Eternal City, Timeless Charm: Discovering the Fascinating History and Culture of Rome
Rome, the capital city of Italy, is a historic and cultural marvel that boasts ancient landmarks such as the Colosseum, The Vatican, and the Trevi Fountain, as well as art masterpieces, exquisite cuisine, vibrant piazzas. It is a city where the past and present seamlessly blend together to create a unique and unforgettable experience.
While roaming Rome and visiting the countless landmarks, my mind picture scenes from historical epic movies like Gladiator, Ben-Hur, Cleopatra among others. These movies have captured my imagination and provided a glimpse into the Roman Empire; into what ancient Rome and the people who lived during that time.
We visited twice and still have the feeling we have missed a lot of this Eternal City. Would certainly visit again.
Accommodation
Entire rental unit hosted by Antony
Great location, walking distance to everything but in a quieter area and in a safe residential building on Via Boncompagni. Well-maintained, spacious, family friendly apartment and clean.
Antony was very good at communicating and check in was easy. He set up a welcome snack and had various coffees and cakes for breakfast along with other basics, like salt, oil, milk, water and juice to get you started.
Travel
Not all landmarks and attractions are within walking distance from the apartment. The 7-day travel pass allowed us to use unlimited public transport. Current price is € 24.
Eat
We were grabbing sandwiches or pizza while on the road during the day. In the evening, we will stop by a local / corner resto or bistro for dinner. We avoided the main streets restaurants.
Some of the places we ate at are permanently closed since COVID-19.
Places to visit
Rome has a wealth of historical, cultural, and artistic treasures to discover. Here are some must-visit sights
Day by day guide
I will share and offer suggestions on what to do and see on a day to day basis. We twice went to Italy and perhaps not everything can be done on a short 2-3 day-trip. The day-to-day below is only a guide if you are not staying long. Hope this will guide you to tailor the suggestions and fit in your schedule.
Fortunately for us, our accommodation was within walking distance to most. For some we used the bus and metro system, very convenient for all locations.
Day 1: Orient yourself
Depending where you stay, discover your neighborhood as there always some landmarks close by to discover. For us we arrived at our apartment in the afternoon and after checking in, freshen up and rest for about one hour, we set out to visit the Catacombs of Rome which is only 5 mins away. After that we just stroll around until the early evening and having dinner.
Day 2: Piazza
Walking tour of the city to see some of the famous piazze ( central squares), fountains, statues.
Trevi Fountain - > Piazza di Spagna - > Via dei Condotti - > Via del Corso - > Pazza del Popolo - > Villa Borghese
> Toss a coin and make a wish in the Trevi Fountain
> Wind your way through the streets to Piazza di Spagna
> Walk up the Spanish Steps
> Continue down the famous shopping street Via del Corso
> End at Piazza del Popolo
> Walk up the hill from Piazza del Popolo to Terrazza del Pincio for beautiful views of the city
> Walk through the Villa Borghese park, visit the Galleria and art museums for Bernini sculptures
Day 3: Ancient Rome
Walk from accommodation to the Colosseum to start our tour of Ancient Rome. This may sound a lot of walking, but the landmarks are not far from each other. Set out early and enjoy the tour with lunch and gelato stops along the way.
Colosseum - > Palatine Hill -> Circus Maximus -> Piazza del Colosseo -> Roman Forum -> Piazza Venezia -> Capitoline Hill
> Palatine Hill for the site of the city's first settlement
> A short walk from Palatine Hill is Circus Maximus, then head back to Piazza del Colosseo
> Walk along Via dei Fori Imperiali to see a lot of ruins of ancient Rome on both sides of the street including the Roman Forum
> At the end of the street, you'll find yourself at Piazza Venezia. Here you'll see the Monumento a Vittorio Emanuele II which offers great views of all of Rome from the top of the building.
