When in Rome…there is simply so much to do! The good news is the city is extremely easy to navigate with most of the must-sees located within walking distance of each other. Though the list of sights to see is long, there are definitely some that you don’t want to miss—here are our four favourites:
1. The Colosseum. Standing in front of this ancient super-structure it’s almost impossible to fathom it was built in AD 80. Though you are free to wander and explore the Colosseum on your own, the best way to see it, and learn the vast and varied history of one of the greatest works of Roman architecture, is via a guided tour. Though the gates close at dusk, be sure to take a stroll by at night to see the Colosseum lit up—it’s magnificent!
2. Vatican City. Prepare to be awed by the size of St. Peter’s Square and the opulent extravagance of St. Peter’s Basilica. The Basilica itself has the largest interior of any Christian church in the world, with the capacity to hold 60,000 people. The architecture is breathtaking and you could literally wander inside St. Peter’s for hours soaking it all in. One must to watch for is Michelangelo’s famous Pietà, which dates back to 1499. Just down the street from St. Peter’s is the Vatican Museum, home to Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel and his famed fresco The Last Judgment. Crowds can be thick, but don’t let that stop you from seeing these masterpieces.
3. The Trevi Fountain. As one of the city’s most iconic landmarks—made famous by Fellini’s film La Dolce Vita—the crowds can also be crazy in front of the Trevi, but be patient and wait for a good vantage point in front to open up so you can soak in all its glory. The largest baroque fountain in Rome, this lush and layered masterpiece by Bernini depicts a mythical taming of the water by Oceanus. Of course you must toss a coin in the fountain while there. Legend holds you are ensured a return to Rome if you do.
4. The Borghese Gallery. After taking in the Trevi Fountain, continue on to this gallery which houses one of Rome’s most impressive art collections including some of Bernini’s greatest works. Standing tall against a backdrop of Caravaggio, Titian, Raphael and Rubens paintings are Bernini’s masterful sculptures: David, Apollo and Daphne, and the Rape of Proserpine. Get up close and examine the amazing details he created with marble.
To make your Roman honeymoon a breeze, be sure you book a hotel that’s close to all the action. We stayed at the Hotel Mediterraneo (bettojahotels.it), a charming old-world property boasting one of the best (and most romantic!) views of the city from its rooftop resto.
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