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7 Best New Travel Shows You Can Stream Right Now

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Most avid travelers experienced a decline in their favorite hobby last year. But exciting adventures, new cuisine, and beautiful landscapes are still accessible to us all via our favorite travel shows. Explore the world from the comfort of your couch with these travel shows you can stream right now.

1. Stanley Tucci: Searching For Italy

Hulu, cnn on demand.

Take a guided tour of Italy with host Stanley Tucci as he travels from Naples to Rome, sampling cuisine and learning about Italian history and culture along the way. The Devil Wears Prada and Hunger Games actor takes on a new role as host, telling personal stories as he is joined by his wife and friends. Inspired by his own Italian heritage, Tucci is so passionate about his journey through the country and the food that he’s tasting, viewers will feel like they’re on the Amalfi Coast themselves. Season one is currently airing on CNN and available on Hulu . A second season has already been planned for 2022.

2. Down To Earth With Zac Efron

While Zac Efron’s adventure show may not be the ultimate in high-brow entertainment, the High School Musical star’s charisma and enthusiasm make Down to Earth an incredibly fun watch. The actor, joined by wellness guru Darin Olien, travels the globe, attempting to learn about sustainability and the environment. He also samples local cuisines and shamelessly indulges in the local tourist activities. All of season one is available now on Netflix, and filming for a second season has already begun.

3. Gordon Ramsay: Uncharted

Watch Gordon Ramsay travel the world, learning old-world methods of cooking from locals, in his new food-based travel show on Disney + . In Gordon Ramsay: Uncharted , viewers experience the chef abandoning his reputation as a loud, hyper-critical judge. Instead, he spends his time learning new techniques and trying new food, incredibly excited to be there and impressed by every meal he tries. Each episode features a new location and new group of welcoming locals excited to share the history of their food. There are two seasons available already, with season three set to air in mid-2021.

4. Our Planet

Narrated by David Attenborough, Netflix’s Our Planet offers an in-depth exploration of the world’s habitats, focusing on the effects of climate change and global warming. While the thesis of the documentary is science-based, the creators’ clear passion for nature shines through. The visuals are absolutely breathtaking, and the show itself is self-reflective and inspirational. With footage from 50 countries, episodes cover jungles, deserts, forests, and virtually every landscape imaginable, virtually guaranteeing a deep dive into any viewer’s favorite destination.

5. Taste The Nation With Padma Lakshmi

Explore the United States with Food Network personality Padma Lakshmi as she seeks to understand the connection between U.S. food and U.S. culture. Every episode features a different American city, where Lakshmi meets with immigrants from around the world, seeking to understand how the diversity of the country’s chefs has shaped what we define as American cuisine. This one-season series is a moving, emotional exploration of culture, heritage, and identity, available for streaming on Hulu .

6. Long Way Up

Reunited for their third joint travel adventure show, Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman go on an ambitious motorcycle ride in Apple TV’s Long Way Up . Starting in Ushuaia, a city at the tip of South America, the two friends ride for more than 100 days and 13,000 miles, crossing borders and country lines, making their way into Argentina, Chile, and Peru, all the way up to Central America and Mexico. Fans of Long Way Round and Long Way Down will love this third installment, all of which is available for streaming.

7. Street Food

For another food-based travel show, try Netflix’s Street Food , and its two available seasons, Street Food: Asia and Street Food: Latin America . Each episode takes place in a different city, with interviews of three to four street food chefs and their featured dishes. This show takes a deep dive not only into the cuisine, but primarily into the people who make it, emphasizing the journey of the individual cooks. The featured dishes are often region-specific and emblematic of the conditions and circumstances of both the city and the chef. The show focuses on the vendors’ backstories, teaching viewers about local poverty, history, culture, and identity.

These are just a starting point; there are a lot more shows out there worth a look. All you have to do is go on a surf vacation from the comfort of your couch.

Editor’s Note: Can’t get enough virtual travel? Jordan Palmer has more on Beeyonder , the new travel company created so anyone can travel the world.

Greg Robertson has worked as an editor and writer for some of the top newspapers and websites in the country, leading him to live all across the country. He now calls Las Vegas home, but has journeyed from the sunshine of California and the rain in Seattle, to the humidity of Arkansas and the snow of Minnesota. His travels have taken him to Puerto Vallarta, Costa Rica, Spain, and the Dominican Republic, but he's happiest at home with his wife, two daughters, and dog.

The Best Travel Shows to Stream Right Now

Enjoy the thrill of the chase in paris, a stanley tucci tour of italy, and a puppet’s-eye view of global cuisine with these streaming tv shows..

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In “Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy,” the actor lives the dream by exploring the best of Italy’s food and wine.

Courtesy of CNN

While we wait for borders to open , these fuel-your-wanderlust shows will take you off the couch to Italy, England, Norway, France, and Peru (by magic shopping cart). Can you tell we’re excited about Michelle Obama’s fantastical new global food show, Waffles and Mochi ? It debuts next week on Netflix. Until then, explore the world from home by streaming any of these 26 travel shows and TV shows set in foreign countries.

Waffles and Mochi

Watch it : Netflix

A Sesame Street –style kids’ TV show for the budding chef, Waffles and Mochi follows the eponymous puppets—one a sweet little monster with waffles for ears, the other a sentient pink rice ball—around the world as they seek out fresh global ingredients and learn about healthy eating and cooking.

This show will appeal to adults as much as to toddlers. To start: Michelle Obama costars (this is part of the Obamas’ production deal with Netflix) as a grocery store owner who teaches Waffles and Mochi about the wide world beyond the Land of Frozen Food. Off on fabulous journeys they go—to Japan, Peru, Italy, where they have friendly encounters with famous chefs like Samin Nosrat and José Andrés, as well as special guests Rashida Jones, Queer Eye ’s Tan France, Zach Galifianakis, Sia, Common, and more (technically, Mandy Moore). Start streaming it on Netflix March 16. —Laura Dannen Redman

Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy

Watch it : CNN

Actor Stanley Tucci kept spirits afloat with his cocktail and cooking demos on Instagram during lockdown. When travel restrictions lifted in Europe last year, Tucci traveled to Italy—where he has deep roots—to film this six-episode series exploring food and culture through Italy’s people, cities, and regions: Sicily, Tuscany, Milan, Bologna, Rome, and Naples and the Amalfi Coast.

For those desperately missing Italy, Tucci is the perfect knowledgeable yet curious tour guide, introducing his friends—winemakers, chefs, and authors—who he pokes a little fun at, and taking you on tours, such as around Florence’s Renaissance-era wine windows, aka “little doors of paradise.”

If the show leaves you craving more, buy his two Italian cookbooks— The Tucci Table: Cooking with Family and Friends and The Tucci Cookbook— and preorder his memoir, Taste: My Life Through Food . The series has been renewed for season two. — Annie Fitzsimmons

Who is Lupin? He’s a gentleman thief, a master of disguise, a sort of French superhero at the heart of Maurice Leblanc’s short stories, “Arsène Lupin, Gentleman Burglar.” These early 20th-century Sherlockian tales inspire the new Netflix show, Lupin , starring Omar Sy ( The Intouchables ) as a Senegalese immigrant in today’s Paris who follows Arsène’s escapades as a road map for revenge.

In the pilot episode Sy’s Arsène struts through the Louvre disguised as a janitor, plotting a jewelry heist like a cohort of Danny Ocean. Lupin is also full of lust-worthy shots of the city: a room with a view of Sacré-Cœur; the Eiffel Tower from every angle; the Jardin du Luxembourg in the rain; a bustling café. A heist thriller is only as good as its setting, and Lupin —and Paris—deliver. —L.D.R.

“Outlander” stars Sam Heughan and Graham McTavish take you on a spirited journey through Scotland.

Courtesy of Starz

Men in Kilts: A Roadtrip with Sam and Graham

Watch it : Starz

If the popular period drama Outlander didn’t already have you craving a trip to Scotland, this travel show starring Sam Heughan (Jamie Fraser in Outlander ) and Graham McTavish ( Outlander’s Dougal Mackenzie) will seal the deal. Even if you’re not an Outlander devotee, this Scottish duo, who are constantly making jabs at each other and themselves, are ideal guides for this literal campervan road trip through Scotland. Their banter is on point (you can tell they’re good pals IRL), and they transport viewers into the heart and soul of the country without taking themselves too seriously.

Each episode focuses on a different aspect of Scottish culture and history. For the food and drink episode, Heughan and McTavish visit one of Scotland’s oldest whisky distilleries and introduce viewers to Scottish seafood. For the sports episode, they try their hand at archaic Highland Games (aka throwing a massive hammer) and playing golf on Scotland’s most hallowed turf. And for the song and dance episode, viewers learn more about bagpipes and traditional Scottish dancing—Heughan and McTavish are game guinea pigs while also offering insights and knowledge into the theme at hand.

I’m not always big on traditional “travel shows,” but I absolutely love this one and am ready to book my first trip to Scotland ASAP after watching. — Michelle Baran

Watch it : Apple TV

West London’s Richmond upon Thames, with its distinctly British cobblestone shopping alleys, parks, and lively pubs, is the backdrop to the story of very American Ted Lasso, played by Jason Sudeikis.

Lasso is an American football coach hired to reboot a Premier League British football team, AFC Richmond. An eternal optimist, Ted is someone you wish you knew—warm and funny, with leadership skills that win over nearly everyone he meets in this fish-out-of-water story.

The Apple TV show isn’t really about sports, though there are plenty of soaring, heart-pumping soccer—football!—scenes. There are love triangles and mishaps, a delightful cast of characters, and the realization that you can do the impossible if you just “Believe,” Ted’s motto. The show has already been renewed for two more seasons. —A.F.

The head of government rides her bike to work: two clues this series isn’t set in the United States. In Copenhagen, everyone rides a bike. Maybe “Danish political drama” doesn’t sound compelling but this is, with a standout cast of well-developed characters. It follows the path of politician Birgitte Nyborg and how demands of her rise to power clash with her family life. Concerns about media news coverage are among the issues making this drama universal. The show, with an 8.5 IMDb rating, originally aired 2010–2013; Netflix plans a fourth season for 2022. — Pat Tompkins

If you’re one of the few who haven’t seen Bridgerton yet (apparently, it’s Netflix’s most successful series ever ), and you miss the U.K., it’s time to settle into Shonda Rhimes’s soapy, steamy Regency-era drama that reimagines the time as one when equality reigns: Black and white people coexist as equals, and the Queen is Black.

It centers on the romance between debutante Daphne Bridgerton and Simon Basset, reluctant Duke of Hastings. Scenic British locations include the Bridgerton family home, Ranger’s House in Greenwich, London; promenades in Bath’s green parks and Royal Crescent; and parties at Wilton House in Salisbury as the Duke’s country mansion. — A.F.

“Killing Eve” sets the codependent cop-and-killer chase in glamorous sites around Europe.

Courtesy of BBC

Killing Eve

Watch it : YouTube TV

When Eve, a British intelligence investigator, becomes obsessed by an assassin-for-hire, Villanelle, their cat-and-mouse chase leads the characters through Tuscany, Paris, London, and Romania. The glamorous destinations make this a bingeable spy thriller for travel lovers who crave dark humor, cliffhangers, and dreamy settings. —Ciera Velarde

Four Weddings and a Funeral

Watch it : Hulu

This 10-episode series from Mindy Kaling is nothing like the movie it takes its name from, except that there are four weddings and one funeral. London has never looked more magical as friends in their thirties fall in love, break up, and get married across rooftop parties in Trafalgar Square, conversations at the National Gallery and inside dreamy Notting Hill houses, and walks in Kew Gardens.

Like its cast, but unlike so many romantic comedies, it also showcases the diversity of the city through Indian family culture in Hounslow and the multicultural Southall Market. It’s completely addictive, and you might replay the final 10 minutes of the series (a wedding, of course!) over and over again. — A.F.

Un Village Francais/A French Village

Watch it : Amazon Prime

Over seven seasons, this series captures what German occupation of a fictional village, Villeneuve, meant for its inhabitants from 1940 to 1945. Instead of battles, we get the war’s impact on civilian life, an impact that affects everyone. It could have been a soap opera, but it’s not, thanks to complex characters and intriguing stories.

Among those in the first episode are Spanish refugees, a Jewish family, and the town doctor, all coping with the sudden upheaval of life in Occupied France. Travel to a different place and time in these 80+ episodes. — P.T.

Home for Christmas

The first Norwegian series from Netflix, Home for Christmas was filmed in Oslo and the small mining town of Røros, known for its colorful wooden buildings from the 1700s. We see the town and countryside dressed for the holidays, with snow, twinkle lights, and cider at Christmas markets aplenty.

But the festive season is just a vehicle for showcasing the complicated bonds of family. The show follows the up-and-down love life and quirky characters surrounding Johanne, a nurse in her thirties who feels pressure from her large, boisterous family to settle down. But what relationship can compete with her friendships? — A.F.

Call My Agent

Calling all francophiles. For those missing not just France but the language and people as well, this French-language Netflix show is génial . Call My Agent is a witty comedy about a Paris-based talent agency. The central cast of characters brings viewers along as they manage the many moods and demands of their high-maintenance actor clients. (They do everything from intervene when clients refuse to get intimate on a film set to help a client learn to drive for a movie role, plus attend ridiculous soirées to appease these high-strung celebs.)

As the series continues, deeper emotional themes around family, friendship, and love develop. I found myself tearing up (in a good way) by the end of the first season, something I wasn’t expecting at all at the start. The comic relief serves as a wonderful escape and there’s something oddly satisfying about seeing behind the scenes of France’s acting and filming world even if it is a fictional look. — M.B.

Indian Matchmaking

This is a reality show, with all its tropes and gimmicks, inviting us to be voyeurs of the Indian dating world. But Indian Matchmaking is also a fascinating glimpse into the culture of matchmaking and quasi-arranged marriages, for both the singles and families. It follows Mumbai-based matchmaker Sima Taparia as she tries to pair clients both in the U.S. and India; the scenes in India are most vibrant and really make the show worth a watch even if you’re skeptical about the premise.

You feel like you’re sitting right next to the characters in that Mumbai restaurant or Delhi bar as they chat with friends or go out on that first (slightly awkward) date with their match. — M.B.

Watch it : HBO Now , Hulu , YouTube TV

If your family is driving you up the wall, imagine self-quarantining with Succession ’s Roy family. This addictive dramedy centers on who will take over a global media and hospitality empire as the family patriarch faces health issues. Because this dysfunctional family is crazy rich, the series transports us to the most exclusive corners of New York City, a sprawling ranch in New Mexico, and even a castle in England. The juicy Season 2 finale takes place on a private yacht in Croatia, so pour yourself some prosecco and lose yourself in someone else’s family drama. —C.V.

Olivia Colman dazzles as Queen Elizabeth in the third season of “The Crown.”

Courtesy of Netflix

Pour yourself a cuppa and don your finest sweatpants, because we’re headed to Buckingham Palace, folks. Well, no filming was actually done in Buckingham Palace, but Lancaster House, Wilton House, and Waddesdon Manor serve as lavish, convincing stand-ins. Get ready to follow the trials and tribulations of the Windsors and get peeks at country-home castles, private train cars, African tree houses, and passels of corgis romping on the moors. —C.V.

Watch it : Hulu , HBO Now

Every time a local musician appears onscreen during this series (and they appear a lot), hearing the soulful jazz they play will transport you to New Orleans. Shot entirely on location in the city, Treme ’s storyline begins three months after Hurricane Katrina and follows its characters—musicians, bartenders, families—as they try to rebuild their lives. —C.V.

Sam Heughan stars in “Outlander,” a drama heavy on time travel and rolling Scottish countryside.

Watch it : Starz , Netflix , YouTube TV

After just one episode of Outlander, you’ll be eager to traverse the peaks of Scotland’s evergreen Highlands and drink a wee dram of whisky. This time-travel series, shot on location in Scotland, creates a fantasy world that feels rooted in a real place. —C.V.

Broadchurch

Watch it : Amazon

South England’s Jurassic Coast is the real-life setting for this moody crime drama set in a fictional seaside town. Millions of years of coastal erosion have formed striking rock formations along the craggy cliffs and beaches of the region—the spectacular UNESCO World Heritage–recognized area even serves as an important plot device. —C.V.

Ugly Delicious

Watch it: Netflix

In each episode of this docuseries, the James Beard Foundation award–winning chef David Chang focuses on a specific food (one episode is about fried rice, another about barbecue) and then bounces from country to country to taste local iterations of the same dish. After the first episode (which involves pizza: lots and lots of pizza), you’ll learn not to watch on an empty stomach. —C.V.

Top of the Lake

Viewers will be instantly hooked by Elisabeth Moss’s performance as a detective investigating the disappearance of a pregnant 12-year-old girl. The show was filmed on the South Island of New Zealand, and the titular lake provides an eerie and dramatic background for the emotionally heavy show. —C.V.

The action of “The Night Manager” starts in Egypt, but the scenes were actually shot in Marrakesh, Morocco.

Courtesy of Amazon

The Night Manager

Watch it : Amazon Prime Video

Great writing, fast-paced action, and an all-star cast (Tom Hiddleston, Olivia Colman, Hugh Laurie) make this drama unmissable. The story follows a hotel night manager recruited to infiltrate the inner circle of a corrupt businessman. The show is rumored to be the most expensive miniseries ever made by the BBC, and travel-hungry viewers will enjoy the gorgeous locations, like Majorca, Spain; Zermatt, Switzerland; and Marrakesh, Morocco.

Salt Fat Acid Heat

Chef Samin Nosrat visits culinary colleagues in Italy, Japan, Mexico, and Berkeley, California, to explain how—you guessed it—salt, fat, acid, and heat are the essential elements to master when cooking any meal. Samin’s passion for food radiates through the screen, and you’ll be left hungry and inspired to test out some of her cooking tips—with her cookbook by the same name —yourself. —C.V.

If you want to lean into the current news, Fortitude is one way to go. Set in the Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard (but filmed in Eastern Iceland), this drama is about a deadly virus that turns infected people into murderers. Winter-travel lovers: Get ready for sweeping icy landscapes, snow-capped mountains, and frigid, rocky beaches. —C.V.

“My Brilliant Friend” is a realistic portrayal of the gritty yet beautiful city of Naples.

Photo by Eduardo Castaldo/HBO

My Brilliant Friend

Although this show follows two childhood friends as they grow into women in postwar Italy, the true star is Naples , with its crowded sidewalks, lively piazzas, and ancient architecture. (In the sixth episode, viewers get to travel to the volcanic island of Ischia, to summer with the characters on beaches lapped by turquoise waters). —C.V.

The makers of Our Planet leave no corner of Earth untouched. This breathtaking nature docuseries allows you to swim with whales, swing from tree to tree with orangutans, and explore the Serengeti, all from your couch. The camerawork is remarkable: You’ll ask yourself “how did they even film that?!” at least four times per episode. —C.V.

Big Little Lies

Oh, what we’d give to be social distancing in one of the spacious seaside mansions on this show. The frothy mix of petty neighborhood squabbles, a mysterious death, and the sweeping shots of the Pacific Ocean makes watching Big Little Lies roughly 10 times better than watching the news. And if you’re inspired to plan a trip to Monterey after watching the show (and, of course, after virus concerns are lifted) , we’ve got you covered . —C.V.

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The Best TV Shows Set In Italy

Italy is a favorite setting for historical drama series , thanks to being the center of most of history's drama. English language, German, even Japanese and Brazillian series have found a way to set their stories in Italy, taking in the unique countryside and even more distinctive sense of style. If you've ever thought of visiting Italy or are curious about how the Beautiful Country is portrayed on-screen, this list of the best shows set in Italy and Rome can be your tour guide.

There are plenty of historical period series sent in Italy and Ancient Rome , with three shows centered around the titular and terrible Borgias and at least two about inventor Leonardo Da Vinci (the children's series Leonardo and the fantasy drama Da Vinci's Demons ). The complicated factions of history extend to shows set in Vatican City and how readily Italy works as the setting for telenovelas and dramas such as Passione . Shows often set one season in Italy, giving both the crew and the audience a vacation. Hannibal and Master of None both spent a significant amount of time in Italy.

Which shows about Italy should be at the top of the list? Vote up the best TV shows set in Italy, then vote down the shows that don't deserve to be set in such a great place and add any great Italian shows that are missing.

Watch This Show If You Love :  Spartacus, Game of Thrones, The Tudors, The Last Kingdom, Vikings Why Should I Stream?  Step back in time with the epic historical drama, Rome , which masterfully brings to life the political intrigue and power struggles of Ancient Rome. Praised for its attention to detail and authentic representation of the era, the show's complex characters and engrossing plotlines have cemented its place in television history. Immerse yourself in this visually stunning series that expertly intertwines fact and fiction to create a world that is as fascinating as it is brutal.

Is Rome Worth Your Time?

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Da Vinci's Demons

Watch This Show If You Love :  The Man in the High Castle, Black Sails, Merlin, Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell, Outlander Why Should I Stream?  Da Vinci's Demons is an enthralling series that explores the untold story of Leonardo da Vinci's genius during his early years in Renaissance Florence. With a vibrant mix of adventure, history, and mystery, this captivating show boasts stunning visuals, intricate storytelling, and exceptional performances. Celebrated for its imaginative approach to da Vinci's life and work, this groundbreaking series will leave viewers inspired by one of history's most extraordinary minds.

Is Da Vinci's Demons Worth Your Time?

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Watch This Show If You Love :  The Borgias (2011), Medici: Masters of Florence/Medici: The Magnificent, Versailles, Wolf Hall, Isabel Why Should I Stream?  Venture into the ruthless world of one of history's most infamous families with Borgia - a gripping tale filled with ambition, greed, betrayal, and lust. Acclaimed for its provocative portrayal of Rodrigo Borgia (Pope Alexander VI) and his cunning children Cesare and Lucrezia, this intense drama offers a fresh perspective on their controversial rise to power within the Catholic Church. The compelling character development combined with lavish production values make Borgia an irresistible journey into the heart of darkness.

