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Everyone wants to go to Rome at least once in their lifetime. And after that, they want to keep going back to the city because they are so stunned by the many sights and experiences there are on offer. There are so many places to see in Rome that you will no doubt want to visit again and again to tick them off your bucket list. At the same time, Rome is perpetually crowded with travellers and there are almost always snaking lines at museums that might make you groan with frustration.
But it’s a small price to pay to be able to see the masters with your own eyes, to gaze upon the Sistine Chapel or to look at St. Peter’s Basilica, among other things to do in Rome. Where possible, see if you can book tickets online as this reduces your time wasted in queues. Local Romans are friendly and happy to assist if you need help in getting around but at the same time, be careful of your belongings as there is a lot of petty crime that takes place on buses and trains. Here’s a list of some of the topmost Rome sightseeing spots that you must not miss out on.
Often referred to as the world’s only architecturally perfect building, the Pantheon started out as a temple for gods, but it soon became the burial place for many Roman kings and other important people such as Raphael. Built in 118 A.D., the Pantheon is simple and elegant. Once you step inside, look up because the dome is open to the sky. This is certainly one of the Rome tourist attractions that you cannot miss.
You can’t possibly come to Vatican City and wonder what to see in Rome. There’s St. Peter’s Basilica, large, imposing and magnificent. Beside it, there are the Vatican Museums, which will take an entire day to wander through. Make it a point to visit the glorious Sistine Chapel, Michelangelo’s masterpiece, and it will leave you speechless.
You don’t have to be Christian to appreciate the world’s largest church. The original which was built in 349 AD was built over the tomb of St. Peter, the first pope. It was razed and the present church was built in 1626. It’s normal to be overwhelmed by the sheer size and beauty of this building. Inside the basilica, you can see Bernini’s Baldacchino and Michelangelo’s Pieta.
One of the things to do in Rome is to explore Trastevere, which literally means ‘across the Tiber’. There are cobblestoned streets here, gorgeous ochre buildings and a sense of freedom and calm. There are lots of boutiques here from where you can buy jewellery, perfume and other knickknacks. Even if you don’t want to do any shopping, just stroll through the streets, enjoy the Bohemian vibe and walk into one of the many bars here and slake your thirst with an aperitivo.
One of the famous Rome sightseeing spots include the Trevi Fountain. The marble statue of Neptune stands proud in the middle, surrounded by tritons blowing conches. People throw coins in the fountain here, as legend has it that anyone who throws a coin here will return to Rome. Most of the time, the place tends to be crowded with tourists trying to frame their perfect photo. Early morning or late at night is a good idea to avoid the throngs.
Certainly one of the places to see in Rome is the Galleria Borghese and the Villa Borghese. You have to buy the tickets in advance and it’s difficult to get access otherwise. People come here to see some of the famed Baroque masterpieces such as Bernini’s Apollo and Daphne, or Caravaggio’s self-portrait. While the art in the galleries is gorgeous, a walk through the Villa Borghese park with its blossoming trees will gladden your heart.
Fancy shopping in one of the world’s oldest shopping malls? The Gallerio Alberto Sordi was built in 1922 and is simply gorgeous with its mosaic floors and stained-glass skylights. Shop at stores such as Zara, Massimo Dutti and La Feltrinelli.
Not too far from the Pantheon is one of Rome’s oldest gelaterias. An out of the world experience indeed for those who love gelato, whether it’s with pistachios, hazelnuts and other delicious options such as blueberry cheesecake.
SOTC brings several offers and deals to make your travel hassle-free and easy. Don’t forget to check the website before you book your tickets for your Rome vacation.
