Routes around Rome: what to see in 1, 2 and 3 days on your own. Entrance fees, opening hours of attractions and how to get there.

The cradle of Christianity, the Eternal City - as enthusiastic tourists call the capital - Rome. It was here that people of art drew inspiration, the destinies of people and entire states were decided. This is one of the most visited cities in the world, where thousand-year-old structures are surprisingly combined with modern facilities.

You should not be under the illusion that you can see all the iconic places in Rome in a few days. A city with a centuries-old history, which survived the rise and fall of the greatest of empires, is so multifaceted that it is impossible to get acquainted with its sights in full in such a limited time. After just a few hours of walking around the city, tourists begin to feel dizzy from the abundance of impressions and excess information, however, they should not lose their heads - if time is running out, you should try to see at least the main cultural monuments. In this article we will outline a route around the Eternal City and tell you what to see in Rome on your own in 1, 2 and 3 days, as well as provide useful information - ticket prices, opening hours of cultural and architectural monuments, as well as how to get to them by public transport and on foot.

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Walk around Rome in 1 day

So, it’s better to start from People’s Square Piazza del Popolo. You can get there by metro to the station of the same name or by tram number 2 to the Flaminio stop. The main decorations of the square are the Egyptian obelisk, the central fountain and two works by Cessarini - “Fountain of Neptune” and “Fountain of the Goddess of Rome”; next to the Gate is the Church of Santa Maria del Popolo. The square is located at Pincio Hill, where the entrance to the Borghese Gardens is, and the famous Via del Corso goes south, along which you can go to Piazza Venezia.

Via del Corso- a wide and ancient street, which is very well known to shopaholics all over the world: elite boutiques, restaurants and hotels are located here. If you turn onto Via del Murate, you will find yourself at the most famous fountain in the city - Trevi.

In the center Trevi Fountain- sculpture of the sea god. The extraordinary popularity among tourists is indicated by the bottom of the fountain, completely strewn with coins. According to statistics, 1,500 euros worth of small items are taken out of Trevi every day. Opposite the fountain is a church San Marcello al Corso, decorated with sculptures and bas-reliefs of Cavallini and Raja.

Returning to Via del Corso, you need to go straight to Venice square, where the Altar of the Fatherland and the famous Palace of Venice are located.

Palace of Venice, previously used by the Venetian embassy, ​​was later chosen by Mussolini's government. It was from the balcony of this building that Mussolini spoke to the people. Nowadays the Palazzo Venezia Museum of Decorative Arts is open here, and the Cere Wax Museum is also located here. The museum is open from 8:30 to 19:30, entrance is 5 euros.

(Photo © Bert Kaufmann / flickr.com / Licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0)

By the way, most of the city's museums are closed on Mondays, December 25 and January 1, but you can get into some - if you know when. When visiting museums and other attractions, it is better to use the Roma Pass card - this way you will save time and money.

Altar of the Fatherland built for the anniversary of the unification of Italy. The Altar offers a wonderful view of the city, for which you need to take the elevator (7 euros) to the observation deck and, after admiring the views to your heart’s content, go to Capitol Hill.

Michelangelo's staircase with antique sculptures of lions from the temple of the goddess Isis in Egypt and statues from the Pompeii theater attracts attention. In the center of the square is a copy of the statue of Marcus Aurelius. Now the Capitoline museums are open in three palaces, admission is 12 euros, from 8 to 20. The museum houses the original statue of the She-Wolf feeding Romulus and Remus. A copy of it is installed at the entrance to the building.

On the right there is an arch through which you can exit to Roman Forum. If you wish, having bought a ticket, here you can wander among the ruins of ancient temples and columns, or go to Via dei Fori Imperiali, leading to the Colosseum.

What else to see in Rome on your own in 1 day? Of course, the symbol of the Eternal City is the ancient amphitheater Coliseum, built from 70 to 82. n. e. for gladiatorial fights, included in the new seven Wonders of the World. Entrance costs 12 euros, visiting from 8:30 to 19:15 (summer), in winter until 16:30 or 17:30. In the evening, the Colosseum is illuminated and looks very unusual. Nearby is the Colosseo metro stop on Via dei Fori Imperiali, at which point the walk can be completed.

