Traveling to Rome was a truly memorable experience for both of us and we think it should be on every traveler’s bucklist. You can easily fill 4 to 7 days in Rome but it depends on your schedule. We chose to stay 4 days in the city and enjoyed it as much as possible.
We also will be very honest about our trip to Rome. It’s crowded. Really, really, really crowded. Prepare yourself for seeing some reconstructions. Don’t freak out if you’re seeing half of the Colosseum covered in scaffolding, it’s very normal. Besides that, it’s an amazing city with so much character.
How to get around
The cheapest way to travel from Fiumicino airport to the city is by bus. Terravision is a company that offers low airport transfers which costs €3-€5,90 (one way) and it takes approx. 50 minutes to get to the city centre. If you’re planning to take the bus you should book your tickets in advance.
Where to stay
We spent 3 nights in Maison Althea Rome which is a Bed & Breakfast. It’s operated by a local who will inform you about Rome and tell you everything you need to know. Breakfast is served (in your room: yes, heaven on earth!) everyday between 7 AM and 10 AM.
What to do
Vatican city
Spend a day in the smallest state in the world. You can easily take the metro (Line A) and get out by the stop: “Ottaviano,” it’s the closest to Vatican City.
Tip: It will be crowded anyway so you better go early to avoid the mass.
St. Peter’s Basilica and climb the dome
Go visit the St. Peter’s Basilica. It’s one of the greatest churches we’ve ever seen. The entrance fee to the dome is €5 and there are 551 steps waiting for you. For €7 you can skip the first 230 steps and use the elevator. We suggest you take the first option since you probably want to burn that pizza you ate the night before.
Enjoy the view from the Pincio Terrace
From Piazza del Popolo you can take the stairs up, just follow the signs “Pincio”. Once you reach the terrace you’ll see an amazing view over the city.
Row a boat on Villa Borghese Lake
Wander around in Villa Borghese and hire a boat. It’s the perfect stop for those who love parks and nature. The park is located in the heart of Rome.
Victor Emmanuel II Monument
This building was built in honor of Victor Emmanuel II, who was the first king of Italy. It’s located between the Piazza Venezia and the Capitoline Hill.
Colosseum and Forum Romanum
After visiting the Victor Emmanuel II Monument you can go to the Colosseum and Forum Romanum, it’s within walking distance.
Pantheon
The pantheon is one of the many famous tourist attractions. It’s a really impressive building to visit, easy to get there and it’s one of the few to-do’s which are completely free.
Spanish Steps
Audrey Hepburn made the Spanish Steps famous to an American audience in the 20th century. The steps are one of the must see places in Rome. So, go sit on the steps, watch people and go window shopping afterwards.
Trevi Fountain
Everyone has probably heard about the Trevi Fountain. It’s the biggest fountain in Rome and one of the most famous fountains in the world. It’s extremely crowded so we decided to visit it late night. However, throw a coin in the fountain and the legend says you’re returning to Rome one day. (Even though we don’t need a coin for that. Rome, we will meet again one day!)
