Let’s be honest here – who among us hasn’t dreamt of our own perfect little Roman holiday, a la Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck? Combining the intrigue and adventure of an ancient historical civilisation with the romance of cobblestone paths and the Italian air, there’s a little bit of something for everyone. If you’re planning your next getaway to this monumental city but aren’t sure what to do or where to start, here are 8 things you can participate in to really get a feel for The Eternal City.
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1. Colosseum
Once the site of bloody battles fought by gladiators against fearsome beasts and each other for the entertainment of the people and the Emperor, this Wonder of the World still remains an impressive sight today as the largest amphitheatre in the world. No trip to Rome would be complete without visiting this testament to the Roman Empire’s power. The only issue with visiting this monument would be the wait times – however, this can easily be solved by buying skip-the-line tickets ahead of time.
2. The Roman Forum
While the Colosseum is undoubtedly the most famous of the Roman monuments, a ticket to the Flavian Amphitheatre also gets you access to two other beautiful ancient locations: the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill. Strolling through the Roman Forum, you’ll encounter ghosts in the form of ruins that were once ancient markets, administrative buildings, and religious sites. Therefore, arranging a guided tour is definitely preferable if you want to immerse yourself in the past of the Roman people.
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3. Palatine Hill
Rumoured to be the site upon which the wolf-raised twins Remus and Romulus founded The Eternal City, Palatine Hill is the most historically prominent and well-known of the seven hills of Rome. Venture into caves or discover the ruins of the first emperor, Augustus’ abode. Alternatively, you could pay tribute to an ancient Phrygian goddess by visiting the Temple of Cybele and breathing in the mythological atmosphere – whichever you choose to do, this adventure is yours to write.
4. Pantheon
Like a pathway to a time long past, the Pantheon stands tall at the heart of the city, exuding dignity and power in every facet of its structure. Having been erected in 125 AD, the tombs of historical figures such as Raphael the artist and King Victor Emmanuel II are found here. If you’re visiting in the summer, put on some sunblock before making a trip down to the monument on Sunday Mass over Pentecost weekend, during which rose petals will dance with sunlight as they cascade down from the central oculus.
Source: Pexels/ Chait Goli
5. Trevi Fountain
The most famous fountain in Europe, bar none, the Trevi Fountain lies not too far from the Pantheon and somehow manages to make the baroque palace behind it look like an accessory to its own majesty. Built in the 18th century, this romantic spot has been the site of many marriage proposals. There’s also a legend about coin-throwing here: it is said that visitors should throw two coins using their right hands over the left shoulder, one to make a wish and one to ensure a return to Rome in the future.
6. St. Peter’s Basilica
Not located in Italy in the legal sense of the term, instead being within the confines of the Vatican country-within-a-country, St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the holiest buildings in the teachings of the Catholic faith. Featuring art from art titans like Michaelangelo and Bernini, the decoration and details of its interior are sure to inspire wonder within even the sternest non-believers. A climb up to the dome will also reveal a bird’s-eye view of the equally-iconic St. Peter’s Square.
7. The Sistine Chapel
One of the most famous religious chapels in the world, it’s not hard to see why this beautiful building inspires the belief in God in the hearts of visitors. Much of the artwork in the building was commissioned by Pope Julius II and painted by none other than Michaelangelo, whose detailed work can be spotted on the chapel’s ceiling. Another iconic Michaelangelo piece, the Last Judgment Fresco, also calls the chapel its home, thereby earning the chapel its reputation as a centre of religious art.
8. The Piazza di Spagna, or The Spanish Steps
Perhaps one of the most famous staircases in the world, the Spanish Steps are popular among tourists and locals alike for their beautiful views and relatively relaxed nature compared to other parts of the city. The stairs climb up to the Trinita dei Monti church and lead down to a square speckled with restaurants and cafes for your weary feet to rest in. Snap a picture using your Android phone atop these historical steps for the perfect picture of your own little Roman holiday.
Whether you’re seeking romance, adventure, history, or culture, Rome offers a little bit of everything across its streets and plazas. The 8 sites listed here are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Roman attractions; there are far more places of historical or cultural importance as worthy of a visit as any of the entries on this list. Regardless of where your Roman holiday takes you, you’re sure to fall in love with every nook and cranny of this wonderful city.
