How to plan a 12-day itinerary from Florence and Rome
Florence, Rome, Pisa, Cinque Terre, Tuscany, Rome
How to plan a 12-day
itinerary from Florence and Rome
We always wanted to visit
Florence as it is well known for its culture, architecture and monuments. But
flights to Rome are on average always cheaper than those to Florence. Being
able to find a good flight deal we decided to fly to Rome and then take
the train to Florence on the same day. The logistics of the trip were a bit more
complicated but everything worked as planned. In Florence out of our seven full days we spent four days
visiting the city and the other three for day trips to Pisa, to Cinque Terre
and an excursion to the heart of Tuscany. From Florence we took the train back
to Rome where, for three days we visited some new attractions and re-visited others as this was our second time in Rome. It was also easier to get to
Fiumicino Airport from Rome than travelling directly from Florence.
How to get from Rome
Fiumicino Airport to Florence
The easiest and cheapest
way of getting from Fiumicino Airport to Roma Termini Station is by Terravision
bus. We purchased return tickets in advance for 13 Euro
return ticket per person. While boarding the bus we also noticed people purchasing
tickets on the spot but that depends on how many empty seats are left. The trip takes about 45 minutes. From Rome Termini Station we travelled to Florence by Italo Treno with their high-speed train. We purchased the tickets in advance online, 23 Euro one way per person. The journey
was 1 hour 35 minutes. For the end of our trip, getting back to Rome from Florence, we found business class tickets
for only 1 Euro more per person, with nicer seats and also included some snacks and non-alcoholic beverages. Italo Treno offers low cost tickets for travelers
over 60 years old so we took advantage of it. The ticket prices vary a lot,
depending of the class you choose (Smart, Business, Executive), the type of
ticket (Economy, Flex, Low Cost, Extra Magic), and the time of the day. Also,
if you buy the tickets well in advance you have more options to choose from, as
the cheapest tickets always sell first.
Our Accommodations
Florence – Hotel Forresteria Valdese di Firenze
The place was more like a
guesthouse than a hotel but with a spacious room that included a fridge, air conditioning which was a blessing for the hot weather we had, clean and
with a good central location, only 10 minutes away from Ponte Vecchio bridge.
8-Days in Florence: What to
Do, Where to Go, and What to See
The Dome is one of the most
important tourist attractions in Florence. Completed in 1436, it is a
masterpiece of Renaissance engineering and architecture. Climbing the 463 steps
to the top can be challenging but it offered breathtaking panoramic views of
Florence. It was also a chance to walk inside the octagonal structure that
changed the course of architectural history, built without scaffolding and
using techniques that were centuries ahead of their time. The ticket was part
of the Brunelleschi’s Pass which also includes Giotto’s Bell Tower, Baptistery,
Opera del Duomo Museum, Santa Reparata and Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral. The
Pass cost was 30 Euro.
One of the city’s oldest
and most iconic religious buildings, The Baptistery has an unusual eight-sided
design that symbolizes regeneration and rebirth, fitting for a place of
baptism. Actually all Florentine Catholics were baptized here for centuries,
including famous figures like Dante Alighieri. The building has a stunning
Byzantine-style mosaic ceiling and a green and white marble façade that mirrors
the style of the nearby Florence Cathedral and Giotto’s Bell Tower. But for us
the most striking element were the gilded bronze doors, “The Gates of
Paradise”, which depict scenes from the Old Testament in incredibly detailed
relief.
Ancient basilica of Santa Reparata
Santa Reparata is the
ancient Christian church that once stood beneath the Florence Cathedral, now
partially excavated to reveal its early Christian mosaics and architectural
layers. It can be seen by descending a staircase within Florence's Cathedral of
Santa Maria del Fiore (the Duomo). After visiting, in the entrance area of the
bookshop, through a grate, we could admire the tomb of Filippo Brunelleschi,
marked by a simple stone with epitaph.
Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
Santa Maria del Fiore, or
the Florence Cathedral, is a stunning Gothic-style cathedral known for its
iconic red-tiled dome designed by Filippo Brunelleschi. Completed in the 15th
century, it features an intricate façade, white, red and green marble external
walls with geometric figures and stylized flowers and is the centerpiece of
Florence's Piazza del Duomo. The Cathedral is free to enter but is also the
attraction where we stayed the longest time in line.
The Gothic-style bell
tower, adjacent to the Florence Cathedral, was designed by Giotto and completed
by others after his death It stands 82 meters tall and is known for its
colorful marble facade and intricate sculptures. We had to climb 414 steps,
even more difficult after already climbing the 463 steps of the Dome, but the
spectacular views of Florence and the cathedral’s iconic dome from the top were
well worth it.
