Rome: The Eternal City

Rome Travel Tips

Rome has dozens of nicknames such as the eternal city, the capital of the world, and the city of lovers. We know that each nickname was given to this city for a reason, but believe me, it really deserves it all. Rome, a great city with thousands of years, is like an open-air museum for visitors. The city has a unique spirit that combines fun nightlife, legendary history, intellectual art activities, and Italian food and beverage culture. This wonderful spirit puts the city at the top of people's travel lists.

I will also refer to the beautiful places in the Vatican City State within the recommendations. To remind you, the Vatican city-state, located within Rome, is the smallest independent state globally, both in terms of size and population. The Pope, the spiritual leader of the Catholic denomination in the city-state, is the head of state with absolute monarchy. This small state is home to spectacular architectural works and important places that must be visited.

If you look at hotel prices, you can find hotel rooms at very affordable prices. Still, my advice to you is that if you are crowded, you will definitely rent a house. Thus, you will stay in much better quality places for the same fees.

Before the my favourite places I would recommend specifically, the most valuable advice I can give you would be to visit Rome on foot rather than on a tour bus. In this way, you will increase your travel pleasure and enjoy the city to the fullest, because Rome is a city full of surprises. Rome is not a cheap city, but it can be a more affordable city compared to other touristic towns. That's why you can buy great things to remember as you explore the city streets. Don't forget to get caught up in the magic of the nightlife and experience great pizza, spaghetti, and coffee. As a final suggestion, it is of the same importance to take care of your personal belongings in Rome as in every touristic city.

Then let's explore the eternal city together…

1. Colosseum

The Colosseum, one of the most iconic structures of Rome, is a good choice in terms of its location as the starting point of your trip. This mighty arena has witnessed many gladiator tournaments and different events that Roman emperors personally participated in. It can be said that it is called mighty because it can accommodate up to 80,000 spectators and is 188 meters long.

The Colosseum, where the death of many living things took place for 450 years, has become a symbol against death sentences today and is open to visitors with its aesthetic architecture. Finally, wherever you are in Rome, it is effortless to reach, just get off at the Colosseo stop for any kind of public transport.

2. Pantheon

Pantheon, an ancient temple, literally means "monuments where famous people are buried." The tombs of kings, queens, important figures, and artists, who have a place in history, are located here. This temple, which was built for all gods, has been used as a church since the 7th century after it survived a great fire disaster.

An exquisite example of classical Roman architecture, the Pantheon is one of the most important works of its era. The magnificent one-piece dome in the temple's interior was designed with an Oculus hole to allow daylight to enter.

3. Roman Forum

While you're at the Colosseum, don't forget to visit the Roman Forum, the center of ancient Rome, very close to it. The forum has also hosted influential artists such as Maerten van Heemskerck, Pirro Ligorio, Canaletto, Claude Lorrain, and Giovanni Paolo Panini. Here are the places that have survived from these essential works, which you should definitely see and examine for a long time;

House of the Vestals

Arch of Septimius Severus

Temple of Castor and Pollux

Arch of Titus

Temple of Saturn

Temple of Antoninus and Faustina

Keep in mind that you can enter this fantastic place, one of the well-preserved open-air museums of today, with the ticket you bought for the Colosseum.

4. St. Peter’s Basilica

This church, which is the largest church in the world and the highest structure in Rome, is considered the holiest place for Catholics. According to belief, the church was built on the place where Jesus was crucified. The greatest Renaissance artists such as Michelangelo, Donato Bramante, Raphael, and Gian Lorenzo Bernini took part in the basilica construction. When you enter the basilica, it is possible to feel enchanted because it has a beautiful design that has been worked on even for the smallest detail.

As a recommendation for the basilica, I can tell you to go early in the morning. Since it is both a religious and touristic place, long queues can form at the entrance. Alternatively, you can avoid waiting by taking private tours to the St. Peter’s Basilica. Before forgetting, there is a dress code; it is forbidden to enter with clothes that do not cover the body enough, such as shorts.

5. St. Peter's Square

I talked about the Vatican City State; it is impossible not to see the square that has become the symbol here when you go to Rome. St. Peter's Basilica, this square is shaped around an obelisk placed in 1 BC. Look carefully around your surroundings, you will discover great details in every building.

6. Vatican Museums

While you are at the Vatican, I recommend you visit the museums as much as possible. I'm generalizing this because this tiny state has a total of 54 galleries and museums filled with unique artifacts from ancient to modern artworks. If you want, you can spend even a week in the museums. You will fall in love with the epic works of art and magnificent architectural structures made by the world's most influential artists. The pieces that have been taken care of down to the smallest detail will definitely fascinate you.

If you don't have time and have to choose among them, I definitely recommend you see The Sistine Chapel, The Gallery of Maps. Another important suggestion for those with limited time, if you do not want to spend your travel in queues, book your ticket a few weeks in advance from the official website of Vatican museums.