> Head to the Fountain of the Goddess Roma and Capitoline Hill for Campidoglio (Michelangelo-designed hilltop square)
Day 4: The Vatican, Pantheon & Castel Sant'Angelo
Some of the most beautiful art and sculptures in the world are held in the Vatican Museums as well as some of Michelangelo's most amazing frescos. Get there early morning to beat the crowds and tour the Vatican Museums, St. Peter's Basilica, and the Sistine Chapel. Then spend the afternoon exploring a new area of Rome at a more leisurely pace.
Vatican -> Castel Sant'Angelo -> Ponte Sant'Angelo -> Piazza Navona -> Pantheon -> Ponte Sant'Angelo -> Trevi fountain
> We took bus 64 on via Nationale to via di Porta Cavalleggeri for the 40-minute journey to the Vatican.
> After spending the whole morning at the Vatican, a short walk away is Castel Sant'Angelo - which house a museum if you choose to visit.
> Cross the Tiber River via Ponte Sant'Angelo. Great view of Castel Sant'Angelo from the bridge
> After a busy morning, enjoy a long lunch near Piazza Navona, with view of the beautiful fountain
> After lunch, make sure to stop at Frigidarium for a gelato.
> Make your way to the Pantheon and after visiting, just chill around there soaking in the fun and joyful atmosphere until after sunset
> Got back on your steps to enjoy a magnificent view of Ponte Sant'Angelo and Castel Sant'Angelo all lit up.
> From here a nice pleasant walk to the Trevi Fountain which takes on a different ambiance, with the lights illuminating the water and the statues casting dramatic shadows. The crowds tend to be smaller, creating a more peaceful atmosphere that allows you to appreciate the beauty of the fountain without the hustle and bustle of the day.
Don't: Never leave your belongings unattended or out of sight. There are a lot of pickpockets everywhere, keep pockets closed, zipped up backpack and carry on chest especially in crowded areas like Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps etc.
Tickets and schedules
Official Site: https://parcocolosseo.it/en/visit/opening-times-and-tickets/
Third party: https://www.viator.com/Rome/d511-ttd
Full ticket (valid for 2 days and includes entrance to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill): €16
Reduced ticket (available to EU citizens between 18-25 years old, and teachers): €2
Free ticket (available to EU citizens under 18 years old, and disabled visitors with accompanying person): Free
1. The Colosseum (Piazza del Colosseo) - A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic landmarks of Rome, the Colosseum also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre. It was built between 70-80 AD during the reigns of emperors Vespasian and Titus as a venue for public entertainment, such as gladiator fights, animal hunts, and mock sea battles.
The Colosseum is considered one of the greatest architectural achievements of the ancient Roman Empire. It is made of concrete and stone and has a capacity of approximately 50,000 spectators. The amphitheater is 189 meters long, 156 meters wide, and 50 meters high. Its exterior is composed of three levels of arches adorned with decorative elements, such as Corinthian columns and statues.
The interior of the Colosseum features a complex system of underground tunnels and chambers used to transport animals and gladiators to the arena. The arena itself is 83 meters long and 48 meters wide, with a wooden floor covered in sand to absorb the blood and prevent slipping.
2. The Roman Forum - Also known as the Forum Romanum, is a rectangular plaza located in the center of Rome, Italy. It was the political, commercial, and religious center of ancient Rome and served as a gathering place for the citizens of the city.
The Roman Forum is surrounded by some of the most important ancient buildings and monuments of Rome, including the Temple of Saturn, the Arch of Titus, the Temple of Vesta, the House of the Vestals, and the Basilica of Maxentius. The Forum was also the site of the Senate House, where the Roman Senate met to discuss and debate important issues.
In ancient times, the Roman Forum was a bustling center of activity, with merchants selling goods, politicians giving speeches, and citizens engaging in political debates. It was also the site of many public events, such as triumphal processions and public executions.
3. The Palatine Hill - The Palatine Hill is one of the seven hills of Rome and is located in the center of the city, overlooking the Roman Forum. It is the most central of the seven hills and is considered the birthplace of Rome, as it was where the legendary founders of Rome, Romulus and Remus, were said to have been raised by the she-wolf.
