This article is an attempt to present the ‘must see’ sights in La Citta Eterna from a visitor’s POV. The city that reared some of the most prominent characters the world has come to admire. Now, let me introduce to you, The Eternal City, Rome.…Read More

This article is an attempt to present the ‘must see’ sights in La Citta Eterna from a visitor’s POV. The city that reared some of the most prominent characters the world has come to admire. Now, let me introduce to you, The Eternal City, Rome.

First stop, the Colosseum. This ancient structure was once home for thrilling competitions, inhumane entertainment, and theatrical presentations. Now, it survives as one of the thresholds that can take us back to a time where toga-clad individuals rule the land. One may say that the Colosseum has surpassed the wrath of time. I beg to differ. Deterioration and time walks hand in hand. And this treading is very much evident by the assault received by the interior walls. If asked to compare the interior and the exterior, I would say that the exterior frame is more remarkable. (Not to mention that seeing the exterior wall is free).

But if you do decide to buy a ticket to view the inside, I suggest that you stick around for a spectacular view of the sunset. Watching the sun bid adieu as it peeks through the eroding archways is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Oh, and I forgot to mention, the ticket you purchased (to get in the Colosseum) that also serves as a ticket to the Palatine. So do not throw that ticket. That’s a two for one value.

Second stop, the Palatine Hill. I have to admit, we accidentally stumbled on Palatine Hill (simply because the line in the Colosseum was too long). However, it was not a let-down. Actually, it was a welcomed surprise. And for someone who inadvertently visited the place, this is one hidden gem. In this hill a number of imperial ruins will be seen, one example of this is the Flavian Palace. Relics and ruins are scattered all over the verdant fields and remarkable pathways. One more thing that makes Palatine special is its elevation. Its natural contour stages an impeccable view of the Colosseum and the Circus Maximus.

Third stop, the Monument to Vittorio Emanuele II. This is what the locals call, the wedding cake. Plainly put, the edifice looks like it was stacked, like the layers in a wedding cake. Another name given by the locals is false teeth. Visually, the entire monument is glaringly white. If your surrounding structures are sharing various shades of brown, it is not hard to see why teeth became the perfect designation of such building. Anyway, this was built to challenge the enormity of St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican. Close but it didn’t really steal the limelight from St. Peter’s Basilica. Today, it houses a military museum, a burial place, a huge bronze statue, and a wonderful view of the historic district or the Centro Storico. And it is free.

Forth stop, the Trevi Fountain. With all the fountains in Rome, this is the most dazzling. Yes, this is where you throw a coin. The fountain showcases Neptune and other figures which symbolize prosperity and health. Now, it has been said that if you toss a coin into the Trevi, you will find your way back to the Eternal City (and your wish granted). The wish-granted part is quite unlikely, though what have you got to lose? Right?

Fifth stop, the rest---meaning, the rest of the sights. Rome presents a hundred more column heads, a few more olden monuments, numerous eroding structures, and dozens more of awesome sights travelers would definitely want to see. Climb the hills, visit the Pantheon, have a break in the Roman forum. At night, return to the sights you have visited. Go see the Vatican and visit the Basilica. The list goes on. Savor a bite of panini, take pleasure in eating a gelato, sip authentic cappuccino.
Keep in mind, when in Rome, do what the Romans do.
Close

MONEYSAVING TIPSWATERDon’t pay for water. Rome can be hot and you’ll probably need a lot of water, but you don’t have to pay for it. Unlike any other city, Rome distributes free, tasty, cold water for everyone who is thirsty. All you have to do…Read More

MONEYSAVING TIPS

WATER
Don’t pay for water. Rome can be hot and you’ll probably need a lot of water, but you don’t have to pay for it. Unlike any other city, Rome distributes free, tasty, cold water for everyone who is thirsty. All you have to do is spot one of the more than 2500 NASONI located all over the city. Close the pipe with your finger and drink from the water fountain that spurts up from the little hole! The name "nasone" means "big nose" and comes from the shape of the pipe on most of these fountains. Don´t be afraid to drink from them: each year more than 100,000 laboratory tests are carried out to assure the pristine purity of the water.