Is Borgia Worth Your Time?

Muchacha italiana viene a casarse

Watch This Show If You Love :  Teresa, Lo que la vida me robó, Sortilegio, Pasión de Gavilanes, Rubí Why Should I Stream?  Indulge in romance with Muchacha italiana viene a casarse ( An Italian Bride ), an enchanting Mexican telenovela that promises love and laughter against all odds. This delightful series follows Fiorella Bianchi as she embarks on a journey from Italy to Mexico where unexpected encounters await her at every turn. With heartfelt emotions wrapped around passion-fueled love stories set against exquisite backdrops, it's no wonder this charming show has captured the hearts of viewers worldwide.

Is Muchacha italiana vien... Worth Your Time?

Suburra: Blood on Rome

Watch This Show If You Love :  Gomorrah, Narcos, Ozark, Money Heist, Peaky Blinders Why Should I Stream?  For those who crave a gritty, pulse-pounding crime drama that delves into the seedy underbelly of Rome's politics and organized crime, Suburra: Blood on Rome is a must-watch. Widely praised for its complex characters and intense storytelling, this compelling series masterfully showcases the dark side of power and corruption in Italy's capital city. With its gripping plotlines and authentic portrayal of Roman life, Suburra will leave you breathless from start to finish.

Is Suburra: Blood on Rome... Worth Your Time?

Watch This Show If You Love :  Dexter, Mindhunter, Bates Motel, The Following, True Detective Why Should I Stream?  Immerse yourself in the chilling world of Hannibal - a psychological thriller that explores the twisted relationship between FBI special investigator Will Graham and Dr. Hannibal Lecter, a psychiatrist with a penchant for culinary creativity and murder. lauded for its stunning visual style, mesmerizing performances, and intelligent character development that pushes the boundaries between good and evil, Hannibal offers an unparalleled glimpse into the mind of one of literature's most infamous villains.

Is Hannibal Worth Your Time?

The Borgias

Watch This Show If You Love :  The Tudors, Rome, Versailles, Medici: Masters of Florence, Borgia Why Should I Stream?  Delve deep into Renaissance Italy with The Borgias - a captivating historical drama that tells the story of one of history's most notorious families as they seek power through treachery, intrigue, and manipulation. From Academy Award-winning screenwriter Neil Jordan comes an enthralling tale filled with passion, scandal, betrayal, and deceit that will keep viewers hooked from beginning to end. Boasting an all-star cast led by Jeremy Irons as Rodrigo Borgia (Pope Alexander VI), this lavishly produced series offers both entertainment and historical insight into one of history's most turbulent periods.

Is The Borgias Worth Your Time?

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To Rome for Love

Watch This Show If You Love :  90 Day Fiancé, Married at First Sight, Love Island, The Bachelor/The Bachelorette, Dating Around Why Should I Stream?  If finding love abroad sounds like a dream come true, then To Rome for Love is sure to capture your heart! This enchanting reality series follows five single African American women as they search for romance in the Eternal City. With its breathtaking Italian backdrop, heartwarming journey towards self-discovery, and plethora of potential suitors, To Rome for Love is the perfect escape for those who believe love knows no borders.

Is To Rome for Love Worth Your Time?

Watch This Show If You Love :  Orphan Black, The OA, Dark Matter, Altered Carbon, Westworld Why Should I Stream?  For a mind-bending series that pushes the boundaries of storytelling and human connection, look no further than Sense8 - created by visionary filmmakers Lana and Lilly Wachowski. Praised for its diverse cast, stunning visuals, and ambitious narrative structure, this groundbreaking sci-fi drama follows eight strangers from around the world who find themselves emotionally and mentally linked. With its unique blend of action-packed adventure, heartfelt emotion, and thought-provoking exploration of identity and belonging, Sense8 is truly unlike any other show on television.

Is Sense8 Worth Your Time?

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Inspector Rex

Watch This Show If You Love :  Columbo, Midsomer Murders, A Touch of Frost, The Inspector Lynley Mysteries, Wallander Why Should I Stream?  Unleash your inner detective with Inspector Rex - an Austrian crime procedural centered around an intelligent police dog named Rex. Beloved for its combination of humor, suspenseful mysteries, and loyal canine companion, this long-running series offers a refreshing take on the traditional cop drama with a dash of heartwarming friendship between man's best friend and his human partners. For fans of both crime-solving narratives and lovable animals alike, Inspector Rex offers endless entertainment that's hard to resist.

Is Inspector Rex Worth Your Time?

Master of None

Watch This Show If You Love :  Louie, Insecure, Aziz Ansari: Buried Alive, Girls, Crashing Why Should I Stream?  Laugh out loud with Master of None - a smart comedy that focuses on the personal experiences of Dev Shah (played by Aziz Ansari), an aspiring actor navigating life in New York City while trying to make sense of his cultural identity as an Indian-American. Widely celebrated for its sharp writing, nuanced characters, and authentic exploration of modern relationships and societal issues, this Emmy-winning series showcases Ansari's wit at its finest while offering important insights into contemporary life.

Is Master of None Worth Your Time?

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Root Into Europe

Watch This Show If You Love :  Rick Steves' Europe, Travels with My Father, Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations, Globe Trekker, Departures Why Should I Stream?  Travel vicariously through Europe alongside Henry Root (George Cole) - a quintessential Englishman who embarks on a whimsical journey across the continent with his long-suffering wife, Muriel (Pat Heywood). Based on the popular book series by William Donaldson, Root Into Europe combines humor and adventure as it highlights both the charms and quirks of various European locales. Perfect for those with wanderlust or simply craving a lighthearted escape, this delightful miniseries offers laughter and cultural exploration in equal measure.

Is Root Into Europe Worth Your Time?

Watch This Show If You Love :  Bruno, Chief of Police, The Brunetti Mysteries, Montalbano, Wallander, Candice Renoir Why Should I Stream?  Embrace your inner sleuth with Zen - a stylish crime drama set in Italy that follows Detective Aurelio Zen (played by Rufus Sewell) as he solves cases while navigating the murky waters of Roman politics. Praised for its superb acting, intriguing mysteries, and authentic Italian atmosphere, this engaging series will keep you guessing until the very end. With its seductive blend of suspenseful storytelling and breathtaking locations, Zen is a must-watch for fans of international crime dramas.

Is Zen Worth Your Time?

Watch This Show If You Love :  I, Claudius, Elizabeth R, Wolf Hall, The Six Wives of Henry VIII, Charles II: The Power and the Passion Why Should I Stream?  Lose yourself in another interpretation of the notorious Borgia family's rise to power amidst Renaissance-era Italy with The Borgias - an engrossing historical drama starring John Doman as Rodrigo Borgia (Pope Alexander VI). Known for its intricate plotlines that weave together politics, religion, and family dynamics, this captivating series pulls no punches when it comes to showcasing the ruthless ambition and cunning strategies employed by history's most infamous clan. With its dramatic intensity heightened further by lush production values and stellar performances from a talented cast, The Borgias will leave viewers enthralled from start to finish.

Sword of Freedom

Watch This Show If You Love :  The Scarecrow of Romney Marsh, Ivanhoe, The Adventures of Robin Hood, Zorro, Sir Lancelot Why Should I Stream?  Return to 16th-century Florence with Sword of Freedom - an action-packed adventure series that chronicles the daring exploits of Marco del Monte (Edmund Purdom), a charismatic swordsman who fights against tyranny during the Renaissance era. This swashbuckling classic captivates audiences with its thrilling swordplay sequences, beautiful costumes, and enthralling tales inspired by historical events. For those who long for high-stakes adventure in an opulent setting, Sword of Freedom is the perfect escape into Europe's past.

Is Sword of Freedom Worth Your Time?

Watch This Show If You Love :  Medici: Masters of Florence/Medici: The Magnificent, Borgia (2011), Da Vinci's Demons, Genius (2017) : Picasso/Einstein seasons., Versailles Why Should I Stream?  Step inside the mind of a genius with Leonardo - a captivating drama series that follows the life and times of legendary artist and inventor Leonardo da Vinci (played by Jonathan Bailey). Praised for its engaging storytelling, compelling characters, and stunning visuals that bring Renaissance Italy to life, this imaginative series delves deep into da Vinci's world to uncover the secrets behind his extraordinary creations. Perfect for fans of history and art alike, Leonardo offers a fascinating look at one of history's most enigmatic figures.

Is Leonardo Worth Your Time?

3000 Leagues in Search of Mother

Watch This Show If You Love :  Anne with an E, Heidi, Girl of the Alps, Nippon Animation's World Masterpiece Theatre shows , My Daddy Long Legs, Princess Sarah Why Should I Stream?  Embark on an emotional journey with 3000 Leagues in Search of Mother - a classic anime series that tells the inspiring story of Marco Rossi as he searches for his missing mother across Argentina during the early 20th century. Renowned for its beautiful animation and heartfelt storytelling, this timeless show touches on themes such as family love, determination, and resilience in the face of adversity. With its powerful message about never giving up hope when faced with seemingly insurmountable obstacles, it's no wonder this beloved series continues to resonate with audiences around the world.

Is 3000 Leagues in Search... Worth Your Time?

Watch This Show If You Love :  An Idiot Abroad, Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown, Travel Man, Somebody Feed Phil, Midnight Diner Why Should I Stream?  Get ready to laugh out loud as you join Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon on their culinary adventures across Europe in The Trip - a hilarious mockumentary-style TV series directed by Michael Winterbottom. Filled with exceptional food, breathtaking landscapes, and infectious humor fueled by Coogan and Brydon's witty banter and spot-on celebrity impersonations, this unique show offers both belly laughs and armchair travel at its finest. So grab a seat at the table and prepare for side-splitting entertainment that will leave you craving more.

Is The Trip Worth Your Time?

You, Me and the Apocalypse

Watch This Show If You Love :  The Good Place, Utopia, The End of the F***ing World, Russian Doll, Z Nation Why Should I Stream?  Take an end-of-the-world adventure with You, Me and the Apocalypse - a wildly entertaining British-American comedy-drama series that explores the lives of an eclectic group of individuals who all find themselves in a bunker as they await the impending apocalypse. With its tongue-in-cheek humor, unexpected twists, and engaging ensemble cast led by Rob Lowe and Jenna Fischer, this quirky show offers an offbeat yet oddly poignant look at humanity's final days on Earth. The perfect blend of laughs and drama makes it a must-watch for fans seeking something out of the ordinary.

Is You, Me and the Apocal... Worth Your Time?

Apparitions

Watch This Show If You Love :  The Exorcist (TV Series), Constantine, Evil, Penny Dreadful, The Young Pope/The New Pope Why Should I Stream?  Brace yourself for spine-tingling suspense with Apparitions - a supernatural drama series that follows Father Jacob (Martin Shaw), a Roman Catholic priest who confronts demons while investigating reports of miracles and exorcism cases. Combining elements of horror, mystery, and spirituality, this chilling series delivers thrills from start to finish as it delves into questions about faith, God, and evil forces lurking behind everyday life. If you're in search of gripping television with an eerie twist, don't miss out on Apparitions .

Is Apparitions Worth Your Time?

Watch This Show If You Love :  Inspector Montalbano, Wallander, A Touch of Frost, The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency, Midsomer Murders Why Should I Stream?  Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Donna Leon's best-selling crime novels with this engrossing German-Italian TV adaptation that brings Venetian detective Commissario Guido Brunetti to life on screen. Filled with atmospheric settings, intriguing mysteries, and a charismatic hero known for his intelligence and humanity, this highly enjoyable series transports viewers straight to Venice's picturesque canals while keeping them guessing until the last moment. For fans of literary adaptations and European crime dramas alike, Donna Leon is not to be missed.

Is Donna Leon Worth Your Time?

Commissario Laurenti

Watch This Show If You Love :  Inspector Morse, Inspector Lynley Mysteries, A Case for Two (Ein Fall für Zwei), Tatort, Derrick Why Should I Stream?  Dive into another thrilling Italian crime drama with Commissario Laurenti - a compelling TV series based on the popular novels by Veit Heinichen that follows headstrong Trieste detective Proteo Laurenti (played by Henry Hübchen) as he investigates a myriad of intriguing cases. Praised for its authentic portrayal of the seaport city, engaging storylines, and talented ensemble cast, this addictive show will satisfy even the most discerning crime drama aficionados. So grab a slice of pizza and settle in for an exhilarating ride with Commissario Laurenti .

Is Commissario Laurenti Worth Your Time?

Watch This Show If You Love :  House of Cards, The West Wing, Borgen, Spin (Les Hommes de l'ombre), Boss Why Should I Stream?  Get ready for high-stakes political intrigue in Marseille - a gripping French TV series that stars Gérard Depardieu as Robert Taro, the long-serving mayor of the titular city who faces fierce competition from his ambitious protégé. With its sumptuous visuals, complex characters, and nail-biting power struggles set against the breathtaking backdrop of France's vibrant coastal metropolis, this captivating show offers equal parts excitement and sophistication sure to enthrall audiences worldwide.

Is Marseille Worth Your Time?

Still Star-Crossed

Watch This Show If You Love :  Reign, The White Princess, The Spanish Princess, The White Queen, Knightfall Why Should I Stream?  Witness an untold chapter in one of literature's greatest love stories with Still Star-Crossed - a mesmerizing period drama that picks up where Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet left off. This visually stunning series explores the tumultuous aftermath faced by Verona's feuding Montague and Capulet families as they grapple with loss while navigating their way toward peace amidst treachery and betrayal. For fans of sweeping romance and historical intrigue alike, Still Star-Crossed is a beautifully crafted tale that breathes new life into an age-old classic.

Is Still Star-Crossed Worth Your Time?

Athena: Goddess of War

Watch This Show If You Love :  Iris, Spy Myung-wol, City Hunter, Kill Me, Heal Me, Vagabond Why Should I Stream?  Embark on an action-packed journey with Athena: Goddess of War - a thrilling South Korean espionage thriller that follows skilled agents working for an elite counterterrorism organization known as NTS (National Anti-Terror Service). Boasting heart-stopping action sequences, unexpected plot twists, and dynamic character relationships fraught with tension, this electrifying series promises to keep viewers on tenterhooks from start to finish. With elements reminiscent of spy films like James Bond or Jason Bourne, Athena: Goddess of War delivers non-stop adrenaline and excitement.

Is Athena: Goddess of War... Worth Your Time?

Sin Vergüenza

Watch This Show If You Love :  La casa de las flores, La nieta elegida, Amar a muerte, Por amar sin ley, Tenías que ser tú Why Should I Stream?  Embrace the drama and indulge in Sin Vergüenza ( Without Shame ) - a steamy Spanish-language telenovela that centers around the powerful De La Fuente family as they navigate love, betrayal, and secrets amidst a high-stakes business world in Miami. With its complex storylines, passionate romances, and unforgettable characters brought to life by an all-star cast, this addictive series is sure to captivate viewers who crave scandalous entertainment with plenty of twists and turns.

Is Sin Vergüenza Worth Your Time?

Watch This Show If You Love :  Nikita, Alias, Burn Notice, Killer Women, Quantico Why Should I Stream?  Enter the high-stakes world of political intrigue with Assassins - a gripping British television miniseries that delves into the shadowy realm of assassination plots throughout history. Featuring engrossing tales based on real-life cases spanning from ancient Rome to modern-day London, this thrilling show offers a fascinating glimpse into the minds of those willing to kill for power or personal gain. With its captivating storytelling and in-depth analysis of both famous and lesser-known incidents, Assassins is a must-watch for fans of true crime and historical drama alike.

Is Assassins Worth Your Time?

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Watch This Show If You Love :  Dark, Stranger Things, The Rain, Wayward Pines, Les Revenants Why Should I Stream?  For those seeking supernatural thrills with a touch of mystery, look no further than Curon - an Italian Netflix original series set in the eerie town surrounding Lake Reschen where dark folklore comes to life. As mother Anna returns home with her teenage children after years away, sinister visions begin to unfold as they uncover long-buried family secrets amidst their picturesque surroundings. This haunting tale will keep viewers intrigued until its breathtaking conclusion.

Is Curon Worth Your Time?

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The Lions of Sicily

Watch This Show If You Love :  Medici: Masters of Florence/Medici: The Magnificent, Borgia (2011), The Crown, Versailles, The Borgias (2011) Why Should I Stream?  Venture into medieval Italy with The Lions of Sicily - an opulent period drama based on Stefania Auci's bestselling novel about two brothers who rise from humble beginnings to establish one of history's most powerful dynasties during the 12th century Norman conquests. With its rich tapestry of political intrigue, family drama, and epic battles set against the stunning backdrop of Sicily, this enthralling series promises to transport viewers back in time while keeping them enthralled from beginning to end.

Is The Lions of Sicily Worth Your Time?

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I Hate Christmas

Watch This Show If You Love :  Love Actually, A Christmas Prince, Let It Snow, Dash & Lily, Holidate Why Should I Stream?  Laugh out loud with I Hate Christmas - a hilarious Italian comedy series that follows the misadventures of Massimo (Elio Germano), a grumpy man who despises the holiday season but is forced to confront his feelings when faced with an unexpected visitor. With its clever humor, heartfelt moments, and delightful cast of characters, this festive show offers the perfect antidote for those seeking solace from saccharine holiday fare.

Is I Hate Christmas Worth Your Time?

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These are the shows that you definitely should be watching, along with a few that you should avoid.

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10 historical tv series about Italy and the Roman Empire

Do you love indulging in history as I do? Are you looking for Rome tv series or other Roman Empire tv series? Are you looking for shows like Spartacus on Netflix? Watching the best historical tv-series is always great to travel back in time, and imagine how life was at that time. If you’re here, you’re here because you want to find out which are the best Rome tv shows, or tv show about a family in Renaissance Italy, the best Roman tv series, roman mysteries tv series watch online, or the best tv series like Rome, right? You’ll also find shows like Spartacus in this list since that’s one of my personal favorites! Well, let’s get into it right away and find out which are historical tv series about Italy and the Roman Empire!

Historical tv series about Italy – Roman Empire tv series – Best Rome tv shows

So if you’re looking for shows like Spartacus on Netflix, you’re in the right place! I was a history major at university, and I always loved the Roman Empire, the Renaissance, so you can imagine how happy I was every time I found a new Rome tv series! I’m not a big fan of the Rome tv show for example, and I do think there are other options for the best Roman tv series! As time was passing, now I had to update the list as some new Rome tv series came out in 2020 and even more Rome tv shows in 2021. Let’s see the 10 best historical tv series about Italy and the Roman Empire. Each one has a high ranking, and they all have a worldwide audience. The above-listed series will take you back in time to different centuries and cultural viewpoints. You will find some of these Rome tv series on Netflix as well!

10 best Rome tv series and the best historical tv series about the Renaissance

Though they are the best historical tv series, obviously, many things that are standing far from reality. If you’re interested in the mysterious Italian and Roman past, you will definitely love these historical tv series! The list of tv shows is absolutely random, it’s not organized after any ranking because they are all great! If you’re looking for shows like Spartacus, definitely stick around! Let’s see some of the best historical tv series about Italy, Rome tv series, and also Roman Empire tv series beyond Rome itself.

1. Da Vinci’s Demons

Da Vinci’s Demons IMDB rating: 8.00*

As a big lover of the Renaissance, this movie was a real gem for me. If you’re looking for a Rome tv show, tv shows about Italian Renaissance family, Roman mysteries tv series watch online, don’t miss Da Vinci’s Demons! I love the mysterious, fantasy movies that are based on historical facts and personalities, therefore I gave this one 10*.

Story: A fictionalized story about Leanardo Da Vinci’s early life during the Renaissance in Italy. He is an eccentric genius who has struggled to deal with his inner  demons  and unruly imagination, as he yearns for acceptance from his estranged father.

Medici IMDB rating: 7.9*

My second favorite historical tv series, the Medici. If you’ve been looking for a tv show about a family in Renaissance Italy, Medici is for you! The masters of Florence, the greatest family. The Medici were the richest family in Renaissance Florence, and they’ve been ruling in the city for a great time. This series brings you back into the royal life of the Renaissance.

Story: s . A political family drama set in Florence in the early fifteenth century. When his father died, Cosimo de Medici suddenly found himself at the helm of his banking dynasty. Lorenzo took his father’s place after a murder attempt. which reveals years of poor bank management from them. It’s definitely a great tv show about Italian renaissance family.

Domina IMDB rating: 7.00

Another new Rome tv show, Domina is one of the new best historical tv series in 2021. Domina is a really exciting Rome tv series because of the story it’s featuring. The historic tv show is about the life and rise of Livia Drusilla, who was the powerful wife of the Roman emperor Augustus Caesar.

As things look right now, the Domina might actually get on top of the best Rome tv shows to watch online. Domina can be a great pick if you’re looking for tv series like Rome or shows like Spartacus! This is a movie like Spartacus, but unfortunately, it’s not between the shows like Spartacus on Netflix… Netflix has unfortunately very few of these historic series.

4. Leonardo

Leonardo IMDB rating: 7.2*

A new historic tv show about the Renaissance. The series presents Leonardo da Vinci’s extraordinary life through his work that made him so famous. It’s also featuring the hidden stories within his works and the tournament of Da Vinci’s obsession for perfection. It’s new to the Rome tv series list since Leonardo is streaming since 2021. It’s definitely a historical tv series that you should watch!

Romulus IMDB rating: 6.8

Another new Rome tv show. The streaming of Romulus, which is one of the best Rome tv shows in 2020 should be on your best tv series like Rome watch list. The story of this Rome tv series of Romulus and Remus, his twin brother takes us back to the 8th century BC.