Hotels in Rome

Haven't found a suitable hotel yet? We advise you to do this in advance! To search for hotels at the best price and other parameters, we recommend using Roomguru.ru - this is a search engine that compares prices and allows you to find the best deal. If you start looking for accommodation in advance, then in the city center you can find good hostels at prices starting from 16 € per person, and rooms for two people in a three-star hotel - from 43 €, and excellent apartments - from 80 €. If you don’t have to stay in the very center, you can find cheaper accommodation.

(Photo © Matteo Avanzini / flickr.com / Licensed CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)

2 days in Rome: what to see?

On the second day we continue the walk interrupted the day before with St. Peter's Square- it is convenient to get to it by metro, Ottaviano stop. Along Via Ottaviano, thousands of tourists and residents of the Eternal City rush to the square. There is a special crowd here on Sunday. In the center of the square is an Egyptian obelisk, erected during the time of Caligula, and a little further is St. Peter's Basilica, the central cathedral of the Vatican and the entire Roman Catholic Church.

Via della Conciliazione leads to Ponte Vittorio Emanuele II bridge, richly decorated with relief images and sculptures. The bridge was opened in 1911 in honor of the anniversary of the country's unification.

Further the route runs along the embankment to castle of St. Angelo, or the Mausoleum of Hadrian (Castel Sant "Angelo). There was a fortress, the residence of the Pope and a tomb. The dungeon and the first floor served as a prison. It was here that Giordano Bruno, Galileo and Count Cagliostro languished. Now in the castle is the Military History Museum, entrance - 8 .5 euros, open from 9 to 19:30 From the castle runs the beautiful Bridge of the Holy Angel (Eliev Bridge) with original statues.

You can walk along Lungotevere Castello to the Palace of Justice in Piazza dei Tribunali. A luxurious palace, the creation of the architect Calderini, the facade is decorated with a bronze chariot, on the sides there are statues.

What else to see in Rome in 2 days? You can cross the river along the Umberto Bridge and stroll along the embankment, and then go a little deeper into the city and walk to the church San Giovanni dei Fiorentini on Via Giulia. The temple took almost 100 years to build. The main decoration of the temple is the altar by Borromini. By the way, this is the only church where cats and dogs are allowed.

From the church it is convenient to head along Via Corso Piazza Navona– a former market and place of city festivities. In the center there is the obelisk of Agonalis, crowned with a dove with an olive branch, and the Fountain of the Four Rivers. These are sculptural symbols of rivers from different parts of the world: the Danube, Ganges, Nile and La Plata. Two more fountains - the Moor and Neptune - surrounded the square at the edges.

From Piazza Navona you can proceed to to the Pantheon in Piazza del Pantheon, a favorite place for musicians. The giant dome of the Pantheon with a hole in the center is impressive; at noon, sunlight penetrates the temple, standing as a huge luminous beam. Since 609, the ancient Pantheon became a Christian temple, which allowed it to survive to this day. Free admission.

Traveling to Rome on a budget? Do you think this is impossible? Don't believe anyone who says that everything in Rome is very expensive!

Yes, to get to many museums in Rome you have to pay expensive tickets, but there are many museums and galleries in Rome that are free. Look at the list compiled by BILETYPLUS.ru specialists, a list of museums and various places that are free to visit in Rome:

1. The Pantheon Temple in Rome, which has the largest cement dome in the world

2. St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican

3. Piazza Navona, like a magnet, attracts tourists day and night.

4. The Spanish Steps in Rome are one of the most popular places to just sit and spend time during the day watching street performers.

5. Piazza Boca della Verita in Rome

6. Throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain - the largest fountain in Rome with a height of 25.9 meters and a width of 19.8 meters

7. Panorama of Rome from the Vittoriano observation deck. You can pay 7 euros and take the elevator, but there are many free places to view the city from the Vittoriano monument.

8. Villa Borghese is a Roman landscape park in a natural English style, occupying the Pincio hill.

9. The Jewish Ghetto is a must-visit place to get acquainted with the atmosphere, local traditions, studios and kosher shops.

10. Walk along the Appian Way (Via Appia Antica)

11. Be sure to visit the Trastevere district, south of the Vatican - one of the most colorful and romantic quarters of Rome

12. Don't be shy and take advantage of the free walking tour. Visit //www.newromefreetour.com/ for information and details on how and where these free Rome tours are organized.

