We know you are already going to see the Colosseum and the Vatican. So this handy list will help you see the things that haven’t been in every picture of Rome for the last 2,000 years.
Rome, the capital of Italy is a wonderful holiday destination which attracts scores of tourists every year who flock to enjoy its unique ambience and history. But sometimes tourists get waylaid and end up in the wrong places, tourist traps or commercial settings for example.
It is always best to be informed before you travel over land and sea. To eliminate doubt and to ensure you get your monies worth and the maximum out of your vacation read on and take note of the 5 things you simply must do in Rome.
1: Galleria Borghese
The Borghese Gallery is situated in the former villa borghese pinciana. Including a vast 20 rooms spanning 2 floors featuring famous, classic antiquities. Many unique and historic sculptures and art line the place and thousands flock to visit the gallery year in and year out. It’s worth noting that visits to the galleria situated in the gardens of the borghese park are by reservation in advance. This ensures that you can see the famous Bernini sculptures from all angles and at your convenience.
2: Ponte Sisto
The ponte sisto is a famous footbridge over the river Tiber. The bridge was commissioned by Pope Sixtus IV in the 1470’s to replace what was left of a roman bridge. The bridge connects the nearby nightlife area Campo de’Fiori with the Trastevere district. A great way to soak up the sights and atmosphere of Rome is by foot and you can meander from vicolo to vicolo (alley to alley) and through the piazzas. This is a great chance to catch up on some shopping as you will be pleased to find a host of more affordable shops and restaurants than in the tourist traps. Then over to the residential area with quaint narrow streets and more shops and coffee bars.
3: The best pizza in Italy
Each nation has their culinary speciality which they love and hold dear. In Italy pizza is the passion and you simply cannot visit Rome without experiencing this culinary delight. As with any new place that you visit you need to know where to get the good stuff so be sure to steer clear of the heavy tourist areas when buying your pizza. As reported by Jeff Israely who wrote this article at time.com it’s always worth listening the locals and Jeff, a resident of Rome himself suggests some great pizzerias. There are 2 establishments that stand out from the crowd situated near to the Trevi fountain. Da Michelle serves a unique, all meat pizza that is cooked to perfection. The other place he recommends highly doesn’t even have a name but is on the via del piedi marmo on the corner with via del gesu. Buon appetito!!
4: Gianocolo – The Janiculum
The world famous Gianocolo or Janiculum in english is the second tallest hill situated in the western part of rome. Although the tallest is the Monte Mario the Gianocolo is renowned. Even though it is not technically one of the proverbial “seven hills of Rome” as it is situated west of the tiber and therefore not within the ancient city boundary. Close to the historical center and just above the vatican the panoramic view offered here coupled with the silence is just breathtaking. Try and get there for noon when you visit so you can hear the traditional single cannon blast whose origins date back to the 19th century.
5: Giorgio de Chirico House – Museum
The apartment spans the top 3 floors of the Palazzetto dei Borgognoni built in 17th century and situated in the Piazza di Spagna in Rome. This venue is a must for art lovers featuring stunning signature paintings by Giorgio de Chirico who acquired the property in 1948. He lived there for over 30 years until his death in 1978. The house offers a glimpse into the lives of the way the aristocracy lived in Rome for hundreds of years and there are some stunning views to be had there. Make sure you book an appointment in advance and note that the house is closed on sundays and mondays.
