Rome, the sprawling, bustling Italian city that is known to the world for its inspiring architecture and art, still has more to offer besides the iconic Colosseum and the largest St. Peter’s Basilica. Look at a touristy destination like Roman with fresh eyes. Rediscover its beauty with this unique guide.
First, Gelato
It’s tempting to hit the big places right away when you’ve reached the city. But breathe for a little while and try the local Italian foods first. Tourists often prioritize sights over tastes but the best way to know the city is by filling the stomach.
Go on a food tour first. Take your pick, though it’d be nicer if you can go to the Trastevere neighborhood where you taste the very foods that put Italy on the world map street style – pizza, gelato, pasta, and more. There’s also another food tour offering near Campo Fiore, where you not only eat but learn how the Italians cook.
Climp up the Janiculum Hill, next to the tallest hill in metropolitan Rome, that offers a breathtaking city view. When in Rome, you definitely trade skyscrapers for leisure walks and stylish architectural sights.
Stroll in the City
Strolling is the best way to experience any city. You’ll discover nooks and crannies you haven’t heard of. If you’re coming from Travestere, take a bus all the way to the city center. You must see Plazza Navona, surrounded by palatial churches and fountains. The infamous fountain of Neptune is definitely not one to miss.
From there, you can go straight to the legendary wish-granting Trevi Fountain featured in many movies via the stately Pantheon building. The tickets are free in the beautiful temple Pantheon, so you can tour around at will. Then you can proceed and have your ice cream sitting on the Spanish steps.
The list of the many other must-see places in Rome are the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the
Vatican, the seat of the Roman Catholic Church. You can definitely have your desktop research and take a self-guided tour. But if you’re in for some deeper, more interesting facts about these sights, book a tour.
Cruise through the River
A unique way to experience the lively city of Rome is to traverse along the Tiber river. Tickets are available for anyone’s grab. The view from a boat deck offers you a quiet but rich experience in the middle of a bustling city.
As you cruise along, your tour will have stopovers at Roman landmarks like Piazza Spagna, Piazza Venezia, and the Castel S. Angelo (the impressive fortress originally built as a mausoleum for the emperor).
And if you want a more localized experience, you can get back to the Trastevere neighborhood and cross the river. The island called Isle Tibertina offers the best evening merriment with many outdoor activities and quality bars, especially during summer.
Cap the night at Campo de’ Fiori
Rome is a city worth walking every waking hour. Spend your last night at the cool district of Campo de’ Fiori, branded as the hipster ground. But really, anyone who’s up for fun and drinks, is welcome. The cobbled streets of the square look equally beautiful and colorful in the daytime, known for its fruits, veggie, and flower markets.
There’s so much more than the historical tours in Rome. Besides the known places, less mainstream districts offer you just about the same exciting and rewarding experience.