13. Walk through one of the non-Catholic cemeteries. An unusual experience.

14. Visit the Historical Museum of Liberation (Museo Storico della Liberazione) and you will plunge into the history of Rome. This museum once served as a center for the SS during World War II.

15. Church of Santa Prassede (Chiesa di Santa Prassede) is a great place to see the works of Byzantine masters.

16. EUR – an almost unknown area of ​​Rome. With its many arches, the Palazzo della Civita del Lavoro cannot help but be compared to the aesthetics of the Colosseum in Rome. Be sure to visit this place!

17. Church of Santa Maria della Vittoria - a small church located in the eastern part of Rome, near Piazza Barberini. The church was built by the Discalced Carmelite Order in 1605 as the Church of St. Pavel. Check out this interesting place.

18. The beautiful architectural creation of Giannicol in Rome is an extraordinary architectural solution and worthy of your attention!

19. Arco degli Acetari Square

20. Church of San Pietro in Vincoli (Chiesa di San Pietro in Vincoli) - a church built in the 5th century.

21. Church of Santa Maria del Priorato on the Aventine Hill. The temple is located on Piazza Cavalieri di Malta (Priorato dei Cavalieri di Malta)

22. Walking around evening Rome is the favorite pastime of both locals and tourists!

23. Baroque Church – Chiesa di San Luigi dei Francesi – don’t miss this place!

24. Campo de’ Fiori is a rectangular square right in the center of Rome.

25. Be sure to take time to walk around the Quartiere Coppede area - look at the villas, towers and numerous arches - an artistically extraordinary and unique area of ​​​​Rome!

26. Piazza del Popolo – there is always something going on in this square! Do not miss!

27. Teatro di Marcello - Teatro di Marcello - built by Octavian Augustus in the 12th century BC is worthy of your special attention!

28. Largo di Torre Argentina Square - Largo di Torre Argentina - the place where Julius Caesar was killed. Visit this place and mentally recall the events of that time!

29. In the summer, Rome is full of free concerts. Be sure to find out what concerts are taking place in the city while you are there and attend these interesting events!

30. Piazza del Campidoglio – Piazza del Campidoglio is one of the most extraordinary public places in Rome, designed by Michelangelo!

31. Trojan's Column - a column in Trajan's Forum in Rome, created by the architect Apollodorus of Damascus in 113 AD. in honor of Trajan's victories over the Dacians.

32. Garbatella – Garbatella is a quarter where sophisticated people can discover residential buildings from the 1920s and 30s. This quarter is a prime example of how construction in Rome never goes according to plan! Tangled streets and tiny angular squares! Don't miss this quarter!

33. Take a walk around Circo Massimo! Be sure to visit the Trastevere district, south of the Vatican - one of the most colorful and romantic quarters of Rome. The Church of Santa Prassede is a great place to see the works of Byzantine masters

And our list of places in Rome that you can visit for free on certain days:

34. Colosseum, Palatino and Roman Forum - free on the first Sunday of every month

35. Vatican Museum – free entry on the last Sunday of every month

36. All state museums are open free of charge on the first Sunday of every month

37. Weekly audience with the Pope – free every Wednesday morning

38. Porta Portese Market – free every Sunday morning

39. Palazzo Montecitorio – Palazzo di Montecitorio – first Sunday of every month free admission

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What to visit in Rome - 14 must-see attractions

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Historical and architectural monuments

Catacombs of Domitilla.

Catacombs of Domitilla - Good Shepherd

In the 2nd century AD, trying to circumvent the ban on burying the dead within the city, the Romans came up with an unconventional solution - to use underground necropolises. During the existence of the Roman catacombs, which numbered 40 galleries, more than 700 thousand people were buried in their depths. The oldest burial places in Rome are the catacombs of Domitilla, a Christian saint exiled to the island of Ponza for professing a religion alien to the pagan state.

The mysterious underground tunnels, located on four levels and only partially explored, stretch for 15 km. Many interesting ancient monuments are hidden in the depths of the catacombs of Domitilla: a beautiful three-nave church, illuminated by the penetrating rays of the sun, crypts and sarcophagi in which honorary citizens of Rome found their final refuge, and marvelous frescoes depicting biblical scenes.

• The catacombs, located at Via delle Sette Chiese, 282, are open to the public from 9.00 to 12.00 and from 14.00 to 17.00 on all days except Tuesday.
• Pre-registration is required.
• Website: http://domitilla.info/

Trevi Fountain.

