Historied and hilled bare, Rome is a museum without walls. Its legacy ancient ruins and iconic landmarks stand the test of time, but each time it is a new thing. Read on for a personal guide to enjoying Rome with absolutely minimum effort, and where to sleep, eat and what to avoid as a tourist in the Eternal City.
The Pantheon: A Timeless Wonder
Historians may dispute exactly when the Pantheon was built (though nobody disputes its elegance), they all agree that it’s majestic. According to the common consensus, Agrippa had designed and built the architectural genius of the Pantheon between 25 and 27 BC.
The oculus, which is famous as the “Eye of the Pantheon,” is the play. Suppose that you are inside in the rain, watching the water move through the slight curve of the marble floor and quietly disappear through the round opening. That’s the sort of thing that just sort of proves the prowess of Roman engineering.
It’s an important stop but it’s such a quick visit: 15 minutes will take in the grandeur. Its dome is colossal, freed from modern reinforcements and so an eternal symbol of resilience.
The Coliseum and Roman Forum: A Walk Through History
But if you really want to dive a little deeper into Roman history, the Coliseum and Roman Forum should never be missed. Unlike the Pantheon, the Coliseum is going to take you a half day. The guided tour, such as one from Viator (around £85 per person) is greatly recommended.
You’ll find the Forum usually included with these tours — it’s like stepping into an old time machine. The new over the old: Ancient ruins are woven into a layer of newer structures in Rome. There’s a stand out site, in the Forum’s south, near Piazza del Campidoglio, that reveals almost every stage of its history; from foundation pillars to modern renovations.
Where to Stay in Rome
A best choice for access to major attractions, Hotel Romano offers convenient access. Within a five minute stroll is the Coliseum. But it doesn’t have breakfast services, and the clean rooms, friendly staff and prime location make up for it.
Breakfast in Rome: Getting a hearty breakfast is not easy. Light pastries, such as pistachio croissants— a local specialty that is probably somewhat bewildering for traditional breakfast people— abound in many spots.
Dining Recommendations
Rome’s food scene is about a feast for the senses. Here are three standout restaurants you shouldn’t miss:
- Iari The Vino (Via Frangipane, 27): An authentic place, with Italian dishes.
- Osteria Fernanda (Via Crescenzo del Monte): Great for doing a refined dining.
- MARE NOSTRUM Seafood: An excellent seafood and modern twist.
Travel Tips and What to Avoid
Do Not Bother with Hop-On, Hop-Off Buses
These tours are fantastic ways to see other cities, since Rome is so walkable, they are unnecessary. Television often features stops that are too lengthy and little commentary that is interesting.
Book Vatican Tours in Advance
The queues for the Vatican are brutal, but it’s a must see and a skip the line tour really helps. You can do early morning tours of course, otherwise you’re going to spend hours in the sun with frustrated tourists.
Trevi Fountain: Brace for Crowds
The Trevi Fountain is pretty, but the mobs of tourists can be so intimidating. But here, it’s become an obsession: the path to snapping ‘the perfect’ photo. A solution? Or maybe a one-photo-per-person rule where everyone but you is paying attention, or a trivia test to earn photo privileges!!!
Weather Prep and Final Tips
Rome’s weather alternated between scouring shafts of sun and brisk showers. To protect you from sunburns and from surprise downpours, pack SPF 50 sunscreen and consider carrying a compact umbrella.
This magnificent city is more than I can see, so much always hidden, always left to experience. Let’s keep the love for Rome alive! Drop a suggestion!
Jackson Reed is an avid traveler and adventure seeker, sharing tips and stories from around the globe to inspire your next journey.