A story that will present you the historical events, and life throught the eyes of 3 people, who were marked by violence, death and loneliness. Is it going to become one of the best Roman tv series? Romulus can also qualify somehow as one of the alternative shows like Spartacus.

6. The young pope

The young pope IMDB rating: 8.4*

Here’s another one about Vatican City and the papal institution. The Young Pope is somewhat fictional since it’s playing in the present, and it is indeed an interesting movie to watch. All the conspiracy and mystery that we find in historic tv series, just this time, it is happening today and not in the past. Story: Lenny Belardo becomes the first American  Pope  and takes the name of Pius XIII. … Sister Mary and Cardinal Voiello struggle to control Lenny, who admits that his conservative religious views result from his parent’s decision to place him in a Catholic orphanage so they could pursue a hedonistic lifestyle.

7. Spartacus

Spartacus IMDB rating: 8.5*

And here it is, the series that made me stay awake 48 hours and watch all seasons…My favorite Rome tv show, one of the best roman tv series of all, Spartacus! When I’ve seen Spartacus the first time, I was literally going crazy to know what happens next and I just couldn’t sleep. I watched this tv-show a few weeks before starting my first year at university. As a history student, in my first year, the Roman Empire was one of the main subjects, After the first week into university life, I convinced all my classmates to watch it. Spartacus is definitely one of the best Rome tv shows!

Story: Blood and Sand is the first season of the American television series Spartacus, which premiered on Starz on January 22, 2010. A historical figure inspired the tv-show. The Thracian warrior was a gladiator in Capua. Spartacus was leading a major slave uprising against the Romani Republic between 73 to 71 BC.

The story is full of dramatic flips and keeps you in suspense the whole time. Really worth watching, just if you’re a history lover, don’t start watching it on a Monday evening! Definitely one of the best tv series like Rome!

8. The Borgias

The Borgias IMDB rating: 7.9*

Another great tv show about a family in Renaissance Italy! Alright, the Borgias is another one of the best historical tv series. But because of the history again. The pope, Rodrigo Borgia was in real life as well as interesting as the series is showing – however, this is a fantasy story based on historical facts and personalities! Don’t believe everything you see!

Story: In the fifteenth century, Pope Alexander VI tries to control all power in Italy with the help of his several sons, through murder, intrigue, war, and marriage alliances. The rise to power, and the start of a dynasty, of the Borgia family. Rodrigo Borgia ascends within the Catholic Church, becoming Pope Alexander VI.

Rome IMDB rating: 8.7*

Obviously, when it comes to this topic, Rome is one of the best Rome tv shows. Now let’s go back to the beginnings of this historical series. Rome is one of the best series that presents Ancient Rome. It chronicles the transition of the Roman Republic into the Roman Empire in ancient Rome.

The series primarily focuses on the lives and deeds of the lives & families of two Roman soldiers named Lucius Vorenus and Titus Pullo. Another show that’s great if you’re looking for shows like Spartacus!

10. Marco Polo

Marco Polo IMDB rating : 8.0*

Marco Polo  is an American drama web television  series  inspired by  Marco Polo ‘s early years in the court of Kublai Khan, the Khagan of the Mongol Empire, and the founder of the Yuan dynasty (1271–1368). It’s one of the best historical tv series, as you can see in on the IMDB rating as well.

The Venetian merchant and adventurer Marco Polo journeys across Europe and Asia and lands up as a prisoner in the palace of Kublai Khan, a 13th-century Mongolian emperor. It’s not about ancient Rome, but if you’re looking for historic series on Netflix and not specifically Spartacus, this might be a great alternative for shows like Spartacus on Netflix.

Wrapping up the 10 best Rome tv shows – historical tv series

I hope you’ve found what you’ve been looking for! I featured here tv show about a family in Renaissance Italy, but also the best tv series like Rome, shows like Spartacus, and my top favorite Rome tv series as well as some of the best historical tv series. You can find some of the best roman tv series on Netflix as well, others on Sky, Amazon, or HBO.

Before you leave, go ahead and check out the list of my 10 favorite movies that will get you in the mood to visit Italy!

10 movies to get you in the mood before visiting Italy

20 best travel movies – a list that you ladies will love, the 20 best history tv shows to see.

Here are some pieces of my work to explore Florence and Rome .

Pin the historical tv series for later!

5 thoughts on “ 10 historical tv series about Italy and the Roman Empire ”

Movies are some of the best ways to pass time. The way some movies really resonate with me is quite fascinating. I kind of prefer watching TV series these days because the story tends to be longer. Aside from that, it is quite an amazing blog you have here. I am a blogger too and I know the work you have to put in just to get a website as nice as yours. Your contents are great and I have bookmarked your website and would becoming every day. Feel free to visit my blog at zamob or fzmovies .

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• Pingback: 50 Inspiring quotes about Italy - with pictures - ShegoWandering
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Happy you do! I was wondering last night what Italy related series to start again, until I remembered that I myself made a list about my favorites…lmao

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Rome, italy, from this episode.

The Eternal Colosseum 01:30

Banquet at Rome's Supper Club 02:45

Sam Gets Around Rome 01:46

Sam's Pantheon Experience 01:40

Shopping in the Campo de Fiori 02:22

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10 Best Documentaries About Rome To Watch

• by Jonny Duncan
• November 27, 2023 January 17, 2024

These documentaries about Rome take you on a captivating journey through time and immerse yourself in the grandeur of one of history’s most iconic cities and civilizations.

As the eternal city, Rome stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of an empire that once spanned continents and shaped the course of Western civilization.

These documentaries about Rome offer a mix of historical information, archaeological discoveries, and expert analysis to paint a vivid picture of ancient Rome and its enduring legacy.

Best Documentaries About Rome

Join historians, archaeologists, and storytellers as they unravel the layers of Rome’s complex history, offering a glimpse into the heart of an empire.

Many of these documentaries about Rome focus on the city itself while others look at the city of Rome as well as the Roman Empire in general.

Meet the Romans With Mary Beard (2012)

Meet the Romans with Mary Beard” is a documentary series consisting of three episodes, and it was presented by Mary Beard, a prominent classicist and historian. Mary Beard takes you on a journey through ancient Rome, exploring various aspects of Roman life and society.

The episodes cover a range of topics, including daily life in ancient Rome, the city’s infrastructure, the role of slaves, the Roman army, and the political and social dynamics of the time.

Mary Beard, known for her engaging and accessible approach to history, provides insights into the daily lives of ordinary Romans and sheds light on the complexities of Roman society which makes this one of the best documentaries about Rome to watch.

Engineering an Empire: Rome (2005)

Engineering an Empire: Rome is part of the “Engineering an Empire” series, which explores the engineering and architectural achievements of various ancient civilizations. The series is known for its in-depth look at how these civilizations built some of the most iconic structures of their time.

In the case of “Engineering an Empire: Rome,” the documentary delves into the engineering marvels of ancient Rome, showcasing the construction techniques and architectural innovations that allowed the Roman Empire to become one of the most powerful and influential civilizations in history.

It covers various aspects of Roman engineering, including the construction of aqueducts, roads, bridges, and monumental structures like the Colosseum.

The documentary uses a combination of historical reenactments, computer-generated imagery (CGI), and expert interviews to bring the ancient Roman world to life and to illustrate the engineering prowess that played a crucial role in the success and longevity of the Roman Empire.

Rome: Rise and Fall of an Empire (2008)

Rome: Rise and Fall of an Empire is a documentary television series that consists of a set of 13 episodes, each focusing on a specific period or event in the history of ancient Rome.

The series covers the rise of Rome from its legendary foundation to its eventual fall, exploring key moments, battles, political developments, and the lives of significant figures. Each episode typically combines historical reenactments, expert interviews, and narration to provide an informative and engaging narrative of Rome’s history.

The series aims to capture the complexity and drama of the Roman Empire, covering important events such as the Punic Wars, the rise of Julius Caesar, the transition from the Roman Republic to the Roman Empire, and the eventual decline and fall of the Western Roman Empire.

“Rome: Rise and Fall of an Empire” offers you a comprehensive overview of the key factors and events that shaped the trajectory of one of the most influential civilizations in history.

Secrets of the Colosseum (2015)

Secrets of the Colosseum is a documentary that aired as part of the “Secrets” series produced by the Smithsonian Channel. The documentary explores the history, architecture, and mysteries surrounding the Colosseum in Rome , Italy.

The Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, is one of the most iconic and well-preserved ancient Roman structures. It was commissioned by Emperor Vespasian of the Flavian dynasty and was completed by his successor Titus in 80 AD.

The Colosseum was primarily used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles such as animal hunts and mock sea battles.

“Secrets of the Colosseum” delves into the engineering and architectural marvels of the Colosseum, examining how the amphitheatre was constructed and used for various events. If you have any interest in the architecture of that time then this is one of the best documentaries about Rome for you to watch.

Rome’s Invisible City (2015 )

Presented by Alexander Armstrong, “Rome’s Invisible City” takes you on a journey beneath the streets of Rome to uncover the secrets of ancient Roman engineering.

The documentary focuses on the subterranean structures and infrastructure that supported the city, showcasing the advanced engineering techniques employed by the ancient Romans.

If you are interested in archaeology, ancient history, or Roman engineering, “Rome’s Invisible City” provides a fascinating look at the hidden layers of one of the world’s most iconic historical cities.

The Roman Empire in the First Century (2001)

The Roman Empire in the First Century is a documentary series comprised of four episodes, each focusing on a different aspect of the Roman Empire during the 1st century AD.

The episodes cover a range of topics, including the political and social structures of the Roman Empire, the lives of key historical figures, and the cultural and technological advancements of the time. The series uses a combination of historical reenactments, expert interviews, and narration to provide a comprehensive overview of the first century of the Roman Empire.

The series provides insights into the challenges, triumphs, and transformations that characterized the Roman Empire during this period.

Rome: Power and Glory (1999)

This documentary series, narrated by Peter Woodward, explores the rise and fall of the Roman Empire. It covers various aspects of Roman history, including its military campaigns, political intrigue, and architectural achievements.

This was and still is one of the best documentaries about Rome you can watch.

Tracks: The Ancient City Of Rome

The eternal city is more than 2,500 years old and Griff has just 24 hours to discover how Rome’s inhabitants live in the world’s biggest museum. In the process, he discovers where Julius Caesar gasped his last and takes lessons in traffic direction from the city’s most elegant policeman.

Roman Empire: Reign of Blood (2016-2019)

Roman Empire: Reign of Blood is a docudrama series that ran over 3 seasons. The series uses a combination of reenactments and commentary from historians to depict the historical events during Commodus’s, Julius Caesar’s, and Caligula’s rule.

Each season is dedicated to each of these important characters from that time.

Mary Beard’s Ultimate Rome: Empire Without Limit (2016)

We started with Mary Beard so we will finish with her as well. In this later series from the one mentioned at the beginning, she explores what made the Romans so special and how they managed to build such a large empire.

It also looks at the myths and legends about the beginning of Rome and eventually, what led to the collapse of the Roman Empire. This is one of the best documentaries about Rome to watch that goes into great detail about the Romans.

Rome (2005)

This is an extra because it is not part of the “documentaries about Rome” but it is an excellent historical drama series which is mostly set in Rome. It’s one of the best shows you can watch about that time period in the city. It ran for two seasons, with a total of 22 episodes.

Rome is set during the time of Julius Caesar’s rise to power and the subsequent civil war that led to the end of the Roman Republic.

The series follows the lives of both historical and fictional characters, intertwining their stories with major historical events. Characters include historical figures like Julius Caesar, Cleopatra, Mark Antony, and Octavian (later known as Augustus), as well as fictional characters like Lucius Vorenus and Titus Pullo, two Roman soldiers.

The show received critical acclaim for its production values, historical accuracy, and complex characters. It explores political intrigue, military campaigns, and the social dynamics of ancient Rome. While the series takes some liberties for dramatic effect, it generally adheres to historical events.

These documentaries about Rome weave a rich tapestry of narratives, unveiling the rise and fall of mighty emperors, the architectural marvels that still echo through the ages, and the daily lives of citizens who walked the cobbled streets of this ancient metropolis.

For more on Italy have a look at the 10 best documentaries about Italy .

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Dream of Italy: The TV Series

Kathy McCabe is back with Season 3 Dream of Italy coming to PBS stations this winter! She takes you to Andrea Bocelli’s Tuscany, meets Americans moving to Abruzzo (and what’s the deal with those one-euro houses), explores the palace and famous pizza of the Caserta , visits Modena with 3-Michelin star chef Massimo Bottura and his wife Lara Gilmore (2 episodes) and explores the mystery of the Black Madonna in southern Italy with actress Marisa Tomei. Look for it in January 2024!

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Dream of Italy: Travel, Transform and Thrive

Premiering on PBS stations across the US, the pledge special/event Dream of Italy: Travel, Transform and Thrive explores how Italy can change your life – whether adapting to the Italian lifestyle at home, traveling to Italy in a more meaningful way or deciding to move there. Dream of Italy host Kathy McCabe explores the 11 essential elements of the Italian lifestyle – the land, food, family, art & culture, beauty, pace of life, passion, movement, community, celebrations and sense of home– through the stories of full- and part-time expats Sting & Trudie Styler, Francis Ford Coppola, Under the Tuscan Sun author Frances Mayes, best-selling financial author David Bach, retiree Sally Carrocino and interior designer Arlene Antoinette Gibbs.

Dream of Italy: Travel, Transform and Thrive will air as both a regular special but more importantly as a pledge special which means you can donate to your local public television station and receive incredible gifts like the companion book, exclusive extended DVD, Rosetta Stone Italian lessons and a sunflower charm from Delbrenna Jewelry in Cortona. Italian-American actor Joe Mantegna joins Kathy for the pledge breaks during the special. Distributed by American Public Television.

The 90-minute pledge event of  Dream of Italy: Travel, Transform and Thrive begins airing on PBS stations in early June. Check the search box below.

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Dream of Italy: Tuscan Sun Special

In the first two seasons of Dream of Italy , Italy travel expert Kathy McCabe brought you to some of the most enchanting corners of Italy from Abruzzo to Rome and Basilicata to Venice. Now she visits the hill town of Cortona in Tuscany, meeting a woman who might be just as passionate about Italy as she is – Under the Tuscan Sun author Frances Mayes.

Frances invites Kathy into Bramasole, the villa she and her husband transformed from a little fixer upper into a worldwide phenomenon, including a hit movie! Few people have been behind the gate of Bramasole, but Kathy takes you inside to visit the gardens and the beautiful rooms in the house and for a conversation with Frances about just what it is about Italy that keeps us coming back again and again.

Frances shows Kathy her Cortona starting with the tradition of coffee in the piazza . It’s a day filled with artisan, artistic treasures, food, wine and plenty of local friends. Kathy enjoys a cooking lesson with Michelin star chef Silvia Baracchi and Frances’ husband Ed Mayes invites Kathy to harvest olives on the grounds of Bramasole. The special culminates in an incredible cocktail party as the Tuscan sun sets and a lesson from Frances on why it is so very important to surprise your life! Join us as we dream of Italy, under the Tuscan sun in the Dream of Italy: Tuscan Sun Special .  The special is still airing on PBS stations, CreateTV, online and on Amazon Prime !

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The 15 Best TV Shows About Ancient Rome

Depending on which end of the social spectrum you were on, life in the ancient Roman Empire could have gone one of two ways.

If you were amongst those in the middle and upper echelons, you might have been enjoying the company of emperors and senators while watching gladiator battles from the comfort of the bleachers.

On the other hand, if you were amongst the poor – perhaps from one of the many, many places they conquered – you would likely have ended up a slave or a criminal, or even fighting in one of the gladiator battles.

As a man in Ancient Rome, you’d have a lot of power – within the household, society in general, and in politics. But did you know that even the women during that time held quite a bit of power as well?

Women held equal power within the household, had relative freedom, and were respected and honored in society.

Of course, legal rights are a whole other story and ultimately, it was still the patriarch that held absolute control over the family (funny how all these centuries later and not much has changed with that, huh).

While we do know a fair bit of what Ancient Rome was like, there’s no doubt that there are still some holes and inconsistencies in historical accounts. That’s where fiction comes in to help us bridge these gaps.

When certain events or people are hazy on the details (or just plain uninteresting), artistic license allows creators to tie stories together with their own interpretation of it.

Sure, that might mean that some of the actual facts get lost in translation, so to speak, but at least it’s never boring!

Detailed below is a list of TV shows set in Ancient Rome and hopefully, they can provide a general idea of what life was like way back then from various perspectives.

From the life of the Roman royalty to the behind-the-scenes of gladiator fights, these shows have it all!

Spartacus, Starz (2010 – 2013)

Though a fictionalized account, the Starz historical drama Spartacus does tell of a real historical event called The Third Servile War.

The series starts with a background on the titular character Spartacus, who actually doesn’t gain that name until later on.

At first, he’s unnamed, a Thracian who leads a mutiny against the Roman officer leading their civilian army. As punishment for his crime, he is taken to a gladiator arena to fight and die – only to unexpectedly slay all four gladiators sent to execute him.

This earns him the name of Spartacus, as well as a place in the gladiator training school. However, his forced killing of a good friend in the arena leads him to raise arms and lead a rebellion against the house that he fought for.

The Spartacus series spanned four seasons, with this first one subtitled as Blood and Sand .

Chronologically, the third and fourth seasons ( Vengeance and War of the Damned , respectively) follow the events after Blood and Sand . However, let’s talk about the second season, shall we?

Spartacus: Gods of the Arena, Starz (2011)

As mentioned, the Spartacus series franchise had multiple seasons, each with its own subheading. Spartacus: Gods of the Arena is the second season but unlike those that came after it, it serves as the prequel to Blood and Sand .

In it, we learn a little bit more about the city of Capua, where Spartacus was later transported to for the gladiator battle.

We’ll also see the return of some familiar faces from the pilot season, and learn a little about their history and background before Spartacus entered their lives.

On top of that, Gods of the Arena focuses on Gannicus, the former gladiator champion of Capua, and his rise to the top, where he eventually earns his freedom.

Rome, HBO/BBC Two/ Rai 2 (2005 – 2007)

We can always have high expectations when it comes to HBO series’ because they really are all exceptional, and the two-season historical drama Rome is certainly no exception.

Amidst positive ratings and reviews, the show received numerous accolades from the Emmy Awards and the Primetime Emmy Awards, not to mention many more nominations.

Rome is set against the backdrop of a pivotal time in its history: the transition from a republic to an empire.

While it shows how this affected the lives of the rich and powerful, it also followed the story of two Roman soldiers whose lives intertwined with and impacted these historical events – portrayed with some artistic license, of course.

These inaccuracies, however, are due to the creators’ desire to depict something more authentic rather than strictly accurate.

I, Claudius, BBC 2 (1976)

Now, this is a series that I would definitely binge-watch were it ever to be remade – though it would be pretty hard to step out of the successful shadow of this original!

I, Claudius is an adaptation of two historical novels written by Robert Graves: the titular I, Claudius, and its sequel, Claudius the God.

The events recounted in it are still chronologically accurate and start with Augustus’ reign as the first Emperor of Rome. From there, it traces the succession of emperors and how they came to power until finally, we reach Claudius’ reign.

What sets this series apart from other similar ones is the format in which the story is told: I, Claudius is narrated by an elderly Claudius so his storytelling is interspersed with unique (fictional, of course) perspectives on the empire and his hopes to return to a republic.

Plebs, ITV2 (2013 – 2019)

As a little breather from all the seriousness of the list so far, we’re bringing you ITV2’s successful historical comedy, Plebs .

The show follows Marcus and Stylax, two young men fresh from the provinces and new to the life and style of Ancient Rome. They live a decent life as “plebs” (a colloquial term for plebeian), or those in the non-aristocratic working class.

Plebs chronicles their everyday lives from dealing with their slave Grumio and his attitude problems, tiptoeing around their high-strong boss at the grain company, and interacting with their Briton neighbors Cynthia and Metella.

The uniqueness and hilarity of Plebs come from their use of a modern soundtrack and parlance throughout the show – it’s like watching our own contemporary struggles pan out in Ancient Rome!

Up Pompeii!, BBC1/ITV (1969 – 1970)

We’re keeping the comedic vibes going (albeit taking it waaaay back in time) with Up Pompeii! , a British comedy series that aired at the dawn of the 70s.

The story of Pompeii and the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius is one of the more well-known events in the history of Ancient Rome, and it serves as one of the comedic backbones of this series.

Up Pompeii! is set pre-eruption and follows the slave Lurcio as he follows around his master Ludicrus Sextus and his wife, Ammonia.

Alongside Lurcio’s risque and witty commentary of double entendres, his breaking of the 4th wall, and hovering awareness that they are in a scripted show are constant warnings of impending doom from Senna the Soothsayer – which they probably should have heeded!

Romulus, Sky Italia (2020 – present)

Romulus is a captivating historical drama that chronicles the founding of Rome and the lives of its early inhabitants.

Produced by Sky Italia, Romulus is set in the 8th century BCE and follows the struggles and conflicts of the tribes that lived in the region, including the Romans and the Sabines, as they battle for survival and dominance.

Through stunning cinematography and meticulous attention to detail, the show explores the mythology and legends that surround Rome’s creation.

Britannia, Sky Atlantic/Prime Video/Epix (2018 – present)

So far, all of the shows we’ve listed are told from the viewpoint of the Romans – if not from a Roman protagonist then at the very least set primarily against the backdrop of that civilization.

Well, Britannia – if you couldn’t tell from the title alone alluding to a different place entirely – provides a slight change of pace.

Yes, the show is set during the peak of the Roman Empire; in fact, it’s the very fact that the empire was expanding that sets the pace for the show.

Britannia is a historical fiction series told from the perspective of the tribes and Druids of Britain – warring groups who are forced to come together to fight against their common enemy: the invasion of the Roman Empire.

