Travel destinations: Rome, Italy – Part 1

Last Spring I boarded a 4 hour flight with two of my closest friends and headed for the fantastic city that is Roma! My best friends parents had bought us the holiday as an 18th birthday present and instantly i couldn’t wait to go. I had studied Italian for 4 years at school and I was already dying to try out what I had learned to see how it matched up to the Italians. Suffice to say I didn’t last very long speaking Italian but what a city.

From the moment we arrived the smell was overwhelming. You could almost smell the culture and history of the city. I’d seen pictures of Rome before but nothing can prepare you for the real thing. The first day we arrived we wandered around the old cobblestoned streets just marveling in the glorious sounds and smells. People talking , the faint sound of Italian words being mumbled, the noise of the mopeds so many Romans favored and the fantastic sound of the breeze blowing as we walked made the holiday one I’ll always remember. During the day the weather was hot but tolerable. There was a light breeze which kept us cool and we’d learned early on that carrying water was an essential. We’d spend our days browsing through stores, standing in awe as we walked along the Via Condotti and laughing with each other by the Trevi Fountain. Our hotel was a small quaint little place just off the main street in Rome , close to the main train station which meant we where central to everything we needed. We visited the most amazing sights – the trevi, the Spanish steps,the Vatican , a million and one art galleries, gathering and breathing in as much history as we could. We couldn’t quite believe how beautiful the city was.

The Roman people where like no others id met. So welcoming and friendly. And so uniquely proud of their glorious city. Why shouldn’t they be? Its the place where civilization began? Their heritage was literally sprinkled all over the city in interesting tourist spots , which made Rome as fascinating as it was. The most fabulous part of Rome was how the city changed at night. The street lights twinkled against the night sky like a million stars lost in the darkness. The city really did come alive at night. The fondest memory i have of Rome is sitting by the Trevi Fountain late at night eating gelato and laughing uncontrollably. The feeling of such intense relaxation was amazing. The city truly does sparkle. I’d recommend Rome to anyone for a holiday – I’m no history buff but even i couldn’t help but be moved by the intensity of the history of Rome. And you can see it all around – the streets, the people, the sights – its all magical. And without a doubt being inside the Sistine Chapel inside the Vatican…the center of the Catholic Church was the most poignant moment in my life so far. I’m not a religious person but you can instantly feel your in the presence of somewhere truly spectacular the second you enter the church. The high ceilings painted my Michelangelo are stunning, breathtaking views that will be forever imprinted in my mind. There really is no more beautiful place in Rome than right there , inside the Chapel marveling at such beautiful pieces of art.

Sadly our holiday ended all to quickly , before long we where home. But I’m definitely visiting Rome again , this time for longer. Its a shame to spend a short time in such a vastly significant city. Not to mention a truly beautiful holiday destination.

An Essential Guide To Rome

Rome is an enchanting place that has been attracting tourists for its rich cultural heritage and brilliant historic monuments. In the ratings of Conde Nast Travelers 2004 Readers Choice Awards, Rome grabbed the coveted second spot on the list of top ten European cities.

Some quick helpful facts about traveling to the city. You need to have a valid passport to enter Italy though you do not need a visa if the duration of the stay is less than 90 days. However, there is an exception to this rule for some specific countries. Since the summers are hot and dry, you should visit Rome between October and March. Book yourself at a hotel that is close to the historic district. The ideal place would be Hotel de Russie, situated between the Piazza del Popolo and the Spanish Steps that are worth seeing.

Plan your itinerary well in advance, especially the places you definitely want to visit. The ideal mode of discovering Romes heritage is on foot, as it gives you the flexibility of covering the locations at your own speed. The other option to save cost is to use the Tram Bus system that links the entire city and also the nearby areas. And if you are looking at convenience, you can always opt for a private tour. Make sure you have taken a pair of comfortable shoes. Carry minimum weight while going around the city. The city has many eating joints around the tourist attractions so you can appease your hunger pangs any time you want.

The city is full of tourist attractions and it is a real tough task to decide which of them are a must see. Your local sightseeing plan for a given day could look like this. Start with the Coliseum that is a popular tourist attraction. Since the visiting hours change through the year, make sure that you confirm the timings beforehand. To make this awesome experience more realistic, they have an hourly conducted tour by guides in the guise of gladiators. The next important stop, the Roman Forum or Foro Romano, is just across the street. The Roman Forum, the heart of the Roman Empire, is standing tall even after 2000 years! You would be fascinated by the involutions of the Roman architecture. There is no entry fee here and you can also avail the facility of guided tours.