ROMAPASS
There’s a great way to save money and make your trip a little easier. Pick up a Roma Pass tourist card and you get: reduced admissions at museums around the city; three-day access to all city transport; a map of the city; discounts at certain exhibitions and performances; a city guide to current events.
Price: € 25
Where to buy: tourist information points, main airport, several museums
More information: at www.romapass.it/?l=en

DON'T SIT AT CAFES
In Rome, cafes charge much more when customers sit at the tables. This is normal and legal. Space is at a premium and you have to pay for it. You can pay 2 to 3 times as much for seated "table service", so know what you’re getting into. Of course, waiters will often encourage you to sit at a table, but don’t sit down unless you are really want to. LO PRENDO AL BANCO means "I’ll have it at the bar."

DANGERS AND ANNOYANCES

PICKPOCKETS
It’s true, Rome is rife with pickpockets. Don’t be a victim of Rome’s most popular crime. Pickpockets prey particularly on tourists: you’re likely to be distracted by your new surroundings, carrying some cash and, best of all, you probably prefer to return home rather that stick around for a prosecution. Pickpockets love popular areas such as Termini Railway Station, the Colosseum, and the Via del Corso. Bus number 64 and the subway stops are also favorites.
Do not keep all your money in one place.
Do not have your backpack on your back in crowded areas.
Do not carry your wallet in your back pocket.
Always be mindful of your surroundings.

CROOKED CABBIES
We have heard too many stories of even Rome’s taxi drivers, even the official ones, charging 25 euro for a ride from Termini railway station to a hotel just 5 blocks away. A good way to avoid this:
LOOK AT THE METER WHEN YOU GET INTO THE CAB, it should read 2.80 euro, or 4.00 euro if it is a Sunday or Holiday, or 5.80 if it’s after 10:00pm. If the driver knows that you are you are reading the meter, honesty usually prevails.
CHECK FOR ‘TARIFFA 1’ ON THE METER. This is a common trick. There are two tariff rates in Roman cabs: Tariffa 1 and, much more expensive, Tariffa 2. Within the city—absolutely everywhere inside the ring road—you should only be charged at Tariffa 1.
WATCH THE METER WHEN YOU ARRIVE. This is another common trick. The driver must press a button on the meter when you arrive, but watch to make sure the button that he presses does not make the fare bump up.
TAKE YOUR LUGGAGE OUT BEFORE PAYING. If you think that you might have a bad cabbie, remember that if they don’t have your luggage, they won’t have much leverage.
ASK THE CONCIERGE FOR ASSISTANCE. If you think the cabbie is trying to rip you off, get the concierge or the maitre’d and tell them where you rode and how much you’re being charged. They will be fair about your fare.
POINTEDLY WRITE DOWN THE CAB NUMBER and demand a receipt when you think you’ve been ripped off.
REFUSE TO PAY. There are some bad cabbies out there. Their gamble is that tourists avoid confrontation. Don’t hesitate to stand up for yourself.
CALL ROME’S COMPLAINT HOTLINE at 060606.

Remember, there are some JUSTIFYABLE EXTRA CHARGES:
There is a per-item luggage surcharge of about 1 euro.
The starting cab rate is higher between 10:00pm and 7:00am.
There is a € 2 surcharge when originating at Termini station.
When phoning cabs, the meter starts with the call, not on pick-up.

FAKE GLADIATORS
If you want to take a picture with the fake gladiators standing near the ruins, ALWAYS settle on a price FIRST. Otherwise, you might be surprised when a dangerous-looking gladiator decides your "bill" is 20 euro.