Barbarians, Netflix (2020 – present)

Similarly, Barbarians is a thrilling historical drama series that focuses on the perspectives of those on the other side of the battlefield.

Produced by Netflix, the show delves into the Battle of the Teutoburg Forest, the epic clash between the Roman Empire and the Germanic tribes in the 1st century AD that humiliated the Roman army.

The series tells the personal stories of the Germanic warriors and their leaders as they attempt to resist the power of the Roman legions.

In particular, we focus on Arminius, a German-born Roman officer who betrayed his Roman upbringing and united the Germanic tribes to fight against the Roman forces.

The Caesars, ITV (1968)

In many ways, The Caesars steps within the same historical boundaries as I, Claudius , which we mentioned a little earlier in this list.

In fact, the timeline is the same; each episode in this ITV miniseries details the reign of one emperor of the Roman Empire, beginning with Augustus after the fall of Julius Caesar and ending with Claudius.

Given this format, viewers are able to understand what each emperor was able to contribute to the empire, as well as how vastly different they were as leaders.

Tiberius and Caligula are known to have reigned with chaos and tyranny, while Augustus and Claudius’ leadership was quite the opposite. The Caesars allows us this perspective into the times of the early empire.

Domina, Sky Atlantic (2021)

Domina is a limited historical drama series made for Sky Atlantic in Italy and the UK, and it’s also the most recently premiered show on our list, having just premiered this May 2021!

On top of that, we are finally getting a glimpse into a notable female figure in the history of Ancient Rome. That’s right, Domina tells the story of Livia Drusilla, one of the empresses of the early empire as she became the wife of Augustus, the empire’s first Emperor.

Even after his death, she held significant influence over politics as the new emperor’s mother. Thus, Domina chronicles her early life following Julius Caesar’s assassination and her succeeding rise through the ranks.

Empire, ABC (2005)

A lot of the shows on our list trace the history of the early Roman Empire, telling the story of the first few emperors and how the empire expanded from there.

However, ABC’s six-episode miniseries Empire focuses more specifically on events leading up to the switch from republic to empire, particularly through the lens of Octavius (later on the Emperor Augustus).

At the onset, we witness the death of Julius Caesar and Octavius’ being named as his successor, but the majority of the series goes on to detail his struggles against Marc Antony to secure his hold on the throne.

While the entertainment factor in Empire is high, it’s also important to note that historical accuracy did take a bit of a backseat here.

Masada, ABC (1981)

In a similar grain to Britannia , ABC’s four-episode miniseries Masada , which aired all the way back in 1981, tells yet another aspect of the Roman Empire’s expansion through the opposing lens; that is, from the perspective of those being conquered.

The title of the series hints at what it’s about already: the siege of the Masada citadel in Israel, which was known to be an impenetrable fortress atop a mountain.

Though fictionalized, Masada does go back and forth between the Jewish defenders of the citadel and the Roman army seeking to infiltrate it so as to provide a complete picture, ending with the success on the Roman side.

Roman Mysteries, BBC One/CBBC (2007 – 2008)

Roman Mysteries from BBC One and CBBC (the arm of BBC dedicated to children’s programming) was an international success, though it sadly only lasted for two seasons.

Catering to a younger audience, Roman Mysteries was based on Caroline Lawrence’s series of historical novels and was the perfect show to introduce kids and adolescents to the joy of ancient Roman history – minus all the violence and gore that usually accompanies it.

It followed the adventures of four young children as they explored the mysteries of Ancient Rome, occasionally running into notable historical figures (like Emperor Titus) and becoming embroiled in real-life events of the time (starting with the eruption of Mount Vesuvius!).

Ben Hur, CBC/ABC (2010)

In the true spirit of miniseries, the 2010 adaptation of Lew Wallace’s novel Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ, entitled simply Ben Hur , spans just two episodes of about 90 minutes each.

There have been many adaptations of the novel over the years, though this is the first dedicated series.

The show tells the story of its titular character Ben Hur, a wealthy Jewish merchant who is caught up in the war between the Roman Empire and Judea.

To further complicate things, one of the Roman officers in the charge against his home happens to be a childhood friend, pitting them against each other in the middle of a pivotal moment in both their nations’ histories.

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The Best Travel Shows On Netflix Right Now, Ranked

Last Updated: November 12th

There’s rarely been a time in recent history in which travel has been more out of reach. That means we all have to live out our travel dreams vicariously for now. Enter the travel TV genre — our most straightforward path to inspirational and aspirational escapism .

No network has changed the game more in recent years than Netflix when it comes to providing a great list of travel shows that’ll motivate you to hit the road one day while scratching that wanderlust itch between trips. But this being Netflix, there’s a dearth of content to sort through. Knowing where to start and which shows are worth your binging time is tough.

We’re here to help. The fifteen travel series below are the best Netflix has to offer right now. We’ve gone ahead and ranked them, though we have to point out that these rankings represent minor quibbles at most. We also tried to cover multiple types of travel shows from the standard food+travel series to nature shows to reality TV travel escapism.

Let’s dive in!

15. Restaurants On The Edge

1 season, 6 episodes | IMDb: 6.8/10

The “fixer-up” aspect of reality TV is a tried and true concept. Gordon Ramsay has umpteen shows doing just that. Where Restaurants on the Edge stands out is the travel and cultural aspect of the show. Restaurateur Nick Liberato, chef Dennis Prescott, and designer Karin Bohn travel the world and find restaurants with amazing views that are on the edge of shutting down (something that’s become even more heightened given recent global events). They team up with the restaurant’s chefs and owners to turn the place around. The ripple here is that the hosts guide the local owners to delve more deeply into the local culture and have their establishments better represent that scene.

14. Stay Here

1 season, 8 episodes | IMDb: 7.5/10

Designer Genevieve Gorder and real estate expert Peter Lorimer join forces in Stay Here to help homeowners turn their spaces into short-term vacation rentals. This is all about Airbnb’ing your digs even though “ Airbnb ” is never mentioned. This is a fun and breezy travel show that goes deep enough to show you how much works goes into the sharing-economy to make it actually work for you. In the end, you’ll have a whole new appreciation for that perfect Airbnb you stayed in.

13. The World’s Most Extraordinary Homes

2 seasons, 12 episodes | IMDb: 7.6/10

This show is addictive. Let’s get this out of the way. This is luxury and lifestyle porn first and foremost. It’s a traveling show, we guess, by proxy. However, it’s intoxicating.

The World’s Most Extraordinary Homes takes us inside architectural wonders around the world. These range from the homes of the elites in places like Greece, Los Angeles, and New Zealand to the homes of a fisherman in Japan and writers in Holland. Hosts Piers Taylor (an architect) and Caroline Quentin (a British actor) offer a great entry point. Taylor offers professional insight, while Quentin is the audience’s awed surrogate.

12. Tales By Light

3 seasons, 18 episodes | IMDb: 8.3/10

Tales By Light isn’t your average travel show per se. The focus here is on great travel photographers and how they operate around the world.

The photographers the show follows just happen to be some of the best in the world who have devoted their life to globetrotting to find the absolute best shot. Every corner of the world is covered over three seasons of breathtaking episodes and crazy escapades.

Seriously, one episode is about swimming with anacondas in the Amazon.

11. Night On Earth

1 season, 6 episodes | IMDb: 8.2/10

Shows like Night On Earth offer a glimpse into the world that beckons you out into the wider world. These are the shows that lay a foundation of wanderlust in our young souls. On top of all of that, this show is visually mesmerizing. It’s a trippy, unique, and captivating look at our world, and it’ll make you want to be someone who seeks these places out.

10. High On The Hog: How African American Cuisine Transformed America

1 Season, 4 Episodes | IMDb: 7.7/10

High on the Hog is based on the seminal work of Dr. Jessica Harris and her breaking down of how African food cultures mingled with Indigenous American foods and European techniques to help define what American food is today. The show is a sort of short-hand for Dr. Harris’ work and book, with chef and writer Stephen Satterfield trekking around America and West Africa looking back at the origins of African American cuisines, where those foods are today, and profiling the people keeping those traditions alive. This is the sort of travel show that will stick with you while teaching crucial history about Black Americans’ impact on the food we eat today.

9. Our Planet

1 season, 8 episodes | IMDb: 9.3/10

Our Planet is Netflix’s very own Planet Earth . They even got Sir David Attenborough to narrate this beautiful series. Again, yes, this is a nature series. But, we argue that a series this intriguing and beguiling will stoke your wanderlust fires and get you out there enjoying everything nature has to offer. If this series doesn’t get you itching to see new places on our planet, nothing will.

8. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

1 season, 4 episodes | IMDb: 6.8/10

David Chang’s second Netflix travel and food show is a little broader than Ugly Delicious . This four-part series finds Chang hanging out with big-name celebrities and diving into local food scenes around the world. Seth Rogan shows Chang around Vancouver while getting very stoned. Internet star and model Chrissy Teigen wanders around Marrakesh with the chef. Writer and actor Lena Waithe takes Chang through her Los Angeles. Finally, the show’s final ( and best ) episode finds Chang hanging out with SNL superstar Kate McKinnon in Cambodia. Overall, this is an easy, fun watch to breeze through on a shut-in Sunday.

7. Ugly Delicious

2 seasons, 12 episodes | IMDb: 7.8/10

Chef David Chang’s food show, Ugly Delicious , is a travel show at its heart. Chang travels the world eating food and talking to people about culture, life, and what they do while experiencing it all for himself — that’s all travel really is. The beauty of the show lies in the lack of pretension — a child-like curiosity really — that Chang carries with him as he travels, talks, and eats. The way Chang travels becomes aspirational with a crazy good dose of food porn along for the ride.

6. Larry Charles’ Dangerous World Of Comedy

1 season, 4 episodes | IMDb: 7.3/10

Larry Charles’ Dangerous World Of Comedy is a travel show at its heart. Acclaimed TV and film comedy director, Larry Charles, travels the world seeking out how comedy is done in war zones, on Indian reservations, in theocracies, in slums, and beyond.

This is the sort of show that takes you deep inside the harder side of life around the world. It’s a part behind-the-scenes look at TV comedy around and a part subversive travelogue with a keen eye on finding the grey areas of life and comedy in places few dare to travel. Plus, it’s only four one-hour episodes, making this one a very easy binge.

5. Dark Tourist

1 season, 8 episodes | IMDb: 7.6/10

David Farrier’s Dark Tourist isn’t what you think it is . This isn’t about the western gaze, looking down upon the weird or “other.” Farrier’s nuanced approach to travel and diversity shines through as he parses some of the lesser-known parts of varying cultures.

The show shines in its ability to hook you in from the first frames. Episodes about vampires in New Orleans, Pablo Escobar’s hitmen, and haunted forests offer a glimpse into the unknown in our world without judgment.

4. Somebody Feed Phil

4 seasons, 22 episodes | IMDb: 8.2/10

Phil Rosenthal has cut out a pretty great second act after his days running Everybody Loves Raymond . Rosenthal is traveling around the world eating great food, meeting people, and seeing new places he thought he’d never see.

Rosenthal is on a trip of discovery. There’s a clear food focus to the show. But, really, the series ends up being just as much about the journey as a great meal with new friends.

3. Street Food

2 season, 15 episodes | IMDb: 8/10

This series from the creators of Chef’s Table leans more heavily into the travel aspect of great cooking. The series highlights street food vendors across East Asia, Mexico, and Central and South America through two seasons. The series revels in letting those vendors tell their stories and highlighting the food they make with that now iconic Chef’s Table aesthetic . The bonus is that each episode clocks in at around 30 minutes, making this a very easy and enjoyable binge any time.

2. MeatEater

3 seasons, 29 episodes | IMDb: 7.8/10

This is probably the most interesting and unique travel (and food) show on this list. Steve Rinella’s MeatEater might be the best nature-meets-travel-meets-food show, full stop. Rinella and his crew travel around the U.S., Mexico, and even parts of South America to embrace nature in the most visceral way, through hunting and fishing for their own food and then cooking that food, providing us with wild recipes to boot. We’re not kidding when we say that the wild places this show goes are the places you almost never see on the average travel show, which is usually obsessed with hitting the same old spots over and over again (looking at you Rosenthal and Chang).

Yes, hunting or fishing for food is the core of each trip. Still, with sourcing your own wild food being one of the fastest-growing food movements in America (far outpacing veganism with people under 40), MeatEater offers real-world advice as an entry-point to the wild spaces of the world and the food available therein. It’s also about the people around the world who live their lives in harmony with nature. Add in the beautiful cinematography (from the same crew as Bourdain’s shows) and you have a great watch.

1. Down to Earth with Zac Efron

1 season, 8 episodes | IMDb: 8.1/10

This show was the sleeper hit of the travel TV world in 2020. Yes, it premiered during a pandemic when we can’t travel, making it an easy hit. But the show really has some serious heart and insight. Viewing the world through Zac Efron’s always wide-eyes proved really refreshing. His excitement to be seeing the world and trying on new ideas while also making an effort to step out of the most well-worn paths made for solid TV.

There’s a real soul to this show that gets to what’s beautiful about travel. It captures the spirit of wanderlust — learning about the world while learning about yourself.

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19 Top Films set in Rome to Watch Before Your Trip

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Oh, Rome. Are any movies from one singular city as cinematically diverse as the films set in Rome?

One minute, you’re watching forlorn monochromatic characters stroll aimlessly through shadowy, cobbled streets wearing dark sunglasses and weathered Armani suits. And the next minute, chariots hurtle past your screens at a million miles an hour in glorious technicolour surrounded by thousands of underpaid extras wearing potato sacks in ancient arenas.

Rome artfully straddles the ancient, the plain old and the contemporary so it’s only fair that its cinema reflects this . Both homegrown Italian neo-realist cinema from the 1960s as well as the modern, shall we say ‘critically panned’ Hollywood fare, too. There’s a Roman film for everyone!

Just as there is a Roman holiday for everyone. I do not know a single person who hasn’t either already visited Rome or wouldn’t mind visiting someday. Whether it’s the history, the food or the weather, there seems to be at least one side to Rome that appeals to everyone.

So whether you’re planning a city break to Rome or you want to reminisce about your time already spent in the eternal city, here is my list of all the top films set in Rome for every kind of Roman holiday! Yes, I’ll probably be saying that a lot.

Top Films set in Rome

1.  Rome, Open City  (1945) dir. Roberto Rossellini

Languages:  Italian, German  Run time: 105m 100% Rotten Tomatoes

We’re beginning this list of films set in Rome with a not-very-inspiring tale about Nazi-occupied Rome during the end of WWII.

The title of Rome, Open City  refers to the declaration made by any city that surrenders itself to the opposing military force to prevent further destruction. Which is exactly what happened to Rome in 1944 and was the basis for one of Roberto Rossellini’s masterpieces of cinema.

The film was released the year WWII ended and there was just absolutely no money for cinema at the time, as you can imagine. The screenwriters were writing the film as the city still lay in ruin and the money was gifted by a wealthy elderly lady. But even then, the film was rough around the edges, and the many non-professional actors added to the gritty realism.

Rome, Open City  received a lacklustre reception when it was released as audiences preferred escapism from the war. But of course, years later it’s appreciated as a triumph of cinema. Just in case your expectations of this film weren’t high enough.

The film shot on location in Rome in locations like Piazza di Spagna and Monte Mario .

2.  Bicycle Thieves  (1948) dir. Vittorio De Sica

Language:  Italian  Run time: 93m 98% Rotten Tomatoes

When you think of films set in Rome, you might think of epic big-budget movies set during the Roman Empire, busty blonde ladies prancing about in the Trevi Fountain or teenage Americans hopping onto the back of Vespas with good-looking Italian boys. You might not think about films like Bicycle Thieves.  A film that  Sight & Sound  recently ranked as the sixth greatest film ever made. 

In a poor neighbourhood in Rome, a working-class man’s bicycle is stolen which he needs for employment. He and his son desperately scour the city in an attempt to retrieve it.

It’s a heartbreaking film about how seemingly insignificant events to some are actually life-changing for others. And how poverty in post-war Rome seemed like an endless, inescapable circle.

Lighthearted stuff, eh? You might wonder why I’d put ‘depressing’ films on a list of films set in Rome to watch before a trip. But I think films like this are important because a) they’re brilliant and b) they offer a non-glitzy, non-superficial side to Rome that can help us better understand the city’s history.

3.  Roman Holiday  (1953) dir. William Wyler

Languages:  English, Italian  Run time: 118m 98% Rotten Tomatoes

And just like that, we’ve flipped a switch and we’re watching glitzy, Hollywood films about Rome! What can I say? There’s room for both types of films set in Rome on this list! Especially when the Hollywood film is as wonderful and enjoyable as Roman Holiday.

The ever-delightful Audrey Hepburn plays a Princess from an undisclosed European country on a tour of Europe. When she reaches Rome, she grows tired of the endless schedules and formalities of being a Princess and escapes into the night to experience the ‘real’ Rome.

She happens to meet Gregory Peck’s American Journalist who recognises the Princess and spends all day with her galivanting around Rome in the hopes of writing a highly-paid exclusive article about her.

Cue Vespa rides through Piazza Venezia , sampling gelato on the Spanish Steps and guided tours of the Colosseum . There’s no other travel-inspiring film that showcases the hotspots of Rome like  Roman Holiday! Lucky for you, I wrote an entire blog post detailing every  Roman Holiday  filming location around Rome. 

Roman Holiday Filming Locations in Rome, Italy

4.  Three Coins in the Fountain  (1954) dir. Jean Negulesco

Language:  English  Run time: 102m 67% Rotten Tomatoes

Another throwback to old Hollywood, Three Coins in the Fountain is about three American women working in Rome, sharing an apartment, who want to find love but most importantly, a husband. A song also named Three Coins in the Fountain was written for the film and refers to the legend regarding how many coins you throw into the Trevi Fountain in Rome.

One coin means you will return to Rome, two coins means you’ll return and find love and three coins means you’ll return to Rome, find love and get married. Every girl’s dream, right?

Three Coins in the Fountain  shot all over Italy including Venice, Trentino and Rome which included the scenes at the Trevi Fountain .

Both  Three Coins in the Fountain  and  Roman Holiday  helped contribute to a Hollywood era nicknamed ‘Hollywood on the Tiber’ because there was a boom of American films made in Rome (which is on the River Tiber) during the 1950s-1970s (normally at the Cinecittà Studios ).

After WWII, Italy was desperate to rebuild its film industry and offered lower costs and Government subsidies to foreign productions. So a lot of sword-and-sandal epics were shot in Rome and allowed Italian actors like Sophia Loren to gain worldwide notoriety.

Just a little bit of film history there for you, but let’s move on!

Guide to Cinecittà Studio Tour & Film Museum in Rome

5.  Ben-Hur  (1959) dir. William Wyler

Language:  English  Run time: 212m 86% Rotten Tomatoes

I just had to throw in a couple of films set in Ancient Rome, right? And where better to start than the daddy of all sword-and-sandals epic,  Ben-Hur ! The titular character is a Jewish Prince living in Israel who is sold into slavery by a childhood friend who is a Roman citizen.

He then manages to obtain his freedom and seeks revenge. So while much of the film isn’t  set  in Rome, you still have to watch a few films about the Roman Empire before visiting the eternal city.

Ben-Hur  did extremely well at the Academy Awards, winning a whopping 11 awards from 12 nominations (and there were only 15 categories at the time!) Like  Roman Holiday  and  Three Coins in the Fountain,  Ben-Hur  also filmed scenes at Rome’s Cinecittà Studios .

Locations in Rome include the Rovine Canale Monterano Commune but the film was also shot in the wider Lazio region and in Lebanon.

6.  La Dolce Vita  (1960) dir. Federico Fellini

Languages:  Italian, English, French, German  Run time: 174m 97% Rotten Tomatoes

Ahhhh,  La Dolce Vita.  Is there a more classically Roman film than  La Dolce Vita?  Translated in English as ‘The Sweet Life’,  La Dolce Vita follows the exploits of socialite journalist Marcello over one week in Rome.

The plot has an episodic structure and the most famous scene is probably the one where Marcello meets Sylvia, a famous actress, and they find themselves unexpectantly alone and Sylvia randomly decides to go for a dip in the Trevi Fountain . As you do.

Director Fellini apparently prefers to build sets over filming on location , but luckily he shot many scenes in  La Dolce Vita  around Rome. The Trevi Fountain in the film is the actual Trevi Fountain and the Quirinale Palace featured too.

La Dolce Vita Filming Locations in Rome, Italy

7. L’Eclisse  (1962) dir. Michelangelo Antonioni

Languages:  Italian, English  Run time: 126m 89% Rotten Tomatoes

L’Eclisse  is the final film in Michelangelo Antonioni’s trilogy following on from  L’Avventura  (1960) set in Sicily and La Notte  set in Milan. In English, the title means ‘The Eclipse’ and follows the life of Vittoria, a literary translator who has recently broken up with her boyfriend.

She happens to meet Piero, a young stockbroker who Vittoria begins a new relationship despite their different moral values. It really delves deep into the nuances of why relationships work and I also love that Vittoria is the central focus of  L’Eclisse rather than Piero. Just makes the film much more interesting to see it from a woman’s perspective.

Antonioni shot   L’Eclisse  entirely on location in Rome , shooting scenes in the Rome Stock Exchange in Piazza di Pietra and Piazza di Campitelli amongst others.

8.  Mamma Roma  (1963) dir. Pier Paolo Pasolini

Language:  Italian  Run time: 106m 93% Rotten Tomatoes

Pier Paolo Pasolini is one of Italy’s top filmmakers and Mamma Roma  is another example of the hard times the people of Rome fell on after WWII (akin to  Bicycle Thieves,  for example).  Mamma Roma  is about a mother who leaves a life of prostitution behind to sell vegetables with her son.