The Opera del Duomo Museum
in Florence is a treasure of art and history, showcasing masterpieces related
to the city's iconic cathedral. Among the highlights we enjoyed the most were
Michelangelo’s "Pietà ", Donatello’s "Mary Magdalene" and
Ghiberti’s Original "Gates of Paradise" Panels, which are the
original bronze panels from Ghiberti’s famous East Doors of the Baptistery.
A vibrant and must-visit
spot for any hungry or curious traveler, either for a quick snack, a full meal,
or just to browse. Here you can sample authentic Tuscan flavors and enjoy the
vibrant atmosphere. We tried the famous Lampredotto, the Florence sandwich made
from a cow's "fourth stomach". We've also been offered lots of free samples from different vendors, more than enough to have a good idea about the delicious local food.
Basilica de Santa Maria Novella
It is a significant and
historic church located in the heart of Florence, built between the late 13th
and early 14th centuries and one of the most important Gothic churches in the
city. Inside, there are beautiful frescoed chapels and historical art that
spans centuries. The church also features beautiful cloisters, offering a
peaceful escape from the busy city. The entrance is 7.50 Euro. We were lucky to
visit for free as the day of our visit was a religious holiday.
Chiesa di San Salvatore in Ognissanti
While it may not be as
famous as other churches in the city it offers unique artistic and historical
highlights. Aside from the church's beautiful Interior we could admire artwork
by Sandro Botticelli, the altarpiece of San Salvatore by Giovanni di Paolo and
the famous explorer Amerigo Vespucci, after whom the Americas are named, is
buried in this church. The entrance was free.
The Ponte Vecchio is not
just a functional bridge, but also a symbol of Florence’s rich history and
cultural heritage. The bridge is lined with shops, a tradition dating back to
the 16th century. Originally, these shops were occupied by butchers and
greengrocers, but today, they are primarily home to jewelers, artisans, and
goldsmiths, making it a hotspot for luxury shopping. It is one of the most
visited and photographed sites in Florence and offers stunning views of
Florence, especially looking toward the Palazzo Pitti and the rolling hills of
the Tuscan countryside.
To visit Uffizi Gallery we
purchased Passepartout 5-days tickets, a combined ticket offering entries also
to Pitti Palace, Boboli Gardens and Bardini Gardens, thus paying less than
buying individual attractions. The ticket is valid for 5 days from activation
and the only rule is that you have to visit Uffizi Gallery first during your
time slot and only after the other attractions. The place is one of the most
famous and important art museums in the world, located in the heart of
Florence. The Uffizi is renowned for its extensive collection of works by
Renaissance artists, including Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Botticelli,
Raphael, Caravaggio, and Titian. It’s home to some of the most iconic paintings
in history. Other notable highlights are Sandro Botticelli’s "The Birth of
Venus", Leonardo da Vinci’s "Annunciation", Michelangelo’s
"The Holy Family", Caravaggio’s "Medusa" or Raphael’s
"The Madonna of the Goldfinch". We could also access the terrace,
which offers amazing panoramic views of Florence, including the Palazzo
Vecchio, Ponte Vecchio, and the Duomo.
Palazzo Vechio is situated
in Piazza della Signoria, next to the Uffizi Galleries and the Loggia dei
Lanzi. Built in the 14th century, Palazzo Vecchio was originally the residence
of the Republic of Florence's governing officials, and later became the seat of
the Florentine government. It was the official residence of the Medici family
until they moved to the Palazzo Pitti. Today, Palazzo Vecchio serves as a
museum and the city hall.
It is one of Florence’s
most famous squares, home to the Statue of David (a replica), the Fountain of
Neptune and other important sculptures. The square has historically been and
still is a hub of Florentine civic life.
Located in Piazza della
Signoria, Loggia dei Lanzi is a striking open-air gallery, famous for its
classical sculptures and breathtaking architecture. It is a key part of the
Florentine public space, situated right next to the Palazzo Vecchio and facing
the Uffizi Gallery. And completely free.
The square is surrounded by
elegant arcades and neoclassical buildings, many of which are former palaces
and important structures that have been repurposed for shops, cafes, and
hotels. The place often hosts live music, events, and street performers making
it a popular spot for both tourists and locals to relax, enjoy a coffee,
people-watch or enjoy the charming, vintage carousel, a fixture in the piazza
since the early 20th century, that adds a touch of nostalgia to the square.
