Rome is undeniably one of the world’s greatest and most exhilarating metropolises with a myriad of things to do and see, with more history, art, legends and glory than any other city on Earth. With its dolce vita, grandiose ruins and overwhelming artistic legacy it’s no wonder Rome manages not only to make its locals proud, but also to inspire the artists and to seduce every single visitor who steps into. For the inexperienced traveler, however, capturing the essence of such magnificent city could be quite challenging, so here are 5 clever and extremely pleasant methods that will help you experience Rome at its best.
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Tour the Markets
Although a pretty uncommon activity for a city that has it all, exploring the markets in Rome will help you discover the city in a way that neither the Colosseum nor the Vatican City will ever be able to do it. Besides being particularly attractive and full of character, Rome’s flamboyant food and flea markets will give you a tremendous glimpse of everyday Roman life. From the central world-famous Campo dei Fiori to the quirky, lesser-known stalls hidden throughout its neighborhoods, Rome offers a fantastic variety of markets. Most alluring include Porta Portese – the city’s main flea market, held each Sunday on the left bank of Tiber; Piazza Vittorio Emmanuele ; the Underground – a real treat for antiquarians, San Giovanni Clothing Market and Piazza di Testaccio, to name but a few.
Eat Something Typical
Whether you opt for a delicious Saltimbocca alla Romana served in a hip restaurant or a generous plate of Spaghetti Carbonara in a family-run trattoria, a local dish here will certainly bring you closer to the authentic Roman experience. La cucina Romana is simple and delicious with emphasize on fresh seasonal ingredients, meat, pasta and of course the famous Pecorino Romano cheese. Some of the best areas to eat in the Eternal City are Campo dei Fiori and the charming district of Trastevere, whose cobbled streets are sprinkled with an excellent array of quality restaurants, tavernas and pizzerias.
When in Rome, don’t forget to try their incredibly tasty thin crust pizza and the mouth-watering gelato which comes in so many flavors and colors.
Walk through History
From the imposing Colosseum to the amazingly preserved Pantheon and the marvels of Palatine Hill, Rome is packed with astonishing historic landmarks. The city actually sits upon thousands of years of history, and you can’t get a true taste of it without discovering a bit of its glorious past. Learn about the brave gladiators in the former Flavian Amphitheatre (Colosseum), get an intimate look at Romans’ everyday lives by visiting the ancient Trajan’s Market or the remains of the Roman Forum, marvel at the Pantheon’s spectacular architecture and explore the ruins of the Circus Maximus, the greatest entertaining venue of Ancient Rome.
Explore the Museums
Few cities in the world can rival Rome when it comes to museums. From awe-inspiring ancient sculpture to modern art, Rome’s museums have something for everyone. Some of the finest include the Vatican Museums with their priceless collections of treasures accumulated by the popes over centuries; the Capitoline Museum with its famous statue of Romulus and Remus and Caravaggio’s distinguished paintings; the amazing Galleria Borghese and the National Gallery of Modern Art, one of the best of its kind in Europe.
Throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain
Legend has it that if you throw a coin over your shoulder into the beautiful Trevi Fountain, one day you’ll return to Rome. However, that’s not the only reason to visit this architectural jewel.
Set against the marvelous backdrop of Palazzo di Poli, in the historic center of Rome the striking Baroque construction is undeniably one of the world’s most famous, beautiful and dramatic fountains and one of the best free attractions in Rome. Moreover, it is an excellent spot to enjoy an Italian gelato, watch the world go by and soak up the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
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