RESTAURANT OVERCHARGES
Some of Rome’s restaurants make a hobby of overcharging unsuspecting guests. Don’t be lazy: it could cost you. There was a recent scandal when the press found out that a foreign couple had been charged 700 euro (1000 dollars) for a simple lunch. This kind of thing (usually on a smaller scale) happens at all levels of restaurant, no matter how much the waiter smiles. Our advice will save you some money:
Know all the prices BEFORE you make your choices. Some dishes will be on the menu and others won’t, so don’t be ashamed to ask how much things cost. Most common: the shared appetizer the waiter offered, does it cost 10 euro or 40 euro? And the house wine could cost 3 euro a glass or 10. The daily specials might be a good deal at € 20 but not at € 40. Always ask!
Check the bill and make sure it only includes what you ordered and at the prices you remember. Mistakes are common, though they are rarely in your favor.
Check the menu for service charges and table charges. This is the most confusing thing because Italy has no real rules on these kinds of charges: some restaurants have them and others don’t. Usually, however, these charges are noted in small print somewhere on the menu. The service charge is often 10%, and when this is the case you can tip much less than you otherwise would. The table charge, where it exists, is usually noted on the menu and bill as "coperto" or "pane" and at moderately-priced restaurants it runs € 1 to € 2.50 per person.
Tip when you’re treated well, don’t tip when you’re treated poorly!

FLOWER AND PHOTO SELLERS
Although not dangerous, many people find the ubiquitous flower and photo sellers really annoying during their stay in Rome. A walk or outdoor dinner can be interrupted several times. Your reaction will provoke their insistence that you accept their "gifts" but—unless you want to buy them—never let them "give" you flowers, bracelets, etc. Your best tactic is to limit the conversation to "no, grazie".

ITALIAN CASANOVAS
If you are a lady walking by yourself in the center of Rome you might be interrupted by an Italian gentleman asking you for directions. After a small introductory question he will go into raptures over your beauty and then invite you to join him, perhaps for a cup of coffee. Obviously, you are kind and willing to talk to this pleasant-if-quirky stranger for a few minutes but wait till you try to get rid of him: these guys stick to you like glue! They are all over Rome, they come in all shapes and sizes, and you will see the same ones in the same piazzas hunting for tourists day after day. These men are widely-known by locals and foreigners alike and there's even a name for them in the Roman dialect: piacione (which can be loosely translated as "flatterer"). The best way to avoid being harassed by them is simply not stopping and not indulging them in conversationClose

Prior to coming to Rome I knew what I wanted to see: the Vatican, Sistine Chapel, Vatican Museums and Saint Peter’s Basilica. The only thing I didn’t know was what differs these attractions, are they all in the same place? The older I am the…Read More

Prior to coming to Rome I knew what I wanted to see: the Vatican, Sistine Chapel, Vatican Museums and Saint Peter’s Basilica. The only thing I didn’t know was what differs these attractions, are they all in the same place? The older I am the more I know, so for all of these confused travelers I prepared a little explanation.
The Vatican and the Holy See
First of all you have to remember that the Vatican is a separate country, indeed the smallest in the world (about 0.2 square miles). Although there are people living there, none of them can feel too comfortable; they will never become permanent residents! Like every country, the Vatican has its own post office, bank and even its own butcher shop. Although you can’t actually go inside and buy the same beef that the Pope eats (unless you have special permission) you can send a postcard from the Vatican Post Office which is available to everyone (a lot of Romans say it works better than the Italian one!).
The Holy See isn’t the same thing as the Vatican. The Vatican was established as a country only in 1929 whereas the Holy See has been in existence almost from the beginning of Christianity. The Holy See, "Santa Sede", maintains the international relations and represents the Catholic Church on a worldwide arena. Let’s say colloquially that the Holy See acts like the government of the Church based within the territory of the Vatican.
The Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel
The Vatican Museums are some of the biggest in the world and although a lot of people say: "We would like to see the Vatican Museums and then the Sistine Chapel", I’ll tell you: "Don’t worry, you will see both, because it’s not possible to reach the Sistine Chapel without passing through the Museums". One important thing: Remember about the dress code! You have to have your knees and shoulders covered otherwise you risk not being allowed to enter the Sistine Chapel and the Basilica. Water bottles are allowed and strongly recommended as in the summer time the Museums get really hot! Also I’d recommend you going on a guided tour otherwise you might miss a lot. I used Rome Illuminated Tours. My guide Alex led me through the maze of corridors, galleries and courtyards bringing history to life with her wicked stories.
The Basilica of Saint Peter
While going to the Museums and Sistine Chapel means paying the entrance fee (15 euro adults; 8 students), going to the Basilica is free and accessible through Saint Peter’s Square. If you visit the Museums you can go to the Basilica using the right-side exit from the Sistine Chapel which will guarantee you skipping the line. Otherwise you might spend a while waiting to go inside. It is absolutely necessary to see this huge church dedicated to the first pope, Saint Peter. Geniuses like Michelangelo, Bramante, Bernini, and Fontana worked on it for 120 years, so need I say more to convince you?
Close