The gardens are a vast,
beautifully landscaped park behind the Pitti Palace, the former residence of the
Medici family and offer a stunning blend of Renaissance design, sculptures,
fountains, and panoramic views of Florence. The park was designed with arranged
pathways, manicured lawns, fountains, and geometric flower beds and is
sprinkled with fountains, statues, and obelisks, many of which were
commissioned by the Medici family. While we enjoyed our visit, we found the
gardens to be a bit neglected, with overgrown grass and plants and with some of
the statues and fountains showing signs of wear and tear from the elements.
Palazzo Pitti - Pallatine Galleries
Included in the
Passepartout 5-days ticket, Palazzo Pitti is home to several important museums,
each offering a unique collection of art, history, and culture. The Palatine
Gallery is an impressive collection of Renaissance paintings by artists like
Raphael, Titian, and Rubens. The gallery is housed in the former royal
apartments and showcases opulent rooms filled with Baroque art.
Palazzo Pitti - Gallery of Modern Art
Located on the second floor
of the Palazzo Pitti, the Museum of Modern Art features 19th- and 20th-century
Italian art.
Palazzo Pitti - Museum of Costume and Fashion
The museum's collections
showcase fashion and costume spanning from the 16th century to the present day,
featuring pieces from both royalty and everyday life. Among them an extensive
collection of 18th and 19th-century attire, including court dresses, military
uniforms, and flamboyant evening wear that belonged to the Medici family and
other aristocratic families. But also designer dresses from the 20th century
and contemporary couture from famous Italian designers like Giorgio Armani,
Valentino and Prada.
Palazzo Pitti - Treasury of
Grand Dukes
Situated on the ground
floor, Treasury of Grand Dukes displays Renaissance jewelry, precious gems, and
royal artifacts showcasing the grandeur of the Medici family.
Palazzo Pitti - Palatine Chapel and Museum of Russian Icons
Also on the ground floor, Museum of Russian Icons houses a remarkable collection of Byzantine and Russian Orthodox icons. Palatine Chapel was the court chapel of the Hapsburg-Lorraine family.
Palazzo Pitti - Imperial
Apartments
As we started our visit of
the Palazzo Pitti with the Palatine Gallery, where you walk through grand,
palatial rooms, we thought that we already visited the Imperial Apartments. We
realized that we did not visit them only when we went to Palazzo Pitti on
another day to ask about the Carriage Museum which should have been included in
the Passepartout 5-Day ticket (and which we were told that was currently
closed) and at that time we asked again about the Apartments.
Thus we found out the
Imperial Apartments can be visited only by booking a tour, either online or at
the ticket office. All we had to do was go to the ticket office right away and
received tickets with a time slot for the day. The meeting point is situated in
the entrance hall leading into the Galleria Palatina, on the first floor.
The tour was accompanied by
two Uffizi Gallery staff members and lasted approximately 30 minutes. The visit
offers a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of the Austrian imperial family
during their reign in Florence. From opulent furnishings, elegant frescoes,
grand chandeliers, tapestries, and intricate wood paneling you will get a sense
of the imperial grandeur that once filled the palace
Although the information
does not seem to be easily available, Bardini Gardens are included in the
Passepartout 5-Day ticket. Located on the hillside just above the Arno River,
the gardens are a stunning terraced landscape and are part of the Bardini
Palace.
Piazzale Michelangelo
Viewing Terrace
If you want to have the
best views of Florence this will be the best place to go. Reaching it requires
an uphill walk which can be challenging but you forget all about it once you
are there.
Another good viewing point
is by walking a bit more uphill to Basilica San Miniato al Monte. The place was
in renovation but the views were rewarding.
Equally spectacular,
Belvedere Franco Zeffirelli terrace, adjacent to Piazzale Michelangelo, offers
beautiful panoramas of the city. The terrace was dedicated to the renowned
Italian director Franco Zeffirelli, a key figure in the world of opera and
cinema.
Going downhill after
leaving Piazzale Michelangelo Viewing Terrace you will stumble upon Rose
Garden, a charming place with over 350 varieties of roses, lemon trees and
beautiful views of Florence.
Also known as the New
Market, is a lively, historic market located in the heart of Florence, near the
famous Piazza del Mercato Nuovo. Named after the bronze statue of a wild boar
(known as Il Porcellino), the market is a vibrant spot where you can find a mix
of local handicrafts, leather goods, and souvenirs. The market’s most iconic
feature is the Porcellino statue, which it is said that if you rub the boar’s
snout for good luck and drop a coin into its mouth, it will return to you in
the form of good fortune. Best time to visit the statue is in the morning,
later on there is always a big crowd of people making it more difficult to take
good pictures.
