One of the most iconic and travelled cities in Europe, Rome is a wanderers wonderland, a foodies heaven and a sightseers paradise. From spending hours exploring museums to strolling through the streets enjoying the amazing architecture or people watching from a quaint cafe with a delicious coffee in hand or a slice of mouth-watering pizza, you can be sure your trip to Rome will be filled with one unforgettable experience after another.
We have put together our ultimate list of the Top 10 things you must do when visiting Rome
Every great guide should start with an introductory paragraph. This is your opportunity to persuade your reader and let them know why this post will answer all their important questions. You can share why you are the ideal person to write this guide; write a personal anecdote about how you became an expert in the field; show your empathy with your reader regarding how hard it is to find accurate information; and/or stress the frequent mistakes people make that can be avoided.
#1: Visit The Vatican
With its wealth of history and art, the Vatican is embedded in Rome’s heritage. Visit endless museums, gaze at the stunning artwork on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel and take a walk inside the world famous St Peter's Basilica. There is so much to see and experience when visiting the Vatican that we would advise you to give yourself plenty of time and to arrive as early as possible to beat the crowds.
#2: Explore the Roman Forum and Colosseum
Once the heartbeat of ancient Rome,The Roman Forum was the home of the city's religious, political and social life. Now the ruins are a fascinating insight into ancient Rome’s architecture and culture.
The Colosseum was the home of gladiator battles during the Roman empire. It is famous for being the world's largest amphitheatre and is over 1900 years old.
#3: Visit the Pantheon
The Pantheon is one of Rome’s most recognizable and well preserved historical sights. To fully appreciate its splendour you must take a visit inside. At the top of the dome sits an opening, or oculus, 27 feet in width. The oculus, which has no covering, lets light—as well as rain and other weather—into the Pantheon. The walls and floor of the rotunda are decorated with marble and gilt.
#4: Wander through the beautiful gardens of the Villa Borghese
Villa Borghese is a landscape garden in Rome, containing the wonderful Borghese Gallery, home to one of the most beautiful art collections in the world. It is the third largest public park in Rome and is the perfect spot for a relaxing stroll where you can also catch some fantastic views over the city.
#5: Throw a coin in the iconic Trevi Fountain
In the Trevi district of Rome lies the unmissable Trevi Fountain. It stands at 26 metres tall, and 49 metres wide and is famous for its intricate artwork decorated in the Baroque style. This 18th century fountain is arguably one of Rome's most photographed attractions so prepare to be patient while waiting for that perfect photo! Legend has it that if you throw a coin in the fountain then one day you will return to Rome.
#6: Climb the Spanish Steps
The Spanish steps were made famous in the 1953 movie Roman Holiday starring Audry Hepburn. The 135 step staircase was completed in 1726 and connects the Church of Trinità dei Monti with the Piazza di Spagna which contains theFontana della Barcaccia (Fountain of the ugly boat).
#7: Stare in awe and the magnificent Monumento a Vittorio Emanuele II
Next to the Piazzi Venezia square sits the imposing Monumento a Vittorio Emanuele II, also known as the Monument of Victor Emanuel II ‘Il Vittoriano’ or ‘Altara della Patria’ (altar of the fatherland). This remarkable white monument honours Italy's first king Vittorio Emanuele II and commemorates the unification of Italy in 1861 and the first king of Italy. Make sure to take your time and appreciate the stunning architecture involved in its creation.
#8: Take a pizza making class
If you visit Rome then you must taste Roman style pizza! Noticeably different to the deeper softer base of a Neapolitan style pizza, Roman pizza has a thinner and crispier base and is made with olive oil as opposed to water meaning that the dough can be stretched thinner.
The best way to immerse yourself in the art of Roman pizza is to take a pizza making class where you will learn all the secrets of how to make a truly delicious pie. And the best part is that you get to eat what you make!
#9: Indulge in authentic Italian Gelato
Gelato is a daily part of Italian life and it is no different in Rome. While there are gelateria on almost every street corner we suggest taking the time to visit some of Rome’s more famous Gelato hot spots like Fassi Gelateria or Gelateria del Teatro. The reward is truly worth the effort.
#9: Party the night away in the Trastevere neighbourhood
Trastevere is a colourful and funky bohemian area that is known for its traditional and innovative trattorias, quirky craft beer bars and artisan shops. It is popular with both Italians as well as tourists and is the perfect area to spend the night eating, drinking and partying until the early hours.
So there you have it. 10 Brilliant things to make sure you enjoy the very best of the Eternal City. Enjoy...
Comments