Even at the beginning of our era, there was a water supply system in Rome: water from the purest springs located outside the city flowed into the Baths of Agrippa. The first fountain in Trevi Square, which was a small bowl, was built by the architect Alberti back in the 15th century. But modesty is by no means the destiny of the Popes. Already in 1629, at the direction of Pope Urban VIII, the architect Bernini, followed by Carlo Fontana and Nicolo Salvi, implemented the project of a grandiose fountain, which went down in the history of world architecture.

The marvelous man-made source, 26 m high and 20 m wide, became the largest in Italy. Its composition, created in the Baroque style, personifies the greatness of the water element. The ruler of the seas and oceans, Neptune, rushes through the center of the fountain on a shell chariot drawn by sea horses and driven by newts. The right corner of the ensemble is dedicated to the healing spring that gives Trevi water, and the left corner is dedicated to abundance and Marcus Agrippa, who approved the water supply project.

• You can get to the Trevi Fountain, located in Piazza di Trevi, by taking the red metro line A (Barberini station).

Roman forum.

In those years when Rome only “stood unsteadily on its feet,” life was already in full swing here. Back in the 6th century BC. In the heart of the ancient city, the Comitium appeared, where public meetings were held, the Regia, where the Roman rulers met, the Rosta - a platform from which speakers spoke, and the temple of Vesta, the guardian of the hearth.

Over time, the Roman Forum became increasingly important: the Senate met here, the ancient gods were glorified, human destinies were decided and the only prison in the city was located. Each emperor sought to immortalize himself in the center of Rome: the Column of Trajan and the Column of Phocas, the Arch of Septimius Severus and monuments signed by Constantine and his successors appeared in the Forum.

After the fall of the Roman Empire, the center gradually fell into decay, and in the Middle Ages it was completely overgrown with grass.

Now the Roman Forum has again become the center of life: archaeological excavations carried out in the 19th and 20th centuries returned Ancient Rome to the world.

• The attraction, located at Via della Salaria Vecchia, 5/6, is open from 8.30 to 19.00 (in winter from 8.30 to 16.30).
• Entrance fee: 12 euros.

Religious buildings

Vatican.

Vatican - St. Peter's Square

There is hardly a place in the whole world that hides more secrets and beautiful monuments than the great city of the Vatican. The smallest state on the planet has incredible power: all the governing bodies of the Catholic Church are concentrated on a tiny spot on the banks of the Tiber, covering 44 hectares.

Although there are no borders or visas between Italy and the Vatican, its own rules apply: for example, the airspace of the papacy is inviolable for aircraft.

A walk around the perimeter of the tiny state will take no more than an hour, and in order to get around all its attractions, not even a week is enough. Here is the Papal (Apostolic) Palace, from the window of which the Pope speaks on Sundays, the Sistine Chapel, painted with frescoes by Michelangelo, Botticelli and Pinturicchio, the great St. Peter's Cathedral, capable of accommodating up to 60 thousand people, picturesque Vatican gardens and sacred grottoes hiding the relics of Catholic saints

• http://www.vatican.va/ will tell you about what you should definitely see in the Vatican

Pantheon.

The majestic “Temple of All Gods” was built twice: the first temple, built by Marcus Agrippa, was buried in fire in the 1st century AD. The new Pantheon, built on the site of the previous one in 118-125, became one of the landmarks of Rome: its impressive dome with a diameter of more than 43 meters was the largest in the world for many centuries.

In 609, the worship of the seven gods was replaced by Christian services, and the amazing windowless structure became a source of inspiration for outstanding creators of all times and peoples.

During its existence, the Pantheon was never destroyed and, having preserved its ancient decoration, managed to become even more beautiful: its niches and altars are decorated with frescoes, paintings and sculptures of the Renaissance. The most famous natives of Italy are also buried here: Raphael Santi, the painters Zuccarri and Caracci, King Victor Emmanuel II.

The Pantheon, located in Piazza della Rotonda, still holds services.

• The temple is open daily from 8.30 to 19.30 (from 9.00 to 18.00 on Sunday), admission is free.

Santa Maria Maggiore.

Among the nearly eight dozen Roman churches dedicated to the Virgin Mary, the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, founded in 352, occupies a special place. Legend has it that the great temple was built by Pope Liberius on the spot pointed to by sending snow. The Mother of God appeared in a dream.