Basilica of Santa Croce is
the largest Franciscan church in the world and the second-largest temple in
Florence, after the Cathedral. The church is famous for being the final resting
place of famous figures such as Michelangelo, Galileo Galilei, Machiavelli, Rossini, Marconi the inventor of radio, some of Napoleon Bonaparte's relatives and many more. You can also find cenotaphs and memorial plaques dedicated to Leonardo Da Vinci, Dante, Enrico Fermi, called "the architect
of the atomic bomb". In addition, frescoes by Giotto, artworks by
Donatello and the beautiful cloisters make the basilica an attraction not to be
missed. The entry ticket is 10 Euro. We visited on the Feast of the Assumption
Day, when the admission was free.
Florence is a city filled with Renaissance art and architecture, making it a must-visit for anyone fascinated by history and culture. Home to masterpieces by Michelangelo, Da Vinci, and Botticelli, world-renowned museums like the Uffizi Gallery, Florence offers charming streets, stunning palaces, and breathtaking views from the Ponte Vecchio or Boboli Gardens. It definitely stole our hearts.
Discovering the best of Pisa in 1 Day
Visiting Pisa from Florence
is an easy day trip. We purchased Trenitalia return tickets in advance. The
cost of a return ticket was 18.30 Euro. The itinerary was Firenze S.M Novella station to Pisa Centrale station. It was a 50 minutes train ride. Once arrived
in Pisa it was a 20 minutes walk to get to Piazza del Duomo, also called Piazza
dei Miracoli, where all the monuments are located. We had purchased the
combined tickets in advance, online. The cost of a ticket was 27 Euro and
included access to: Tower of Pisa, Cathedral of Pisa, Baptistery, Camposanto,
Sinopie Museum and Opera del Duomo Museum. An important thing to be aware of is
that handbags, bags, luggage must be left at the cloakroom. They make no
exceptions, you could only have your phone, water and maybe some small items in
your pockets.
We always wanted to see the tower one day, we knew about it and have seen many pictures online. But being there and actually seeing it was more beautiful and unreal than we ever imagined. It became instantly one of the highlights of our vacation. It is called the Leaning Tower and its role was mainly for timekeeping with its seven bells, one for each musical note, the largest bell, cast in 1655, weighing an impressive three and a half tones. Famous for its stunning architecture and extraordinary tilt, the tower is visited yearly by around 2 million visitors. The visit takes about 30 minutes. The climb is on foot and there are 251 steps. From above the views are amazing as you can have a 360 degree view of the whole piazza.
The Baptistery is not just
a place for baptisms but also a stunning architectural landmark with
astonishing acoustics. You can hear a single voice echoing with incredible
clarity, and at certain times of day, as we witnessed it, the acoustics create
a surreal reverberation.
Located in the Piazza dei
Miracoli in Pisa, Monumental Cemetery is the final resting place for many
prominent figures, including artists, popes, and noble families of Pisa. The
place has an impressive architecture, a large, gothic-style cloister with a
high, vaulted ceiling, and it surrounds a beautiful central courtyard. The
walls inside the cemetery are adorned with striking medieval frescoes.
The Museum showcases the
preparatory sketches or sinopie of frescoes that once adorned the walls of the
Camposanto Monumentale.
The museum has 28 rooms
divided on three floors. The museum houses a remarkable collection of works of
art, sculptures, and artifacts related to the Piazza dei Miracoli. Here are
preserved the original masterpieces of art that over the course of seven
centuries have decorated its monuments: from Michelangelo, to Donatello,
Brunelleschi, Ghiberti and countless others.
Built between the 11th and
14th centuries, the cathedral is known for its grand marble façade decorated
with intricate carvings and sculptures. Inside are beautiful mosaics, frescoes,
and the Pulpit of Giovanni Pisano, a masterpiece of medieval art, the
cathedral’s design reflecting Pisa’s wealth and power during the Middle Ages.
A walk through Pisa
After finishing visiting
all the monuments in the Piazza dei Miracoli we had enough time for a walk
through the city until our departure train time. Among the highlights were
Palazzo dell'Orologio, Palazzo della Carovana, Torre del Campano, Palazzo Agostini, Chiesa di Santa Maria della Spina and a stroll on Borgo Stretto, one
of Pisa's most charming and historic streets, located in the heart of the city.