In ancient times, the Palatine Hill was the most exclusive neighborhood in Rome, where the wealthiest and most powerful citizens built their luxurious villas and palaces. It was also the site of the imperial palace complex, where many of the Roman emperors resided and conducted their affairs of state.
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The Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel - The Vatican museums contain a vast collection of artwork, sculptures, and archaeological treasures from various cultures and time periods, including ancient Egyptian, Etruscan, and Roman artifacts, as well as Renaissance paintings and sculptures.
One of the highlights of the Vatican Museums is the Sistine Chapel, which is famous for its ceiling painted by Michelangelo. The frescoes on the ceiling depict scenes from the Bible, including the Creation, the Fall of Adam and Eve, and the Flood. The ceiling also features several portraits of prophets and sibyls.
The Sistine Chapel is also known for its altar wall, which features Michelangelo's monumental painting, The Last Judgment. The painting depicts the final judgment of humanity, with Christ at the center surrounded by saints and angels, and the damned being cast into hell.
Visitors can view the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel by purchasing tickets in advance or as part of a guided tour. It is recommended to book tickets ahead of time to avoid long lines, as the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel are very popular tourist destinations.
Online : https://www.viator.com/en-CA/Rome-attractions/Vatican/d511-a115
St. Peter's Basilica - St. Peter's Basilica is a church located in Vatican City, Rome. It is one of the world's most renowned Catholic shrines and the largest church in the world. The basilica is named after Saint Peter, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ and the first Bishop of Rome.
The construction of St. Peter's Basilica began in 1506 and was completed in 1626. It was designed by some of the most famous architects of the time, including Bramante, Michelangelo, and Bernini. The church is known for its magnificent dome, which was designed by Michelangelo.
Inside the basilica, there are numerous works of art and sculptures, including Michelangelo's Pietà, Bernini's Baldacchino, and many others. The basilica also contains the tombs of many popes, including Saint Peter's tomb, which is located beneath the high altar.
Tip: Admission to St. Peter's Basilica is free of charge. However, if you want to skip the long lines, you can purchase a ticket for the Vatican Museums, which includes access to the basilica as well. The line is always long.
It's important to note that there are dress codes that visitors must adhere to when entering St. Peter's Basilica. Visitors are required to dress modestly, covering their shoulders and knees. Shorts, skirts, and dresses above the knee are not permitted, and men must wear shirts with sleeves. Visitors who do not comply with the dress code may be denied entry to the basilica.
Visitors can attend mass and also climb to the top of the dome for stunning views of the city of Rome.
The Trevi Fountain - A beautiful and very famous baroque fountain, it features a large central figure of Neptune, the Roman god of the sea, riding in a shell-shaped chariot pulled by sea horses. The fountain is also adorned with other mythological figures and sculptures, including two Tritons blowing into conch shells.
Legend has it that throwing a coin over your shoulder into the fountain will ensure a return to Rome.
It is especially beautiful at night when it is illuminated.
Tip: There is alway a huge crowd during the day and a lot of pickpockets - be very careful. Visit very late in the night or very early in the morning.
The Spanish Steps - Located in the Piazza di Spagna. The staircase consists of 135 steps that connect the Piazza di Spagna at the base to the Trinità dei Monti church at the top. The steps are made of travertine stone and are divided into three sections by two landings and offer beautiful views over the city.
Tip: The Spanish Steps are a popular tourist attraction and are often crowded with visitors. In recent years, there have been efforts to limit the number of visitors and to protect the historic staircase from damage caused by large crowds.
The Fontana della Barcaccia - At the base of the Spanish Steps, The fountain takes the form of a large, half-sunken boat with water overflowing its sides, and is said to have been inspired by a flood that occurred in Rome in 1598, when the Tiber River overflowed its banks and flooded much of the city. The boat is made of travertine stone and is adorned with various decorations, including the emblem of the Barberini family, for whom the fountain was commissioned.
