~ Came to Rome for the sights, stayed for the gelato ~
To Rome or not to Rome, that is the question. If you are planning a trip to Italy, your first thought may be which airport to pick. Rome happens to be a great central location. There are 2 major airports, Fiumicino and Ciampino. I can’t speak for Ciampino, but, Fiumicino is very easy to navigate. Mike and I have flown in/out of here 3 times now. Both allow close proximity to spend time in the very romantic city of Rome.
Rome is both the capital and largest city in Italy. Rome’s history spans some 28 centuries and is one of the oldest continuously occupied cities in Europe. According to Wikipedia, Rome was the 11th most visited city in the world -2019. 10.1 million tourists, the 3rd most visited city in the European Union and the most popular tourist stop for Italy.
So, why would I question to include it in your visit? Well, most people find themselves on a limited number of days to vacation. To visit all of Italy in one trip is simply not realistic. You clearly have to pick a region or two and make the most out of every day you have. If you are not a city slicker like me, Rome may sound intimidating or something to pass up. Let me tell you, don’t do it. Even though it gives me the same feeling as New York (congested, graffiti etc.) NY does not have the Colosseum. Be prepared for crowds, congestion and a lot of ground to cover. But, be prepared to be simply amazed with your own eyes. The architecture, monuments, palaces and public facilities are without a doubt, incredible.
I’ve now been to Rome on 2 trips. We covered a good amount of ancient Rome with our very knowledgeable tour guide, our daughter Kailee. She happens to be a history buff and loves giving a good tour. We recently took my best friend Kim into Rome in July and hit all the tourist spots, in a day. Despite my lack of love for the city atmosphere, I have a love – hate relationship with Rome. I am obsessed with stunning architecture and historical monuments. There is no shortage of that in Rome. If you are headed to Italy, Rome is a must. You don’t need to spend your entire trip in this ancient city, but give it 1-3 days if you can. You’ll be truly amazed. You’ll find it to be an awe inspiring adventure, one you’ll talk about forever. Here are just some of the spots we visited. Listed are the iconic landmarks you have heard about. Make sure to check these off of your bucket list. Then, look up other spots that spark your interest. Wherever you end up, you’ll enjoy the day and take away photos & memories for a lifetime.
- Colosseum
As you pass by the Colosseum, knowing it is the largest ancient amphitheater EVER built, it’ll leave you in awe. According to Wikipedia, construction began in 69-70 AD and was completed in 80 AD. The materials used were travertine limestone, tuff (a volcanic rock) and brick faced concrete. It is estimated it held between 50,000- 80,000 spectators throughout history. It is most famously known for its gladiatorial contests and public spectacles. It is 189 meters (615 feet / 640 Roman feet) long and 156 meters (510 feet / 528 Roman feet) wide. It has a base area of 24,000 meters (6 acres). The outerwall is 48 meters (157 feet/ 165 Roman feet). It is without a doubt a magnificent site to see, while in Rome.
Like everywhere when traveling, there are so many tours you can sign up for. Do your research and certainly read reviews first. If this incredible historic place holds your interest, you should definitely book a tour and experience the Colosseum in its entirety.
https://www.walksofitaly.com/rome-tours/colosseum-underground-tours
- Pantheon
The Pantheon is a former Roman temple and since 609, it has been a Catholic Church. It is the oldest building in the world, that is still in use today. AMAZING ~ Known as The Basilica di Santa Maria ad Martyres or Basilica of St. Mary and the Martyrs. For me personally, I had no idea what this structure was, until my daughter Kailee informed us. I assumed it was a court house type building. It doesn’t appear to be the typical Basilica until you step inside. Immediately, you are left speechless. To enter you approach the 8 enormous corinthian columns. You walk through the rotunda and enter noticing the coffered concrete dome, with a central opening to the sky. According to Wikipedia, after 2000 years after being built, the dome is the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome. Mike walks around asking “how did they build this, how on earth did they built this”. He asks the same question at every sight we see. Knowing what goes into general construction in today’s lifetime, it is fascinating to reflect on the construction of such amazing structures from thousands of years ago. The best part of seeing this beautiful place, it is absolutely free! Because it is a Catholic Church, you must observe proper attire. No sleeveless outfits. Remember to bring a shawl or something in your bag if you are there in the summer. No short shorts/short skirts and hats must be removed.