However, when he discovers the truth about her former life he quickly spirals out of control. Pasolini shot the film entirely on location in Rome. 

I can’t help but think about the Bollywood film  Mother India  (1957) and compare it to Mamma Roma.  The ladies in the films come from very different backgrounds. But ultimately, they’re both matriarchs trying to do the best for their families in challenging circumstances.

People around the world really aren’t that different at all!

9. Roma  (1972) dir. Federico Fellini

Language:  Italian, German, English, French, Latin, Spanish  Run time: 128m 69% Rotten Tomatoes

Roma  is the second Fellini film on my list of top films set in Rome! I had  to include a film literally titled ‘Rome’ didn’t I?! But Roma  definitely won’t be for everyone’s taste because it isn’t exactly mine.

Not to be confused with Roma  (2018) which is a Mexican film by Alfonso Cuarón, Fellini’s  Roma  is more of a love letter to the city told in loosely-connected episodes based on the director’s experiences. There’s not really much of a plot and I’m very much a plot-driven kind of gal. He shot the film around Rome and also in Cinecittà Studios .

10. The Belly of an Architect  (1987) dir. Peter Greenaway

Language:  English  Run time: 120m 91% Rotten Tomatoes

Skipping ahead by over a decade, we’re getting into the more Hollywood/populist English-speaking films. Gotta be honest, I’m much more likely to watch any of these types of films set in Rome than re-watch La Dolce Vita.

I’m probably just lazy but I also think it’s sometimes more travel-inspiring to watch someone you relate to visit Rome and see the city from their perspective.

The Belly of an Architect  is about an American architect (shocker) who is hired to commission an exhibition in Rome. The stress of the job, as well as his strained marriage, puts so much pressure on the architect that he starts experiencing stomach pains.

The film features a truckload of filming locations all over Rome! I’m talking about the Aurelian Walls , the Pantheon , the Mausoleum of Augustus , the Roman Forum , Piazza Navona , Piazza Venezia … So many Piazzas!

11. Gladiator  (2000) dir. Ridley Scott

Language:  English  Run time: 155m 76% Rotten Tomatoes

A lot of these period films set in Rome might not seem  very travel-inspiring from the outside. And especially not Gladiator  which is about a former Roman General who plans his vengeance on a corrupt Emporer who murdered his entire family. But to some people, they are.

Some travellers want to dive into the recent bleak history of a city like in Rome, Open City  and some absolutely  love  Empire-set films with sword fights and live tigers. The Colosseum is still standing, after all! Which is exactly where some pivotal scenes in  Gladiator  were set.

However, director Ridley Scott shot the majority of  Gladiator  in Morocco and Malta in one of their many forts. So you can’t visit any  Gladiator  filming locations on your trip to Rome but at least there are enough ruin sites and relics to keep you busy regardless.

Hollywood Film Locations in Malta: Gladiator, Captain Phillips & More!

12. When in Rome  (2002) dir. Steve Purcell

Language:  English  Run time:  85m N/A Rotten Tomatoes

Okay… If you weren’t nine-years-old in 2002, then you probably weren’t a huge fan of Mary-Kate and Ashley like I was. But their travel-inspiring movies were HUGE to pre-teen girls back in the early 00s. I do wonder whether or not I’d want to travel so much if it wasn’t for those direct-to-video films.

One of my favourites is  When in Rome.  The twins’ star in the film as Leila and Charli who have won summer internships for a big company in Rome.

Due to no fault of their own, they’re fired but rehired by the company director who allows Charli to design her own line of clothes (yeah, sure) and Leila gets to photograph them. And of course, one twin falls for the company director’s bad boy nephew and the other falls for a local Italian boy also doing the internship.

It’s a terrible, corny film, but what can I say? They live in an apartment directly opposite the Colosseum and take Vespa rides all over the city!

13. The Lizzie McGuire Movie (2003) dir. Jim Fall

Language:  English, Italian  Run time: 94m 41% Rotten Tomatoes

And even if you weren’t a Mary-Kate and Ashley fan as a young girl in the early 00s, you definitely  watched  The Lizzie McGuire Movie.  Based on the hit Disney Channel TV show, Lizzie McGuire,   the titular character travels on a summer class trip to Rome.

At the Trevi Fountain , she is approached by an Italian pop star called Paolo because she looks identical to his singing partner, Isabella, who has gone AWOL. She pretends to be ill for the rest of the trip so she can hang with Paolo and masquerade as Isabella for the pop duo’s upcoming performance at the Italian Music Awards.

There are quite a few filming locations around Rome featured in  The Lizzie McGuire Movie.  Mainly all the tourist hotspots that you would expect to see on an educational trip to Rome including the Roman Forum , Trevi Fountain and Piazza di Spagna .

A class trip that turns into a holiday romance and the chance to be a famous pop star? This is what dreams are made of!

22 Amazing Films set in Italy to Inspire you to Visit

14. Mission: Impossible III  (2006) dir. J.J. Abrams

Language:  English  Run time: 126m 70% Rotten Tomatoes

Though I very much enjoy the more recent Mission: Impossible  films, I’m not a massive fan of Mission: Impossible I- III.  But if you’re visiting Rome soon and also have a hankering to watch Tom Cruise climb up a building or eat fire or… whatever he does… then Mission: Impossible III  is the one to watch.

Agent Ethan Hunt has seemingly retired from fieldwork but is pulled back in when a violent arms dealer threatens to kill him and his fiancee. The team discover that the bad guy will be in Vatican City to retrieve a mysterious object called ‘Rabbit’s Foot’ so Ethan travels to Rome in an attempt to track him down.

So, most of  Mission: Impossible III ‘s Rome scenes are actually set in the Vatican , but they sure as heck didn’t film there. The Royal Palace of Caserta in Campania near Naples stood in for St Peter’s Basilica as it did for  Angels and Demons  (2009) three years later.

15. Angels and Demons  (2009) dir. Ron Howard

Language:  English, Italian  Run time: 138m 36% Rotten Tomatoes

I’ve said this many times on my blog, but I love  The Da Vinci Code Trilogy  more than I probably should . They are not good films, yet I watch them again and again in the same way I cannot just eat one chocolate digestive. I have to have more.

They are also the only films that combine three of my loves : travel in European cities, religious conspiracy theories, and taking lighthearted things too seriously.

Angels and Demons  (2009) is the middle film in the trilogy following  The Da Vinci Code  (2006) and before  Inferno  (2016) . Dr Robert Langdon is back and he must help the Vatican retrieve a vial of antimatter from an unknown location before it blows up the entire city of Rome and save the four Cardinals (apparently kidnapped by the Illuminati) before they are killed, once an hour, before midnight.

Langdon races all around the city and city-state, teaching us tidbits about Rome and the Catholic church along the way. You don’t just get a gripping race-against-time drama from  Angels and Demons,  you also get a history lesson that may be useful for your next pub quiz!

I wrote an entire blog post detailing all the  Angels and Demons  filming locations in Vatican City and Rome which you can read here. I also wrote  another  blog post on  The Da Vinci Code  filming locations in Paris and how to visit Rosslyn Chapel near Edinburgh , which is the church featured at the end of  The Da Vinci Code. 

Angels and Demons Filming Locations in Rome

16. Eat Pray Love  (2010) dir. Ryan Murphy

Languages: English, Italian, Portuguese  Run time: 133m 36% Rotten Tomatoes

Another film I probably shouldn’t love, but I do. Eat Pray Love  has got to be one of the most travel-inspiring films set in Rome. And more than half of the film doesn’t even take place there! Based on the best-selling memoir, Eat Pray Love  is about writer Elizabeth Gilbert’s personal journey to find herself.

She lives in Rome for four months learning Italian and enjoying life’s pleasures (eat), spends four months in an Ashram in India (pray). And finally, learns how to balance the two with the help of a medicine man in Bali (love).

There are  so  many  Eat Pray Love  filming locations in Rome , far too many to list here. But luckily I’ve written them all up in a blog post for you to read !

And Eat Pray Love  isn’t just a great travel film to watch only if you’re visiting the same countries she visits. It’s actually just a great wanderlust-inspiring film in itself!  And I do recommend the book, too.

Eat Pray Love Filming Locations in Rome (and Naples)

17. To Rome with Love  (2012) dir. Woody Allen

Languages: English, Italian  Run time: 112m 46% Rotten Tomatoes

Whether you love it or late it, you cannot deny that  To Rome with Love  shows off many more Roman street corners, cafés and tourist hotspots than basically any other film set in Rome. I documented at least 11 filming locations in Rome from watching Eat Pray Love.  But in  To Rome with Love?  There are at least 43!

One of Woody Allen’s ‘Ode to European capital cities’ movies (along with  Midnight in Paris  (2010) and  Vicky Cristina Barcelona  (2008) ,  To Rome with Love  tells four unrelated stories about several characters and their lives in Rome. Though it’s not regarded as a ‘good’ film and I’m not sure I should be recommending Woody Allen films anymore, it’s still one of the best films for inspiring people to travel to Rome and to watch before your trip.

Also, I wrote an entire blog post listing every single To Rome with Love  filming location in Rome I could find.

To Rome with Love Filming Locations in Rome (duh)

18. The Great Beauty  (2013) dir. Paolo Sorrentino

Languages:  Italian, Japanese, Chinese, Spanish  Run time: 142m 91% Rotten Tomatoes

Well, at least maybe I can redeem myself somewhat by recommending a recent film that is not only in the Italian language but is actually a  great film. Paolo Sorrentino is one of the best Italian filmmakers working right now. And his previous film Il Divo  (2008) is worth a watch, too.

The Great Beauty follows a journalist who has spent most of his 65 years chasing women and attending the most lavish, wildest parties. On his birthday, he realises he has been living superficially and begins searching for ‘the great beauty’ of life. Sometimes we need a film that gives us a reality check and The Great Beauty  is one of those films.

It also helps that this film is set a little in Tuscany but mainly in the gorgeous city of Rome . Filming locations include the Baths of Caracalla , Piazza Navona , Fontana dell’Acqua Paola and Chiesa di San Pietro in Montorio .

19. Spectre  (2015) dir. Sam Mendes

Language:  English  Run time: 148m 63% Rotten Tomatoes

We’ve reached the final film set in Rome to watch before your trip! How on earth are you going to squeeze in 19 films before you catch your flight, eh? *wink emoji*

Ah, I don’t expect you to watch all of these films set in Rome but here is one you may have already watched. Spectre  is the most recent James Bond film before No Time to Die  (2020) is released next year.

In this instalment, a posthumous message received from M sends Bond on the trail of a super-dangerous crime organisation. He attends the funeral of a member in Rome and infiltrates a group meeting somewhere in the city before starting a car chase.

Spectre  doesn’t linger too long in Rome, unfortunately, before Bond jets off to Austria and Morocco. But while in Rome, he drives passed the Colosseum , visits Villa di Fiorano , the Garibaldi Museum , the Roman Forum , St Peter’s Basilica and a few other landmarks.

He also drives rampantly through the streets of Trastevere and onto Stadium of Domitian before jetting away from the bad guy.

Other films set in Rome:  Rome 11:00  (1952), When in Rome (1952), An American in Rome (1954), Nights of Cabiria  (1957),  The Roman Spring of Mrs  Stone (1961),  Accatone (1961), 8 1/2  (1963),  Il Boom  (1963),  Gidget Goes to Rome (1963), The Bird with the Crystal Plumage  (1970), EuroTrip (2004), Il Divo (2008), When in Rome  (2010)

And those are all the best films set in Rome! Are you planning your own Roman holiday? Or have you watched any of the films on the list? Let me know in the comments below!

Hey! I wrote this. And I'm the human (and hair) behind Almost Ginger. I live for visiting filming locations, attending top film festivals and binge-watching travel inspiring films. I'm here to inspire you to do the same! Get in touch by leaving a comment or contacting me directly: [email protected] .

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Best Movies & TV Shows on Ancient Rome

Feel free to recommend films or TV Shows when seen they will be added to the list.

• Movies or TV
• IMDb Rating
• In Theaters
• Release Year

1. Rome (2005–2007)

TV-MA | 60 min | Action, Drama, Romance

A down-to-earth account of the lives of both illustrious and ordinary Romans set in the last days of the Roman Republic.

Stars: Kevin McKidd , Ray Stevenson , Polly Walker , Kerry Condon

Votes: 185,254

2. Spartacus (2010–2013)

TV-MA | 60 min | Action, Adventure, Biography

The life of Spartacus, the gladiator who lead a rebellion against the Romans. From his time as an ally of the Romans, to his betrayal and becoming a gladiator, to the rebellion he leads and its ultimate outcome.

Stars: Andy Whitfield , Lucy Lawless , Manu Bennett , Daniel Feuerriegel

Votes: 256,870

3. Spartacus: Gods of the Arena (2011)

TV-MA | 55 min | Action, Adventure, Biography

In the time before the arrival of Spartacus, the House of Batiatus faces many challenges from competitors, and within its own household.

Stars: John Hannah , Manu Bennett , Peter Mensah , Dustin Clare

Votes: 145,322

4. Barbarians (2020–2022)

TV-MA | 569 min | Action, Adventure, Drama

Torn between the mighty empire that raised him and his own tribal people, a Roman officer's conflicted allegiances lead to an epic historical clash.

Stars: Laurence Rupp , Jeanne Goursaud , David Schütter , Florian Schmidtke

Votes: 30,255

5. Roman Empire (2016–2019)

TV-MA | 48 min | Documentary, Biography, Drama

Chronicles some of the most famous leaders of the Roman Civilization.

Stars: Aaron Irvin , Corey Brennan , Jerry Toner , Steve West

Votes: 9,366

6. Domina (2021–2023)

TV-MA | 60 min | Drama, History

The life and rise of Livia Drusilla, the powerful wife of the Roman emperor Augustus Caesar.

Stars: Alex Lanipekun , Ewan Horrocks , Matthew McNulty , Kasia Smutniak

Votes: 6,384

7. Gladiator (2000)

R | 155 min | Action, Adventure, Drama

A former Roman General sets out to exact vengeance against the corrupt emperor who murdered his family and sent him into slavery.

Director: Ridley Scott | Stars: Russell Crowe , Joaquin Phoenix , Connie Nielsen , Oliver Reed

Votes: 1,619,199 | Gross: $187.71M

8. Britannia (2017–2021)

TV-MA | 60 min | Action, Drama, Fantasy

In 43 AD, the Roman Army returns to crush the Celtic heart of Britannia.

Stars: David Morrissey , Eleanor Worthington-Cox , Mackenzie Crook , Julian Rhind-Tutt

Votes: 17,853

9. Centurion (2010)

R | 97 min | Action, Drama, History

A splinter group of Roman soldiers fight for their lives behind enemy lines after their legion is devastated in a guerrilla attack.

Director: Neil Marshall | Stars: Michael Fassbender , Dominic West , Olga Kurylenko , Andreas Wisniewski

Votes: 86,345 | Gross: $7.89M

10. A.D. The Bible Continues (2015)

44 min | Drama

Follows the book of ACTS. Shows the complete message of Christ and the transformation of Saul to Paul and how the high priest of Judea does not believe in what has taken place after the Crucifixion of Christ.

Stars: Richard Coyle , Vincent Regan , Adam Levy , Joanne Whalley

Votes: 5,358

11. Spartacus (1960)

PG-13 | 197 min | Adventure, Biography, Drama

The slave Spartacus survives brutal training as a gladiator and leads a violent revolt against the decadent Roman Republic, as the ambitious Crassus seeks to gain power by crushing the uprising.

Directors: Stanley Kubrick , Anthony Mann | Stars: Kirk Douglas , Laurence Olivier , Jean Simmons , Charles Laughton

Votes: 143,128 | Gross: $30.00M

12. Carry on Cleo (1964)

Not Rated | 92 min | Adventure, Comedy, Romance

Two Britons, Hengist and Horsa, are captured and enslaved by invading Romans and taken to Rome. One of their first encounters in Rome leaves Hengist being mistaken for a fighter, and gets drafted into the Royal Guard to protect Caesar.

Director: Gerald Thomas | Stars: Kenneth Williams , Sidney James , Kenneth Connor , Charles Hawtrey

Votes: 5,004

13. Risen (2016)

PG-13 | 107 min | Action, Drama, History

In 33 AD, a Roman Tribune in Judea is tasked to find the missing body of Jesus Christ , who rose from the dead.

Director: Kevin Reynolds | Stars: Joseph Fiennes , Tom Felton , Peter Firth , Cliff Curtis

Votes: 30,799 | Gross: $36.87M

14. The Eagle (2011)

PG-13 | 114 min | Action, Adventure, Drama

In Roman-ruled Britain, a young Roman soldier endeavors to honor his father's memory by finding his lost legion's golden emblem.

Director: Kevin Macdonald | Stars: Channing Tatum , Jamie Bell , Donald Sutherland , István Göz

Votes: 74,043 | Gross: $19.49M

15. Pompeii (I) (2014)

PG-13 | 105 min | Action, Adventure, Drama

A slave-turned-gladiator finds himself in a race against time to save his true love, who has been betrothed to a corrupt Roman Senator. As Mount Vesuvius erupts, he must fight to save his beloved as Pompeii crumbles around him.

Director: Paul W.S. Anderson | Stars: Kit Harington , Emily Browning , Kiefer Sutherland , Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje

Votes: 116,602 | Gross: $23.22M

16. Caligula (1979)

Unrated | 156 min | Drama, History

A dramatization of the ascent to Caesar and subsequent reign of Caligula, one of the most notorious leaders of ancient Rome. We see his ambition, his scheming, his perversion and decadence, his brutality and his lunacy.

Director: Tinto Brass | Stars: Malcolm McDowell , Peter O'Toole , Helen Mirren , Teresa Ann Savoy

Votes: 38,340 | Gross: $23.44M

17. The Last Legion (2007)

PG-13 | 101 min | Action, Adventure, History

As the Roman empire crumbles, young Romulus Augustus flees the city and embarks on a perilous voyage to Britain to track down a legion of supporters.

Director: Doug Lefler | Stars: Colin Firth , Ben Kingsley , Aishwarya Rai Bachchan , Peter Mullan

Votes: 37,097 | Gross: $5.93M

18. Plebs (2013–2019)

TV-14 | 25 min | Comedy, History

"Plebs" follows three desperate young men from the suburbs as they try to get laid, hold down jobs, and climb the social ladder in the big city--that happens to be Ancient Rome.

Stars: Tom Rosenthal , Ryan Sampson , Tom Basden , Karl Theobald

Votes: 9,050

19. Romulus (2020– )

Drama, Fantasy, History

The story of Romulus and his twin brother Remus, in eighth century B.C. as seen through the eyes of three people marked by death, loneliness and violence.

Stars: Andrea Arcangeli , Francesco Di Napoli , Marianna Fontana , Sergio Romano

Votes: 2,901

20. I, Claudius (1976)

Not Rated | 50 min | Biography, Drama, History

The personal and governmental affairs of the Julio-Claudian dynasty at the beginning of the Roman Empire, as recalled by one of its rulers.

Stars: Derek Jacobi , John Hurt , Siân Phillips , Brian Blessed

Votes: 19,357

21. Warrior Queen (2003 TV Movie)

Not Rated | 83 min | Action, Drama, History

Boudica, the Warrior Queen on Britain, leads her tribe into rebellion against the Roman Empire and the mad Emperor of Rome Nero.

Director: Bill Anderson | Stars: Alex Kingston , Steven Waddington , Emily Blunt , Leanne Rowe

Votes: 1,361

22. Colosseum (2022– )

TV-14 | 44 min | Action, Drama, History

It showcases the rise and fall of the Roman Empire through the Colosseum, one of the most exhilarating and brutal arenas in the history of humanity.

Stars: Campbell Scott , Robert R. Cargill , Alexander Mariotti , Josh Taylor

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Best travel films and TV shows to stream right now

Dec 10, 2020 • 4 min read

If you're wondering what to watch during the holiday season, there are a lot of movies and TV shows that will whisk you away to far off places © xavierarnau / Getty Images

Bored at home but unable to travel? While you can certainly fill the void with new travel books or staying busy with projects like cooking up pandemic gourmet, another option is the tried-and-true cinematic voyage, courtesy of your favorite streaming services.

There are plenty of movies and television shows on Netflix , Hulu , Amazon Prime , Disney+ , HBO Go , The Criterion Channel , and others that will whisk you away to foreign locals, show you beloved cities in a new light, and drop you headlong into particular places in time. Even better if you use the  new Netflix Party feature on to simulcast a feature and travel the world with your besties, one movie at a time.

While it’s not quite the same as getting a fresh stamp on your passport, there’s definitely something to be said for the immersive experience of traveling with Audrey Hepburn on a Roman Holiday,  following The Blues Brothers on a mad-cap musical road trip through Chicagoland , or careening with documentary film crews through Senegal and Mali on the route of the Dakar Rally. 

