If you’re walking or cycling along the Via Francigena, set aside an extra day to fully immerse yourself in the magic of the Eternal City. After completing the final section of the Via Francigena from Viterbo to Rome, you’ll find that Rome offers a treasure trove of cultural and historical experiences. Here are the key spots you shouldn’t miss when exploring Unmissable Rome.
Breathtaking Views from Monte Mario
As you near the end of your journey into Unmissable Rome, the Via Francigena leads you to Monte Mario. This high vantage point offers stunning panoramic views of the capital. From here, Rome’s beauty unfolds before you, creating a memorable entry into the city. Descending from Monte Mario, you’ll follow the Via Triumphale, an ancient Roman road, as you approach the Vatican. It’s a grand introduction to the city’s heart and its historical significance.
Entering St. Peter’s Square
Upon arriving at St. Peter’s Square around midday, the transition from the peaceful solitude of your previous days to the bustling energy of Unmissable Rome can be overwhelming. The immense scale of the square, paired with its grandeur, makes it one of the most iconic spots in the world. If you’re lucky, you might arrive just before an audience with the Pope, which takes place in this very square. On such occasions, part of the square is set up for seating, reducing its capacity by about 60% but adding a unique vibrancy to the scene.
Castel Sant’Angelo: A Step Back in Time
Just a short walk from St. Peter’s Square, you’ll find the imposing Castel Sant’Angelo. Originally built as a cylindrical mausoleum for the Roman Emperor Hadrian in 130 AD, it was later transformed into a fortress for the Pope during unrest in the 14th century. This historic building is well worth a visit. The tour takes you through the castle’s ancient interior, where you can admire its preserved red brick walls, mosaic floors, and the wide corridors once used for horse-drawn carts. It’s a vivid snapshot of Roman history, offering a glimpse into the city’s ancient and papal past.
Trastevere at Night: Rome’s Lively Heart
No visit to Unmissable Rome is complete without experiencing the charm of the Trastevere district, especially in the evening. If you’re looking for excellent food, vibrant energy, and a truly Roman atmosphere, Trastevere is the place to be. The neighbourhood is a maze of cobbled streets, ancient courtyards, and bustling piazzas. As you wander through this lively district, you’ll come across open-air restaurants offering authentic Italian cuisine, street performers adding rhythm to the night, and market stalls selling beautiful leather goods and silk scarves. Exploring the local churches in Trastevere is also a highlight; while some may be lesser-known, they are all exquisite in their own right.
The Colosseum: A Roman Icon
One of Rome’s most famous landmarks, the Colosseum, is a must-see. It’s best to arrive early in the morning to avoid the heavy crowds, as it is one of the most visited attractions in Unmissable Rome after the Vatican. Various local tour providers offer guided visits to the Colosseum, with different options depending on what you want to see. When choosing a tour, it’s worth asking a few key questions:
- How many people are in each group? Smaller groups usually mean a more intimate experience and the ability to cover more ground.
- What areas of the Colosseum are included in the tour? Some tours cover the general areas, while others include the basement, upper floors, and the Roman Forum.
- How long does the tour last? Allocate enough time to make the most of your visit.
- What is the price? Tours vary in price based on the length and content.
A comprehensive tour often covers the ground floor, upper levels, the Roman Forum, and the surrounding ancient city if you’re interested in exploring the basement, which offers a fascinating look at where gladiators and animals were kept before entering the arena, book in advance, as these tours are particularly popular.
Discovering the Roman Forum and Ancient City
The tour of the Roman Forum was about an hour long and covered highlights such as the Via Sacra, the Imperial Palace, the House and Temple of the Vestals, Palatine Hill, and the Roman Senate. Walking through these historical landmarks gives you a sense of ancient Rome’s immense power and grandeur. Each corner of the Forum seems to hold a story, and the ruins tell tales of the city’s once-mighty empire.
After your guided tour, it’s well worth exploring Unmissable Rome’s ancient city at your own pace. The area is brimming with history, and you’ll be surrounded by fascinating remnants of Rome’s glorious past. Every structure you encounter seems to unfold more layers of the city’s incredible story, leaving you with a deep appreciation for its rich cultural heritage.
Additional Recommendations for Your Rome Visit
When planning your time in Unmissable Rome, consider adding these additional experiences to your itinerary:
- The Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel: If you haven’t explored these iconic sites yet, it’s worth dedicating a morning to immerse yourself in their world-renowned art and history.
- Piazza Navona: Known for its beautiful fountains and lively atmosphere, this is a lovely spot to stop for a coffee and watch the world go by.
- Pantheon: One of Rome’s best-preserved ancient buildings, the Pantheon is an architectural marvel.
- Tiber River Walks: A peaceful stroll along the Tiber River offers picturesque views of the city and its bridges.
- Gelato: Indulge some authentic Italian gelato at one of the many gelaterias scattered throughout the city.
Exploring Unmissable Rome offers a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and tastes. Every corner reveals something new, making it a city you could visit again and again and still discover something different.
For more information on Via Francigena or Guided walking tours or to book your Italian adventure, feel free to contact us.
