TRIP TO ROME: TIPS FOR EXPERIENCED TRAVELERS
sergiy
January 31, 2019
If you want to visit the main attractions for free, we
advise you to come during the Week of Culture in Rome. It usually takes place
in mid to late April (exact dates change every year). These days, all museums
and memorials, except those in the Vatican, operate in a free-to-enter mode.
And on Sundays in the morning hours there is also free admission to city
museums, but be prepared for an influx of tourists and for the fact that
because of them you can hardly see anything.
The most popular attraction of Rome - of course, the Colosseum. You can not imagine how many people per day want to explore it. Therefore, we strongly advise in advance to buy a ticket for one of the excursions there and then not to stand in a long line. In addition, you can buy a combined ticket for two days with the possibility of visiting the Colosseum, Palatin and the Roman Forum, which will significantly reduce the cost of entrance tickets.
For those who have limited means, there are always
free attractions, which, nevertheless, will allow to learn the history of Rome
and explore the panorama of the city. So, you can get on the Janikul Hill, from
where a wonderful view of the city opens up. Or walk along the Appian Way - an
open-air museum where you can see churches, mausoleums and villas. Also free to
enter the Imperial forums (do not confuse it with the Roman Forum). However,
literally every house in the center of Rome is a creation of great masters,
therefore, even if you are out of money, without impressions you will not leave
here for sure.
In connection with the previous statement, we recommend more walking around Rome on foot. This is how you can explore the beautiful memorable places - the Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navonna Square and the Spanish Steps - and experience the spirit of the history of the Eternal City. But it is also useful to go beyond the borders of Rome: very close, 30 minutes away, is the beach of Lido-Ostia. It is here that locals come to relax and sunbathe. You can get there by train. Also from the station of Rome you can go to Frascati - a small cozy town, which is famous all over the world for its wine.
Eat in cafes and restaurants, located away from the
main attractions. Of course, the Piazza Navonna meal is very attractive, but
unfairly expensive. It is much cheaper to eat in places far from the center.
Traditional Italian pizza al taglio, which is prepared in many fast food points
throughout Rome, is perfect for a snack. It is also a sin not to try local
products, because Italian cheeses, pasta and meat products are known all over
the world.
Do not disdain the fountains with fresh water scattered throughout the city. Even locals carry empty bottles with them and take in clean and cold water. It is completely safe for your health.
Sights of Rome
Sights of Rome, which are required to visit, because
they are "business cards" of the Eternal City:
Vatican: St. Peter’s Cathedral and Vatican Museums.
Plan a trip to the Vatican for the whole day and come in the morning to the
opening to minimize standing in line. A great time to visit is the post-Easter
period, when the entrance to St. Peter’s Basilica is free. Be sure to note that
the entrance to the Vatican Museums, where the famous Sextus Chapel is located,
is located on the other side of St. Peter’s Square.
The Colosseum is a terrific monument. Entrance to the
Colosseum is paid and you can buy a general ticket to the Colosseum and the
Roman form.
The Roman Forum is a remnant of former greatness from
the Roman Empire.
The Pantheon is a beautiful temple in the center of Rome,
with a hole in the dome.
Trevi Fountain - don't forget to make a wish! But
watch out for personal things.
Castle of the Holy Angel and the Bridge of the Angels
- located near the Vatican.
The square (piazza) Navona is a haven for artists and
creative people. There are many interesting shops in the district.
The Spanish Steps are a very crowded landmark!
Also it will be no less interesting to visit:
Vittoriano (Monument to Victor Emmanuel II) is a white monumental building that can be seen
from almost any part of the city, built in honor of the union of Italy. Inside, two museums - one
dedicated to the fleet, and the second - the national liberation movement (Risorgimento). Borghese
Gallery. Villa Borghese. Catacombs of Rome. The mouth of truth. Terme Caracalla (imperial baths).
Sao Paolo-fuor-le-mura. Mausoleum of Kai Cestia.
It should be noted that both lists are far from exhaustive!
In Rome, every home has its own beauty and history. There are many magnificent
fountains and monuments, and columns and aqueducts - witnesses of bygone eras
are found everywhere. You can also visit interesting sights around Rome. If
possible, visit the city of Tivoli, where Villa Adriana and Villa d’Este are
located.