Rome, Italy - Recommendations

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All roads lead to Rome and eventually, all travelers must visit Rome.  The rise and fall of the Roman Empire is nothing compared to the city it left behind.  The glorious city is so full of history, charm, and crazy drivers that it should be a mortal sin to not visit Rome at least once in your lifetime.

 

Colosseum:  My first glimpse of the Colosseum was surprising.  I wasn’t expecting to turn a corner and see it at the end of the street, even though I was following a map that clearly stated that it would be there.  For some reason, I always think of the Colosseum as being off on its own and not in the middle of a busy city.  Silly, I know, but it was just surprising to turn a corner and see it sitting at the end of the street.  If I can make one observation, it would be that you really do need a tour to see this place.  There is just so much there and so many half-truths told about the place that you really need a tour to sort it all out and get the real story of the building.  I didn’t know a fraction of the information I learned while on my tour of the Colosseum.

 

Roman Forum:  I am a bit embarrassed to admit that I didn’t know that the Roman Forum was there or what it was.  So glad I took a tour and learned first, the history of the forum and second, the importance of this site.  It is a long and storied history and really amazing to see and experience.

 

Palatine Hill:  Again, I didn’t know what this place was but once I learned its history and what was there it was quite enthralling to walk around and take it all in.  If for no other reason, you need to visit here for the views of Rome and the Colosseum.  Rome is known as the city of Seven Hills and this is one of the seven and offers beautiful views and a chance to orient yourself with the city.  Take some time here to learn the history of the site and what its role has been through its history.

 

Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and Spanish Stairs:  These can all be seen on a walking tour of Rome.  They are wonderful sites and it is nice to have a guide to help you find your way as well as the significance of each site.  These are all worth a visit and some effort to learn about their history.  For example, when visiting Trevi Fountain take some time to observe how the fountain gradually grows out of the building.  It starts as slabs of travertine that slowly morph into the fountain.  It is truly an amazing site and should not be missed.  Viewing it from the front only will only give you a part of the beauty that is the Trevi Fountain.

 

The Vatican and Sistine Chapel:  You will need some time to see this section of Rome.  I know I keep saying it, but it continues to be true, book a tour.  More specifically, book a “Skip the Line” tour.  During peak season, the line to get it can be hours long.  What a shame it would be to spend most of your time in line.  Too much to see and do to waste it standing in line.  One little tidbit if you have the time.  Look for a place called “the Key Hole”.  It offers a view of Rome that you would never imagine.  Check it out.

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