The Fontana della Barcaccia is considered one of Rome's most iconic fountains and is a popular spot for tourists to take photos and toss coins for good luck.
The Pantheon - The Pantheon is a famous ancient temple. It was originally built in 27 BC as a temple to all the gods, but the current structure dates back to around AD 118-125, during the reign of Emperor Hadrian. The Pantheon is one of the best-preserved ancient Roman buildings, and its design and engineering continue to inspire architects today.
The Pantheon's most notable feature is its massive dome, which measures 43.3 meters (142 feet) in diameter and is made of concrete. At the top of the dome is a circular opening, called the oculus, which lets in natural light and serves as the building's only source of ventilation. The dome's thickness varies from 6.4 meters (21 feet) at the base to 1.2 meters (4 feet) at the top, which helps to reduce the weight of the dome while maintaining its structural stability.
The interior of the Pantheon is equally impressive, with 28 niches set into the walls that were originally designed to hold statues of various gods and goddesses. The floor of the Pantheon is made of a colorful marble pattern, and the walls are decorated with intricate designs and friezes.
Circus Maximus - The Circus Maximus was an ancient Roman chariot racing stadium built in the 6th century BC. It was one of the largest and most important public entertainment venues in ancient Rome, with a seating capacity of up to 250,000 spectators.
The stadium was primarily used for chariot races, which were a popular form of entertainment in ancient Rome. The races were held around a central barrier called the spina, which was decorated with statues, columns, and other ornamental features. The chariots raced around the spina for multiple laps, with the first driver to complete the designated number of laps being declared the winner.
In addition to chariot races, the Circus Maximus was also used for other public spectacles, such as gladiator fights and religious festivals. The stadium was an important gathering place for the people of Rome, and it played a significant role in the social and political life of the city.
Castel Sant'Angelo - A towering fortress built in the 2nd century AD, commissioned by the Roman Emperor Hadrian, Castel Sant'Angelo has served as a mausoleum, a prison, and a papal residence.
The building houses a museum with exhibits on its history as a mausoleum, fortress, and papal residence, as well as a collection of Renaissance art and artifacts.
One of the most famous features of Castel Sant'Angelo is its Passetto di Borgo, a secret passage that connects the castle to the Vatican City. The passage was built in the 16th century as an escape route for the pope in case of an attack on the Vatican, and it played a significant role in the plot of Dan Brown's novel "Angels and Demons."
Tickets and schedules
Official Site : https://www.castel-sant-angelo-ticket.com/
Third Party : https://www.viator.com/Rome-attractions/Castel-SantAngelo-National-Museum-Museo-Nazionale-di-Castel-SantAngelo/d511-a700
The Piazza Navona - The Piazza Navona is a public square in Rome, Italy, located in the historic city center. It is one of the city's most popular and recognizable attractions, known for its stunning Baroque architecture, fountains, and lively atmosphere.
The Piazza Navona is home to three impressive fountains: the Fountain of the Four Rivers, the Fountain of Neptune, and the Fountain of the Moor. The most famous of these is the Fountain of the Four Rivers, which was designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini in the 17th century and features four larger-than-life statues representing the four major rivers of the world known at the time: the Nile, the Danube, the Ganges, and the Rio de la Plata.
The Fountain of Neptune is a well-known fountain in Piazza Navona, one of the most famous squares in Rome. The fountain was designed by the Italian architect and sculptor Gian Lorenzo Bernini in the 16th century.
The fountain depicts Neptune, the Roman god of the sea, surrounded by various sea creatures, including seahorses, dolphins, and octopuses. The statue of Neptune is over 3 meters tall and is placed in the center of the fountain.
In addition to its fountains, the Piazza Navona is surrounded by elegant Baroque buildings, sidewalk cafes, and street performers, making it a popular spot for tourists and locals alike to relax, people-watch, and take in the beauty of the city.
The area was once inhabited by the city's working class, but today it is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, with a bustling restaurant and bar scene, unique shops, and beautiful churches and piazzas.
