From the smallest state in the world to the most impressive amphitheatre, be enchanted by romantic fountains or admire quiet neighbourhood trattoria, Rome is what you make of it. You can come to tick off all the major tourist sights – and there are plenty – or you can approach it in a different way; let it slowly reveal its charms as you tour its many neighbourhoods.
A city of romance
Rome isn’t all grand crumbling buildings and their fascinating history – it’s also about the experience. If you’re here for a quick break or an Italian road trip, there are few better cities for take in cultural sights and indulgent meals. Treat yourself to a delicious cone of sweet gelato from one of the many gelaterias in the Piazza di Trevi, then meander over to the famous fountain to admire its stunning beauty.
For a real treat away from the crowds, call in advance to tour the upper floor of the Antica Farmacia della Scala in Trastevere. This pharmacy, operated even today by Carmelite monks, seems little changed since the 17th century. In search of more serenity, find your way to Santo Stefano Rotondo, on the street of the same name, one of the most unsung of the city’s almost 1000 churches, but also one of the prettiest.
For an unforgettable evening dinner – also in Trastevere – go to Antico Arco. It’s in a prime position, with majestic views of the city below and serves elevated Italian classics such as risotto with Castelmagno cheese and honey suckling pig with fennel.
The history channel
Rome’s ancient sites enchant and delight. The Roman Forum, over 2000 years old, was once the centre of the city, the administrative heart but also one full of basilicas and temples. Columns rise from the ruins, hinting at what once was.
The Colosseum is the most visited monument in Italy and it’s easy to see why. Utterly breathtaking, it once seated 50,000 people, who crowded in to watch gladiators battle. It opened in AD 80 and thousands lost their lives here – despite the violent history, it’s still an incredible sight to take in.
Even better preserved is the Pantheon, a temple that opened in 125 AD and has a concrete dome that generations have marvelled at. If you visit Florence, the cupola of the Duomo was inspired by it.
Small but beautiful
Vatican City – the city within the city – is ostentatiously ornate and a spectacular highlight. Papal riches have built a number of significant museums here, although just a visit to St. Peter’s Square gives you a sense of the grandeur. Buy a ticket in advance to admire the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel in the Apostolic Palace, but don’t overlook the rooms full of Raphael frescoes or paintings by Caravaggio, Da Vinci and Fra Angelico.
There’s no right or wrong way to experience the delights of this Rome, a city that took forever to build can’t be seen in a day. Hiring a car from Rome Ciampino Airport means you have the freedom to see it all.