Experience Tuscany’s
countryside: Trip to San Gimignano, Siena, Monteriggioni
Florence and Pisa are
located in Tuscany region but we wanted to see also the countryside which is
renown for being one of the most iconic and picturesque landscapes in Italy,
celebrated for its rolling hills, charming villages, vineyards, and olive groves.
So, we booked a full day tour through Viator. Our itinerary was visiting San
Gimignano, Siena, Monteriggioni with lunch and wine tasting at an agriturismo
farm in the Chianti region. The excursion cost was about 75 Euro per person. We
travelled with a big bus full of people, but the trip went well, as per
schedule. The guide was very friendly and gave us good information and tips
about each place we visited.
First place we visited was
San Gimignano, a charming old village, located on a hilltop, which remained
intact through the centuries and renowned for its tall towers. Here we also
tried some gelato from Gelateria Dondoli, which claims itwas the world most
famous gelato in the world in 2024.
Monteriggioni is a
picturesque medieval village in the heart of Tuscany, located about 20
kilometers north of Siena. Known for its well-preserved medieval walls that
enclose the village and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside,
Monteriggioni is one of Tuscany’s hidden gems.
A short ride from Monteriggioni, through the Chianti rolling hills, we
got to Il Ciliegio, an agriturismo farm, where we tasted first two types of
sparkling wine and had a 3 course meal, a Chianti style lunch paired with three
fine wines while the host gave us more information about their wines.
Nestled in Tuscany, Siena
is an old world charming town with medieval architecture, narrow, winding
streets and iconic landmarks. Among them Piazza del Campo is one of the most
famous squares in Italy. It is the place where Palio di Siena, the famous
horse race, takes place every summer. Torre del Manga, one of the most famous
towers in Tuscany and symbol of the city of Siena can be also found in Piazza
del Campo. Among the must see attractions, Sienna Cathedral is probably number
one on the list. With a Gothic architecture, intricate black-and-white striped
marble façade and works by Donatello, Pisano, and Michelangelo inside, the
Cathedral attracts a lot of tourists every year. We came to Siena for a day
trip but liked the city so much that wished we had a longer visit.
Cinque Terre, (meaning
"Five Lands") is a stunning stretch of coastline in Liguria,
northwest Italy, famous for its colorful villages, dramatic cliffs,
crystal-clear waters, and terraced hillsides. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site
and one of the most picturesque regions in Italy. We were always in love with this part of Italy just
from seeing pictures online, so it was forever on our wish list. Visiting
Florence gave us the opportunity as visiting Cinque Terre in 1-Day is possible
with careful planning. Cinque Terre is about 150 km distance from Florence and
can be reached by car, train or by organized tours. After researching all the
options, we decided to do it by train in one day. We booked return train
tickets online with Trenitalia from Firenze Campo Di Marte to La Spezia Centrale, with an 8 am departure. The train ride was about 1 hour and 40
minutes. There were departure options from Firenze S.M.Novella which was closer
to our hotel but they had either one or two changes and we wanted to travel by
direct routes. The cost of a return ticket was 31.50 Euro per person.
Cinque Terre is formed by
five villages: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso al
Mare and we visited them in this order. To be able to visit all and have time
to return to Florence we had to divide the time first among each town, an
average of 1 hour in each, add some time for waiting for the trains in
stations, about 10-15 minutes in each, add time of travelling by train between
the cities and add also time for a snack and breaks to public washroom. We arrived at La Spezia Centrale at 9:40 and
left for Florence at 17:40, so we had a total of 8 hours which was enough in
our opinion.
Some tips before visiting Cinque Terre
Buy a Cinque Terre Treno
MS Card which costs 27 Euro and is a train pass valid for the day, on all the
regional and regional fast-trains between the cities of Cinque Terre. Included
in it is the hiking pass needed if you want to hike some segments between the
cities, use of the ATC buses between the towns and free use of toilets.
Download the train
timetables in advance, knowing exactly at what time is the next available trail
will save you time. Also, at Trenitalia you can choose each segment, for
example Riomaggiore to Manarola, choose earliest time you might take the train
and under Main Solutions, choose Regional, and save this information for later
use. This way you will have a list with all the trains numbers and times of
departure, without the risk to get on a train that is not covered by the MS Card.
Wear good shoes as the
National Park has strict rules about it, "on
the trails it is compulsory to wear closed, waterproof and ankle covering
shoes, with an anti-slip sole”. And sometimes they choose to enforce the rules,
so you never know, better to be prepared.
Try to abide by the time
allocated in each city and have a cut off time when you absolutely have to
return to catch your connection back to Florence.