One of the best ways to experience Trastevere is to simply wander its narrow streets, taking in the sights and sounds of the lively neighborhood. You can also explore the local markets, try some traditional Roman cuisine at a trattoria or osteria, or enjoy a drink at one of the many bars and cafes that dot the area.
Capitoline Hill - The Capitoline Hill is one of the seven hills of Rome. It is located in the heart of the city and is home to several important government buildings and museums. The Capitoline Hill has been a significant location in Roman history since ancient times, and it continues to play an important role in the cultural and political life of modern Rome.
One of the most notable buildings on the Capitoline Hill is the Palazzo Senatorio, which houses the offices of the Mayor of Rome and the city council. The building was originally constructed in the 12th century and has been renovated and expanded several times over the centuries. It is located on the site of the ancient Tabularium, a records office and archive built during the Roman Republic.
Another important building on the Capitoline Hill is the Capitoline Museums, which are housed in two separate buildings, the Palazzo dei Conservatori and the Palazzo Nuovo. The museums are home to a vast collection of ancient Roman art and artifacts, including sculptures, paintings, and archaeological finds. One of the most famous works of art in the Capitoline Museums is the statue of the she-wolf nursing the infants Romulus and Remus, which is a symbol of the founding of Rome.
The Piazza del Campidoglio is the main square on the Capitoline Hill, and it is considered one of the most beautiful public squares in Rome. The square was designed by Michelangelo in the 16th century and is surrounded by a series of grand buildings and monuments, including the Palazzo Senatorio and a statue of the Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius.
Piazza del Popolo - Piazza del Popolo is a large public square located in the northern part of Rome. The square is surrounded by several important buildings, churches, and monuments, and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
One of the most notable landmarks on Piazza del Popolo is the Obelisk of Ramesses II, a 24-meter-high Egyptian obelisk that was brought to Rome in ancient times and placed in the center of the square. The obelisk is flanked by four lions, which were added during the Renaissance.
Another important monument on the square is the Porta del Popolo, a grand archway that marks the northern entrance to the city of Rome. The archway was built in the 16th century and is decorated with sculptures and reliefs depicting scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary.
The square is also home to several important churches, including the Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo, which houses several works of art by famous Renaissance artists such as Caravaggio and Bernini. The church of Santa Maria dei Miracoli, located on one side of the square, is also a notable landmark, with a façade decorated in polychrome marble and a dome decorated with frescoes.
Piazza del Popolo also offers great views of the city from the Pincio terrace, a scenic overlook located at the top of the hill above the square.
Piazza Venezia is a large square located in the historic center of the city. It is at the foot of the Capitoline Hill and is one of the busiest and most famous squares in the city. The square is named after Palazzo Venezia, a palace located at its northern end.
Piazza Venezia is known for its impressive architecture and monuments, including the Altare della Patria, a massive white marble monument built in honor of Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of a united Italy. The monument is also home to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which serves as a memorial to all Italian soldiers killed in war.
Other notable buildings on Piazza Venezia include the Palazzo Venezia itself, which now serves as a museum, and the Palazzo Bonaparte, which was once the residence of Napoleon's mother, Letizia Ramolino.
Piazza Venezia is also a major transportation hub in Rome, with several bus and tram lines intersecting at the square.
The Fountain of the Goddess Roma is a historic fountain. . It was built in the late 16th century and is located in the Piazza del Popolo,
The fountain was commissioned by Pope Sixtus V in 1589 and it features a statue of the goddess Roma, who was the personification of the ancient city of Rome. The statue is made of marble and stands on a pedestal decorated with bas-reliefs of important events in Roman history.
The fountain is also decorated with other sculptures, including representations of the Tiber River and the Nile River, as well as figures of the goddess Diana and the god Apollo. The fountain originally had a functional purpose, providing water to the nearby neighborhood.
The Fountain of the Goddess Roma is an impressive example of Renaissance art and architecture, and it is considered one of Rome's most important landmarks.
