Welcome to Rome

The Basics

Put Rome’s storied sights into their historical and cultural context with the entertaining documentaryWelcome to Rome. The show uses a variety of different types of media to illustrate how the city was founded and how it evolved through the ages, from the Roman Empire to the 20th century. Scale models of the ancient city and St. Peter’s Square provide a captivating glimpse into the past, and a mix of video, audio, and 3D effects bring history to life.

With an easy-to-reach location in the historic center of Rome and start times throughout the day, this show is an excellent and convenient way to learn about the city’s history. Be sure to book tickets in advance to insure entry at the start time of your choice.

Things to Know Before You Go

• This short and lively introduction to Roman history projected on the theater’s walls, ceiling, and floor is perfect for families.

• The attraction is fully accessible to wheelchair users.

• Recorded narration is available in a variety of languages, including English.

• Photography is not allowed during the show.

How to Get There

Welcome to Rome is located on Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the main thoroughfares through the city’s historic center. It is near a number of bus lines and is walking distance from many of the city’s most famous attractions.

When to Get There

The show is open Monday through Thursday from 9am to 7pm and Friday through Sunday from 10am to 9pm, with shows beginning every half hour. (The last show of the day begins 30 minutes before closing.) Try to seeWelcome to Rome before visiting the city’s historic monuments to see what they looked like and how they were used by residents in the past. In summer, the air-conditioned venue is a welcome respite from the midday heat.

Italy’s Science Star

Welcome to Rome was created by Paco Lanciano, a physicist and one of Italy’s most famous science celebrities. Lanciano—who has hosted a number of science documentaries and television series—is the face of this entertaining multimedia history lesson, and his involvement guarantees its accuracy and rigor.

How long is the Welcome to Rome experience?

This immersive multimedia introduction to Rome’s history and top sights lasts about 60 minutes. Shows run all day at 30-minute intervals, though opening times are seasonal, so check the website for updated schedules. Show times run as late as 7pm on summer weekdays and 9pm on summer weekends.

Where is the Welcome to Rome experience?

The Welcome to Rome venue is located on Corso Vittorio Emanuele II in the heart of Rome, an easy walk from many of the city’s top sights. Take in the experience first for an overview of Rome’s history and landmarks before exploring on your own.

Is the Welcome to Rome experience fun for kids?

Yes, Welcome to Rome is an engaging way to introduce kids to the history of Rome. They like its interactive scale models of the city and its most famous sights—and appreciate the immersive cinema experience. There are headphones so visitors of all ages can follow the narration.

How far in advance should I buy Welcome to Rome tickets?

It depends. Welcome to Rome has show times throughout the day, but this popular attraction can sell out in the peak midday hours. Purchase your tickets at least a few days before your visit to avoid waiting for the next available show to begin.

How much does it cost to see the Welcome to Rome experience?

Adult tickets cost €14, while tickets for children under 14 cost €12. There are also special family ticket packages for parents visiting with two or more children under 14. There is a small surcharge for advanced reservations—worth the extra cost to avoid waiting in a long line to enter.

Is the Welcome to Rome experience worth seeing?

Yes, the Welcome to Rome experience is an entertaining way to get an overview of Rome’s 3,000-year history and understand the importance of its main attractions in just an hour. Expect to learn information to enliven your visit to the city and its landmarks.

Ways to explore

Book tickets to the popular Welcome to Rome experience in advance to ensure entry at the showtime of your choice, and put Rome’s storied sights into their historical and cultural context. With an easy-to-reach location in the historic center of Rome and show times every half hour, the show is easily paired with a sightseeing tour of the main attractions on foot, or by hop-on hop-off bus, bike, golf cart, or tuk-tuk. Shows include scale models of the ancient city and St. Peter’s Square, along with video, audio, and 3D illustrations of Roman history, making it accessible to visitors of all ages.

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible

Age limits

No restrictions

What to pack

A light sweater to combat summer air-conditioning

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, layers in summer and winter

Not allowed

Flash, photography, outside food or drinks

Amenities

Restrooms, souvenir shop

Address

Welcome to Rome is located on Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the main thoroughfares through the city’s historic center. It is near several bus lines and is within walking distance of many of the city’s most famous attractions.

Driving

Rome’s congested traffic and limited parking make driving to attractions in the city center, including Welcome to Rome, a hassle. Reach the show’s location on foot or by public transportation.

Public transportation

There are two main bus stops just outside Welcome to Rome, making the show easily accessible by bus Nos. 247, 791, 881, 916, 98 from locations across the city.

Best times to visit

This indoor multimedia experience is air-conditioned in summer and heated in winter, so it’s an ideal break when temperatures soar or plummet. Look for a morning or late afternoon time to avoid the crowds.

Best days to visit

Weekend shows are the most popular, while weekday mornings are generally less busy. Avoid school holidays, when families with kids pack the seats.

Best months to visit

Welcome to Rome is a year-round attraction, though the summer high season is when it gets busiest.