The southernmost village
of Cinque Terre, Riomaggiore is known for its colorful houses stacked on the
cliffs above a small harbor. The town had a vibrant atmosphere, narrow, winding
streets and dramatic cliffside paths that offer stunning views of the Ligurian
Sea.
Famous for its dramatic
views and beautiful architecture, Manarola is one of the most photographed
villages in Cinque Terre. It has a lovely harbor and picturesque walking
trails. A famous hiking trail is Via dell’Amore but access to the trail is by
reservation, selecting a 30-minute time slot, with a maximum of 200 people
allowed every 30 minutes. And it comes with an extra 10 Euro cost,
as it is not included in the Trekking Card.
Corniglia is situated high
on a cliff, offering sweeping views of the coastline below. Unlike the other
villages, it is not directly on the water, so it is more serene. To reach it,
you must either climb a steep staircase or take the bus that
operates from the Corniglia train station to the center of the
village. This electric shuttle bus is a convenient alternative to the nearly
400-stair climb of the Lardarina staircase to reach the village. The bus
service is free for visitors who purchased the Cinque Terre card. Corniglia
seemed to be the smallest of the five villages, its streets even more narrower
but with added charm. Here we stopped to recharge our batteries with pizza and
gelato before continuing to the next village.
It is often considered the
most picturesque village in Cinque Terre. It features a small harbor with
fishing boats, and the colorful houses cascade down the hillside towards the
sea. Here we hiked a bit farther on the path and the views from the cliffs were
breathtaking.
The largest of the five
villages, Monterosso has both a charming historic center and a beautiful sandy
beach. The village is known for its old town, with narrow streets, seafood
restaurants, and colorful buildings. We walked first to the Statue of the Giant, a 14 meters high statue representing Neptune and located at the end of
the beach. In the opposite direction, toward the village, we walked to Statua
di San Francesco d'Assisi for views of the harbour. The old town Parrocchia diS. Giovanni Battista was worth a visit and after strolling down Via Roma we
headed slowly to the train station for our return to La Spezia Centrale. While
the train rides between the other villages take 2-3 minutes, this one is about
27 minutes.
Having a bit of spare time
until our departure to Florence we explored a bit La Spezia by walking to the
harbour to see the marina. While La Spezia may not have the
same famous draw as the Cinque Terre villages, it is used very often as a
fantastic base for exploring the region.
We travelled from Florence
to Rome by train and arrived at the hotel in the afternoon. The hotel room was
small but had air conditioning, a small fridge, a safe and it was located in
walking distance from all the major downtown attractions.
3-Days in Rome: Top attractions
One of Rome's most famous
landmarks, Spanish Steps connect Piazza di Spagna at the bottom to the Trinita
dei Monti Church. At the base of the 135 steps is the Barcaccia Fountain,
designed by the famous Bernini. The steps are popular for the view from the top
of the steps which is breathtaking and are a perfect spot for people watching.
Trevi Fountain is one of
the most iconic tourist attractions in Rome and the most famous fountain in the
world. The Baroque fountain depicts Neptune, the god of the sea, surrounded by
sea creatures, chariots, and allegorical figures. One of the most famous
traditions at the Trevi Fountain is the coin toss. According to legend, if you
throw a coin over your left shoulder into the fountain, you will ensure that
you will return to Rome one day. We did throw a coin in last time so it seems
the legend is true.
Roman National Museum - Palazzo Altemps
To visit Roman National
Museum, the best is to buy a combined ticket that includes Palazzo Altemps,
Palazzo Massimo, Baths of Diocletian and Museo dell’Arte Salvata. The cost of
the one ticket was 15 Euro per person. The ticket is valid for 7 days from the
moment of validation.
Palazzo Altemps is a beautiful Renaissance palace in Rome now home to
the Roman National Museum’ collection of ancient sculptures. The palace has a
stunning architecture with elegant courtyards and frescoed rooms. We visited at
the opening time, early in the morning and it seemed we had the place to
ourselves.
Roman National Museum - Pallazzo Massimo alle Terme
Located near Termini
Station, it is housed in a beautiful in a beautiful Renaissance palace and is
renowned for its collection of ancient Roman art, including exquisite frescoes,
mosaics, sculptures and bronzes.
Roman National Museum - Baths of Diocletian
Built during the reign of
Emperor Diocletian, in the late 3rd century AD, the site is known for its
massive scale and impressive ruins of heated rooms, vast courtyards and
elaborate mosaics. The visit starts with Baths of Diocletian Museum before
visiting the courtyard and the baths’ ruins.