The church went through many improvements and reconstructions: in 1377, the tallest bell tower in Rome appeared here, and in the mid-18th century, a beautiful façade with a dagger and a loggia appeared. Behind the rich decoration, bright frescoes and marvelous mosaics, it is difficult to discern the true treasures of the temple: the relics of St. Matthew and St. Jerome of Stridon, the precious icon of the “Salvation of the Roman People,” which came from the hand of the Apostle Luke, and pieces of the manger where the Son of God was born.

In one of the chapels of the temple, the Sistine, unlike the chapel of the same name in the Vatican, there are no famous frescoes, but the world's oldest nativity scene, created in the 7th century, is kept and the famous architect Bernini is buried.

• The basilica, located at Piazza dell’Esquilino, 34, is open daily from 7.00 to 12.30 and from 15.00 to 18.30.
• You can book a tour of Santa Maria Maggiore on the website: http://www.vatican.va/various/basiliche/sm_maggiore/index_en.html

Parks and Recreation

Hill Palatine.

Many legends are associated with the second largest hill on which Rome was born. Here was the cave of the she-wolf who fed Romulus and Remus, the hut of the shepherd Fastulus, who sheltered the twins, and here the first Roman fratricide occurred.

Tradition says that on April 21, 753, “Square Rome” arose on the Palatine - an ancient settlement that turned into the Eternal City. The hill became home to the city aristocracy: the palaces of the emperors Tiberius, Augustus, Septimius Severus, and the Flavians appeared here. Because of luxury and grandeur, the Palatine fell: barbarian invasions devastated the cradle of Rome.

Only in the 11th century did life return here: on the site of Tiberius’s palace, a prestigious quarter grew up, where even St. Francis of Assisi did not disdain to live. Now the Palatine Hill is a large archaeological site and an ideal place for walking among the picturesque ruins of ancient Rome.

• The hill is open to the public every day from 9.00 to 17.00.
  
• The cost of a single ticket, which also includes a visit to the Roman Forum and the Colosseum, is 15.5 euros.
  
• It is possible to purchase a preferential Roma Pass tourist card on the website www.romapass.it

Appian Way.

As you know, all roads lead to Rome. And “The Queen of Roads Going Away,” on the contrary, leads from Rome to the trade and political centers of the former empire. The construction of the most economically important route, connecting Rome with the seaport of Brundisium, was laid by Appius Claudius Caecus in the 4th century BC. The end of the 570-kilometer road, along which legionnaires walked and traders followed, was crowned by two marble columns, which became a landmark of Brundisia.

Despite the fact that many buildings along the Appian Way were plundered piecemeal in the Middle Ages, it is still used for its intended purpose. A walk along the old trade artery will turn into a fascinating journey into the past.

The regional park along the road includes the catacombs of San Callisto, the mausoleum of Romulus, the Seneca and Quintilli villas, the aqueduct park and the church of Santa Maria in Palmis, built at the meeting place of Christ and his first apostle.

• How to get to the Appian Way Park and the opening hours of local attractions can be found at http://www.parcoappiaantica.it/en/

Cafes, restaurants, shopping

Department store “La Rinascente”.

The history of the oldest and most famous shopping center in Rome goes back to 1865: then the first store appeared in Milan, which soon grew into a world-famous chain. From 1919 to 1921, branches of the Renaissance opened in Rome, Genoa, Turin, Florence, Naples, Bologna, Palerno, and a little later in Cagliari. “La Rinascente” is a mecca for shopping lovers who do not have the thinnest wallets.

The store, located in Rome, resembles a real art gallery, and the range of products will easily make even the most demanding customers happy.

The boutiques of the department store, a confident leader in the ranking of shopping centers in Italy, sell gourmet products and cosmetics, products that create home comfort, and a huge selection of clothes and accessories for the whole family.

• The Rome branch of “La Rinascente” is located in Piazza fiume 5
  
• open daily from 9.30 to 21.30 (Sunday from 10.00 to 21.00).
  
• Website: http://www.rinascente.it/rinascente/ru/

The ancient cafe "Greco" (Antico Caffè Greco).

Café Greco has been operating in Rome for the third century. In the 19th century, this establishment was a real international arts club: at cozy tables Goethe and Gogol, Mark Twain and Stendhal, Franz Liszt and Richard Wagner drew inspiration.