The next stop, The Pantheon or The Temple to all Gods, was built around 125 AD and is one of the best-preserved buildings in Rome. Built by Emperor Hadrian, many famous personalities like Vittorio Emmanuel II and Umberto I (the kings of Italy) and the one and only Raphael are buried here. There is a nine meter opening in the concrete dome which the only source of light in this monument. It takes you back in time to the glorious days of the Roman Empire and you cannot stop imagining being a part of the Romans, as it existed then. You would get goose bumps dreaming of the kind of clothes they would have worn, their language, gestures etc. You can have this extraordinary experience through the year except Christmas when the Pantheon is closed.

By the end of the day, there is just one more place to see that cannot be missed. You can easily spend three hours visiting The Vatican and its collection of artifacts that chronicle the Catholic Churchs history. If you have time, you should let Michelangelos Pieta, which is housed in St Peters Basilica, amaze you. The Vatican museum has even more splendid antiques, including the Egyptian mummies. You should not miss Sistine Chapel that has The Bible painted on the ceiling by the legendary Michelangelo himself.

Well, whatever you chose to do, get to befriend your hotel concierge first since he can be the best source of updated information.

A Tourist Guide To Rome

Rome is the capital city of Italy and one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. It is ridded with fabulous architecture, historic attractions and small cobblestone streets. Its many famous landmarks including the magnificent Colosseum will make your stay in the city one that will be remembered for life.

Traveling There

Flying is an easy option as Rome has its own airport (Leonardo da Vinci Airport) that receives flights from many other worldwide international airports. There are frequent shuttle bus transfers and trains that run from both the international and domestic airports in Rome.

Great rail and bus services operate throughout Italy so getting around I easy. Also, good road networks make driving an option for those who want to take in the scenery on the way.

Accommodation Choices

Rome is a luxurious and expensive city and for this reason you can expect the accommodation rates to be quite high. The city is also very popular so be sure to book well in advance. All kinds of accommodation can be found within the city such as hotels, guesthouses, apartments and hostels.

History

Rome has a vast and interesting history as it was once the capital of the Roman Empire that began in 753 BC. The Empire practically took over the world and conquered up to one fifth of its population. Later on in the Middle Ages, Rome grew as a cultural and artistic capital city.

Sights and Attractions

The main reason that the majority of tourists visit Rome is because of the amazing sightseeing. The main attraction and a must see is the huge Colosseum. If architecture is of your interest be sure to visit Panthenon in the city centre. This building was far ahead of its time. Also go and see the Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps and be sure to be overwhelmed.

Shopping

Many people travel to Italy for its shopping potential and Rome is often the place where they go. Whilst in the city you can see and feel the locals love for style and fashion. The streets of Rome are full of the world’s leading designer brands and can be particularly dear in price. If you are after high street fashion then head for the areas of Via Nazionale, Via del Corso and Via Cola di Rienzo.

Dining Options

Rome is a great place to go out eating and drinking. Most restaurants offer an Array of international cuisine and Italian specialties such as traditional pizza and many pasta dishes. Dining establishments can be found all over the city and cater for all budgets.

Rome – Away From the Masses

Rome is one of the most beautiful and interesting cities in the world. Its magnificent monuments and architecture, its beautiful neighbourhoods and its ‘dolce vita’ lifestyle draw millions of tourists to the Eternal City every year. Some of the city’s major attractions and squares, such as the Vatican, the Colosseum or the Spanish Steps, can be extremely crowded. Do not get me wrong: these highlights are definitely worth a wait. But after spending some moments at the city’s highlights, you might want to move away from the masses and the traffic.

You might want to have a good Italian lunch on a quiet piazza. To enjoy the Mediterranean sun in one of Rome’s beautiful parks. Or to wonder at some of the city’s most astonishing panorama’s. But where to go? This article reveals some beautiful places to spend a quiet moment in the bustling city. So that you can combine your visit to the world-famous highlights with an off-the-beaten-track experience.

