As the old saying goes, “Roma non fu fatta en un giorno”, or “Rome wasn’t built in a day.” It is not long before you realize the accuracy of this statement. Roman works of art and masterpieces are everywhere. Walking through Rome is like walking through two thousand years of history, all intertwined and juxtaposed in the present. Sometimes it can be overwhelming. There is so much to do and see in Rome that even the locals may need a lifetime or two to capture it all. In fact, there is probably more to see in Rome than in any other city in the world.
With so much to see and do, where do you start?
First day recommended
Tea Roman Forum (“Roman Forum”), located in a valley between the Capitoline and Palatine Hills, is a good starting point. The forum is really an archaeological complex that can be accessed from the square that leads to the Colosseum. The Colisseum, of course, it is the symbol of Rome. This is the famous amphitheater that could hold up to 55,000 spectators while they watched gladiatorial fights, animal fights, etc. Completed in AD 80. C., it took 10 years to build and originally had an adjustable canvas, the forerunner of today’s stadiums with adjustable roofs. Architects today still marvel at the design, which allowed the Colosseum to be emptied in about 12 minutes (think about that the next time you’re at a major sporting event)!
The Roman Forum was the commercial, political and religious center of ancient Rome. In fact, much of our current political system here in the United States is derived from the Roman political system established during Caesar’s rule. Spain Square, and the so-called Spanish Steps is another popular attraction in Rome. During the spring, it is blooming with flowers. This is a good place to people watch and hang out, especially at night. The streets that enter and leave the piazza will offer the best shops in Rome. Look for Via del Corso. Guys beware: if your partner likes to shop, you’ll love this district. A day of shopping here is usually a very powerful aphrodisiac!
From there, you can take a walk (it’s better not to drive in Rome, unless you feel like dying), to the Trevi’s Fountain. Try to time your visit during the evening hours, when the fountain is illuminated. Don’t forget to toss a coin over your shoulder… legend has it that doing so will ensure your return to the Eternal City.
second day recommended
You should plan to spend a day to see the Vatican, the Vatican Museum, St. Peter’s Cathedral and the Sistine Chapel. The best way to get there is by crossing the beautiful (angel clad bridge) Ponte Sant’Angelo. The Vatican is literally another country separate from Italy. It is also the spiritual and religious center of Catholicism.
Inside San Pedro CathedralOn the right, you’ll find Michelangelo’s famous Pieta, sculpted when the artist was 25 years old. The dome of the cathedral offers the best view of Rome. Inside the Vatican Museum, you’ll find countless treasures collected or commissioned by the papacy over the centuries. There are many tours ranging from 90 minutes to 5 hours. Of particular interest must be the Raphael room and the Sistine Chapel. The Sistine Chapel, with its most famous feature, the ceiling, is another masterpiece by Michelangelo (among others). The ceiling is supposed to depict scenes from the Book of Genesis, and it took Michelangelo four years to complete.
Please note that you will not be allowed into St. Peter’s Cathedral if you are wearing shorts, sleeveless shirts, and above-the-knee skirts. This is true even in the height of summer. You still have to remember that it is a place of worship. Italians take it very seriously, so dress accordingly. The summer of 2003 was the hottest summer in Rome in roughly 300 years…they still made no exception to their policy.
A good place to see after visiting the Vatican is Castel Sant’Angelo. This was originally built (138 AD) as a mausoleum, which later became a papal fortress in the 6th century. And with its underground passageways, sometimes used as a safe haven for the Pope to reach the Vatican. Inside there are numerous works of art and you can learn a lot about the history of Rome. On the fourth floor there is a cafeteria where you can have an espresso while taking in some of the best views in Rome.
Third day recommended
Piazza Navona is another of the famous squares in Rome. This is the place to watch artists draw and sip a delicious espresso or panino at one of the many outdoor cafes. In the center of the square there is a masterpiece by Bernini…the Fontana dei Fiumi (Source of the rivers). To the west of the square is the beautiful church of Sant’Angese in Agone. Legend has it that this is where Agnese was exposed naked, only to be covered (miraculously) by her rapidly growing hair. At the north end of the square is another fountain, La Nettuno fountain.
Speaking of fountains, you will see many people drinking from many of the fountains that Rome has to offer. Rome is blessed with a rich system of aqueducts and water sources, many of which have not changed since they were originally made during the Roman Empire. Whenever you see the sign “not drinkable” This is when you should NOT drink the water. The pantheon, An architecturally geometric masterpiece is also worth seeing. The building is still in remarkable condition. Its dimensions and lines are very symmetrical, almost perfect. Originally a temple built in dedication to “all the gods”, today, its concrete dome is the largest in the world.
From here, you can do more shopping on Via Nazionale. They are similar to the shops around the Plaza de España, but not as expensive.
Extended stays in Rome
The above itineraries are somewhat rushed, but definitely doable. The ideal would be to spend a week in Rome and go at a more relaxed pace.
If you have more time in Rome, visit the vibrant market of field of fiori. Here you will savor some of the best flavors in Rome: fresh meats, fruits, flowers and vegetables. This is where you can mingle with some of the locals. To the north of the field is a square and a beautiful building that was built during the Renaissance (Palazzo della Cancelleria).
On the other side of the Tiber River is trastevere, an eclectic neighborhood full of great baroque architecture, bars, cafes, restaurants, etc. It is a good place to go to experience the night life of Rome. And on Sunday morning, you can even visit the flea market (Porta Portese).
If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, spend some time north of the Spanish Steps relaxing in the Villa Borghese. This is the greenest and most serene section of Rome. A nice respite and a good place for a picnic. There are some notable museums and a not-so-remarkable zoo. You can also do this on the first day, if you want, as it is close to the Plaza de España.
For something a little out of the ordinary, check out the catacombs, an underground burial system used many centuries ago in Italy. Italians, like many others, are very respectful of those who have passed away. These are located on the outskirts of the city. You will probably have to take 2 buses from Termini station to get there.
outside of rome
Tivoli, about an hour east of Rome, is a good day trip. This is a quaint little mountain town famous for its quarrying industry.
Ostia, about an hour west of Rome, is where the Romans go when they want to go to the beach. The spa is worth a visit if you have time, but nothing to write home about. The best beaches justify a weekend outing further south on the Amalfi Coast and outside of Sorrento. These places require a few hours by train.
To the north of Rome, Viareggio is a pretty little beach resort in the Tuscany region. And, of course, there are all the wonders of Florence, about 3 hours by train from Rome.
So there you have it… Rome in a nutshell. You won’t leave disappointed no matter how many days you stay there. If anything, you’ll want to stay longer. As the old saying goes about Rome, “Rome, one life is not enough”or “Rome, a lifetime is not enough.” So enjoy the time you spend in Rome, because there is no other city in the world like it.