There has long been a legend: if a cardinal finds himself at the Greco table, he will certainly be elected Pope. A memorial plaque at the door reads: “The ancient cafe “Greco” was founded in 1760. It is under state protection as an important ancient monument.”

More than three hundred works of art and memorable autographs decorate the walls of the cafe, and its tiramisu and coffee are famous throughout Rome. Of course, it’s not cheap at all: a small cup of coffee at a table will cost 8 euros, and you’ll have to pay 10 for a cake. But the unique aroma, imbued with the spirit of history, easily compensates for any costs.

• Café Greco, located at Via dei Condotti, 86,
  
• open daily from 9.00 to 20.00.
  
• You can find out about the selection of drinks and the famous guests of the cafe at http://www.anticocaffegreco.eu/

Entertainment

Time elevator.

Unusual entertainment awaits guests at the 5D cinema, which opened in Rome in 2011. Like a real time machine straight out of the pages of science fiction books, it takes visitors thousands of years back.

Instead of modern Rome, what appears before your eyes is the cave of the she-wolf who suckled Romulus and Remus, and very soon the construction of the Eternal City begins. The surround sound and smell of smoke immerse you in the very center of the tragedy unfolding around you. Under the frantic screams of women and children, it becomes clear that Rome is burning, set on fire by the mad Nero. The gloomy shots are replaced by another grandiose construction project: the construction of St. Peter's Cathedral is in full swing, and there, behind the next shot, the talented Michelangelo is already working on the Sistine Chapel. “The Time Elevator” is very popular among tourists and residents of Rome: in the first year of its existence, a quarter of a million spectators visited it.

• Cinema located in Via Santa Maria dell'Anima, 29
  
• open from 10.30 to 19.30 seven days a week
  
• Depending on the selected session, ticket prices vary from 12 to 18 euros
  
• Website: http://www.romeguide.it/mostre/time_elevator/indexeng.htm

Stadio Olimpico.

The main stadium of Italy, Stadio Olimpico

The main sports arena in Rome, accommodating more than 72.5 thousand spectators, was built on the initiative of Benito Mussolini. The grandiose construction, which began in 1928, was interrupted by the war: only on May 17, 1953, the Stadio Olimpico was officially opened. In 1960, the stadium hosted the Olympic Games, in 1968 – the European Cup final between Yugoslavia and Italy, marked by the victory of the hosts. Matches of the UEFA Champions League and the 1980 European Football Championship were held here, and a large-scale reconstruction was carried out for the 1990 World Cup.

The Stadio Olimpico acquired new stands that could accommodate up to 74 thousand fans, and a canopy roof that protected them from the rain. Since then, the football arena has hardly been idle: the field has hosted the Champions League finals twice, home matches of the football clubs Roma and Lazio, as well as games of the national rugby team. After another reconstruction in 2007, the Roman stadium was recognized as a UEFA Elite Arena.

• You can find out the schedule of matches at the arena located in Piazzale del Foro Italico at http://www.stadiodi.it/olimpico-roma/

Cultural recreation

A huge collection of unique ancient monuments is hidden in their depths by two palaces located on the most famous hill of Rome. The foundation of the collection of the Capitoline museums was laid back in 1471: then Pope Sixtus IV gave the people of Rome several ancient sculptures, creating the first museum in the world.

Today, the exposition of the Conservatori Palace contains a significant collection of statues created by masters of ancient Greece and Rome. Its most famous exhibits are the sculpture of Marcus Aurelius and the bronze she-wolf feeding the twins Remus and Romulus, dating back to the 5th century BC.

The collection of the New Palace, located opposite, is no less interesting: it features Roman sarcophagi, mosaics and Roman statues created according to classical Greek canons. The underground gallery running under the Capitol Square allows you to see ancient Rome from an unusual angle.

• Capitoline Museums, located in Piazza del Campidoglio, 1
  
• open from 9.00 to 20.00 on all days except Monday
  
• Ticket price: from 13 to 15 euros
  
• Website: http://en.museicapitolini.org/

Coliseum.

The largest arena of ancient Rome is the Colosseum.

The largest arena of ancient Rome, gifted to the citizens by Emperor Flavius ​​Vespasian, was the most important place in the empire. The ancient Romans spent at least a third of their lives in the Colosseum: in addition to bloody spectacles, their favorite vacation spot also guaranteed free bread.

