The Companion Guide to Rome

Hands down, one of the best books on modern Rome that I've read. It's not your typical guidebook though. True, there are walks you can follow but there isn't any info on times, prices and other information related to access to sites. Instead you'll get in depth details on the architecture and history of all the marvelous things you may see on your walks--far more so than you could imagine getting out of Rick Steves or Fodors. Best of all, if you are a Rome lover, this book stands on its own as a work of literature that is accessible, interesting and pleasurable to read.

This is undoubtedly one of the best travel guides ever written. It's laid out almost like a novel, with each chapter encompassing a walk through a certain part of Rome. Georgina Masson acts as your personal guide, explaining what you see around you with refreshing literary panache. If you're going to Rome, I cannot recommend this book highly enough. It genuinely does make the trip even better than it would otherwise be.