- Trevi Fountain
The Trevi has been featured in several nobel films, including “Roman Holiday” starring Audrey Hepburn – 1953. It is an impressive, yet beautifully ornate fountain. Standing at 86 feet high and 161.3 feet wide. It is the largest Baroque fountain in the city and one of the most famous in the world. It is estimated that 3000 euros are thrown in the fountain daily, which helps local subsidized markets feeding the needy in Rome. We’ve been to the Trevi in both December and July. Both times were packed. So plan to use your elbows and gently (ok….aggressively) push your way to get that perfect family photo.
- Spanish Steps
The Spanish Steps are a monumental stairway of 135 steps. Construction began in 1723-1725 and reaches 95 feet high. Piazza Di Spagna is at the bottom of the steps and Trinita Dei Monti Catholic Church is at the top. The Piazza is a busy spot full of shops and cafes all around.
- Victor Emmanuel II Monument
The Victor Emmanuel II Monument is natural monument, built in honor of Victor Emmanuel II who was the first King of unified Italy. Construction started in 1885 and was complete in 1935. It is an impressive 266 feet high with multiple stairways, corinthian columns and fountains. Once at the top, you’ll get the most glorious view of ancient Rome. Be prepared to climb a lot of steps. We were there in both December and July. In the summer it was a challenge. The summer days in Rome are brutal and unfortunately there is not much shade. So stay hydrated and just dress accordingly. But, absolutely walk to the top. The view over Rome is incredible.
- Villa Borghese Gardens
Villa Borghese Gardens is the 3rd largest public park in Rome. It spans over 197 acres. The Gardens are located near the Spanish Steps and is open daily dusk to dawn. We went about an hour before sunset and this location provided the most spectacular view over Rome. Truly a beautiful place to walk around, get away from the chaos of the streets below and take in the beauty all around you. Go early, pack a lunch and relax. Or hit it at the end of your day and catch the amazing sunset. Either way, just don’t forget to visit this beautiful place.
- Vatican City
Wikipedia: Vatican City is an independent city in Rome. It is a distinct territory under “full ownership and sovereign authority and jurisdiction” of the Holy See. The Holy See dates back to early Christianity. Info from Wikipedia regarding WW II; “The Holy See, which ruled Vatican City, pursued a policy of neutrality during World War II, under the leadership of Pope Pius XII. Although German troops occupied the city of Rome after the September 1943 Armistice of Cassibile, and the Allies from 1944, they respected Vatican City as neutral territory.[37] One of the main diplomatic priorities of the bishop of Rome was to prevent the bombing of the city; so sensitive was the pontiff that he protested even the British air dropping of pamphlets over Rome, claiming that the few landing within the city-state violated the Vatican’s neutrality.[38] The British policy, as expressed in the minutes of a Cabinet meeting, was: “that we should on no account molest the Vatican City, but that our action as regards the rest of Rome would depend upon how far the Italian government observed the rules of war”.
We went to Vatican City in December 2019. It was a few days after Christmas and it was beyond packed. There was a line to enter St. Peter’s Basilica that must have been 6 + hours long. You do need a ticket to enter and it is pricey. We only stood out in the piazza and took photos. Kailee has done the tour of St. Peter’s and the Sistine Chapel and highly recommends both. She may or may not have snuck a photo inside, but don’t tell anyone! I will tell you one thing here that really upset us, there are RELENTLESS ticket people trying to engage you into purchasing a ticket. It was extremely frustrating. You almost have to be rude and make it clear “you do not want a ticket”. You are allowed to walk around behind the gate, take photos as we did and experience just being there. It is a stunning view from this spot.
~ Rome. The city where memories were chiseled in marble. ~
The list of incredible sights to see in Rome is lengthy. I suggest you do some research, get out a map circle the spots and plan your visit. We tried to hit all the major monuments and landmarks in a day. We walked everywhere and seeing Rome on foot is the best way. I definitely recommend wearing a very comfortable pair of shoes/sneakers. Sure, wearing that cute outfit you packed (just for Rome) will look great in pictures, but, if you’re not dressed comfortably….including your feet …you will regret it! It doesn’t take long before your dogs will be barking!! Bring both bandaids and pain reliever. Bring a small backpack and make sure you throw in a shawl or something to throw over your bare shoulders if you plan on entering any of the churches. To Rome or not to Rome…..yes! Add this beautiful romantic city to your itinerary.
Leave me a comment below, tell me your favorite spots you visited in Rome!!
- We also found very affordable parking for the day. Just past the Colosseum. We paid 15 euros.
~ You fall in love with Rome very slowly. Little by little, but if it happens, it will be for a lifetime ~
Gazing at beautiful things acts on my soul ~ Michelangelo.