The famous amphitheater seems huge even in the days of skyscrapers: its height exceeded 44 meters, and the stands were able to accommodate up to 50 thousand spectators. With the ban on gladiator fights and animal baiting, the Colosseum gradually fell into disrepair: its stones were used to build villas and even St. Peter's Cathedral.

In the 18th century, the arena, which claimed thousands of lives, received the status of a holy place, and in July 2000 it again became a concert venue. In order to preserve an important historical heritage, concerts are held here only by legendary performers of our era: for example, Ray Charles and Paul McCartney, Elton John, Andrea Bocelli and Adriano Celentano.

• Plan your visit to the Colosseum available at http://www.il-colosseo.it/
  
• open from 9.00 to 16.00 in winter and until 19.00 in summer

As you can see, the interesting places in Rome are amazing, the best sights of the eternal city are remembered forever. There is something to visit here both on your own and with a group or with children!

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Rome attractions - 10 best places to visit

No matter how you try, you will not be able to grasp the immensity. There are so many interesting things to do in Rome, but time is always short. The only thing that can be advised to do in such a situation is not to rush and determine for yourself. Choose the most interesting sights of Rome that you have long dreamed of seeing and enjoy the beauty of this city. I would like to present to you 10 attractions of Rome, as an option for reflection.

Sights of Rome - Vatican

Sights of Rome - Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona

The most famous square in Rome, it is also called the “heart of Rome”. There are two churches in this square, one of which is the Church of St. Agnes, 1652. And the second church of Santa Maria del Sacro Cuore is the titular church, located opposite the Palazzo Pamphilj, which was built in the 12th century. There are also three fountains in the square: the Fountain of the Moor, in the southern part of the square; Neptune Fountain, in the northern part of the square; Fountain of the Four Rivers, in the center of the square. The Fountain of the Four Rivers, a work by Bernini, is an Egyptian obelisk surrounded by statues symbolizing the main rivers of the world: the Danube, Nile, Ganges and La Plata. The square has several palaces: Palazzo Braschi, built in 1792; Palazzo Pamphili, built in 1650; Palazzo Torres Lancellotti, built in 1552; Palazzo de Culis, built between 1450 and 1520. There are also two museums here - the ruins of an ancient stadium and the Museum of Rome, dedicated to the medieval and modern life of Rome, which is located in the Palazzo Braschi.

Sights of Rome - Spanish Steps

Spanish steps

This is a grandiose Baroque staircase, which consists of 138 degrees. The stairs start from Piazza di Spagna and lead to the top of the Pincio hill to the church of Trinita dei Monti. This staircase was built by the little-known architect Francesco de Sanctis between 1723 and 1725, and is officially called Scalinata di Trinit? dei Monti, which literally means “stairs to Trinita dei Monti,” although people simply called it the Spanish Steps, and it has nothing to do with Spain. At the foot of the stairs is the Spanish Square with a fountain in the shape of a Barcaccia boat.

Sights of Rome - Roman Forum

Roman forum

Perhaps I should write a whole post about this place, maybe later I will do that. And in this, I will tell you very briefly. The Roman Forum is the center of Ancient Rome, a square with adjacent buildings. The square contains: the Temple of Saturn - one of the oldest temples in Rome, the Temple of the Dioscuri, the Temple of Vesta, the Temple of Venus and Roma, the Temple of Antoninus and Faustina, the Temple of Caesar, the Temple of Vespasian, the Temple of Concordia, the Sanctuary of Venus - Cloacina. Arches: Arch of Titus, Arch of Septimius Severus and Arch of Tiberius. Basilicas: Basilica of Maxentius and Constantine - the largest building of the Roman Forum, Basilica Julia, Basilica Emilia. As well as other buildings: “Navel of the City”, Regia, Rostra, Curia Julia, Tabularium, “Golden Milestone”, Lapis Niger, House of the Vestals, Main Road of the Roman Forum, Column of Phocas, Mamertine Prison, Vulcanal, Lake Curtia, Source of Juturna , Warehouses of Agrippa. The forum also had buildings that have not survived to this day: the Temple of Janus, the Temple of Jupiter Stator, the Comitium, Acre Augustus, the Basilica of Porcia, the Basilica of Sempronia, the Equestrian Statue of Domitian and spice warehouses.

