italy
Rome
The Eternal City, where ancient history unfolds amidst iconic landmarks such as the Vatican City Colosseum, Roman Forum, and the Spanish Steps. From the cobblestone streets to the art of Michelangelo in the Sistine Chapel, every Italian experience ends with tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure your return to Rome.
Wander around Rome
Travel by plane: there are several cheap flights to Rome all year round.
Cars in the city: driving in Rome is not a smart option. The traffic is chaotic and the Italian drivers aren’t the kindest and courteous ones.
Public transportation: there is an absolutely impressive public transportation system in Rome. You can use buses, trolleys, railways and trams all around the city. If you stay for a few days you can consider the Roma Pass to buy.
Extra tip: There is also Uber in Rome. It can be also an option for farther distances in the city.
It is also can be very romantic to walk around the city. You can find many hidden cute shops in the small streets.
Currency: In Italy they use Euro.
Rome is absolutely one of the cities on your Italy list. I listed my favorite spots and sights, but remember! Every time you visit a city there is something you can find to amaze you!
Rome was built on seven hills. Today, the city has gone beyond its original boundaries, which gives us a great opportunity to see the skyline from above. (Belvedere Gianicolo, Giardino degli Arance, Villa Borghese, Villa Doria Pamphili, Park of the Aqueducts terraces to see the city above)
The Vatican
It is closely tied to Rome’s heritage, and there is a wealth of art and history to explore in its Vatican Museums. Start early to beat the crowds, and climb to the top of the dome of St Peter Basilica for an epic view! The Vatican museums are one of the finest collections in the world. That also means that it’s really crowded in the opening hours. Another option is visiting after opening hours, which costs a lot. But for the rest of us, the best alternative is the VIP after-hours with aperitivo tour.
St. Peter’s Basilica’s Dome
The highest point in Rome was made by Michelangelo! The best view of Rome is worth the stairs and I recommend going there in the morning to see how Rome works.
The Pantheon
It’s the only ancient Roman temple that survived virtually intact, although the original structure burnt down twice, because of its wooden materials. Today’s known building which is made of stone was believed to made by Apollodorus of Damascus. If you only have one day in Rome, this building is a must-see.
Villa Borghese
One of the seven hills view locations, with an incredible secret garden where you can walk around or rent a rowboat. The 16th-built villa whos originally belonged to Cardinal Scipione Borghese. Today gives home to the impressive Galleria Borghese.
Trevi Fountain
Trevi Fountain is among the world’s most magnificent fountains. This iconic masterpiece is situated at the back of Palazzo Polli right in the center of Rome. Throw a coin in the iconic Trevi and legend has it that one day you’ll return to Rome. The fountain was designed by Nicola Salvi in 1732 and depicts the sea god Oceanus with his seahorses. It was also featured in Fellini’s La Dolce Vita. The fountain’s facade tells a gripping story of its history.
Roman Forum
Roman Forum, which houses Trajan’s market, is the relatively intact ancient Via Biberatica. Three in one, the Roman Forum is close to the Colosseum where you can buy access to the Arena Floor which is recommended if you wanna see anything among the crowd. Believe me, it’s worth spending more money on that ticket for the better view and the feeling the Gladiators had back then when they stood and waited for their fight to come. The Capitoline Museum is also next to the Roman Forum. Michelangelo had a massive effect on the exterior appeal of this three-building complex. He was the mastermind of the layout of the museums and also the stairs leading up to Piazza Campidoglio, which are named la Cordonata.
The Spanish Steps
this staircase with 135 steps in Piazza di Spagna was made famous by Audrey Hepburn’s 1953 film Roman Holiday. In front of the staircase, there is a street with high-end shopping due to the concentration of luxury stores nearby. Italy’s most famous shopping street via Condotti.
Rome’s Catacomb
You can visit the catacombs by yourself almost any time of the year. Although it’s recommended to buy a tour ticket, which includes the Appian Way and the Capuchin Bone Crypts too.
Palazzo Altemps
one of the “secret” museums I recommend to visit. Although you can do that only with a local tour guide, it is worth to see Throne with the Birth of Venus, Ludovisi Dionysus, Ludovisi Throne, Ludovisi Battle Sarcophagus, The Courtyard, The Suicidal Gual.
la Bocca della Verità
The Mouth of Truth was also in Audrey Hepburn’s movie Roman Holiday. The more than 2.000 years old discs were originally in the Temple of Hercules. Now is situated across the street in the Santa Maria Cosmedian Church. For 2€ you can take a picture while you take a picture with it while you take your hand inside the mouth and hope not to bite it if you lie.
Vicus Caprarius
Are you a fan of ancient ruins? Then this a place for you! You can go under the Trevi Fountain to find the source of its water, and also you can find some ruined building complexes from the height of the Roman era.
Italy
Italy’s charm is just simply unforgettable! The country that renowned for its rich history, stunning landscapes, the experience of ‘la dolce vita’ and delectable cuisine, beckons travelers from all corners of the globe. Even you choose the most visited cities (like Rome or Venice) to the hidden gems of the country (like Cinque Terre, Florence or the magic of Toscany) you not gonna disappoint. Italy promises you an unforgettable journey filled with culture, a land synonymous with romance and beauty, and iconic culinary delights with varius options.
I know that Italy’s popular destinations certainly hold undeniable allure, and I’m not saying that Rome or Venice not worth the money to see these incredible cities, BUT there is something truly special about venturing off the tourist trail. There are some lesser-known corners of the country that you’ll find the true essence of Italy – the warmth of its people, the richness of its ancient culture, and the harmony of its landscapes, all waiting to be discovered by adventuress travelers like you.
Know Before you go
Currency: like in most European countries, Italy uses Euro. Don’t worry, you can pay by card in most places, and you can find an ATM in most cities and villages, but it’s good to have some cash with you in case you wanna buy some fresh fruit in the local market.
Language: most people speak only Italian so get prepared to learn some basic sentences or download the free app SayHi. It is a great app that can help you out.
Plugs: In Italy, the normal voltage is 230 V with a 50 Hz frequency. They use Type C, F, and L plugs, so I recommend buying a universal adapter and a converter.