It seemed like everyone had an excuse not to go to Rome with me, no time off, no money, rather sit home and write a novel etc. I was in a position to travel there cheaper than I probably will ever be able to…Read More

It seemed like everyone had an excuse not to go to Rome with me, no time off, no money, rather sit home and write a novel etc. I was in a position to travel there cheaper than I probably will ever be able to again and Rome has been on top of my travel list for a decade so I decided to just go for it.

I had travelled quite a bit but never by myself so this trip was already an adventure before I left for the airport. I had a window seat so I was able to watch the city appear beneath us as we approached. It was incredible, I could make out all sorts of landmarks. I could not wait to get started on my adventure. I arrived at the discount Ciampino airport. There seemed to be only one way out for those unwilling to pay for a cab: a bus at the end of an impressively long line.

I finally made it to the train station and set out on foot for my hostel nearby. I only had time to check in and grab a slice of pizza at a nearby cafe before it was too late and too dark to do anything else.

It seems a universal rule that everyone gets up at 8 in youth hostels and this was no exception. I was out by 8:30 and headed out on the subway to the Vatican. The line looked interminably long but moved quickly and wound up being only about 20 minutes. Apparently the line is shorter later in the day but I would imagine it's also much much hotter. Getting in finally I went to the right when it seemed everyone else veered left. This was a good call because there is no return once you head left toward the Sistine Chapel. The other gallery that I was completely alone in had all kinds of artifacts and interesting Roman history. Compared to the human crush of the rooms on the way to the Sistine Chapel this place was deserted and I took my time exploring.

Once I set out with everyone else towards the Sistine Chapel I had to keep moving forward with the crowd and it was hard to take time and appreciate what I was seeing. The sheer energy and enthusiasm of the crowd was impressive, however and I got the feeling that this was a real dream fulfillment for a lot of the people that were there. None of what I saw inside the Vatican was disappointing and much of it was inspiring. Worth the high ticket price.

What I learned this first morning was that you should wear very good shoes as Rome demands a lot of walking. This was the only time that I bothered with the subway. Rome is very walkable and city maps are available everywhere. I also got the feeling that riding the subway was a great way to make sure you were pickpocketed.Close

I will preface this story with the fact that while I am a holder of a Religious Studies degree, I am personally not religious. This experience was incredible, however. If you happen to be in Rome over Pentecost, you must make a stop…Read More

I will preface this story with the fact that while I am a holder of a Religious Studies degree, I am personally not religious. This experience was incredible, however. If you happen to be in Rome over Pentecost, you must make a stop at the Pantheon.

I had no idea what I was wandering into, only that I had all day to wander and the Pantheon was on my list of attractions to be seen. I arrived at the ancient site a little before noon. There was a large crowd outside and I'm a big believer in crowds knowing more than I do in most circumstances, so I joined in. We waited in front of the closed door for a good fifteen minutes or so. This was not a hardship.

Just observing the building from the outside was fascinating and looking at evidence of how it has been changed and adapted over more than a millenia is a wonderful way to spend some time. I had no idea what to expect when they finally opened the doors.

