Rome seems like such a overwhelming city. There's way too much to see, to do, and to experience. How can you possibly start planning your trip? I mean heck, something like 80% of the city is still underground so we can't even begin to see most of it. Knowing this but still taking a stab at it, I've whittled it down to 6 highlights that you simply must experience while on your trip there. If you do these things, I promise you will come home from Rome feeling like you've gotten a good picture of what life is like in the Eternal City.
1. Take a guided tour of the Roman Forum and the Colosseum
OK, technically this is two things. But you cannot visit Rome without doing these. You don't need to have a tour guide, but my goodness, does it help. The massive amount of history demands some real guidance to even begin to wrap your mind about these places. Plus, if you sign up with a tour group, you are more likely to be able to skip some major lines.
My unbelievable guide, Francesca, of Rick Steves Europe Tours
2. Find out the good gelato places
The fake stuff
See that beautiful gelato in the picture above? Doesn't it look amazing?
Well it's wrong. It couldn't be more wrong, or unauthentic.
Real Italian gelato does not look like this. It is not pumped full of fat, creating airy, rolling hills of deliciousness. That is what Americans are attracted to, and that's why places like this exist -- particularly in super touristy places, like near Trevi Fountain, where this picture was taken.
Real gelato is served in stainless steal tins. It is not on display like this. It is not pumped full of fat, it is flatter and creamer (not airy) and is more naturally colored. It does not look like Baskin Robbins ice cream.
Now that you know, feel free to try both kinds. But know that not all gelaterias serve authentic Italian gelato. And knowing so will make you feel more like a local, maybe, a little bit.
Well it's wrong. It couldn't be more wrong, or unauthentic.
Real Italian gelato does not look like this. It is not pumped full of fat, creating airy, rolling hills of deliciousness. That is what Americans are attracted to, and that's why places like this exist -- particularly in super touristy places, like near Trevi Fountain, where this picture was taken.
Real gelato is served in stainless steal tins. It is not on display like this. It is not pumped full of fat, it is flatter and creamer (not airy) and is more naturally colored. It does not look like Baskin Robbins ice cream.
Now that you know, feel free to try both kinds. But know that not all gelaterias serve authentic Italian gelato. And knowing so will make you feel more like a local, maybe, a little bit.
Happy
3. Visit Vatican City
A tourist trap to be sure, but this cannot be missed. Wait for hours to see the Pope, because it's worth it. He might ride right past you in his Popemobile, and you'll feel like you're part of a giant tradition and you'll have bragging rights in front of all of your Catholic friends.
When you're done, be sure to head into St. Peter's Basilica. Because there are simply no words to describe this experience. If any place on earth is more heavenly and makes you marvel and the creative powers of man, I know not of that place. It is simply the most gorgeous man-made structure I have ever seen.
It might even move you to have a religious experience. Even if you weren't expecting to. It's that amazing.
When you're done, be sure to head into St. Peter's Basilica. Because there are simply no words to describe this experience. If any place on earth is more heavenly and makes you marvel and the creative powers of man, I know not of that place. It is simply the most gorgeous man-made structure I have ever seen.
It might even move you to have a religious experience. Even if you weren't expecting to. It's that amazing.
4. Take a cooking class
Italy is well known for it's amazing food, so of course you should take a cooking class. Learn secrets from the best of the best, and enjoy being a part of Italy's famous farm-to-table dining experience. As an added perk, take some amazing recipes with you to try to recreate at home.
5. Visit the Church of San Clemente
Extremely close to the Colosseum stands the Church of San Clemente, one of the best churches I have ever visited. It completely blew my mind. Most of it exists underground, layers upon layers of history. After going down two levels, you will find yourself at street level 2000 years ago. Mind. Blown.
6. Visit the Borghese Gallery
My favorite painting at the Borghese Gallery, Sacred and Profane Love by Titian (1514)
The most fantastic museum I visited was the Borghese Gallery, located in the northern part of Rome near the Spanish Steps. See incredible statues by Bernini, oil paintings by Titian, Caravaggio, and Raphael, and walk around the gorgeous grounds of this historic site. I cannot say enough about this incredible place that must be experienced to be believed.
Lady with a Unicorn by Raphael (1505)
When I look back at my pictures of me in Rome, I look so happy I just might explode. I was so thrilled to be in a place with such mind-blowing history. Hopefully you will feel the same and have a good starting point that will help you create a fabulous trip like I had.
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