Rome is the capital of Italy and the third-most populous city in the European Union by population within its city limits. Rome has an extravagant culture, art, and architecture, and also a vast historical background, the remnants of which have turned the city into a gigantic museum. The squares, the buildings, the markets, and the fountains have made Rome one of the most popular travel destinations worldwide. Furthermore, Rome is a religious center, as it encloses the Vatican City, the smallest country in the world.
When to visit Rome
The heaviest tourist traffic in Rome is experienced during the summer months—June, July, and August. The weather in summer is hot and humid. It is ideal for you to dine outside, walk around, and eat gelato. However, get ready to wait in line for most of the tourist attractions. The period of Easter is also busy in Rome, which is in March or April. Many tourists visit Vatican City during Easter. A good time to visit Rome and its attractions is from mid-March to May and from September to November. The weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. A cool date to remember in order to join the festivities is the 21st of April. If you happen to be there, you can participate in Rome’s birthday celebrations!As you might have understood, Rome is almost always busy, so make your reservations for accommodation, flights, and tourist activities in advance.
How to go to Rome
Fortunately, Rome has two airports that connect it directly to almost every country in the world: Fiumicino Airport and Ciampino Airport. For maximum security and comfort, book your airport transfer in advance.Traveling by train is another great option if you are thinking of visiting more Italian cities or European capitals. If you want to get around Rome, you will find that the metro and tram lines will be really helpful in order to avoid the infamous taxis, to save some time, and enjoy the day.
What to see in Rome
#1. Pantheon
The Pantheon is now a Catholic church. It used to be a Roman temple, built between 27 and 25 BC, dedicated to all Roman gods. That is why it has the name Pantheon: “pan” means “everything,” and “theon” means “divine.” The temple had the largest dome in the entire ancient world and still has the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome. When you enter through the door, you suddenly feel very tiny. This is intentional, meant to make visitors feel humble before the gods. The walls rise to a height of about 14 meters! Michelangelo felt that it was a work of angels and not men. As far as I am concerned, it is one of the most important tourist sites in the city.
#2. Roman Forum
The Roman Forum is the main piazza of Rome and one of my favorite places in the city. It is one of the most important archaeological sites in the world, as it is surrounded by many ancient buildings and statues of historical figures. It used to be a hotspot for meetings and gatherings. Give yourself some time to wander slowly around this site. You haven’t truly visited Rome until you’ve seen the Roman Forum.
#3. Colosseum
The Colosseum is perhaps the most famous historic site in Rome and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. It is located east of the Roman Forum, and its construction began in 72 AD. The Colosseum was an amphitheater that could seat up to 80,000 spectators and was used for gladiatorial contests, executions, animal hunts, Greek dramas, and more. Its use ended in medieval times. You can visit it and learn about the underground theatrical systems, with ramps, trapdoors, hoists, and stage machinery. Depending on the day, you might need to wait in line for a long time, though. Skip the lines by booking a tour!
#4. Fontana di Trevi
The Trevi Fountain is very famous, as well. We all know that this is where you drop a coin to make a wish come true. The fountain is the largest Baroque fountain in the city and was built from the same material as the Colosseum. Now, there is a specific way to throw the coin: you use your right hand and throw it over your left shoulder, with your back to the water. Although the fountain is really wealthy, as large amounts of coins are thrown into it every day, it is illegal to steal from it. It is also unhealthy to drink from it because the water is recycled. If you have sufficient time, I recommend that you visit it both in daylight and at night, when it is illuminated.
#5. Trastevere
Trastevere is a bohemian neighborhood in Rome. If you like to party, it is essential that you walk across the Tiber River and enjoy the lively nightlife. Trastevere has a beautiful fountain in Piazza Santa Maria, which happens to be the oldest fountain of Rome, built in the 8th century. Sit on its steps and then head to the Church of Santa Maria.
#6. Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona used to be the Roman racetrack and this is where it takes its name from. It is larger than the Colosseum, so it was ideal for sports events. It is now a loved public space. In its center you can see the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi,and nearby there are two more fountains, all made by Bernini. It also features the Church of Sant’ Agnese in Agone and the Pamphili Palace. You can enjoy it while having a coffee or lunch.
#7. Spanish Steps
The 135 Spanish Steps climb a steep slope between the Piazza di Spagna and the Trinità dei Monti. They are called Spanish because, in the 17th century, the area was considered Spanish territory. The construction of the steps is very delicate, so UNESCO, the locals, and the government take good care of them. Therefore, people are not allowed to drive on them—not even bicycles—sit on them, or bring fast food from franchises such as McDonald’s. If you cannot climb them, there is a lift that takes you to the top of the steps.
#8. Campo de Fiori
Campo de’ Fiori used to be a field of flowers, but now it is one of the main piazzas of Rome. In the morning, it hosts a market of flowers, vegetables, and fruits, and in the evening, its terraces are full of people. It became popular, because it was frequented by influential historical figures. Horse markets and public executions were held in the square, and it is also connected to the statue of Giordano Bruno, the philosopher who was burnt at the stake for heresy.
#9. Victor Emmanuel II Monument
This monumental building, inaugurated in 1911, pays tribute to Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of Italy, and is located in Piazza Venezia. If you visit it, you should go to the upper terrace for a panoramic view of Rome and then enter the Museum of the Risorgimento to learn about the unification of Italy. It is a huge monument, and although I wouldn’t call it a masterpiece, it is definitely an awe-inspiring sight.
Vatican state in Rome
Vatican City is a separate, independent country within the Italian capital. It is the home of the Pope and the Catholic Church. The Vatican has almost 1,000 citizens, making it the smallest country in the world in both size and population. Its railway is just 300 meters long! A traveler in Rome should definitely visit it to see the historic sites of St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums, as they feature some of the most renowned paintings and sculptures in the world. Renaissance architecture truly found a home in the Vatican, where Michelangelo, Gian Lorenzo Bernini, Donato Bramante, Carlo Maderno, Sandro Botticelli, Raphael, and Giacomo della Porta created masterpieces. On the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, you will find The Last Judgment by Michelangelo. Vatican City is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has its own army that protects the Pope and its own football team. Someone can go to Rome with the sole purpose of visiting the Vatican.
You should be mindful for a couple of things, though:
- Cover your knees and shoulders, when you visit the temples.
- Turn off your flash when taking photographs, as the light can damage the artwork. In Sistine Chapel, you are not allowed to take photos.
- Buy tickets early to avoid the lines. Apart from winter, Vatican City is busy throughout the whole year.
- If you would like to wave to the Pope, you can reserve a seat any Wednesday when he is having a Mass delivered by himself.