Here are our top picks for travel buffs to stream or rent during the holiday season:

Cultural gems

The Dark Tourist  (Netflix) Atlantics  (Netflix) Udaan  (Netflix) Chandni Bar Tabu  (Amazon Prime) Life… In A Metro  (Netflix) The Land of Many Palaces (Vudu) Columbus  (Hulu) Russian Ark  (Fandor) Vaya   (Netflix) Daughters of the Dust (rent via Amazon Prime) Eight Miles High (rent via Amazon Prime) In the Last Days of the City (rent via Vudu) Of Time and the City (rent via Amazon Prime) Wings of Desire (rent via Amazon Prime or Vudu) The Harder They Come (rent via Amazon Prime or Vudu) Tracks  (rent via Amazon Prime or Vudu)

Roman Holiday  (Tubi) Vertigo  (Starz) Amelie  (Hulu) To Catch a Thief  (Amazon Prime) Strictly Ballroom  (Netflix) The Sound of Music  (Disney+) Lost In Translation  (Hulu) Metropolitan  (Hulu) Y tu Mamá Tambien (Netflix) The English Patient (Hulu) Room with a View (Hulu) Paris, Texas  (The Criterion Channel) Two for the Road (rent via Amazon Prime) Before Sunrise (rent via Amazon Prime) Before Sunset (rent via Amazon Prime) Before Midnight (rent via Amazon Prime) It Happened One Night (rent via Amazon Prime or Vudu) Lawrence of Arabia  (rent via Amazon Prime or Vudu) Black Narcissus  (The Criterion Channel)

National Lampoon’s Vacation series (Hulu) Ferris Bueller's Day Off  (Neflix) The Beast  (The Criterion Channel) L'Auberge Espagnole (Netflix) The Blues Brothers (Hulu) When Harry Met Sally  (Hulu) The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (Hulu) A Good Year  (Hulu) The Commitments  (rent via Amazon Prime) Good Bye, Lenin!  (rent via Amazon Prime or Vudu)

Queen Sono  (Netflix) Elite (Netflix) Derry Girls  (Netflix) My Brilliant Friend  (Hulu) Killing Eve (Hulu) Jack Whitehall: Travels With My Father  (Netflix) The Kettering Incident  (Amazon Prime) Lillyhammer  (Netflix) Moone Boy (Hulu) Larry Charles’ Dangerous World Of Comedy  (Hulu) The Trip (rent via Amazon Prime)

For foodies

Ugly Delicious  (Neflix) Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations (Hulu) Like Water for Chocolate  (Netflix) Garlic is as Good as Ten Mothers  (The Criterion Channel) Street Food  (Netflix) Tampopo  (The Criterion Channel) Chef's Table  (Netflix) Yum, Yum, Yum! A Taste of Cajun and Creole Cooking  (The Criterion Channel) Restaurants on the Edge  (Netflix) Salt Fat Acid Heat  (Netflix) Babette's Feast  (The Criterion Channel) The Mind of a Chef  (Netflix) Jiro Dreams of Sushi  (Netflix) The Hundred-Foot Journey  (Netflix) Eat Drink Man Woman  (rent via Vudu) My Dinner With Andre  (rent via Amazon Prime)

Documentaries 

Ken Burns Presents: The West  (Netflix) ...And the Pursuit of Happiness  (Criterion Channel) Calcutta  (Criterion Channel) Hotel Monterey  (Criterion Channel) The Inland Sea  (Criterion Channel) Man of Aran  (Criterion Channel) Marseille  (Criterion Channel) My Winnipeg  (Criterion Channel) Sunday in Peking  (Criterion Channel) Vernon, Florida (Criterion Channel) Once Were Warriors (rent via Amazon Prime or Vudu) A Map for Saturday  (rent via Amazon Prime)

For nature lovers

Ken Burns: The National Parks - America's Best Idea  (Amazon Prime) National Parks Adventure  (Netflix) The African Lion  (Disney+) Night On Earth  (Netflix) The Vanishing Prairie  (Disney+) Our Planet  (Netflix) Fishing with John  (The Criterion Channel) The Living Desert  (Disney+) Sweetgrass  (The Criterion Channel) African Cats  (Disney+) Bears  (Disney+) Born in China  (Disney+) Wild Yellowstone  (Disney+) Wild Alaska  (Netflix) Mile, Mile & a Half  (Amazon Prime) Mountain  (Netflix) Unbranded  (Amazon Prime)

For sports fans

Numerous past Olympic games are beautifully documented on The Criterion Channel. The Endless Summer  (Amazon Prime, Tubi) Free Solo  (Hulu, Disney+) 13 Days in France (The Criterion Channel) A Land Shaped by Women  (Tubi) The Traveler  (The Criterion Channel) 7915km (Fandor) BeAlive  (YouTube) The Dawn Wall  (Netflix) Iron Cowboy  (Netflix) The Barkley Marathons: The Race that Eats Its Young  (Tubi) Meru  (rent via Amazon Prime) Safety to Nome  (rent via Amazon Prime) Keepers of the Game  (rent via Vudu)

You might also like:

London watchlist: films to see before your trip   Take a cinematic trip through Tunisia's blockbuster filming locations Rome watchlist: films to see before your trip  

This article was originally published in March 2020 and updated in December 2020.

This article was first published March 2020 and updated December 2020

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Best Light Shows in Rome

By Elyssa Bernard  and Alessandro Bisceglie

June 29, 2022

The latest light shows in Rome have made it better than ever to experience the city and its amazing art and architecture. The shows are all so well done, you feel transported in time. Find out how to visit Rome like never before!

Light Shows in Rome - a new way to see the Eternal City!

The latest in virtual reality technology has made is easier than ever to step back in time, and immerse yourself in Rome's history, whether from Michelangelo's time 500 years ago to the days of the empire 2000 years ago.

It seems new sound and light shows in Rome are being added all the time.

Check out these shows for a full immersion experience in Rome ( for a map of all of them, jump to the bottom of the page .)

On this page you'll find virtual reality or light shows at:

Domus Aurea

Caracalla baths, circus maximus.

• Forum of Augustus
• Forum of Julius Caesar

Palazzo Valentini

Welcome to rome, time elevator.

Due to the visual nature of the subject of this page, I've embedded several videos so you can see a preview for yourself.

Please note that when you play these videos, they play sound out loud as well.

Virtual Reality Light Shows in Rome

The below sites in Rome are already fantastic and worth visiting on their own.

But you can also visit them with virtual reality goggles , and truly immerse yourself in the past. They are amazing experiences in the literal sense of the word. I found myself reaching out with my hands trying to touch what I was seeing.

Some should be booked in advance , in particular the Domus Aurea and the Baths of Caracalla :

The Domus Aurea ("Golden House") was Emperor Nero's enormous construction that covered over 3 of Rome's 7 hills.

It was an ambitious, palatial structure, or rather series of structures, that Nero had built just for himself.

After Nero died, subsequent emperors tried to cover up his works, to make the people forget him and his crazy and evil ways.

They issued a  damnatio memoriae , which means, "let's condemn his memory".

One result of this, is that the Colosseum was built by emperor Vespasian, right over Nero's man made lake .

Another result is that, by filling in and covering up all Nero's structures, they were preserved, to be found again during the Renaissance. Now you can visit part of these excavations, and with virtual reality goggles, you can get a feel for what Nero's enormous palace might have been. It is literally breathtaking!

Weekends only. English, Italian, French and Spanish. Reservations are essential. 

Click here to visit CoopCulture to book directly , or here to book a more comprehensive tour that includes a visit to the Colosseum and Roman Forum as well .

Not eligible for the Roma Pass or the Free Sunday (first Sunday of each month.)

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The Caracalla Baths are in my opinion one of the best ways to experience the grandeur of Ancient Rome in Rome without visiting the Colosseum .

It's also an excellent way to escape the crowds in Rome.

The baths were commissioned by the Emperor Caracalla in the early 3rd century.

They were enormous, and although much of the structure was pilfered and/or used to decorate and build other things in Rome and afar, you can still get an excellent idea of the quality of the architecture and engineering of which the Romans were capable. 

Now, you can also book a visit with virtual reality goggles and compare the current structure to what might have been, nearly 2000 years ago.

Click here to book via CoopCulture directly .

Eligible for the Roma Pass and the Free Sunday ONLY for entry.

The virtual reality goggles must be booked and paid for separately.

Speaking of Light Shows in Rome . . .

Did you know that in July, you can attend live opera and other musical shows inside the Caracalla Baths?

I've been and it's an extraordinary experience!

To see the schedule, visit the website of the Rome Opera House .

The perfect 3-day itinerary in Rome

Trying to figure out how to organize your visit to Rome? I've got the perfect 3-day itinerary for first-time visitors (or those who have not been here in a while.) It works for a 2.5 day visit as well.

In my 3-day itinerary, you'll see all the major must-see Rome attractions like the Vatican , Colosseum , Trevi Fountain , Pantheon , Piazza Navona , Spanish Steps , Castel Sant'Angelo , and much more.

And if you have more time, or want suggestions for extra/other things to do, you'll find that there too.

Visit my page with the best 3-day itinerary in Rome for first-timers .

Did you know you can take a virtual reality tour of Rome's most famous monument?

Using special goggles, you will be transported to ancient Rome, where you can envision the Colosseum , but also Circus Maximus and other structures, as they were 2000 years ago.

Coopculture does not sell the Virtual Reality tour, but you can book it here .

And while not exactly a light show, another way to experience the Colosseum in a very special way is to visit it at night.  (When you visit at night, your ticket does NOT include access to the Roman Forum / Palatine Hill .)

The Circus Maximus was the largest stadium ever built. Today it's a huge grassy field.

But there are some ruins at one end and you can visit them.

You can also opt to include in your visit the Virtual Reality googles in the "Circus Maximus Experience", which will bring back the grandeur and the glory of this enormous space from Ancient Rome.

Click here to visit the official website and buy your tickets.

Sound and Light Shows in Rome

There are other sound and light shows in Rome that don't involve virtual reality, but they are fantastic all the same.

Each of the below shows will take you back in time, and even if "just" a light show, they are so well done, you still feel transported.

Viaggio nei Fori - Augustus' Forum

In 2014, the light show Viaggio Nei Fori was launched to celebrate the 2000th anniversary of the birth of Rome's first emperor, Octavian Augustus .

It was a first for Rome, an amazing light and sound show, projected onto the ruins of Augustus' forum, to recreate what it was like during his reign.

We saw it that first year and were completely blown away.

It's a 40 minute show but goes by in a flash, it's so entertaining. (No pun intended!)

There are bleachers set up along the wall facing this forum, and you sit the whole time, taking in the show, with headphones set to the language of your choice (Italian, English, French, Russian, Spanish and Japanese, German and Chinese.)

The shows run nightly from April - late October/early November.

Visit the website for details .

Eligible for discounts with the Roma Pass .  You can attend both this show and the show of the Forum of Caesar on the same night.

Viaggio nei Fori  - Julius Caesar's Forum

In 2015, another light show was introduced, to complement Augustus' show (above) - A trip through Julius Caesar's forum.

We did this one as soon as we could, and were just amazed at how well it was put together. 

With this show, you walk a little bit, from Trajan's Forum, underneath the via dei Fori Imperiali, and through the ruins of Julius Caesar's forum.

It's not a huge amount of walking but it's a little different from Augustus' show, where you are seated the entire time.

Here too, they use fantastic lighting techniques to bring this archeological area to life.

The shows run nightly from April - late October/early November. 

Visit the website for details . 

 Click here for tickets on your mobile device.

 Eligible for discounts with the  Roma Pass .

You can attend both this show and the show of the Forum of Augustus on the same night.

No matter what season you visit Rome, here are 4 things never to leave at home:

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As you can imagine, underneath the Rome you are visiting today, there are more and more layers of ruins, so many of which still need to be excavated.

One relatively recent find was this Roman domus (home) beneath the 16th century nobleman's home, Palazzo Valentini, right next to Trajan's Forum.

The ruins are extraordinary, and often exquisitely detailed. 

A 1.5 hour visit underground will leave you with a profound appreciation for what life might have been like for the Romans who were here 2000 years ago.

The show includes a short video explaining the excavations, then a tour through the ruins, that includes light and laser shows, and 3-D projections. It actually left me feeling a little disoriented, because you are sometimes in the dark, and all of a sudden, the floor lights up under you. But it is fantastic and I highly recommend it to anyone.

Here is the official website .

Not eligible for the Roma Pass.

Ready to plan your trip?

This new "immersive experience through the history of ancient Rome" is  a great way to experience Ancient Rome.

 Even if it's not quite virtual reality, nor does it really count as one of the light shows in Rome, it's still what I'd call an "augmented" reality show, and it's really well done. 

Website, schedules and tickets here . 

Monday/Thursday - 09:00 | 19:00; Friday - Sunday  - 10:00 | 21:00. Shows every 30 minutes.

The Time Elevator may well be one of the first and oldest light shows in Rome.

It's not as sophisticated as the other light shows in Rome, but it's often suggested for families travelling with kids .

The show is in what they call a "multi-sensory cinema", and involves some 3-D movies, but also moving seats and special effects that are intended to make the viewer "feel" part of the story.

Click here to visit their website and purchase tickets.

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Click here to book now and use code ROMEWISE to save 5%!

Visiting Rome Virtually From Your Armchair

Not planning to come to Rome?

Want to relive things you saw in Rome?

These websites use enhanced reality to reconstruct Ancient Rome.

While not light shows in Rome per se, they are wonderful tools for understanding what Ancient Rome must have been like.

I was blown away by this BBC production " Rome's Invisible City ". It's all about the underground of Ancient Rome , much of which is still there today. I had no idea!

Altair4 is the company that produced the virtual reality light shows you can see today in Rome. They also make a lot of fabulous reconstruction videos of historic places, not only Rome. I find their videos fascinating, and so well done.

Map of the 10 Best Light Shows in Rome

Click here to visit my interactive Google map showing all the light shows in Rome listed on this page . It will open in a new window.

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Please come over to the private Romewise Facebook group and join in the conversation.

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Top attractions and tours

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19 Best Tours in Rome

By Maresa Manara and Erica Firpo

Vacation tours can be a divisive topic, particularly for people who feel passionately about exploring a city independently. But the truth of the matter is that exploring it with a local by your side will bring you to parts of it you might never find on your own. And no locals have as many stories to tell their city as the Romans. You'll find the most intellectual and personable tour guides to take you around vineyards, through olive groves, on vespa rides, through film studios, food markets, cemeteries, medieval churches, and the most iconic ancient sites. Without further delay, these are our picks for the very best Rome tours.

Click the link to read our complete Rome travel guide.

City Wonders: Ostia Antica Half-Day Tour from Rome Arrow

Ostia Antica is a historic seaside village an hour from Rome and these half-day tours of the coastal archaeological site are well-planned. Groups visit Ostia’s amphitheater, temples, historic baths, and ancient market. Guides seem to have real passion for the subject, talking visitors through the entire tour, peppering their commentary with anecdotes and fun facts. This is a slam-dunk for true history buffs who want to get deeper into the greater Rome area.

Elizabeth Lev: Rome's Historical Center, An All-You-Can-See Smorgasbord of Art Arrow

Elizabeth Lev is something else. Rome is her city, and this tour is her work of art. She has an incredible way of engaging with the history, the art, the monuments, and the stories. You'll find yourself wanting to spend all your time with her. The tour explores the ancient, medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque art periods; and it visits sites like 13th century frescos above the church of Santa Cecilia and art collections behind the facades of the Spada palace. You'll be wowed by all of the layers of the city and how it feels like Rome has been hitting a string of never-ending home runs since antiquity.

Elizabeth Lev: Borrowed but Never Baroque, Bernini & 17th Century Rome Arrow

This tour of Elizabeth Lev's meets up outside the beautiful Piazza della Repubblica . Our group was tiny, but Liz will accommodate larger private groups. She is both an incredible academic brain and a witty storyteller. And her tour shows of the dramatic  range of Baroque art and architecture within Rome. This tour is great for anyone who wants a deep dive into the city's Baroque history, and anyone who wants to appreciate Rome in an experience that's not quite in the guide books.

LivItaly Tours: Vespa Sidecar Tour Arrow

The Vespa Sidecar tour is entirely private and can be customized for return visitors who may have already seen the highlights. It is not, though, a show-up-when-you-want activity. It can be organized for up to six participants, but you'll only be in a group if you choose to be. My tour was perfect because it was just me and the driver/guide Luca.  As a licensed guide, he knows his history, is easy to understand, and is very friendly. He always has a plan, but is quick to change it at the first request. We talked Rome and food and went to all the right places, from big names to more under the radar finds. 

Jessica Puckett

CNT Editors

Jesse Ashlock

Rome 500 Experience: The 7 Hidden Gems of Rome Tour in an Antique FIAT 500 Arrow

There's a lot of reasons to sign up for this tour through greater Rome, not least is that you get to drive yourself with the top down in a vintage Fiat 500. Another nice perk: Rome's traffic is seriously easier to deal with when traveling in convoy (the group can have up to 50 cars in it). And, as you will get your own car to drive, it can feel like a private tour, although groups are also organized by language, so communication shouldn't be a problem for anyone.  But most importantly, you just look so much better behind the wheel of a classic Italian car.

Top Bike Rental & Tours: Ancient Appian Way, Catacombs, and Aqueducts Park Tour Arrow

This tour will take the better part of your day (it's six hours start to finish). But going by bike to these outer city sites —the old Appian Way via the ancient aqueduct—is the easiest and most entertaining way to see them. Plus you won't want to cut out early: it ends with wine and some nibbles in Caffarella Park, which is so expansive it feels like you're in the countryside even though it's smack in the middle of the greater city. Bikes feel brand new and the confidence of the tour guides will put any nervous riders at ease.

Rome Tram Tracks Tour Arrow

This tour is a rocking dance  party on a vintage tram that rumbles through Rome. It lasts two hours, during which you'll cut up the dance floor, drink, and cheer as you roll past some of Rome's most iconic sites . This is really an evening activity for those who don't just want to go get dinner somewhere in town. The greatest part, however, may have been how the senior citizens on our ride managed to upstage all the thirty- and forty-year olds on the dance floor.

Casa Mia Tours: Rome Cinema & Food Arrow

Rome has a rich history of cinema, and while you could take any tour with any guide, there is nothing quite like seeing its cinematic history with Eleonora Baldwin, Cinecittà Studios veteran and granddaughter of famed director Vittorio de Sica, four-time Academy Award winner and father of Italian cinema. This tour is both Rome's history and Eleonora's story, and she is so passionate that it will make you want to spend all day with her, and all night watching films. There are only three requirements—a pair of comfy shoes, an empty stomach, and a reservation.

Non-Catholic Cemetery Tour Arrow

You should always visit the truly Roman neighborhood of Testaccio when in Rome, but this tour of its historic non-Catholic Cemetery gives you reason to stay in the area after you've hit its prime trattorias. It's a beautiful, unusually tranquil space, filled with bougainvillea and museum-worthy sculptures in the middle of the city. The informative guides will school you on the cemetery's 400-year history as you amble past the tombstones of Keats, Percy Shelly, and other famous expats.

Context Travel: Fall and Rise of Rome Arrow

This historical tour starts at a medieval church in San Clemente and ends at the church of SS. Giovanni e Paolo. Its chronology spans from the Roman Empire's fall to the Renaissance's beginnings. The guide Philip was total pro. He's an archaeologist with a great sense of humor and passion for every site. He knew exactly what to show me and could even point out where to stand so I had the best understanding of the sights. People who enjoy Roman, religious, and art histories will  love this tour. It's also a great opportunity for people who have already seen the main tourist attractions to see some gems off the beaten path.

The Roman Guy: Cocktail Bars in Rome, Evening Walking Tour Arrow

This English-speaking tour will take you to some of Rome's most popular bars, including Trastevere's Freni e Frizioni , with stop offs to major attractions along the way. Plus, company founders Sean and Brandon are always quick to offer tips on the best spots for gelato or pizza in the city as you pass by for that next negroni. It’s actually a fantastic way to experience life in Rome with locals—far more relaxing that spending time trying to avoid tourist traps. 

Katie Parla: Vineyard Visit to Cantina Ribelà Arrow

Sommelier Maurizio di Franco meets you at your hotel and accompanies you via hired car to Cantina Ribelà while enchanting you with a bit of Lazio history and winemaking background on Ribelà. Maurizio is a certificated sommelier, and it doesn't hurt that he's also super charming. His love of wine is contagious, he tells great stories, and his patience is wonderful. At the winery you'll be struck be the natural beauty of the landscape, close as it is to a city as big as Rome. 

LivItaly Tours: Virtual Reality Tour of the Colosseum and Domus Aurea Arrow

Imagine if you could physically see the sites, monuments, and reference points that tour guides bring up when ushering you around a city as ancient as Rome. This virtual reality tour lets you, by creating enhanced versions of the way the Eternal City appeared during the days of the empire, all visible through the glasses you'll wear as you make your way through the Roman Forum and Colosseum .

Vatican Museums: “Out of Hours” Guided Tour, Good Morning Vatican Museums Arrow

There is nothing like opening the doors to an empty Sistine Chapel . The exclusive private Out of Hours Good Morning Vatican tour must be booked months in advance and is subject to permission of the Vatican. You will be greeted by Vatican personnel and escorted through the complex by the Clavigero, holder of the 300 keys of the Vatican Museums. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and it does begin quite early in the morning. At 6 a.m. you and no more than 19 others will accompany the Clavigero to open the doors of the Vatican Museums.  

Johnny Madge: Olive Oil Tours Arrow

You'll have to trek well outside the city (close to an hour) to reach the olive groves in the Sabina country, but it's well worth the trip. Johnny Madge is an olive oil authority , judging competitions all over the world and this is his backyard. He clearly loves it, and that love is contagious. Tourees will learn to distinguish extra virgin olive oil from everything else and importantly that you do not drizzle oil on your food. You pour it. This  is best for foodies who want to get out of the city and deep dive in Roman food. 

Le Domus Romane di Palazzo Valentini: Multimedia Tour Arrow

The Domus Romane are ancient Roman villas and other structures, abandoned in antiquity, filled in with debris, and inadvertently used as foundations for Palazzo Valentini, a Renaissance palace turned government office building. They are now underground, obscured by buildings and pavement just beside Piazza Venezia. On this tour, in situ multimedia renderings recreate an Imperial Rome domus, as well as some aspects of Roman life. The guides are actual archaeologists, and the fact-checked audio is delivered cleanly. These language-specific multimedia tours are popular though, and must be booked in advance.

Tavole Romane Food Tours: The Rome Food Walking Tour Arrow

Think of Tavole Romane, the food-and-wine-focused walking tour of Rome, as getting access to the little black book of those who know the city's food scene best. Owners Gabriele and Silvia customize the tours based on the interests of each intimate group, which could mean wine bars in Trastevere or an aperitivo-heavy hop through the centro storico, led by somms, chefs, or another tapped in member of Rome's food scene.

