Spending a week in Rome was an unforgettable experience. My journey began at Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport, a modern hub located a fair distance from the city. For some reason, the name Fiumicino has stuck with me ever since.
Getting into Rome was surprisingly simple, with plenty of transport options available. Whether you prefer Taxis, Uber, the high-speed Frecciarossa train, buses or the shuttle, there’s something for every budget. The shuttle is the most economical choice at around $8, conveniently dropping you off at Rome’s main station.
Once in the city, navigating Rome is effortless thanks to its efficient and frequent subway system. A weekly pass costs just $25, making it a fantastic deal for exploring every corner of the Eternal City. While the subway is a convenient way to get around Rome, walking is truly the best way to experience the city. Every corner is steeped in history, every street a treasure waiting to be discovered. From grand piazzas to hidden alleyways, there’s a magic in exploring Rome on foot that no form of transportation can match. Whether you’re stumbling upon a tucked-away café or turning a corner to find an ancient ruin, walking allows you to soak in the charm and beauty of the City in its fullest.
I’d choose to walk everywhere in Rome, taking in the city's breathtaking sights at every turn. But when my feet needed a break or I had to reach a destination quickly, the subway would be the perfect backup—efficient, reliable, and always ready to get me where I need to go.
Rome is a city overflowing with breathtaking sights, but here are some of the absolute must-see attractions:
Colosseum– Step into history at this iconic amphitheater, where gladiators once battled for glory. The Colosseum is a ticketed attraction that can get quite crowded, especially during peak hours. For a more immersive experience, you have the option to book a personal guided tour, which offers deeper insights into its fascinating history. While much of the structure is in ruins, it remains a must-visit landmark for history enthusiasts, providing a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Rome and its legendary gladiatorial battles.
Vatican City – Marvel at St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the incredible Vatican Museums. Vatican City is open for visitors free of charge, though entry to some of its renowned museums requires a ticket. As the residence of the Pope, it holds deep religious and historical significance. If you time your visit right, you may even see the window from which the Pope waves to the crowd during special appearances.
Expect large crowds and long queues, as this sacred site draws countless visitors daily. Security is tight, with guarded entrances ensuring safety. Surrounding the Vatican, you’ll find numerous restaurants offering delightful Italian cuisine—whether you crave a traditional meal or just a refreshing gelato, there’s no shortage of options to indulge in.
It’s common to encounter local guides promoting tours, and if they’re not offering excursions, they might be handing out coupons for nearby restaurants—often earning a commission in the process. These deals can be a great way to discover hidden culinary gems while supporting their efforts, but it’s always worth checking reviews many before committing to any offer.
Pantheon– An architectural wonder with its famous oculus, standing strong for nearly 2,000 years. The Pantheon is a lively and popular spot, attracting both tourists and locals alike. With its fascinating history and stunning architecture, it's no surprise that the area is often bustling with crowds. Whether you're admiring the grandeur of the ancient structure or simply soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the surrounding piazza, expect plenty of activity and energy in this iconic Roman landmark.
Trevi Fountain – Toss in a coin and make a wish—a classic Roman tradition! The tradition at Trevi Fountain is that flipping a coin over your shoulder is believed to bring love into your life. Young visitors, especially girls, often record themselves tossing their coins, sometimes redoing it until they get the perfect shot.
It’s fascinating to watch how creative and enthusiastic people get with this ritual, adding their own flair to an age-old tradition. Unsurprisingly, the fountain is always packed with people eager to take part. I joined in the fun too, tossing my coin into the water, just being part of the moment made it a memorable experience.
Spanish Steps – A lively and picturesque staircase, perfect for people-watching and soaking in the atmosphere. The Spanish Steps have gained worldwide fame, appearing in numerous films and even the beloved sitcom “Everybody Loves Raymond”. If you’ve seen them on screen, the perspective might feel a little different in person.
Tourists naturally gather here, eager to capture their own piece of Roman magic. The staircase is said to have 135 steps, though I never counted them myself! At the base, a beautiful fountain adds to the charm, and just beyond, a posh shopping street invites visitors to stroll through its elegant boutiques. It’s a lovely area to explore, whether you’re window-shopping or simply soaking in the atmosphere. Yes! There is a good old McDonald’s too right at the bottom of the steps.
If you find yourself at the Spanish Steps at night, consider heading to the park at the top. From there, you’ll get an elevated view of Rome, with the city lights stretching out before you in a breathtaking panorama. It’s a stunning sight, offering a peaceful contrast to the bustling crowds below.
Unlike the steps themselves, the park is much quieter at night. While the solitude can make for a serene experience, it can also feel a bit lonely and even eerie at times. Still, for those who appreciate quiet moments and sweeping views, it’s a hidden gem worth exploring.
Piazza Navona– Home to stunning fountains, charming cafes, and restaurants, a vibrant Roman ambiance. It is a huge place.
