Considered to be one of the most cultural cities, Rome is the perfect destination for a stay rich in discoveries if you are attracted to Italy's architectural heritage. In addition to having extraordinary gastronomy, Italy and especially Rome has many jewels for which you will not regret having made the trip. Our advice is to go there between May and June or in September to enjoy the warmth without being invaded by tourists. Moreover, if you regularly monitor flights from France, you can easily find them at very attractive prices. At Villanovo, we have therefore set out to conquer the city's must-see sites, and we'll give you the secrets for an enjoyable yet successful morning stay!
If we ask you which is the most popular place in Rome without even having set foot there, you might answer the Colosseum. So, why not start our tour there?
It is the largest Roman amphitheatre ever built, now in ruins but historically hosted the games of Rome and more than 55,000 spectators. You will be surprised at first glance by the size of this building, which was imagined to be smaller. Although it is not entirely open to the public, we strongly advise you to visit it from the inside, where you cannot help but imagine the fighting scenes of the gladiators of the Roman Empire. However, a visit means getting up early. Indeed, from 10 am onwards, endless queues sometimes lasting several hours form. The ideal time is to go there for 9 am. If you plan to make a lot of visits in addition to the Colosseum such as museums, the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter's Basilica, but also the Roman Forum and Mount Palatine then it will be advantageous for you to take the full access pass which will save you precious hours of waiting.
Leaving the Colosseum you will find yourself right in front of the Roman Forum, whose visit is included in the entrance to the Colosseum. It is a collection of ruins and remains from the Roman period that traces the life and activities of civilizations. In particular, the Roman Forum was the political centre of Rome where the great decisions were made. The site has very little shade so we recommend that you equip yourself to avoid sunstroke or dehydration even if small bottles of water are on sale all around the site. The heights will allow you to take great pictures of the remains.
The small Palatine Museum which traces the history of the historic hill is on the site and is also worth a visit.
The Basilica of St. John Lateran is another must-see in Rome, especially if you are a lover of religious monuments, which can be found in large numbers in the city. Just a few steps from the Colosseum, this basilica represents the cathedral of Rome whose pope is the bishop. It was the first Christian building to be erected in the city. We (very strongly) invite you not to forget to take with you a scarf in spite of the heat, or you may be refused entry to the basilica.
Consider planning to pass through Rome's largest square, Piazza Navona, where you will meet the magnificent Pantheon located in the heart of the city. Particularly well-preserved, visiting is free and you will be able to observe its unique dome which is open to the sky.
The Trevi Fountain is also unmissable and if you are lucky it will not be under construction during your stay. Completed in 1762 it is one of the largest fountains ever built. The fountain attracts many visitors to its relatively small square, so again we advise you to come early in the morning. A visit to the fountain is also a good time to take a little break from your meal and visit the best traditional ice-cream parlour in the city: San Crispino where you can enjoy delicious home-made ice-cream (a favourite is the stracciatella ice-cream).
If you want to spend an exceptional evening while enjoying a new historical monument of undeniable beauty, book at the Teatro Dell'Opera di Roma dating back to 1880 where many ballets, concerts and operas take place. The hall is breathtaking and promises an unforgettable show.
Although it is also quite touristy, Place d’Espagne is a very pleasant place for a romantic dinner or a drink on the terrace, where you will observe the charming Barcaccia fountain in the shape of a boat. If you wish to do some shopping, the square is surrounded by famous luxury shops. Climbing up the very famous Trinité des Monts stairs, you will be able to enjoy a magnificent view of the city's warmly coloured rooftops.
FINALLY, the Vatican, known as the smallest state in the world, is full of historical sites such as the Sistine Chapel, its museums and the unmissable St. Peter's Basilica. The most strategic is to start the visit early in the morning with the Sistine Chapel and then continue on to the other monuments. You will have the opportunity to go up to the top of the basilica by elevator for a few extra euros or simply take the stairs. Always take enough to cover yourself to get inside the different monuments, arguing with the guards is something you will want to avoid.
Finally, don't forget to get lost in the alleys of Rome because it is often among them that you will make the most beautiful discoveries. Now that you have our selection of sites, all you have to do is fly away and enjoy your trip!