They let us all in in a flood of people and we all spread out around the edges of the round room. The center was roped off and filled with folding chairs for the mass that was coming to a conclusion. We were able to hear the final minutes of the mass be sung in Latin and the sound bounced around the dome, echoing. When the mass concluded, everyone's eyes turned upward. There is a hole in the top of the dome, the only way they would prevent the heavy stone from caving in. The weather was sunny and fine this day and the sunlight was streaming in. Then rose petals began to fall down through the opening.

They caught the sunlight and it looked like they were catching fire as they fell. They kept falling for what felt like forever and everyone just stood and watched as they fell all over the whole congregation.

I learned later that this is an annual celebration of the descent of the Holy Spirit. All I knew at the time was that being in this ancient building, listening to Latin verses bounce and echo along the walls and seeing rose petals fall from the sky was definitley going to be the highlight of my trip to Rome.

Check your calendars if you're headed to Rome in the Spring and if your trip falls over Pentecost, by all means make the time for this most unique Roman experience.Close

These are just a few of the Rome’s outstanding churches, many dating back to the Middle Ages or even earlier. While the selections chosen here are all outstanding examples, this list is by no means exhaustive. It’s closer to the truth to say that there…Read More

These are just a few of the Rome’s outstanding churches, many dating back to the Middle Ages or even earlier. While the selections chosen here are all outstanding examples, this list is by no means exhaustive. It’s closer to the truth to say that there are countless churches filled with priceless artistic treasures in Rome, and the average traveler will likely view just a small sample of the riches that lie within the Eternal City.


St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican
Of all the churches in Rome, travelers are most likely to visit this one, and for good reason. As the world’s most famous church (and epicenter of the Catholic Church), its artistic treasures are legendary. Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel alone is likely the most important work of Renaissance art ever created.


San Giovanni in Laterno
Known for its giant statues of Christ and his twelve apostles, San Giovanni is Rome’s official cathedral and "Church of Popes." The Baroque interior was designed by Barromini, who modeled it on St. Peter’s Basilica. Under the portico, visitors will find a statue of the Emperor Constantine, who donated the land on which the church was built. Its bronze doors date to the age of the Forum in Rome, and the wooden table at the altar is believed to have been used by St. Peter himself.


Santa Maria, Trastevere
With its stunning Byzantine mosaics, this 12th century church welcomes visitors with its frescoes of the "Wise and Foolish Virgins," which tell the legend of the discovery of oil on this site, thought to have happened in 39 BC. Inside, the "Fons Olii" marks the spot where the oil first flowed. The main attraction of Santa Maria, however, are its golden mosaics by Pietro Cavallini ("The Life of the Virgin") behind its altar, dating to 1291, which mark a turning point in art’s development by their use of perspective. This is undoubtedly one of Rome’s oldest churches, and its visually arresting giant columns were taken from ancient Roman temples. The gilded ceiling is a later addition (1617) designed by Domenichino.


Santa Maria supra Minerva
This Gothic church is famed for its frescoes by Fra Filippino Lippi and "Risen Christ" by the painter Michelangelo. As indicated by the church’s name, this structure was built atop an ancient temple to the goddess Minerva, by the Dominicans in 1280. Under the main altar lies the tomb of St. Catherine of Siena, and the church is also the final resting place for the famed artist Fra Angelico. Outside, look for Bernini’s charming elephant statue.


Sant’Ignazio
Once the chapel of the Collegio Romano, this dazzling fantasy of a church is a Baroque spectacle that is meant to counterbalance the 17th century’s Counter Reformation impulses. The largest Jesuit church in Rome, which honors the order’s patron saint, it contains Fra Andrea Pozzo’s famous "Allegory of the Missionary Work of the Jesuits" (1691-1694). What is truly stunning about Sant’Ignazio (in addition to its gilt ceilings and bejeweled interior) is the use of trump l’oeil to create the illusion of a dome, where there is none. Standing on a marble disk marking the spot inside the church, visitors are able to get the maximum effect of the illusion.