Roman National Museum - Museo dell’Arte Salvata
This interesting museum is home to a diverse collection of works of art that have been recovered, including sculptures, mosaics, frescoes, and architectural fragments. Many of these pieces were saved from archeological excavations or sites at risk but there are also artworks and artifacts that have been stolen, lost, illegally sold, or illegally exported, only to be recovered and brought back to Italy.
Colosseum and Arch of Constantine
The Colosseum, located in
the heart of Rome, Italy, is an iconic ancient amphitheater constructed under
the Flavian emperors, Emperor Vespasian and then his son Titus in 80 AD and it
was used for gladiatorial contests, public spectacles, and various other events.
Today it is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world. It does not
matter how many times you see it; it always looks impressive.
Between the Collosseum and
Palatine Hill stands Arch of Constantine, one of the largest and best-preserved
triumphal arches in Rome, built to commemorate Emperor Constantine I's victory
over Maxentius at the Battle of Milvian Bridge in 312 AD. A good thing we
noticed while visiting this time was that City of Rome recently installed few water dispensing kiosks around the city, one of them being right beside
the Arch of Constantine. Here you now have the opportunity to fill up your water bottle, with
refrigerated still or sparkling water.
Located
near the Roman Forum and Capitoline Hill, this monumental sculpture commemorates Emperor Trajan's
victory in the Dacian Wars (101-106 AD), with a continuous spiral design
depicting detailed scenes of the campaigns. In the past the column was topped by a statue of Emperor Trajan
himself but since 1587 a bronze statue of Saint Peter was placed there by Pope Sixtus V.
Altare della Patria is a
monumental white marble structure located in Piazza Venezia built to honor Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of unified Italy, and
is a symbol of Italy’s unification. The monument is free to enter, except some
exhibition areas, and the views of Rome from the top are spectacular.
The ancient Roman temple,
now a church is famous for its massive dome with a central opening, the oculus,
that allows natural light to illuminate the interior. Rotunda with the oculus
symbolizes the connection between the temple and the gods.
Piazza del Popolo and Terrazza del Pincio
This iconic square is
popular with tourists and locals. In the center of the square stands a towering
Egyptian Obelisk and flanking the northern side of the square are two almost
identical Baroque-style churches, Santa Maria dei Miracoli and Santa Maria in Montesanto, both designed by the architect Bernini. At the top of the
square, you can climb to Terrazza del Pincio, for a panoramic view of the city.
Originally known as the
Mausoleum of Hadrian, Castel Sant'Angelo is a fortress and museum located along
the Tiber river, near Vatican City. It was Built by the Roman Emperor Hadrian
as a mausoleum for himself and his family but was later used as papal residence,
then a fortress and now as a museum. The castle is connected to Vatican City by
a fortified corridor, known as the Passetto di Borgo, which was used as an
escape route for popes in times of danger.
Vatican City
Visiting Vatican City is an
unforgettable experience, a place full of history, art, and spirituality. You
can spend a whole day if you want to visit everything. The Vatican Museums are
full of extraordinary masterpieces and here you can also see the Sistine
Chapel. Underneath the St. Peter’s Basilica, you can visit the Vatican
Necropolis, the ancient burial ground that includes St. Peter’s tomb and where
many popes have been buried, including Pope John Paul II and Pope Paul VI.
Having seen them on our last visit, we focused on revisiting St. Peter’s Square
and St. Peter’s Basilica.
The best feature of St.Peter’s Square is the massive, sweeping collonades that surround the square,
with statues of saints along the top. In the center of the square stands an
ancient Egyptian obelisk and there are also two beautiful fountains, one
designed by Maderno and one by Bernini.
From the square, you get an
iconic view of St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the largest and most important
churches in the world. Visiting basilica is like stepping into a living museum.
It was designed by Michelangelo, Donato Bramante, Carlo Maderno,
and Gian
Lorenzo Bernini and the grand dome was famously
designed by Michelangelo.
One of the most famous sculptures in the world, the Pieta, is
housed in the basilica and above the altar stands Bernini’s Baldachin.
For some of the best
panoramic views of the city. we climbed Janiculum Hill, one of the seven hills
of Rome. It is a great place to relax, enjoy the views, and take a break from
the crowds. At the top of the hill the impressive Fontana dell’ Acqua Paola can
be seen, a baroque fountain designed by Bernini.
