Rome

First-time visitors taking short breaks to Rome may think they know what they're in for. What will come as a surprise is the sheer scale of living history that fills the city. Excavated ruins peek out from beneath squares, and awe-inspiring monuments hide around each and every corner.

Modern life bustles gaily along among a staggering array of classical, medieval, Renaissance and Baroque buildings. The overall effect is staggering, making short breaks to Rome nothing short of a revelation.

In Rome, the rule of sightseeing is: don't plan to see all the sights. It's impossible to appreciate all the city has to offer in one visit, and you'll need at least two or three city breaks to Rome to make any headway.

Of course, you won't want to miss the Colosseum. In the ruins of this vast amphitheatre, crowds of 50,000 once watched gladiators tussle with lions. Close by, the Forum's fragments of columns and arches are best wandered with imagination.

Close your eyes and recreate what was once a thriving hub of temples, palaces and shops.

The Pantheon, on the other hand, is the best-preserved building from ancient times, a glorious domed monument to early Rome's architectural genius.

A key stop on city breaks to Rome is the Vatican, the world's smallest independent state, residence of popes and seat of the Catholic Church. Here magnificent St Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel - of Michelangelo superstardom - are the major attractions. Clamber up to the top of St Peter's for spectacular panoramic views.

An alternative approach to enjoying short breaks to Rome is to explore the city by chance. Although the historic centre is relatively small, it's littered with gems: lovely bridges, piazzas, fountains, castles, gardens, churches and museums will all reveal themselves to you as you wander. You'll need a good map on you, though - it's easy to get sidetracked and lose yourself entirely.