Rome is a city I’ve visited more than once, and each time was different. Upon my recent return, I had to experience a few things again. Rome is the NYC of Italy. As Italy’s largest city, every season is tourist season.
Getting Around…
From the airport you can take the Metro A into the heart of the city. Rome is very walkable, and many sites are close together. Rome’s Metro is also easy to navigate and saves time.
Where to Stay…
Pantheon Hotel: Just foot steps away from the Pantheon, it’s a very affordable and central location close to many sites in Rome. We did hike up several sets of staircases to get to our room. Thankfully, there was a fantastic view from our window before heading out in the morning to grab some breakfast downstairs.
What to see…
The Pantheon: Today the Pantheon is a church: however, it was first a temple. It is the most preserved building in Rome dedicated to all the gods. In the center of the dome is a hole called the Oculus. No, there is not a glass window and yes, it rains through the hole. Cleverly, the floor is built slightly convex to flow water away and then into drainage. It’s free to walk in, and you can sit on the steps at night to enjoy a beer or gelato!
Spanish Steps: Spain had nothing to do with these steps. In fact, a French diplomat requested construction of the steps. He built them so that the Trinita dei Monti church could link to the Spanish embassy in the square below. Completed in 1725, they became a popular people watching and meeting spot. As of recently you can no longer hang out on the steps.
Trevi Fountain: Trevi is actually one of the oldest water sources in Rome. Three ancient Roman aqueducts come to a junction at three roads. Thus, the fountains name stems from “Tre Vie”, the three streets fountain. An old myth says if you throw a coin into the fountain, you’ll return to Rome. Surprisingly, Trevi Fountain collects about 3,000 Euro per day for charity.
The Roman Forum: Originally known in Ancient Rome as the Magnum Forum. Today it holds ruins of ancient government buildings and temples. The forum is a great place to walk around and escape the crowds in addition to the heavy military presence next door at the Colosseum.
The Colosseum: Interestingly, most people only know this specific colosseum yet, in fact, I’ve discovered there are several more in the world. One is close by in Verona. Famous gladiator fights amongst other forms of entertainment in ancient times took place here. Surrounded by armed military guards and full of scaffolding, it’s less enjoyable to visit this one.
Entrance
General admission is 12 euros, unfortunately, that is for limited access only. Meanwhile, the more inclusive access tours must be booked well ahead of time in order to see more areas. Furthermore, food and drink is not allowed, so you cannot picnic in this one.
Monumento a Vittorio Emanuele II: Altare della Patria, or Altar of the fatherland was built to commemorate the unification of Italy and its first “father”. Today it houses the tomb of the unknown soldier as well as a museum with weapons and flags from history.
Santa Maria Antiqua: The church is inside of the Roman Forum on Palatine Hill. While the walls are decorated in ancient Byzantine Frescoes, I thought it had an eerie vibe to it.