Trastevere neighbourhood
Laying at the foot of
Janiculum Hill is Trastevere, one of Rome’s most charming and vibrant
neighborhoods known for its narrow cobblestone streets, colourful buildings and
lively atmosphere. The area also has some of the best and cheapest pizza and
gelato in Rome.
This square in the heart of
Rome is known for its busy outdoor market, open from 7 am to 2 pm, Monday to
Saturday. Here you can find fresh produce, flowers, and local goods. In the
middle of the square stands the statue of Giordano Bruno, the philosopher
burned at the stake in 1600.
One of the most visited
places in Rome, Piazza Navona is most famous for its three magnificent
fountains. Fontana
dei Quattro Fiumi (Fountain of the Four Rivers) designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. This grand
fountain is in the center of the piazza and it represents four major rivers
from different continents: the Nile (Africa), the Ganges (Asia), the Danube
(Europe), and the RÃo de la Plata (America).
At the southern end of the piazza is Fontana del Moro, featuring
a Moorish figure holding a dolphin, surrounded by sculptural figures
representing various sea creatures. And at the northern end of the square, Fontana di Nettuno, depicts
Neptune, the god of the sea, surrounded by figures of tritons and sea
creatures. The square is filled with cafes, restaurants, and street artists, It
is just one of those spots where you can just sit and watch the world go by.
Church of St. Ignatiusof Loyola
Walking
through Rome you can always stumble upon amazing churches that will take your
breath away. Church of St. Ignatius of Loyola is one example. Just a
short walk from Piazza Navona, this church it
is famous for its frescoes, particularly the incredible ceiling fresco which
creates the illusion of a vast dome, even though the church doesn't have one.
Located in the Piazza di Ponte
Umberto, the museum houses a collection of paintings, sculptures, military uniforms, personal items, and historical artifacts
related to Napoleon and his family. And there is no entrance fee.
Roman Ruins and Hidden Gems: A Day Trip to Ostia Antica
From
Rome we travelled to Ostia Antica by train. We used Metromare’s Rome-Lido
railway, which connects the city center to the coastal neighborhood of Ostia.
This is a commuter rail line also known as the "Roma-Lido". The
line runs from Porta San Paolo station in Rome to Lido di Ostia, with 13 stops
along the way. A one-way ticket costs 1.50 Euro and can be purchased at the
station or via the "tap & go" system with a credit card which we
used for convenience. The train journey takes approximately 30 minutes. The
ticket office is a short walk away from the train station, across a pedestrian
bridge, you just have to follow the signs. A ticket costs 18 Euro and includes
entry to the Ostia Antica Archaeological Park itself, the Castle of
Julius II and the Ostiense Museum. The Museum of Ships in Fiumicino, the
Imperial Ports of Claudius and Trajan, and the Necropolis of Porto on Isola
Sacra are also included but we would have need it a car as they are all in
different locations. The tickets are valid for 8 days from the first use so
this might work for tourist with a car and longer stays in Rome.
Ostia Antica -Archeological Site
When you visit the archeological site you step into the heart of an ancient Roman port
city, frozen in time. You can explore well-preserved ruins,
including theater
ruins, public baths, ancient apartments,
and grand temples. You walk along the original streets
and are astonished by intricate mosaics, frescoes, and remains of shops and warehouses that
reveal daily life from nearly 2,000 years ago.
Located near the entrance
to the Ostia
Antica Archaeological Site, Ostiense Museum offers a glimpse
into the history and artifacts of the ancient port city. Inside, the museum
houses a
collection of statues, inscriptions, and everyday objects that
highlight life in Ostia, from Roman tombstones
to marble
sculptures and ancient pottery.
Ostia Antica - Castello di Giulio II (Julius II Castle)
This striking
medieval fortress named after Pope Julius II, who oversaw its construction. The
castle was designed to protect the area from potential pirate raids and served
as a military outpost. Inside we explored its imposing walls, towers, and ramparts and enjoyed
the beautiful views of the surrounding landscape, including the nearby ruins of
Ostia Antica. A tip before visiting the caste is to wear comfortable,
closed-tow shoes because the castle’s paths and staircases are uneven and
rough. We witnessed people with valid tickets being denied entry because they
wore flip-flops or sandals.
Rome
Visiting Rome is like
stepping into an open-air museum, where ancient history, stunning art, and culture
blend in. From the Colosseum and Roman Forum to
the masterpieces of Vatican City, there are so many sights to explore. Here
you can find good food, charming piazzas, and lively atmosphere. Rome offers an
extraordinary new look every time we visit; you can never get tired of visiting
the same places or see them in a new light.
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