Santa Maria, Cosmedin
Originally built in the 6th century for the city’s Greek population, this Roman church is perhaps most famous for another reason. Its portico is the location of a stone fragment, "Bocca della Verita" (Mouth of Truth), which legend has will crush the hand of any liar in its stony grasp. The church’s interior is moody Medieval, a Romanesque creation. Located across from what was once an Ancient Roman cattle market (later a spot for public executions), this church has a haunting quality.


Santa Maria, Aracoeli
Designed in 1348 to celebrate the end of the Black Death in Europe, this Romanesque-Gothic church is located on Capitoline Hill at the end of a 137-step entrance. These stairs are where Gibbon is said to have been inspired to write his famous tome about the decline and fall of the Roman Empire. The church is built on the site of an Ancient Roman temple, dedicated to Juno Moneta and housed a mint (hence, the origin of the word money from "moneta"). According to legend, a female prophet predicted the coming of a "Redeemer" to the Emperor Augustus, and he in turn built the "Ara Coeli" (Altar of Heaven). Today the church of Santa Maria is best known for its "Santa Bambino" (a wooden replica of a 15th century Baby Jesus statue).


San Clemente
This church is half basilica, half archaeological site, sitting atop of a 2nd century temple to the pagan god, Mithras. The upper church dates to the 12th century, and is famous for its mosaics and marble choir screens decorated with Early Christian symbols, such as vines, doves, and fish.


As apparent from just the brief descriptions of these magnificent structures, many of the city’s most stunning churches reveal rich layers of its history. No matter what time of year visitors come to Rome to visit these unique buildings, it’s clear that they are in for some awesome exploration.

Close

Flying to Italy was a much different experience than flying to the UK. First of all, there was no pre-check in security check at the airport - Virgin stops you when you're in line to check in and asks a bunch of questions and…Read More

Flying to Italy was a much different experience than flying to the UK. First of all, there was no pre-check in security check at the airport - Virgin stops you when you're in line to check in and asks a bunch of questions and puts a stamp on your passport. That didn't happen with Alitalia. And all I needed was my passport - they just swiped it through their machine and out came my boarding pass. Very efficient. I can't say they're "warm and fuzzy" the way Virgin is - you take the seat they give you, people traveling together get split up, big deal. And really, what is the big deal? I will admit, I missed some of the comforts that Virgin gives you - the seatback videos for one (Alitalia still has the movie screen in the middle of the aisle and you watch what they show you). But, the food was good, and they gave us a "real" breakfast - a hot, and I mean hot sandwich and very good coffee!

Getting into Rome was another experience. I seriously thought I was going to be able to leave the airport without ever showing my passport to anyone - you get off the plane, pick up your bags and trek through the terminal - it's all clean, well thought out, very easy to get around, even for someone who doesn't speak Italian. Then, right at the exit, there's the passport control. But again, it's just, show your passport and out you go.



Close

Rome is not a joke. With more than 2000 years of history there is A LOT to see. It will definitely be a challenging trip – hills, steps, ruins, cobblestones will guarantee you exercise that your personal trainer never dreamt about. But it is WORTH…Read More

