How Long to See the Sights in Rome?With its thousands of years of history, culture, and unique atmosphere, Rome is one of the world’s top visited cities. With so much to explore and discover, many visitors wonder just how long they should plan on staying in the Eternal City. The answer is, it depends on what you’re trying to see and do in Rome. For those who simply want a taste of the highlights, a long weekend trip would do the trick. But to start to understand the depth and breadth of this amazing city and its vast history, it’s better to allow three or four (or more!) days of touring the main sights. One of the most important things to consider when planning a trip is your own personal pace. Rome is filled with both grand focal points and small details that may take longer for some visitors to appreciate. Create an itinerary that allows for ample time for being distracted by Rome’s many quirks. Rome with kids: The must-see sights is a great source of tips and advice for those traveling to Rome with children.

The Major Sites

Rome’s Colosseum, Pantheon, and St. Peter’s Square are just a few of the must-see sights. A day on the historic streets of the city center should begin with a visit to the Colosseum and Vatican City. At the Colosseum, visitors should plan to spend at least an hour, if not more, simply taking in the former gladiatorial arena’s impressive structure and imagining what it must have been like centuries ago.Next, head over to St. Peter’s Square, located in Vatican City and admire the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica, Michelangelo’s renowned design for the Church of the Most Holy Apostles. Allow about two hours for St Peter’s Square, once you’re done admiring Michelangelo’s work step into the Basilica for more beautiful art from Renaissance artists such as Raphael and Bernini. After the Vatican City, stroll down to the Pantheon which can be admired in about an hour or two. This colossal temple was originally constructed in 27 B.C., and was later converted into a Christian church. The Pantheon’s impressive architecture dates back to ancient Rome and is filled with intricate details like its oculus – or eye – open section that brings natural light into the building. Finally, end the day with a visit to Piazza Navona. This Baroque square dates back to ancient Roman times when it was used as a chariot track in the stadium of Domitian. The piazza is now filled with beautiful sculptures, cafes, and souvenir stands making it a perfect spot for tourists to gather and observe the hustle and bustle of Roman life. Plan on at least an hour or two exploring this area.

Explore Beyond the Center

When mapping out a multi-day trip, it’s best to work from the center outward and allow an extra day for exploring some of Rome’s most beloved attractions outside the center like:

• The Gallery of the Caesars, located at the Vatican Museums, this museum features a vast collection of statues from Ancient Rome depicting Roman emperors, generals and consuls.
• The Baths of Caracalla, these ruins date back all the way to 212 A.D., when Emperor Caracalla opened up these thermal baths for public use.
• The Palatine Hill, one of seven hills in Rome that can be explored to see its ancient Roman palaces, bath complexes and temples.
• The Villa Farnesina, built in 1506 and housing Raphael’s works.

Although these spots can easily be seen within a few hours each, plan a full day to be able to fully explore these locations at a leisurely pace, discover how life worked in Ancient Rome and learn about their fascinating histories. Finally, no trip to Rome is complete without taking time for authentic Italian food and drinks. Leave some time out of each day—and night—for enjoying delicious pastas and pizzas at one of Rome’s many eateries or grabbing aperitivo drinks from a local bar. Whether you are planning for a long weekend getaway or for leisurely multi-week vacation, there is certainly no shortage of activities in Rome – so take your time and make sure you save some energy to enjoy this amazing city at its best!

An Insider’s Guide to Exploring Rome

Rome is undoubtedly a bustling tourist destination, but if you’re looking to explore the Eternal City through the eyes of a local, you’re in for an absolute treat. In this insider’s guide to Rome, we’re going to reveal some of the best-kept secret spots in the city and share some hidden gems that will make your visit unforgettable.

Local Attractions

Rome is full of photogenic hotspots and ancient ruins, but if you’re looking for places that are not overrun by tourists, then you must visit the Capuchin Crypt, a small underground chapel that looks like something out of a horror movie. Another off-the-beaten-path attraction is the Pyramid of Cestius, a 2,000-year-old granite structure that’s surprisingly located in the middle of a bustling traffic circle.

Dining Spots

No trip to Rome is complete without indulging in some delicious Italian food. To get the real taste of the city’s cuisine, head to Testaccio market, where you’ll find food stalls selling everything from freshly-baked bread to cheese and wine. For a more refined dining experience, book a table at Il Pagliaccio, a Michelin-starred restaurant that serves up inventive dishes with an Italian twist.

Cultural Experiences

To get a real feel for Rome’s traditions and customs, head to Trastevere, a charming neighborhood that’s known for its historical streets and lively nightlife. Here, you’ll find bars and restaurants serving up authentic Roman dishes and wine, and on weekends, the area transforms into an open-air market, selling everything from handmade crafts to antiques.

Local History

Rome has a rich history that spans thousands of years, and one of the most fascinating parts of the city’s past is its connection to the infamous Borgia family. To learn more about this notorious dynasty, head to Palazzo della Cancelleria, where you can see the famous Hall of Alexander VI, a place where the Borgia family members plotted their schemes and intrigues.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking for something different to do in Rome, head to Ponte Sant’Angelo, a beautiful bridge that crosses the Tiber River. From there, take a walk along the Lungotevere, a park that lines the banks of the river and offers breathtaking views of Rome’s skyline. Another unique experience is to explore Rome’s underground tunnels, such as the Catacombs of St. Domitilla, where you can see early Christian frescoes and tombs.

Now that you have an insider’s guide to Rome, you’re all set to explore this incredible city like a true local. Enjoy your trip, and make sure to share your experiences with others – after all, the best part of traveling is inspiring others to do the same.