The Aventine Hill

Close to the center, serene and a beautiful place to visit on a sunny afternoon is the Aventine Hill, one of the seven hills on which Rome has been built. Just south of the Circus Maximus you can walk up the hill by taking the V. Valle Murcia, which shortly after becomes Via di Santa Sabina. After fifteen minutes you will find on your right hand side the entrance to a little park. Originally called the Parco Savello, this park is commonly known as the Giardini degli Aranci, or ‘Orange Gardens’. The tree-lined paths lead you to a beautiful view over the center of Rome and the Tiber river. In the summer, the park hosts theatre and musical performances. When walking further up the hill you will come across the Santa Sabina church, a fifth-century church which has essentially been unchanged from its original layout and interior. Following the Via Santa Sabina will make you end up at the Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta. On the right hand side of this square is the Priory of the Knights of Malta, a military order. Though the Priory is not open to the public, the ornate keyhole of the gate will offer an impressive and surprising view on the Vatican and the cupola of Saint Peter’s Basilica, which will leave only few uncharmed.

Trastevere In the evening, the neighbourhood of Trastevere – just across the Tiber river – is one of the most popular places to go for both tourists and Romans. But the area is also a great place to visit at daytime, before the crowds arrive. Stroll through the narrow streets, packed with little bars, restaurants and shops, until you arrive at the neighbourhood’s main square, Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere, named after one of Rome’s most splendid churches, located in the square’s northwest corner. Then go for lunch at one of the typical Roman restaurants, such as Casetta de’ Trastevere on the small Piazza de’ Renzi, for great Roman dishes. For a good walk after lunch, follow the Vicolo del Cedro which will lead you to the foot of the Gianicolo Hill. Follow the Via Garibaldi further up until you reach the large statue of this 19th century father of Italian unification on the Piazzale Garibaldi. Here you will be able to enjoy a magnificent panorama over the roofs of Rome.

Rome is more than the Colosseum. And as the saying goes, ‘when in Rome, do as the Romans do’. So when in Rome, do not forget to move away from the crowds and discover the beauty of Rome in its narrow streets, little piazza’s and small, local restaurants. Add a touch of Roman life to your Roman holidays!

Getting Around Rome

The seasoned tourist knows that the best way to get around Rome is on foot. However, for those looking for a bit more information than Walk, this guide to Getting Around Rome is can help.

Arriving in Rome. Visitors will most likely arrive by plane into Rome’s Lenoardo da Vinci Airport, also known as Fiumicino, after a nearby city. Situated about 25 kilometers outside of Rome, the best bet for getting into the city is the train. The airport train station operates a line to Rome’s Central Station (Roma Termini) daily between 6:30 am and 11:00 pm. The ride takes approximately half an hour. Tickets cost 11 euro and are available from one of the machines in the station. Keep in mind that the train really is the most efficient read: no traffic jams and least expensive option for getting into Rome. If your flight arrives, however, between 11:00 pm and 6:30 am, you will probably want to take a cab, rather than wait around. Expect to pay at least 50 euro.

Getting Around in Rome. Once you have settled into your guest accommodations in Rome, you will find that the quickest and easiest way to get around the city besides walking, that is public transportation. Please keep in mind that while the Metro and bus systems are quiet safe, it is still important that you stay alert for pickpockets. Carry your valuables in a secure money belt.

The central station for Rome’s Metro is the Termini, which is the hub of the system’s two lines, A and B. Line A crosses the city from east to west and includes stops at many tourist destinations, such as the Vatican, Piazza di Spagna, Piazza Barberini and Piazza del Popolo. Line B traverses Rome from northeast to southwest, with stops at the Coloseum, Circo Massimo, and St. Paul’s Basilica. The B train also stops at Rome’s three main railroad stations, Stazione Tiburtina, Stazione Termini and Stazione Ostiense. Remember the following stops and you should have most of your time in Rome covered: On Line A, Spagna for the Spanish Steps, Musei Vaticani for Vatican City and Ottaviano for St. Peter’s Basilica; on Line B, the Colosseo is closest to the Colosseum.

Rome’s Metro trains run approximately every ten minutes, from 5:30am until 11:30pm (and until 12:30am on Saturdays). Tickets for the Metro can be purchased from vending machines at the metro stops. A one-way ticket costs 1.00 euro. You can also purchase a daily ticket, which is good for unlimited travel by metro or bus, for 4.00 euro, or a weekly for 16.00.

If you get fed up with trying to figure out Rome’s somewhat notoriously complicated public transportation system, then your best bet really is to walk! The historic center of Rome is quite small and very walkable. And along the way you are certain to bump into one of Rome’s famous gelato stands or pizza stores, making the effort all the more worthwhile.