Latteria Studio: Market to Table Arrow

This market tour and cooking class began with a wonderful walk through the market to Latteria Studios, a functional cooking studio and photo set. Alice, Rachel, and Carla, who head up the activities, are real professionals. They know everyone at the market, and they know all about food. Sitting at the table at the end of day fosters a real sense of community with what may have been a group of strangers from different countries and continents. You'll immerse yourself in Rome and make new friends at the same time. 

Cinecittà Studios: VIP Tour Arrow

This is your chance to see the studio that was once home to Fellini and Leone. It's still a working studio though, so you'll need to follow the guide's itinerary to the letter. She will know about Cinecittà though: its history, and its film productions, and its famous alumni. Also, Cinecittà owns every set that was built on the lot. Master artisans created them all—ancient Rome, a 1940s submarine, and fantastical, imagined worlds. They perfectly accurate to their settings, as well as pristinely preserved.

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This Luxury Hotel in Rome Was Named One of the Best Hotels in the World by T+L Readers — and Has the Most Beautiful Courtyard I've Ever Seen

Here's what makes Hotel de Russie Travel + Leisure readers' favorite hotel in Rome.

Food and Drink

Amenities and experiences, family-friendly offerings, accessibility and sustainability, how to get the most value out of your stay.

Courtesy of Hotel de Russie, a Rocco Forte Hotel

Walking through Rome’s Villa Borghese gardens, my husband and I came to a lookout point with a view of Piazza del Popolo. I, however, paid little attention to the neoclassical elliptical square, even with a 79-foot obelisk in the center. I was too busy photographing the most enticing courtyard I’d ever seen. It had three rows of bright-white umbrellas abutting a pale-pink building with turquoise shutters — the kind of scene that made me crave a Spritz and castelvetrano olives because I couldn't help but picture the chic, linen-clad folk enjoying aperitivo on that patio.

About three hours later, I checked into Hotel de Russie , which I picked because it was named T+L readers’ favorite hotel in Rome in 2023 and among the best city hotels in Europe . These 2023 World’s Best Awards landed the Rocco Forte hotel — one of two in Rome — a coveted spot on this year’s T+L 500. 

Hotel de Russie, Rome

• The location: it's a minute's walk to Piazza del Popolo and the Spanish Steps and five to 10 minutes on foot to the Villa Borghese gardens and the Trevi Fountain.
• The idyllic courtyard is one of the most iconic in Europe and the perfect place for aperitivo .
• The luxurious rooms — with turquoise-trimmed shutters on the windows — made me feel like I was staying at my own chic apartment in Rome, with all the amenities of a Rocco Forte hotel.
• The spa has a hammam, a sauna, Irene Forte facials, and a gym.

And yet somehow, even knowing the details of Hotel de Russie’s accolades, I was shocked when, after check-in, I walked across the lobby, through the open doors, to the exact venue I’d painstakingly photographed a few hours before. I didn’t even make it up to my room. I asked the concierge if he could hold our bags while we had a drink on the patio, and a few minutes later, I was seated beneath a bright-white umbrella as a server put down a Negroni for me, a gin martini with a twist for my husband, and a trio of snacks — potato chips, almonds, and olives. I couldn’t believe my luck. I was a pair of really short bangs, a striped silk scarf, and a vintage Vespa away from living out Audrey Hepburn’s "Roman Holiday" life.

Maya Kachroo-Levine/Travel + Leisure

We lingered for a few hours, leisurely succumbing to the snack menu — tissue paper–thin prosciutto on crusty bread, the perfect complement to a second Negroni. I checked my Google Map of Rome recommendations and found we were stumbling distance from my cousin's go-to Roman wine bar, Buccone Vini e Olii , and a cozy restaurant favored by one of my colleagues, Hostaria Da Pietro . Evening plans? Check. The problem? I had no interest in ever leaving this courtyard.

Here, my review of the iconic Hotel de Russie — a Rocco Forte hotel and longtime T+L reader favorite.

Once we wrapped up our prolonged patio stint, we ascended to our spacious Deluxe Room. It was nearly 450 square feet, which is impressive for a standard hotel room in a major European city (the entry-level rooms are just a touch smaller, at about 375 square feet; the junior suites start at 540 square feet; and the Superior Suites start at 650 square feet). For a true taste of Roman luxury, the special suites and Forte suites have terraces or French balconies, with heavenly views of the hotel's courtyard or the surrounding historic buildings.

When I got to our room, I twisted the gold knob on one of three dual-paned windows. I poked my head out the window — no screens, this is Europe — taking in the light yellow, beige, and bright coral facades of the apartment buildings across the street, all with bright blue and green shutters. Across the street, I could see friends gathering on a balcony for sunset and laundry swinging in the breeze on an adjacent rooftop. It felt like I had my own little Roman apartment — with a marble bathroom and Rocco Forte hotel amenities.

Hotel de Russie has two restaurants; the Stravinskij Bar is a magical, umbrella-shaded terrace with a small indoor operation as well. The main restaurant is Le Jardin de Russie, which inhabits the upper terrace (up a set of alfresco stone stairs from Stravinskij Bar) and an adjacent dining room. Le Jardin serves a fantastic breakfast buffet and elevated classics — like grilled whole branzino. For something a little less formal, Stravinskij Bar serves dinner, too, and makes a lovely pasta all'Amatriciana, which is admittedly plentiful in Rome, but can you ever really have too much crispy guanciale?

The concierge team at Hotel de Russie can help you set up tours or book tickets to museums or attractions. We visited in the summer when advance ticketing was crucial, but the concierge could easily book us same-day entry to the Colosseum. The hotel also offers tours that are exclusively available to de Russie guests; one of the newest experiences, called a Journey Through Time at the Roman Forum, visits sites such as the Basilica Ulpia with an art historian, with the option to add on an extravagant tasting menu at Rimessa Roscioli afterward.

My husband and I spent a fantastic morning in the spa, starting with a seven-mile run in the gym, an ill-conceived attempt to work off all the amatriciana. From there, we went to the hammam, slipping into the massive blue-tiled warm pool. After a long soak, he hit the sauna while I read my book on a poolside lounge chair, enjoying the calming effect of the silver- and blue-tiled walls that seemed to glow as if the room were encrusted with precious gems. The spa also offers facials using Irene Forte skin care products and massages, and the hotel is expanding the space.

Hotel de Russie can make a family room by connecting two Deluxe Rooms. While I didn't encounter a lot of children during my stay, I love to see families bring children of any age to a European city — There's so much to experience! The food and culture more than make up for the transatlantic flight! — and would definitely return to the hotel with a kid in tow. The concierge can assist parents in coordinating family-friendly activities, and there is a Rocco Forte kids program for children aged 0 to 16, where each young visitor gets a Rocco Forte passport.

Six of the hotel's 120 rooms are accessible, and wheelchairs are available upon request. The hotel's ground-floor common areas are accessible, though there are "some limitations in the upper side of the historical garden," according to a hotel spokesperson. As a brand, Rocco Forte is keen to reduce its carbon footprint, and at de Russie, there is an electric e-tuk for guest rides and charging available for electric cars. To reduce energy use, all Rocco Forte hotels (including de Russie) do candlelit evenings once a week, where the restaurants and bars are illuminated only by flickering candles. The hotel also prioritizes digital check-in to eliminate paper waste and frequently donates furniture and amenities to local charities (recently, while refreshing the de Russie gym, all the old equipment was donated to the Blind Association on nearby Via Margutta).

Check the hotel website for deals because Rocco Forte offers generous ones. The occasionally offered Forte Escapes discount, for example, gets guests up to 25 percent off a stay of two nights or more. I'm a traveler who swears by her American Express Platinum card, and card members will be glad to know that Hotel de Russie is indeed part of Amex Fine Hotels and Resorts. Those booking their stay with an American Express will get a 12 p.m. check-in, 4 p.m. check-out, room upgrade if available, daily breakfast for two, and $100 credit for food and drink.

• 10 Films And Tv Shows...

The Best Films and TV Shows to Watch Before Visiting Naples, Italy

From ruling royal dynasties to malevolent Camorra clans, there are endless stories to be told in Naples . The city’s mouthwatering cuisine, fascinating history and compelling inhabitants haven’t just provided the backdrop to a number of documentaries, TV series and feature films; they’ve taken on a starring role too. Gain insight into Naples through the lens of these films and TV shows – the perfect way to prepare before you visit.

Interested in experiencing Naples for yourself? You can do so with Culture Trip on our exclusive 10-day Southern Italy adventure , which includes a guided food tour of Naples, as well as visiting the Amalfi Coast, Matera, and several fantastic destinations in Puglia.

Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations

In season seven, episode 11 of Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations , the potty-mouth American chef follows the Red Sauce Trail from Little Italy, in Manhattan, to Napoli, in Italy. Examining the differences between Italian-American and Neapolitan cuisine, the first stop is, of course, an authentic pizzeria in the birthplace of pizza . There’s more to Naples than just pizza, though, and Bourdain samples top-notch spaghetti alla puttanesca, deep-fried octopus and Sunday lunch cooked by an 80-year-old, cigarette-smoking mamma.

It Started in Naples

<img class=”wp-image-1002013620 size-full” src=”https://theculturetrip.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/2b5cb8r.jpg” alt=”Clark Gable and Sophia Loren on the set of It Started in Naples ” width=”3034″ height=”2256″ data-image_layout=”aligninline”> Clark Gable and Sophia Loren on the set of It Started in Naples

Combining evocative historical footage with sweeping present-day scenes and a voiceover by Benedict Cumberbatch, Naples ’44 is an atmospheric documentary film based on the memoirs of British journalist and author Norman Lewis. Lewis was posted to Naples during World War II and chronicled the aftermath of fascism, heavy bombing and Nazi occupation on the city’s inhabitants.

L’Oro di Napoli

Directed by Vittorio De Sica (whose other works include the influential Bicycle Thieves ), L’Oro di Napoli is an anthology of stories set in Naples, where De Sica spent his first years. As well as Sophia Loren, the film also stars two of Naples’ most famous actors, Eduardo De Filippo and Totò. Born Antonio De Curtis in the Sanitá district , Totò became one of Italy’s most treasured comic actors.

Eat Pray Love

While this film certainly goes heavy on the stereotypes, it’s also brimming with beautiful backdrops of the bel paese and it’s in Italy that Elizabeth Gilbert, played by Julia Roberts, discovers the true pleasure of nourishment. Neapolitan pizza really is as life-changing as the film portrays and, as the protagonist explains, it should be eaten and enjoyed without guilt – particularly if it’s from the renowned Pizzeria da Michele.

Italy Unpacked

Watching all three series of Italy Unpacked feels like being on holiday with two easygoing and knowledgeable tour guides. Thanks to chef Georgio Locatelli and art historian Andrew Graham-Dixon, Italy’s rich tapestry of culture and cuisine is presented in an accessible and engaging way. In series two, episode three, the pair visit Naples and discover how Greek, Roman, French and Spanish empires have left their mark on the city, trying local specialties like sartù (a rice-stuffed timbale) and rum-soaked babà along the way.

Set in the suburbs of Naples, Gomorrah is a fictional TV adaptation of Roberto Saviano’s real-life book about the Camorra, Naples’ organised crime syndicate, dating back to the 17th-century. The series follows the ugly, violent world of the Savastano clan and explores how corruption touches all shades of society, from government officials to ordinary families. There are four seasons in total, which aired between 2014-2019, but don’t forget to check out the 2008 film of the same name (also based on Saviano’s book), which shattered the trope of the Mafioso wise guy.

Passione is a 2010 documentary film directed by John Turturro, the instantly recognizable star of The Big Lebowski and O Brother, Where Art Thou? among others. Turturro guides the viewer through Naples’ rich musical heritage and introduces contemporary performers like Fiorenza Calogero and James Senese. His musical adventure also takes in historic Neapolitan artists such as operatic tenor Enrico Caruso, whose 25-year career included performances at the New York Met and the Royal Opera House in London.

Director Matteo Garrone dives into the world of reality television with his story of a man obsessed with starring in Big Brother – known as Grande Fratello in Italy. After his friends persuade him to audition, his obsession starts to pollute all aspects of his life and he becomes convinced he’s being watched by hidden cameras set up by show executives. This engrossing tale of a disturbed mind won the Grand Prix award at the 2012 Cannes Film Festival.

Io Speriamo Che Me La Cavo

Due to a clerical error, schoolteacher Marco Sperelli is sent to work in a small town near Naples instead of a school in his native northern Italy. A fish out of water in Italy’s poor south, Sperelli struggles to connect with his students. A series of heartwarming and humorous events later, however, he receives a letter from a student with the phrase Io speriamo che me la cavo – roughly translating to ‘as for me, let’s hope I make it’ – suggesting he managed to make a difference after all.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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'Conan O'Brien Must Go' is side-splitting evidence of life beyond late night TV

Eric Deggans

Conan O'Brien dresses as a Viking in Norway. Conaco/Max hide caption

Conan O'Brien dresses as a Viking in Norway.

To be honest, when I first heard Conan O'Brien was ending his TV talk show in 2021, I assumed news that he might turn to variety shows and online programs to continue his career was some combination of face-saving and wishful thinking.

But after watching the four episodes of his new Max series Conan O'Brien Must Go , it's now obvious — even to a thickheaded critic like me — that leaving late night TV really was liberating for O'Brien. He's leveraged his unique sensibility into several different podcasts, a deal with Sirius XM , specials featuring other stand-up comics and now this travel series for Max — which resembles jokey specials he did for cable channel TBS back in the day.

And as the late night TV genre crumbles under sagging viewership and the decline of traditional media, O'Brien's renaissance also provides an example for the future — where fertile comedy minds and talented performers can spread their work over a much larger canvas.

Pop Culture Happy Hour

Is conan o'brien the best 'hot ones' guest ever discuss., learning a lesson from 'hot ones'.

O'Brien already made a splash recently with his brilliantly maniacal appearance on the interview-while-eating-hot-wings show Hot Ones , slobbering over hot sauces while claiming, as he was checked over by a fake doctor, that "I'm fine! I'm perfectly f*****g fine!"

This is the place where O'Brien shines — he's called it "this strange phantom intersection between smart and stupid" — and it's on full, freakish, super silly display in every episode of Conan O'Brien Must Go .

The conceit of the show is pretty simple. O'Brien heads overseas to visit average folks in Norway, Argentina, Thailand and Ireland who had once Zoomed in to speak with him on the podcast Conan O'Brien Needs a Fan . Sometimes the visits seem like a surprise — he catches one aspiring Norwegian rapper in shorts and Crocs after popping up on his doorstep — and others seem a bit more planned, including his visit to a radio show with about four listeners in Buenos Aires.

Each episode begins with a solemn monologue which sounds like it is delivered by the film world's most eccentric voice, German filmmaker and actor Werner Herzog (he's not credited in the show and when asked, a publicist at Max shared a quote from O'Brien: "I can neither confirm nor deny the voice in question.")

The torturous accent by "Herzog" makes every line sound absurdly hilarious, describing O'Brien as "the defiler ... with dull, tiny eyes ... the eyes of a crudely painted doll ... he scavenges in distant lands, uninvited, fueled by a bottomless hunger for recognition and the occasional selfie."

Now that's smart. And oh so stupid.

A funhouse mirror version of a travel show

O'Brien performs onstage with a fan in Norway Conaco/Max hide caption

O'Brien performs onstage with a fan in Norway

Fans of O'Brien's Conan Without Borders specials on TBS already know what his style is when he tackles a travel show — throwing himself into outrageous reactions and situations while working his quirky brand of improvised conversations with hapless bystanders.

In the Max series Conan O'Brien Must Go , that includes O'Brien offering screechy vocals onstage during a performance of a Norwegian emo/rap band. Or asking provocative questions of a couple therapist/sex expert. Or getting beat up in a "fight" with a 10-year-old boy in a bar.

It's all an excuse for O'Brien to unleash his energetic wit, taste for silly absurdity and skill at drawing laughs from sympathetic — if often befuddled — strangers. Whether you enjoy this special will depend on how you feel about O'Brien's style, which can feel a bit like the world's best class clown doing everything possible to make you crack a smile.

(Rent a family in Norway so they can say goodbye when he gets on a SeaCraft? Check. Get local artists to paint a mural of O'Brien, a soccer star and The Pope on the side of a building in Argentina? Double check.)

'Conan O'Brien Needs A Friend' Is A Joke Name For A Podcast — Sort Of

But what amazes in a larger sense is how O'Brien has turned his sensibility into a comedy brand to fuel work on many different platforms. And, at age 60, with more than 30 years as a comedy star, he's been released from the shackles of any genre to shine wherever he chooses — whether it's an episode of Hot Ones or a streaming service which sometimes looks like a collision between True Detective and 90 Day Fiancé .

Leaving late night TV as late night left him

I'm old enough that I started covering TV not long after O'Brien made his first move from the shadows of life as a comedy writer – he worked on Saturday Night Live and The Simpsons — to succeed David Letterman in 1993 as host of NBC's show Late Night (now hosted by Seth Meyers). Back then, NBC gave O'Brien years to figure out the show, honing his smartly serious comedy in a way that would inspire then-teenage fans like Seth Rogen and Bill Hader .

O'Brien left NBC after a disastrous deal where the network tried to make him host of its venerated late night program The Tonight Show and also keep its former host Jay Leno at the network. He moved to a late night show on TBS in 2010, but even then, there was a sense that his creativity was a bit hemmed in by the format.

After 28 Quirky Years, Conan O'Brien Is Leaving Late Night

By the time he left his TBS show Conan for good, it seemed O'Brien was already caught in a trend which would hobble other late night shows — as young viewers consumed his content online and ratings on cable dropped.

Now, with a podcast and digital media company worth many millions and growing status as a TV comedy legend still willing to do almost anything for a laugh, O'Brien is proving there is a successful life beyond late night.

Particularly, if you have the talent to play the fool while leaving little doubt you're also the smartest person in the room.

The Best TV Shows of 2024 (So Far)

From Shōgun to Feud: Capote vs. the Swans, here's all the television we've loved this year.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

The 2024 television landscape is shaping up to be a strong one.

Here, Town & Country editors share their picks for best television of 2024 (so far):

Feud: Capote vs. the Swans

La Côte Basque might no longer exist, but early this year the defunct New York destination for the one percent to pick at their very expensive lunches just might have been the most talked-about restaurant in town. That’s because it was ground zero for Feud: Capote vs. the Swans , the Ryan Murphy-produced series about Truman Capote’s legendary fallout with his squad— Babe Paley , C.Z. Guest , and Slim Keith —over his decision to thinly veil their secrets and publish them in a story in Esquire . The swans did not, to put it mildly, take this betrayal well. Murphy’s series employs a murderer’s row of marvelous actors, including Tom Hollander, Naomi Watts , Chloë Sevigny, Demi Moore , Molly Ringwald , among others, to portray Capote and his cohort at their best (and, more deliciously, their worst) and went all out on the design (by Mark Ricker), costumes (Lou Eyrich, with a Black-and-White-Ball assist from Zac Posen ), and over-the-top drama. Is it historically accurate? Maybe not entirely, but it’s a compelling, unforgettable document of a bygone era that in many ways predicted problems of our own. Above all, it captures an iconic moment in American history with care, humor, and plenty of sour grapes, leaving a glamorous trail of breadcrumbs for the next generations. — Adam Rathe , Deputy Features Editor

Shōgun , FX's period drama set in feudal Japan, is perhaps the only show in the post- Game of Thrones era that has actually lived up to the historical epic hype. Adapted from James Clavell's bestselling novel , the ten-part miniseries is a riveting, multilayered tale that deftly balances political intrigue, romance, and historical drama, and unlike the aforementioned Thrones , the violence never feels gratuitous, but rather, always key to the plot. Anchored by its three leads, Hiroyuki Sanada, Cosmo Jarvis, and Anna Sawai , Shōgun doesn't feels unwieldy, despite the many storylines, and though it is nearly entirely told in Japanese , English-language audiences will hardly notice. To put it simply: Shōgun is by far and away one of the best book-to-TV adaptations I've ever seen. — Emily Burack , Senior News Editor

Watch on Hulu

Mr. & Mrs. Smith

Mr. & Mrs. Smith , the TV show, doesn't share much with the 2005 film of the same name—and honestly, that's a good thing. Donald Glover and Maya Erskine play married spies, yes, but for the majority of the series (no spoilers!, they're working on the same team. Glover and Erskine shine as the titular Smiths, navigating a modern-day relationship while the espionage and world travel provide a nice backdrop. Now we're anxiously waiting to find out if Mr. & Mrs. Smith was renewed for a second season because OMG, that cliffhanger. — Emily Burack, Senior News Editor

Watch on Prime Video

Mary & George

Starz's latest period drama, Mary & George , tells the little-known story of Mary Villiers (Julianne Moore) and her scheme to gain power in court through her son ( Nicholas Galitzine )'s seduction of King James I ( Tony Curran ). It's sexy and it's fun, with gorgeous costumes and sets. Perhaps Galitzine summarized it best: "To see a really fun side of history—debaucherous, in some capacity—it's so watchable. What's not to like about it?" — Emily Burack, Senior News Editor

Watch on Starz

Based on Patricia Highsmith’s Tom Ripley novels (this season pulls from The Talented Mr. Ripley , though there are seeds of other stories woven in) Netflix’s adaptation unfolds the story of the iconic con artist’s criminal path with quintessential Italian glamour. Shot entirely in black and white , it brings not only the look but the atmosphere of mid-century Italian cinema, buoyed by a standout performance from Andrew Scott, who manages to find the broken core of the show’s titular grifter and turns what could feel like pastiche into an entirely fresh take on a well-known tale. – Lauren Hubbard , Contributor