Rome is not a joke. With more than 2000 years of history there is A LOT to see. It will definitely be a challenging trip – hills, steps, ruins, cobblestones will guarantee you exercise that your personal trainer never dreamt about. But it is WORTH IT! It’s like sightseeing Paris, New York, Istanbul and Buenos Aires in one city. From the historical point of view, Rome is like a big "mamma" of these cities, a goddess who gave birth to Western civilization!
A trip to Rome will definitely be unforgettable and by saying that I mean that Rome can be magnificent, exciting and even sensual, but at the same time it can be frustrating, tiring and stressful. There are thousands of bad restaurants, taxi drivers who want to fleece you, and, of course, far too much to see and do in just one visit.
As for the RESTAURANTS I recommend you slip off the main roads and avoid the places that cater exclusively to tourists: I know that eating in front of the Pantheon is visually tempting, but you’ll find much better food and prices just around the corner outside the piazza. Most of the best places are on small streets so walk a few blocks, take a few turns and sniff out something good. One of the great places for a pizza is called La Gatta Mangiona, which requires taking a tram (nr 8) or a taxi and for a more posh choice I recommend Il Antico Arco at the top of the Gianicolo Hill. (One important thing: in Rome you should always check the bill and make sure that you are actually paying for what you ordered and not contributing to the waiter’s new scooter!)
In a city like Rome you shouldn’t miss a good guided TOUR. But because there are so many choices and the prices are not the world’s lowest, you want to make sure that your money will be well spent. The best guide will not only give you reliable information and lead you through the meander of Rome and the Vatican, but also convey the excitement, provide insights, and advise you on what the city has to offer depending on your needs. There are a lot of good tour companies (and also a few bad ones). I recommend the one I used on my second Rome trip, Rome Illuminated Tours. There was no way we could be bored for one second during the tour and our native English-speaking guide was a real treasure full of useful tips and information.
The last important thing is a HOTEL. I am not a backpacker, but I also don’t like to spend the fortune on hotels. But the magic of the city is downtown and it’s worth the extra money to stay right in the middle of things. Try Teatro Pace 33 near Piazza Navona or Il Palazzetto at the top of the Spanish Steps. Hotel Paba is a good budget option near the Colosseum. If you want a posh retreat, look up Hotel Cavalieri which, although far away from the center, has one of the best restaurants in Italy, La Pergola.
I hope that my tips help you prepare a better trip. I could write a few more pages, but I don’t think that there is space for it! Buon viaggio!
Close

Whenever we think about taking a holiday to Rome, the most famous sites come to mind. The Coliseum, the Vatican City, the Pantheon, Castel Sant’Agelo and more. While all of these attractions are great and you must see them whilst visiting the city, there are…Read More

Whenever we think about taking a holiday to Rome, the most famous sites come to mind. The Coliseum, the Vatican City, the Pantheon, Castel Sant’Agelo and more. While all of these attractions are great and you must see them whilst visiting the city, there are many other nice places to visit outside of Rome. The only way to visit all of the cities and historic places outside of the urban center is with a car hire Rome. You can pick up the car hire Rome from the international airports or the many locations around the city.

If it is your first time visiting Rome, it is best to spend a couple of days in the center. Go to all of those famous attractions that draw huge crowds throughout the year. It is best to pick up the car hire Rome on about the third of fourth day of the vacation. You should be ready for a break from the busy city life by then. If you are visiting the city for the second or third or fourth time, it is best to pick up the car hire Rome straight away because you will not need to do as much sightseeing in the center. After you have secured the car hire Rome, you can choose from the list below to find the best destinations to go for a day or night or however long you choose.

1. Latina – This city is located just 72 km to the south of Rome. You will have a really easy drive provided you do not leave during rush hour. The closeness of Latina means you can leave early in the morning and come back in the evening. The main attraction is the city hall, but the most fun will be at the beach. Latina is a nice place to visit because you can have a nice day on the seashore, while avoiding the huge crowds near Rome.

2. Pescara – On the opposite coast of Italy, you will find the beautiful city of Pescara. The population is just over 100,000 people and you will feel more culture than in the big tourist cities. The harbor is amazing, the beaches are stunning and the walking areas are bountiful. The only time you will need the car hire Rome is to drive the 210 km across the country. It is one of the prettiest drives you can take in Italy and you will be amazed at the different landscapes in such a short distance.

3. Perugia – This city is simply one of the best in Italy. Located in heart of you country, Perugia will teach you the meaning of what a small medieval old town should be. The charming walkways and high city walls are easily the most perfect places to spend a day. One 180 km from Rome, you will get here fast with the car hire. It is best to stay for at least one night so you can taste the great food and tour the unique attractions.
Close

The paths winds through green lawns lined with stone busts. The early October sun is still strong. The air fills with bursts of children’s laughter and the low hum of old friends chattering. In this hillside paradise you can lose yourself and forget the bustling…Read More

The paths winds through green lawns lined with stone busts. The early October sun is still strong. The air fills with bursts of children’s laughter and the low hum of old friends chattering. In this hillside paradise you can lose yourself and forget the bustling city below.