Roman Forum & Palatine Hill – Walk through the heart of ancient Rome, where politics, commerce, and daily life once thrived. The Roman Forum and Palatine Hill stand as preserved remnants of ancient Rome, with every pillar, arch, and stone carefully conserved. Though largely in ruins, these sites still offer a profound glimpse into the empire’s grandeur.
Visitors can capture stunning aerial views from above or walk through select areas among the ruins, immersing themselves in centuries of history. Nestled in the heart of the city, these landmarks serve as a powerful reminder of Rome’s legacy, seamlessly blending with the vibrant modern streets that surround them.
Trastevere – A charming neighborhood with cobblestone streets, fantastic food, and a true local vibe. Trastevere is an incredibly picturesque neighborhood, with charming, walkable alleyways that feel straight out of a storybook. Every turn invites you to snap a photo—whether it’s the colorful houses, quaint apartments, or historic buildings draped in greenery.
The walls adorned with lush vines and blooming flower pots add to the dreamlike atmosphere, making it a place where time seems to slow down. This enchanting scene isn’t unique to Rome—Venice, Florence, and many other Italian cities boast beautifully maintained alleys that are just as mesmerizing.
Villa Borghese & Galleria Borghese – A breathtaking park and art museum featuring works by Bernini, Caravaggio, and Raphael. Borghese Park is an expansive green oasis in the heart of Rome, dotted with historical statues that add a touch of grandeur to its scenic beauty. The park’s vastness allows visitors to stumble upon wildlife, as well as the occasional horse-drawn buggy, offering a charming glimpse into old-world elegance.
For those looking to stay active, it’s a fantastic place to go for a run, exercise, or take a leisurely stroll. If you’re seeking a peaceful escape from the bustling city, this park provides the perfect retreat for an afternoon of tranquility.
Italians are known for navigating their cities in small cars and scooters, often weaving through traffic with speed and precision. Like much of Europe, driving can be fast-paced, and during peak hours, congestion can be intense—similar to what you’d experience in New York City, pedestrians typically wait for the light to cross, following the flow of urban movement. And beyond the lively traffic, Italians are warm and welcoming people, always ready with a friendly smile and a passion for good conversation.
I found it amusing that gas stations in Italy are often located right on the sidewalk, blending seamlessly into the urban landscape. The compact cars are so small that they could easily be parked perpendicular to the road, making the whole scene feel almost surreal. It’s just one of those quirky details that makes exploring Italian cities such a unique experience.
I saved food for last because it truly deserves a moment of admiration. Italian cuisine takes pasta and pizza to another level—the pasta is so delicate it practically melts in your mouth, while the pizza is paper-thin, crafted with precision by skilled chefs right before your eyes. Watching them work the dough is an art in itself, though these days, you’re more likely to witness this in smaller towns, as city pizzerias often display pre-made slices behind glass cases. They heat it up when you order
In Italy, ice cream and pastries are simply irresistible. With countless gelaterias and bakeries lining the streets, the temptation is everywhere—you won’t be able to resist indulging in at least one! The gelato is rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, while the pastries are beautifully crafted, offering everything from flaky croissants to decadent cannoli. Whether strolling past a charming café or pausing for a sweet treat after sightseeing, these delights are an essential part of the Italian experience.
Step into a large supermarket outside Rome, and it’s a feast for the senses—barrels of olive oil infused with fresh leaves, an overwhelming selection of seafood and cheeses, all tempting enough to make your mouth water instantly. Yet, despite Italy’s culinary mastery, I found myself struggling to get a good cup of tea amidst all the gastronomic.
Rain is a frequent visitor in Rome, and when it does pour, it often comes sideways, making a regular umbrella almost useless. Be prepared with a raincoat or poncho to stay dry, especially if you're planning to explore the city on foot. Checking the weather forecast for your visit is a smart move, ensuring you're ready for Rome's unpredictable showers.
The farmer’s market is a fantastic spot to visit, not just for fresh produce but for connecting with locals and experiencing the vibrant community. Open on weekends, it offers a lively atmosphere filled with vendors showcasing their goods.
While exploring, I met a young man selling vegetables like carrots and zucchini. He had designed a unique peeler/shredder that transformed vegetables into spaghetti-like strands—his very own invention! Watching him demonstrate how it worked was fascinating.
When he learned I was visiting Italy from America, he generously offered me free vegetables and even one of his peelers. The generosity extended beyond him—many booth owners shared snacks with fellow vendors, creating a warm and welcoming environment that truly reflected the spirit of the market.
Paris may boast about being the ultimate romantic city, but I find that Rome exudes an even deeper romantic charm. There’s something about its timeless atmosphere, the way the golden light falls on its ancient streets, and the intimate energy of its hidden corners that make it feel incredibly romantic. Whether it’s strolling through cobblestone alleyways, sharing a meal in a candlelit trattoria, or watching the sunset over the Tiber River, Rome has a way of capturing the heart in a way that feels effortlessly magical.
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