Whatever you thought you know about the assassination of Abraham Lincoln , think again. Apple TV+'s Manhunt , with its stacked cast (standout performances include Tobias Menzies as Secretary of War Edwin Stanton and Anthony Boyle as John Wilkes Booth) is more than a history lesson; it's a fast-paced crime thriller, and one that feels especially timely in 2024. "Overall it's very soothing to watch history and realize, 'oh, we were always on the brink,'" Patton Oswalt , who plays Lafayette Baker, told T&C . "We're living in a scary moment, but we're not living in a unique moment. We have teetered over the abyss, sometimes way farther than we're teetering right now." — Emily Burack, Senior News Editor

Watch on Apple TV+

Sometimes when a new show is so good, it’s hard not to worry that a sophomore season just won’t live up to the first. Tokyo Vice doesn’t have that problem. If its excellent first season introduced us to Tokyo’s glamorously seedy criminal underground, season 2 dives even deeper into this fascinating world. And though this is still very much a show about the Succession -esque machinations taking place among warring yakuza, season 2 has widened the orbit to reveal more of this complex metropolis—and its various inhabitants—in its characteristically nuanced way. — Leena Kim , Editor

Watch on Max

3 Body Problem

This eight episode Netflix series (a second season has yet to be confirmed) is an adaptation of the Hugo Award–winning novel by Chinese author Liu Cixin that skillfully touches on beloved sci-fi tropes. There are unseen, menacing aliens, brilliant-but-flawed scientists/heroes, less-brilliant-and-extremely-flawed apparatchiks, and, of course, time travel. Created by David Benioff and D. B. Weiss, of Game of Thrones fame, and Alexander Woo, the show offers a generous mix of action and somewhat plausible plot twists. The most engaging parts, as is often the case with sci-if, come when the show’s unlikely, everyday heroes face all of the above. — Norman Vanamee , Articles Director

Watch on Netflix

The Gentleman

Though it shares both a name and an underlying concept with Guy Ritchie’s 2019 film, the creator’s Netflix series offers an entirely new perspective on the story, focusing on Eddie (Sanditon’s Theo James), the second son of a Duke who unexpectedly finds himself inheriting the family title and lands… and the illegal cannabis operation secretly running on them. Eddie tries to disentangle his family from their criminal ties with the “help” of his ne’re-do-well brother Freddy (Daniel Ings), his no-nonsense gangster counterpart Susie ( Kaya Scodelario ), and an ever-growing cast of wild and quirky characters worthy of any Ritchie joint—but of course, nothing’s that easy. There’s almost never a moment in the show’s fast-talking, bullet-flying, double-dealing eight episodes where the ante isn’t being upped, giving the series an addictively “let’s just watch one more” quality; perfect for your next big binge. No wonder so many fans are already clamoring for a season 2 . — Lauren Hubbard, Contributor

True Detective: Night Country

Anthology series True Detective returned again this year to make us question our Alaskan travel plans. Set in small town during the region’s annual stretch of endless night, this season melds corporate corruption and supernatural dread for a mystery that will keep you on the edge of your seat—and sometimes jumping out of it. At the core of it all are the spectacular performances by Jodie Foster and Kali Reis, who play True Detective’s signature quarrelsome cops with a stunning mix of charm and gravitas. — Lauren Hubbard, Contributor

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Protect Your Trip »

The 8 best neck pillows for travel.

Avoid a literal pain in the neck with these expert-approved travel pillows.

The Best Neck Pillows for Travel

Courtesy of Cabeau

The Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Pillow is one of the best neck pillows for travel.

Just like the pillow you use at home , the best neck pillow for travel is the one that makes you feel most comfortable, allowing you to relax, rest and ultimately fall asleep on the go. The difference, however, is that a travel pillow is typically used when sitting up, which means it needs to provide enough support to keep your head from bobbing.

Based on recommendations from travel experts and advice from physicians, these are the best neck pillows for travel.

Best Overall: Cabeau Evolution S3

Best affordable: mvloc travel pillow, best for long flights: trtl travel pillow, best multipurpose: huzi infinity pillow, best inflatable: sunany inflatable travel pillow, best silk: slip jet setter travel pillow, best for backpacking: marchway ultralight inflatable camping pillow, best for kids: bcozzy double support neck pillow.

Frequent travelers praise the design of the Cabeau Evolution S3, which is made of a special dual-density memory foam. "My pillow at home is made with memory foam so it's like bringing a piece of home on my travels," says travel blogger Jasmine Cheng of The Wandering Girl . "The sides are also raised, which prevents my head from moving when I'm sleeping." Travelers also appreciate the patented seat strap system that attaches the pillow to a seat or chair headrest as well as the slim flattened back, both of which prevent the head from bobbing.

A handy storage pouch on the side of the pillow allows you to keep your earbuds or other small items close by, and the pillow comes with a clasp that attaches to carry-on luggage . The removable pillow cover, which comes in a variety of colors, is machine-washable. What's more, this travel pillow can be stored in an included carry bag that condenses it to half its size.

Price: $39.99 or less Shop now: Amazon | Cabeau

Travelers appreciate the support (and the price tag) of this memory foam travel pillow. An adjustable rope lock allows you to secure the pillow to your neck for maximum support and comfort. The breathable and machine-washable cloth exterior prevents overheating. This travel pillow also comes with earplugs and an eye mask for ultimate relaxation.

Price: $29.99 or less Shop now: Amazon

Courtesy of Trtl

The patented design of the Trtl Travel Pillow – with a hidden internal neck support surrounded by soft, hypoallergenic fleece – makes it a favorite among travelers, particularly for long flights. "Something about it just hits right in a travel accessory category where nothing previously worked for me," explains Meaghan Clawsie, luxury travel advisor at Elated Escapes . "I no longer have any back or neck pain when resting on long-haul flights." Simply wrap the pillow around your neck like a scarf, secure it in place with its built-in fastener and rest your head on the support.

If you tend to overheat easily, there's also the Trtl Pillow Cool , made with Tencel fibers to keep you at a comfortable temperature; a mesh panel makes the pillow particularly breathable as well. Both pillows are machine-washable.

Price: $59.99 or less Shop now: Amazon | Trtl

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Courtesy of Huzi Design

If you're not sold on the classic U-shaped neck pillows for travel, consider this snake-like option instead. Able to be twisted into a variety of positions, the versatile Huzi Infinity Pillow provides whatever support feels best – even if that means resting your head on the tray table for a bit. You can also wear it around your neck like a scarf for neck and back comfort (even when you're not snoozing), use it as an eye mask, or drape it over your head if you get cold or want to block out noise.

Travelers love the pillow's bamboo fabric, describing it as soft, smooth and cool. Since it's filled with polyester, the whole pillow can be tossed in the washing machine , unlike its memory foam counterparts. The Infinity Pillow is available in nearly a dozen different colors, including gray, navy and pink.

Price: $45 or less Shop now: Amazon | Infinity Pillow

Read:  What to Pack in Your Carry-on Bag

Courtesy of Sunany

Travelers love the H-shaped design of this inflatable pillow because it allows for use in multiple directions and supports both sides of the head and neck with a flat back. A removable hood on the pillow is a bonus: It encourages a cozy feel and prevents cold drafts from too much air conditioning. For optimal comfort, it is recommended to inflate the pillow about 80% to 90%.

A pocket for your earbud case on this travel pillow provides convenient access for listening to music, and the removable velour cover is machine-washable. The lightweight inflatable pillow can be stored in the included waterproof drawstring bag, which can also be attached to luggage. This travel neck pillow is available in black, gray and blue.

Courtesy of Slip

Travel pillows don't get softer than this luxurious new option by Slip. The Jet Setter Travel Pillow is made with the highest-grade long fiber mulberry silk, which helps to prevent skin creases and bedhead. It also comes with a carrying case with handles. The Jet Setter Travel Pillow is available in three prints and a pretty solid blush color.

Price: $99 or less Shop now: Amazon | Slip

While you can often bring your pillow from home for tent camping, backpacking requires something more lightweight, such as this inflatable option by Marchway. "An inflatable pillow is a game-changer when it comes to backpacking, and an ultralight pillow can't be beat," says Leilani Osmundson , digital producer for travel at U.S. News. "The Marchway pillow fits the bill: It's comfortable, packable and extremely lightweight." This pillow is designed for both back and side sleepers, and doubles as a lumbar support for everyday travels and needs. Once it's deflated, you can machine-wash the cover before folding the pillow into an included drawstring bag.

Price: $13.99 or less Shop now: Amazon

Courtesy of BCOZZY

The BCOZZY neck pillow is ideal for all travelers – including kids, with small sizes for youngsters between 3 and 7 years old, and medium options for ages 8 and 12. Travelers like the ergonomic design of the patented pillow, which supports the head and neck by propping the chin up. Overlapping pillow arms, which wrap around the neck and under the chin, can be tightened based on the level of support you need.

If you or your child is a side sleeper, fold the pillow in half, double up the sides and place it on your shoulder, leaning your head to the side. An elevated side option allows you to overlap the pillow arms on top of each other and rotate it 90 degrees to the side for double support for the neck and chin.

This travel pillow is available in a variety of colors and patterns, including light blue and pink hearts. A snap strap attaches the included travel bag to your child's luggage , and you can throw the pillow in the washing machine after your trip.

Price: $44.97 or less Shop now: Amazon

Frequently Asked Questions

Experts agree a supportive pillow is essential for travel. "The biggest issue many travelers experience when sleeping on a plane is that the seats don't recline enough," explains Dr. Alex Dimitriu, a sleep/wake and performance specialist who is dual board certified in psychiatry and sleep medicine. "This often results in the head being just on the brink of tipping forward – which is not a comfortable sleeping position. Because of this insufficient recline, it is important to keep padding behind the head and neck minimal to reduce the tendency for the head to tip forward."

Most travel pillows are designed to be worn around the neck, providing enough support to prevent the head from tipping forward.

When shopping for a neck pillow for travel, experts recommend considering the following factors:

Proper head support:  What's most important is ensuring your head is supported in the right places by your travel pillow – and, in particular, not being pushed forward by excessive padding. "A good pillow would provide support for side sleeping, rather than a lot of padding behind the head, which just pushes the head forward too much," says Dimitriu.

Material: Consider both the external and internal material of the pillow:

External: Chiropractic physician Eric Smith advises to make sure the material of your travel pillow is breathable and won't subject you to an overheated sleep, since one of the main reasons for moving around a lot as you sleep is getting too hot. "When your face gets too hot on one side, even if you're sleeping, you're going to move from it because it's too warm," Smith explains.

There's no real consensus on which material is best for a cool, comfy sleep – and different people will have different preferences – so Smith's advice is to try before you fly (and don't hesitate to request a refund if your chosen pillow isn't working out).

• Internal: Memory foam pillows tend to offer more firm support – something Smith recommends for anyone, but especially older travelers. "The majority of patients I have that get older, we actually need a more firm pillow, we need a more firm bed, we need more support," Smith says. Pillows filled with microbeads mold more to the neck and head, while inflatable pillows can be adjusted to your preferences based on how much air you use to blow them up.

A travel pillow for your neck isn't considered a carry-on or personal item (and the same generally goes for small, loose items like jackets and umbrellas). That said, it's always best to review your airline's carry-on luggage size restrictions before traveling.

A good neck pillow for travel isn't the only key to achieving a decent sleep while in transit. "From the standpoint of evolution, we're kind of hardwired to be a little bit more on high alert in those situations," explains Rebecca Robbins, an instructor in medicine at Harvard Medical School and scientist at Boston's Brigham and Women's Hospital. "We're a little bit more in fight or flight mode; our brain is subconsciously scanning the environment for threats and there are new sounds and new smells."

She recommends finding elements that are relaxing to you, which might include some of the following:

• Travel blanket: Look for something lightweight, such as the EverSnug Travel Blanket on Amazon. This blanket comes with a carrying case, which can double as a pillow when the blanket is stored inside.
• Essential or aromatherapy oils: Scents like lavender and peppermint can be especially calming.
• Earplugs: Choose headphones that block some or all external noise. The Bose QuietComfort 45 Wireless Headphones are especially well rated.
• White noise app: There are a variety of free apps, or you can try a paid option like Calm (which offers a free trial).
• Eye mask: An eye mask like this cotton option on Amazon helps to block out the bright light on planes.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Compression Socks for Travel
• The Top Walking Shoes for Travel
• The Top Carry-on Backpacks
• Can I Use My Own Airplane Seat Belt Extender?
• The Best Travel Medical Insurance Plans

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

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Rome odunze heads to 2024 nfl draft with lofty three super bowl goal.

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University of Washington receiver Rome Odunze, who is expected to be taken in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft on Thursday, caught up with Post columnist Steve Serby for some pre-draft Q&A.

Q: If you are drafted by the Giants or Jets, why won’t the New York market scare you?

A: 1, I don’t think the New York market will scare me ’cause I’ll put in the work. And I think New Yorkers and the people that support those teams will be able to respect that, just because I feel like it’s a blue-collar fan base and a very passionate fan base, and regardless of what happens on the field, I happen to think it’ll be a lot of success. But to me, I think they’ll first and foremost respect the work that I put in the offseason, and the things that they’ll see me do on the field, from an effort and attitude standpoint, that will be second to none.

Q: How would you describe your meetings with the Giants and Jets?

A: I would say they went well. Both are very good organizations who have a mindset to win games, and I think have tremendous weapons and talent in the building to continue to do that, and I think they’re on the up and up. I think I could be a valuable part to both of those offenses to help the team have success. I felt like the coaches and everybody in the facility were great people as well.

Q: What would, one day, you want your legacy to be?

A: I’d love at least three Super Bowls, I’d love to be a several-time All-Star. … I’d love to hopefully win Offensive Player of the Year.

Q: Why three Super Bowls?

A: I think three Super Bowls is pretty solid. If I would say I was having a 12-year career — which I think would be pretty solid, you know it’s a team sport, so it’s not like I can expect to win a Super Bowl every single year — but I think one-fourth of my years I’m winning a Super Bowl, the other years of course making it to conference and division championships as well, but three sounds like a pretty solid number.

Q: What kind of an impact do you think you can make as a rookie?

A: I think I can make an immediate impact. I think my skill set translates to the NFL at a high level. I’m gonna go in there with a humble mindset and work my tail off to continue to get better and learn how I can have success at the NFL level, and I think I can be immediately put in to have a lot of success.

Q: Whatever comes to mind: Aaron Rodgers.

A: Hall of Famer.

Q: How would you like catching passes from Aaron Rodgers?

A: It would be tremendous. I think he’d be able to teach me a lot about offense as a whole and football at the NFL level, which I’d love and I think would help me carry my career for many years. And to be able to catch passes from him, I mean, he’s super special — his ball placement, his adjustments on the field, the way he is able to run kind of his own offense while running the [offensive coordinator’s] offense as well is very unique — so that’d be awesome.

Q: Daniel Jones, what do you know about him?

A: Daniel Jones, another great quarterback. Duke, I visited there and I know they produce very good dudes and great football players as well, so would be awesome to catch passes from him. I think he’s trending upwards and continue to grow as well, so would love to grow right alongside of him.

Q: Caleb Williams.

A: Young talent, and a very special talent at that. Got to see him play across the field from me watching him tear our defense apart a little bit with his playmaking ability. Another special quarterback who I’m super excited to see how he’ll do in the league, which I’m sure will be great.

Q: What if you ended up being his teammate?

A: That would be good, to be able to grow alongside him both as rookies, to develop that relationship, I think that’s something that could develop into something really special. I think regardless, both of us will continue to put in the work to have a lot of success, but to be teammates with him would be really cool.

Q: What makes Michael Penix, Michael Penix?

A: Michael Penix, that’s my quarterback [at Washington], 1, I think what makes him him is his talent, his ability to throw the ball I think is second to none, his ability to command a team and create problems for defenses like no other. I think he’s been able to do it through so much perseverance, through being drug through the mud and through injuries as well — which shows his grit, shows his heart, which he commented on recently. But as well as his on-field play, who he is as a person and the leader that he is is very inspiring and very contagious, so any team that gets him is gonna be lucky, and I think it should be very soon come Thursday.

Q: I’ve seen you described as the next Davante Adams.

A: I love that. I think I have a skill set that can be compared to him and qualities that are similar to him, but I think he’s at the top of his game and at the top of his league, so definitely still things I need to work on to get to that level of play, but I think I’m chasing that for sure.

Q: What traits do you have that you believe make you elite?

A: I think my ability to run routes to create separation as well as being a big-body receiver to make contested catches. I’m first and foremost trying to create space and separation within a concept and trying to get open on any given play to make it easy on a quarterback, but sometimes things break down, and football’s the type of game where you have to make adjustments mid-play, so I also have the body and the frame and the ability to make those contested catches to get myself and the offense out of a jam.

Q: I assume you believe you’re the best receiver in the draft.

Q: Why? Where do you get the edge?

A: It’s hard to speak on any weaknesses in any other receiver in this draft. I think that they’re tremendous players as well. I just think for me, I have the most complete wide receiver play from route-running standpoint, from separation to blocking to contested catches to catching the ball as a whole. … I feel like my skill set and my ability within all these things are, like I said, second to none. I believe also my attitude, effort within the locker room, my ability to connect with my teammates as well as impact the community is great as well.

Q: You sound like you can be a leader as a rookie.

A: I would say so. I think that’s the role I would like to play within an offense. I think a rookie like me brings a new energy, a different attitude. I was a part of the [Washington Huskies] team that went to the national championship game, so I know what it takes to win, coming from a team that was 4-8 two years prior, so I know the coaches that I need to take to win, the atmosphere that a locker room needs to have, and the tough love and the accountability that a team needs to have as well, so I think I can bring those aspects to any team.

Q: A quick scouting report on Ohio State receiver Marvin Harrison Jr.

A: Tremendous talent. Has the frame, has the size to be a very prominent contested catcher in the league. Has a very prestigious pedigree as well as very good route running, very good releases and overall great receiver as well.

Q: LSU receiver Malik Nabers.

A: He’s explosive, raw athleticism sort of receiver who catches the ball very well and has a very unique skill set that will translate to the NFL very seamlessly as well.

Q: How would you describe your on-field mentality?

A: My on-field mentality is play-by-play, I’m a very in-the-play sort of guy — just focusing on my task, making sure I’m doing the best I can on each individual play — and I feel like that helps me be cool, calm and collected no matter what — no matter if I make a good play or if I messed up on a play prior, just always being ready for the current moment.

Q: How do you handle trash talk?

A: I don’t really trash talk unless someone trash talks me, and then I usually chirp back. I’m a quiet player, I respect the game until somebody is talking to me, and then I say what needs to be said.

Q: Are you a good trash talker?

A: I think I’m pretty solid, I think I’m pretty witty.

Q: What drives you?

A: I would say my family, definitely — all the sacrifices, all the things that they’ve done for me to get me to this point. And what they continue to do for me definitely drives me and makes me want to continue to succeed. … My [Nigerian] heritage, making people with my last name proud, and of my same bloodline proud.

Q: Does fear of failure drive you?

A: Fear of failure? No, I wouldn’t say fear of failure drives me. I mean, I hate to lose, but if I prepare to the best of my ability, then why should I fear failure when I’ve done all that I could to have success, and sometimes those things don’t happen, but at the end of the day when you put in the work, it’s not something you can control, just gotta go out there and do your thing.

Q: What will draft night mean to your grandfathers?

A: My grandfather on my father’s side is gonna be able to be there, my grandfather [Wayne Bunnell, who is legally blind] on my mama’s side will be in Utah listening in. I think it will be a tremendous accomplishment for both of them, and I hope the accomplishment will make both of them proud and they’ll be able to relish in the moment and we’ll be able to share it together. I’ve said it before, but when my name is called it feels like all of our names being called ’cause all of those people invested a lot into me.

Q: Your grandfather, who was in a biking accident in 2016, will be able track your draft moment over the phone.

A: He’s in Provo, Utah, and I’ll call one of my aunts, and he’ll be able to hear the excitement on all of our voices. … It’s tough, I’ve always wanted him to be able to enjoy the luxuries of life after all the work that he’s put in for the family, but sometimes God has a different plan, and it is what it is, and something that I think you gotta take on the chin and just enjoy what you can, and that’s exactly what he does.

Q: What does a Sharpie Rookie of the Year entail for you?

A: I’ll be making sure I’ll be signing with the S-Gel pen just because I feel like I’m an elite athlete so I need an elite pen, and the Sharpie S-Gel allows for no smear, no smudge and no bleeding. I’ve been able to do that with Michael Penix as well, we did our Sharpie signature combine where I did a little training to make sure my signature was right, so I’m prepared throughout my rookie year going forward.

Q: So if you wanted my autograph, I could borrow your Sharpie to sign it for you?

A: I think it would be mandatory for you to use a Sharpie ’cause I feel that’s the way you get the best quality.

Q: Three dinner guests?

A: Dave Chappelle, LeBron James, Jay-Z.

Q: Favorite movie?

A: Probably one of the “Avengers,” whether it’s “Infinity [War]” or “Endgame,” both of those were really good.

Q: Favorite actor?

A: Denzel Washington.

Q: Favorite actress?

A: Sandra Bullock.

Q: Favorite entertainer?

A: Kevin Hart.

Q: Favorite meal?

Q: What would you tell NFL general managers about why they should draft Rome Odunze?

A: They’ll get immediate impact of someone who’s gonna be very loyal to the organization, I’m a loyal type of guy. I think they already know what my skill set is on the field, so I don’t think I need to harp anything on that. Like I said earlier, I think I’m No. 1 when it comes to all those aspects, but someone who’s gonna be good in the locker room as well, someone who’s gonna have desire and tenacity to continue to be better and grow as the team grows and have a team-first mindset, so I would say all those things.

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