Villa Borghese - It is a large park next to Piazza del Popolo . It covers an area of 80 hectares and is one of the largest public parks in Rome. The park is famous for its beautiful gardens, fountains, museums, and art collections.
The park was originally the private garden of the Borghese family, one of the most powerful families in Rome during the Renaissance. In the 17th century, the family turned the garden into a public park and commissioned several famous artists to create sculptures and fountains throughout the park.
Visitors can explore the park on foot or by bike and enjoy the stunning views of Rome from its many scenic overlooks. The park also houses several museums, including the Borghese Gallery, which features works by famous artists such as Bernini, Caravaggio, and Raphael.
In addition to the museums and art collections, Villa Borghese also has a lake, a zoo, and several cafes and restaurants. The park is open year-round and is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Rome.
Fontana dell'Acqua Paola, also known as Fontanone del Gianicolo, is a monumental fountain located on the Janiculum Hill. The fountain was built in 1612 by Pope Paul V, whose family name was Borghese, and was designed by the architect Giovanni Fontana.
The fountain is located at the end of a long avenue that leads up the hill from the Trastevere neighborhood of Rome. It consists of a large semicircular basin, with a central niche containing a statue of Saint Peter, flanked by two smaller niches with statues of Saint Paul and Saint Francis.
The water for the fountain comes from the Acqua Paola aqueduct, which was built in the early 17th century to bring fresh water to the city of Rome. The fountain is one of the largest and most impressive in Rome, and offers panoramic views of the city.
How to get to Fontana dell'Acqua Paola
By foot: You can walk up the Janiculum Hill from the Trastevere neighborhood, which takes around 15-20 minutes. The fountain is located at the top of the hill.
By bus: You can take the bus number 115 from Piazza Venezia or bus number 870 from Termini station, both of which stop near the fountain.
By tram: Tram line 8 also stops near the fountain. You can take the tram from Largo Argentina or from Trastevere station.
The Trastevere neighborhood - It is a charming and historic district of Rome, located on the west bank of the Tiber River. It is known for its narrow cobbled streets, colorful buildings, and vibrant nightlife, as well as its authentic Roman atmosphere.
How to get to Trastevere
Trastevere is walkable from Rome's city center. Otherwise, hop on tram 8 from Largo di Torre Argentina. It runs along the main drag of Viale di Trastevere, ending up at Villa Doria Pamphilj. Tram 3 also stops at the southern end of Viale Trastevere, connecting with Testaccio (Via Marmorata), Colosseo, San Giovanni and Villa Borghese. From Termini, bus H runs to Viale di Trastevere, while the 780 runs from Piazza Venezia.
Crypt of the Capuchin Friars (Catacombs of Rome) - The Crypt of the Capuchin Friars, also known as the Capuchin Crypt, is a unique and fascinating underground burial site in Rome, Italy. It contains the skeletal remains of thousands of Capuchin friars who died between the 16th and 19th centuries, arranged in intricate and macabre designs.
The Capuchin friars who lived and worked at the monastery above the crypt were known for their strict adherence to poverty and simplicity, and they believed that death was a natural part of life. They therefore decided to use the bones of their deceased brethren to decorate the crypt, in order to remind visitors of the transience of life and the importance of spiritual contemplation.
The crypt is divided into six small chapels, each with its own unique display of bones. The most famous chapel is the Crypt of the Three Skeletons, which features the skeletons of three Capuchin friars arranged to symbolize the inevitability of death.
Entry Ticket: (€8.50/p)
It is located just 5 mins walk from the apartment.
Note: Visitors should be aware that photography is not allowed inside the crypt, and it is important to be respectful of the remains and the solemn atmosphere of the site. Even if it is a sweltering hot day, make sure that you wear trousers rather than shorts and that your shoulders are covered.
***Disclaimer***
It's worth noting that prices may change over time and that there may be additional fees for things like guided tours or special exhibitions. It's also recommended to book your tickets in advance to avoid long lines at the ticket counters.
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