Rome is one of those cities that you need to visit at least once in your life because it is 100% worth it! The Eternal City. It is a beautiful city, steeped in history and charm - but, one that has not quite modernized. There is so much to see, learn, and eat…it is a city that is impossible to be bored in when visiting for a few days. In fact, you may be fatigued from seeing and learning all about the history and culture of Rome.
I put this list of observations & things to keep in mind for a couple who were passing through Rome for a couple of days on their honeymoon. As there are very good guidebooks on Rome, I wanted to share some of my “must-see” places to check in Rome.
- Wear comfortable shoes because the best way to see Rome is on foot. There are lots of little plazas and courtyards that you will only find if you are walking through the city (especially Centro Storico), so I recommend being prepared to walk a lot. Plus, many of the streets are cobblestone, so heals aren’t really an option for women.
- The Vatican is amazing and make sure you give yourself at least 1/2 a day to explore. Go early in the day to get in line (the lines do move pretty quickly), however, don’t worry about taking a tour as there are lots of great guidebooks to explain the history and the artwork in St. Peter’s Basilica. Don’t skip the Vatican Museum as I promise seeing the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel is worth the trek through the museum (it’s one of the last things that you will see).
- One of the nicest parks I’ve visited is at the top of the Spanish Steps/Piazza del Popolo called Villa Borghese. It has excellent views of the city. And, fun things like a beautiful old carousel and tandem bikes to ride. Also, it’s great to sit and observe locals out with their families.
- The bus tour of Rome is pretty good and gives you a good sense of the city and the main sites. But, I would recommend getting out and walking around and really seeing the main sites like the Forum, Colosseum, Pantheon, Spanish Steps & Trevi Fountain.
- I loved Trevi Fountain and I could have sat in front of the fountain, looking at the sculpture and people for hours! It really is beautiful, amazing, and all the other great things people say about it.
- If you are in doubt of what kind of wine to order, you can never go wrong with a House Red! As far as restaurants, go to a place where there are lots of local people eating. All the food is great, so you really can’t go wrong if you stay away from the main tourist attractions. Just be prepared for the slow service.
- There are loadsof great places to get gelato when you are walking around - definitely indulge in trying something new!
- If you like to walk though a parks and take in gorgeous views (to walk off the gelato), Parco Gianicolense is great.
- The subways/underground/metro is not very extensive or modern and is covered in graffiti (as are many buildings throughout the city). Travel at night at your own risk. Also, cabs are not super easy to find, so make sure you know how to get home if you are out late. It’s not a 24/7 city by any means, and doesn’t have a ton of nightlife.
- Take in the beauty that this city has to offer. It really is everywhere you look. After a while, you stop appreciating all the details and designs of the buildings. But, almost everything was designed with a purpose in mind. It really is an inspiring city.
Recommended Hotel: Hotel Ripa (Via degli Orti di Trastevere, 1
00153 Roma, Italia) is a little out of the way in the working class neighborhood of Trastevere. But, it’s a great hotel with spacious rooms and good service.
Recommended Travel Guide: Lonely Planet Rome and Wallpaper City Guide Rome