The Villa Borghese is in the heart, both in shape and location, of Rome, Italy. Once the private estate of the wealthy Borghese family, the park with a 3 ½ mile circumference houses two world-renowned museums, a duck pond, nightclubs, restaurants, breathtaking sunsets and serenity.

Located between Flaminio stop and Spanga on Metro A, the beautifully landscaped public parks runs behind such notable sites as Piazza del Popolo and La Piazza di Spanga. Hours will pass as people read on lone park benches, feed ducks by the Villa Borghese pond and watching couples taking a "passagata" or leisurely stroll.

In the Villa Borghese you are very safe being alone. No one will bother you, excluding the occasional tourist who mistaking you for a Romani and may ask for directions.

One of the best places for people watching, the Villa Borghese offers something for everyone and every group size. Two of Rome’s many museums the Galleria Borghese and Galleria Nazionale d’arte Moderna e Conteporanea are located at the northern corners of the park. Galleria Borghese, the old Borghese mansion, houses such famous works as Titan’s Sacred and Profane Love, Caravaggio’s Jerome, Raphael’s Deposition, and Bernini’s Apollo and Daphne. Make sure you plan ahead and make reservations because there are only a certain number of people allowed in the museum at a given time. Galleria Nazionale d’arte Moderna e Conteporanea or the National Gallery of Modern Art houses more contempory artists like van Gogh, Degas, Monet, and Pollock along with the largest collection of Italian modern artists.

If museums are not your cup of café, there are plenty of outdoor activities in the Villa Borghese. You can cheaply rent a rowboat for an hour and leisurely float in the duck pond located at the eastern end of the park near the National Gallery and right off the pedestrian walkway, Viale dell’ Aranciera. The pond houses a hidden Greek temple and is a picturesque place for photo ops. Another fun thing to do is to rent the bikes. Mountain bikes are best for the more active tourist who wants to do some serious biking on the lovely trails. Multi-person bikes are better for leisurely riders wander through the luscious green park. Both are available on the eastern side of the park and the multi-person bikes are available for three or six people. Just make sure you stay out of the way of the city buses, which rattle down the main roads.

If you are looking for something more romantic try the common spot for Romani lovers, the Pincio at dusk, which overlooks Piazza di Popolo. Gorgeous sunset routinely frame the silhouette of Saint Peters. The Pincio is an overhang above the Piazza di Popolo, located in the southern part of the park right off Viale dell’ Obeslisco. You can also reach it by climbing the stairs in the northeast corner of Piazza del Popolo.

If you are looking for an upscale restaurant with equally amazing views there is no reason to leave the park. Casina Valadier, originally built between 1816 and 1837, was restored and reopened in 2004. With a café in the garden for an espresso break, an expansive wine cellar for aperitif and a restaurant housed in the upper floors and terraces, Casina Valadier is a beautiful place with the feel of the old world with the amenities of the new.

Whether you are traveling alone for a month or passing through Rome with a party of twenty, Villa Borghese is a great place to relax from the stress of traveling and floating between the modern day Rome and Rome of the past.

Side bar

Borghese Gallery and Museum
Piazzale del Museo Borghese, 5
00197 Rome, Italy
Information and Tickets BookingTel. 0039 06 32810
http://www.galleriaborghese.it/default-en.htm
Open Tuesday to Sunday, from 8:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Ticket Office Closes at 6:30 p.m.
Full Ticket Price €8,50

Galleria nazionale d'arte moderna
Viale delle Belle Arti, 131
00196 Rome, Italy
Ticket Office Tel. 0039 06 322 98 221
www.gnam.beniculturali.it
Open Tuesday to Sunday 8:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Last entry to galleries is 40 minutes before closing time.
Full rate Exhibitions and Gallery € 10,00

Casina Valadier
Piazza Bucarest
00187 Rome, Italy
Tel. 0039 06 699 22 090
www.casinavaladier.it/
Open Everyday From 12:30-3:00 p.m., 8:00-11 p.m.

Close