Hey everyone!
Apologies for slacking in my posts recently, I have officially moved to Freiburg in Germany, and spent last week in glorious Italy. While adventuring here, I had the pleasure of visiting the city of Rome for the first time, and the trip was packed with absolutely incredible experiences. After this trip, Rome has officially topped the charts as my favorite city in Europe (so far). Here are some of my top picks and tips for an unforgettable trip to Rome:
Favorite Food Spot: PanDivino - Focacceria Taperia
If you're craving the buttery, crispy perfection that is Focaccia bread with Italian flavors (served with a warm smile and hospitality), look no further than PanDivino. Located in the heart of Rome, this beautiful shop stole my heart with its delectable food and friendly ambiance. From heavenly focaccia to tantalizing tapas and a delicious glass of fresh Sangeria, every bite screamed perfection. Plus, it's budget-friendly. For two sets of tapas, two Sangeria's, and a whole sandwich, by partner and I spent less than 25 euros. Trust me, I am already planning a return visit!
Favorite Tourist Attraction: The Sistine Chapel
Prepare to be awestruck by the timeless beauty of the Sistine Chapel -- in fact, this masterpiece only gets better with time. While the lines can be daunting (we spent over 3 hours waiting to enter the chapel, including walking through the Vatican Museum), booking a tour in advance can be worth it in order to skip the line. We found the tours to be priced anywhere between 50 and 90 euros, depending on the time of year. The intricate details of Michelangelo's masterpiece will leave you speechless, and if you can snag a seat, you'll have the perfect vantage point to soak it all in. For those looking to save a bit of money, Rick Steve's audio tour is a fantastic alternative to the guided tour. Within 30 minutes, the audio tour narrates some of the most interesting aspects to the Sistine Chapel, and the best part is it's free.
Favorite Walking Path: Rome-ing through the Streets
One of the joys of Rome is its walkability, allowing you to stumble upon ancient wonders at every turn (literally, every turn). While strolling along Via dei Fori Imperiali towards the Colosseum is a must in order to see the heart of the excavated city, my personal favorite journey takes you from the tranquil banks of the Tiber River through vibrant streets and iconic landmarks. This trail passes through Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, and the Trevi Fountain. Although, be wary, the path can get very congested in some parts, leaving some places in complete stand-still, especially during high tourist season.
Favorite Museum: Museo di Roma
Also along my favorite walking path, Museo di Roma in Piazza Navona houses some of the most stunning pieces in Rome. Adorned with exquisite artwork and historical treasures, this museum offers a captivating glimpse into Rome's past. As well, by signing up with the MIC card during your stay, you can visit this museum and many more for a one-time fee of 5 euros. It is a budget-friendly way to immerse yourself in art and history.
Favorite Adventure: Ancient Appian Way e-Bike Tour
For a journey off the beaten path and away from (most of) the really crowded areas, embark on the Ancient Appian Way e-Bike Tour. Here, my group and I pedaled through ancient streets, marveled at towering aqueducts in huge parks just outside of Rome, and explored the depths of the catacombs of S. Callisto. Top it all off with a delightful dinner and a glass of wine, and you've got yourself an unforgettable Roman adventure. This tour lasted over four hours and cost 47 euros per person.
From savory bites to awe-inspiring sights, Rome captured my heart in every way imaginable. I hope these tips and recommendations help you create your own unforgettable Roman holiday. Happy travels!
Best,
Hailey
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