as well as for getting around the city:
Note: You can also reach Rome by train from other major Italian cities or by ferry into nearby ports. Rome's central location makes it accessible by various means of transport.
Rome offers a diverse shopping experience, from luxury boutiques to local markets. Via del Corso and Via Condotti are renowned for high-end fashion and designer stores. For unique and artisanal goods, explore the markets at Campo de’ Fiori and the vintage shops in the Monti neighborhood. Shop hours typically run from 9:00am to 1:00pm and 3:00pm to 7:00pm Monday to Saturday, with some shops open on Sunday. For a more extensive shopping experience, visit the Porta di Roma Shopping Center, located a bit outside the city center but easily accessible by metro.
Rome's culinary scene is a feast for the senses, with a rich array of traditional Italian dishes. Classic Roman dishes include carbonara, cacio e pepe, and amatriciana, all featuring simple yet flavorful ingredients. Enjoy a slice of Roman pizza, known for its thin, crispy crust, or indulge in gelato from one of the city’s many gelaterias. For a true Roman experience, visit a trattoria or osteria, where you can savor local specialties such as supplì (fried rice balls) and saltimbocca alla romana (veal wrapped in prosciutto). Pair your meal with a fine Italian wine or espresso. Rome’s vibrant food culture also includes bustling markets like the Testaccio Market, where you can sample fresh produce and street food.
All international airports in Italy are used for international flights, as well as for local and charter flights.
Italy boasts a comprehensive and efficient rail network connecting major cities and towns. High-speed trains such as Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, and Frecciabianca offer rapid travel between key cities like Rome, Milan, Florence, and Venice. International connections are available to France, Switzerland, Austria, and Germany, among other countries. Regional trains provide access to smaller towns and scenic areas.
From Venice, there are boat trips on the Grand Canal and to the nearby islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello. These trips offer a picturesque view of the Venetian landscape and the Adriatic Sea.
The electricity is 230 V, 50 Hz. Visitors from Japan, the UK, the USA, and other countries should note that Italy uses type C, F, and L plugs. Ensure you have the appropriate adapter for your devices.
The official currency in Italy is the euro (EUR). Major credit cards are accepted in establishments displaying the emblem at the entrance. Currency exchange booths are available at airports, railway stations, travel agencies, banks, and various city locations. Exchange rates may vary. Traveller’s cheques and convertible currency can be exchanged at these facilities. ATMs are widely available for cash withdrawals using credit or debit cards.
Conference organizers generally do not accept liability for personal accidents, loss of belongings, or damage to private property of participants and accompanying persons during the meeting. Participants are advised to arrange for their own health, travel, and property insurance before departure to the conference.
The international code for Italy is +39.
Italy is in the Central European Time Zone (GMT+1). During summer months, clocks are set to GMT+2.
Italy experiences a Mediterranean climate, with regional variations. In the northern regions, winters (December to February) can be cold, especially in the Alps, while summers (June to August) are warm and humid. Central Italy, including Rome, has milder winters and hot, dry summers. Southern Italy and coastal areas enjoy mild winters and very hot summers. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are generally pleasant throughout the country. During the summer, temperatures can exceed 30°C (86°F), particularly in the southern regions.
For the latest weather updates, visit weather.com.
Italy has adopted the customs regulations of the European Union.
Italy is part of the Schengen Area, which includes 26 European countries. For non-Schengen EU, USA, and Canadian citizens, a valid passport is sufficient to enter the country. Citizens of other countries should check whether a visa is needed for entry. On request, the Organizing Committee may issue invitation letters for visa applications. Apply for a visa well in advance if necessary. Please indicate during registration if you need a personal invitation to attend the conference. A visa grants preliminary permission for entry but does not automatically authorize entry to the country.