Discovering Rome, Italy: The Eternal City

Place: Rome, Italy

Attractions:

• Colosseum: One of the most iconic landmarks in Rome, this ancient amphitheater hosted gladiatorial contests and public spectacles.

• Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel: Home to some of the greatest artworks ever made, including Michelangelo's ceiling in the Sistine Chapel.

• Trevi Fountain: A beautiful Baroque fountain where visitors toss coins to ensure their return to Rome. Make sure to visit the Vicus Caprarius-the Water City Museum where you can view the remains of a Roman house and aqueduct below the street.

• Galleria Doria Pamphilj: A grand art collection inside an ancient palace with a cafe. This hidden gem is one of my favorite spots in Rome and about a 5 min. walk from the Trevi Fountain.

• Museo e Cripta dei Cappuccini: A 500-year-old monastery with a crypt known for its elaborately arranged bones.

• Pantheon: A well-preserved ancient Roman temple, now a church, known for its impressive dome.

• St. Peter's Basilica: The spiritual center of the Catholic Church, located in Vatican City.

• Castel Sant'Angelo: Iconic castle known for its panoramic views of Rome and being in the movie, Angels and Demons. There is a small cafe to enjoy a bite to eat and drink!

• Knights of Malta Keyhole: When you peer through this keyhole, you'll see a perfectly framed view of St. Peter's Basilica surrounded by a beautiful garden.

• Spanish Steps: A beautiful grand staircase constructed in the 1700s. The area around the steps is known for high-end shopping with luxury boutiques like Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, Bulgari, and Dior.

• Villa d'Este: A grand 16th century cardinal's villa with exotic gardens and elaborate fountains. This is one of my favorite places in the world, a real-life secret garden! It is about an hour from Rome.

Restaurants:

• Alfredo alla Scrofa: A 1907 restaurant that is the birthplace of fettuccine alfredo.

• La Terrazza: A Michelin Star rooftop restaurant with stunning views and two tasting menus. Voted one of the most romantic restaurants in Rome.

• Pizza E Mozzarella: Authentic Roman wood-fired pizza at an economic price.

• Fuorinorma: Famous for their fresh panini sandwiches.

• Gran Caffe Rossi Martini: One of the oldest restaurants in Rome, offering traditional Roman dishes with a view of the Colosseum.

• Roscioli Caffe' Pasticceria: Homemade gateaux, fruit tarts, and cornettos that also serves lunch.

• Movie Restaurant: The first movie restaurant in Europe, a museum and restaurant.

Shops:

• Alfieri Leather Store: Specializes in high-quality leather goods.

• Beads Shop Rome: Offers a variety of handmade glass beads and jewelry.

• Borri Books: A well-known bookstore located in Stazione Termini.

• Fabriano Boutique: A beautiful stationary store.

• Andreano Shop: Another excellent store for reasonably priced leather purses.

Places to Stay:

• iQ Hotel Roma: A modern hotel with amenities like free Wi-Fi, a gym, and a rooftop terrace.

• Albergo del Senato: Offers elegance and comfort with stunning views of the Pantheon dome from the rooftop terrace.

• Hotel Artemide: Hotel close to most of the attractions with a spa, rooftop bar, and restaurant.

• Just Chilling Suite: Close to the Colosseum that offers jacuzzi tubs and nice rooms for a decent price.

• H10 Palazzo Galla: A popular hotel located in the heart of the historic center, close to major attractions.

Rome is a magical city brimming with history, culture, and stunning architecture. It is easiest to get around by foot and train. It is a food and wine lover's paradise! If you like ice cream, make sure to eat as much gelato as you can! If you like coffee, you must try an affogato. Speaking of coffee, Italy is known for its espresso so make sure to have one in the morning before you explore the city! If you are overwhelmed with so much to see and do, have no worries! There are a lot of tour companies that will pick you up from your hotel and take you to the top attractions. This city promises unforgettable experiences, whether you're exploring its ancient ruins, savoring its culinary delights, or simply soaking in its vibrant atmosphere.