"All Roads Lead To Rome, But It Wasn't Built In A Day"
We've all heard the Roman sayings:
- Rome wasn't built in a day.
- All roads lead to Rome.
- When in Rome, do as the Romans do!
But what does these old adages mean to you? Emulate the Romans to the point where you appear as a local and are no longer mistaken as a tourist!
Rome is so large that it can become overwhelming. To make any trip worthwhile, ensure to take time to enjoy as opposed to being touristic. Do not just eat pizza and pasta, sip wine from the vineyards, or visit the Roman Forum and Colosseum. Try to vary your experiences based on your own interest.
Enjoy this review about the city of love and romance and learn how to make any visit to Rome better than any other trip you've planned before!
The Colosseum. As the Eiffel Tower is to Paris, the silhouette of the Colosseum is to Rome. The largest surviving structure remaining from the Roman Empire, it held many theatrical performances, gladiator games, circuses, and festivals open to the public. Today, it has become the model for sports arenas to include present-day football stadiums.
Situated between the Colosseum and Palatine Hill is the Arch of Constantine. It is the largest Roman triumphal arch honoring the emperor Constantine I as the "liberator of the city and bringer of peace" after the victorious battle over Maxentius at Milvian Bridge in 312.
Next to the Arch is Palatine Hill - the birthplace of the Italian capital. Many upper class settled here and built sumptuous palaces. According to legend, the she-wolf Luperca raised twin brothers Romulus and Remus here. Domus Flavia, House of Livia, House of Augustus and Farnese Gardens can be seen from the top of the hill.
Located just 40 meters below lies the Roman Forum. Filled with grandiose temples, marketplaces and civic buildings, it was once the heartbeat of ancient Rome. Today, the site lies in spraying labyrinth of ancient ruins including the Arch of Titus, Basilica of Maxentius, and Temple of Saturn. A visit to the Forum offers insight into the lives, politics and beliefs of the ancient Romans. Walking in the footsteps of these very same people allows you to get a sense of the Forum's importance - from Julius Caesar's funeral to the execution of Cicero and many triumphal processions. As lines can be long and move slowly, save time and money by joining a Skip-the-Line Guided Tour or Walking Tour. Admission grants you access to the Colosseum, Arch of Constantine, Palantine Hill and Roman Forum. It is highly recommended to visit each site in this order.
Next, take a day or two to explore the smallest country within a country - the Vatican! The world's smallest independent state, two must-see attractions are the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica - both home to Michelangelo's most famous masterpieces and dome. The exterior opens to the St. Peter's Square offering magnificent views and a closer look at the structure walls inside the Vatican. From the Vatican Palace and Vatican Museums to Raphael Rooms - there's so much to see!
Be sure to find time in your busy schedule to make your way to Rome's largest fountain - Fontana di Trevi, also known as Trevi Fountain. Don't forget to make a wish as you toss a coin into the fountain. It is tradition assuring that you will one day return to Rome.
Step into the past with a memorable visit to Pantheon. Honoring many Roman ancient gods and goddesses, it has endured millennia by remaining intact for over 2000 years as it is the best preserved monument of Roman antiquity. Rebuilt in AD 80 after being damaged by fire, it has since become a burial place for famous Italians such as King Victor Emmanuel II and painter Raphael.
Head over to Piazza Navona where a remarkable experience awaits you. It is home to three beautiful Baroque fountains, Fontana dei Fiumi, Fontana del Moro and Fontana del Nettuno. The square is filled with tourists and locals, street artists, souvenir and gift shops, cafes and markets. Located nearby is the church of San Luigi dei Francesi - home to three major paintings from Caravaggio - and The Miracle of St. Agnes can be found in the crypt at Sant'Agnes.
Rome is an ancient city with a modern twist! A city of fashion, it is also a romantic place for honeymoons, holidays, family getaways. Regardless of the length in which you are visiting - 3 days, a week or months - step into the city of love prepared.
Whether you are into romantic places (Janiculum Hill and Trastevere) or discovering the history of Roman legends (Castel Sant'Angelo, Altare della Patria, and Circus Maximus), you will find that Rome is the perfect place for this. Explore the city by foot and you may stumble upon the Spanish Steps or wonder upon the Mouth of Truth - an enormous marble image of a man's face who is said to bite the hand of those who lied. Sign up for Gladiator School and experience what it's like to brand a sword and fight like Spartacus. Or join a Rome Segway Tour and navigate throughout the city on your own. You will find yourself in a bohemian atmosphere in a city filled with love, romance, and hospitality.
No trip is complete without noteworthy visits to the nearby areas and cities. Consider a day trip to Tivoli to explore the historic Hadrian's Villa and Villa d'Este. Experience a full-day tour to the city of Pompeii and hike the crater of Mt. Vesuvius. Just beyond Tivoli is the ancient Roman port of Ostia. There's even a chance to catch a train to Naples and ancient Herculaneum, or visit the beautiful Amalfi Coast and island of Capri for some of the best beaches in Italy. These places are must visits for any trip to Italy!
Whatever you decide, explore the city and outlying areas and become adventurous. Venture across the city and absorb all that it has to offer - from sightseeing and cuisine to its history and famous landmarks. Even try to meet the locals if you can. Engage in conversations with the Romans and you will find that they are very nice, friendly and relaxed. I met some awesome locals during my visit including the hotel manager at my hotel, three best friends who invited me to dinner, and a restaurant owner who were very fluent in English. They even offered me free perks such as food, transportation and sightseeing tips. Tip: Follow the same care abroad that you would back home. Be wary and skeptical of people as you are not local, but enjoy and meet people if you can.
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