Sights of Rome - Capitol

Capitol

The Capitoline Hill is one of the seven hills on which the city of Rome arose. Here is the Capitoline Temple, which is also called the Capitol, where meetings of the Senate and public assemblies took place. The Capitoline Hill is the smallest of all seven hills, located near the southern bank of the Tiber River, and reaches 46 meters above sea level. At the top of the hill stands the church of Santa Maria in Araceli, which can be reached by climbing the stairs from 122 degrees. At the base of this staircase are the ruins of a Roman insula. From the side exit of the church you can get directly to Capitol Square. The rise to the Capitol Square is crowned or guarded, as it were, by two statues of Castor and Pollux. The entire Capitoline Square was designed by the famous Michelangelo.

Sights of Rome - Vittoriano

Vittoriano

This is a grandiose monument built in honor of the first king of a united Italy, Victor Immanuel II. It is located on Venetian Square on the slope of Capitol Hill. This is perhaps one of the most amazing attractions in Rome. A wide, luxurious staircase leads directly to the Altar of the Fatherland and the Unknown Soldier, where the ashes of the unknown soldier who gave his life for the Motherland in the Great War of 1915 - 1918 are buried. There is always a guard of honor at this place. There is a statue of Rome in a niche above the chapel, a bas-relief by Gianelli to the left and right, and fountains on both sides of the main staircase.

Pantheon

This is a temple dedicated to all the gods on Earth, a monument of centric-domed architecture from the dawn of the Roman Empire, built in the 2nd century. Latin inscription on the front of the building “M. AGRIPPA L F COS TERTIUM FECIT" literally translates as "Marcus Agrippa, son of Lucius, elected consul for the third time, erected this." In general, the Pantheon is the greatest engineering achievement of the ancient world. This architectural creation is located in Piazza della Rotonda. This brick and concrete building is covered with a hemispherical dome with a diameter of 43 meters. This dome consists of circles that are easy to calculate, and with the walls it forms a single shell, which forms the internal space. One of the features of the Pantheon is a hole in the roof through which an obvious pillar of light penetrates at midday, oriented to the south. The light does not spread, but remains in the form of a beam that you can almost touch.

Sights of Rome - Colosseum

The Flavian Amphitheater is one of the largest arenas of Ancient Rome, an architectural monument. This structure was built over almost eight years between 72 and 80 and is considered a collective structure of the emperors of the Flavian dynasty. located in a hollow between the Palatine, Caelian and Exvilian hills, on the site where there once was a pond that belonged to the Golden House of Nero. Today it is considered a symbol of Rome and one of the most popular tourist sites in the world. And in 2007 it was included in the list of the Seven New Wonders of the World.

Sights of Rome - Castel Sant'Angelo

Castle Sant'Angelo

Castel Sant'Angelo is another architectural monument of Rome. It was first a tomb, then a castle, then a residence of popes and a repository of their valuables and at the same time a prison, and now it is an architectural monument and a museum. This structure, which stood for almost two thousand years, was rebuilt several times. Therefore, here you can find traces of different eras. The castle has a spiral gallery, papal apartments, courtyard of the Angel, Hall of Justice, courtyard of Alexander VI, hall of Clement VII and VIII, loggias of Paul III and IV, as well as a library, hall of Treasures and the Secret Archive. From the terrace of the castle there is a magnificent view of Rome.

Sights of Rome - Trevi Fountain

Trevi Fountain

The largest fountain in Rome, its dimensions are almost 26 meters high and almost 20 meters wide. The fountain was made in the Baroque style between 1732 and 1762, by the architect Salvi. The Trevi Fountain is adjacent to the Palazzo Poli. This majestic facade of the palace and the fountain are perceived as a single whole, so the entire structure seems even grander. Many people believe that if you throw one coin into the fountain, you will definitely return to Rome, two coins, you will definitely meet your love, but if three coins, there will be a wedding. Every year, public utilities “catch fish” at a cost of up to 700,000 euros. Be sure to visit the Trevi Font to throw a coin, then you will definitely return to this “Eternal” city.

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There is almost no need to prepare for Rome. When going to the Eternal City, you can cheat and go to the airport with a calm soul and a clean sheet of paper. After all, wherever you go, it will be beautiful. Of course, I'm joking, but as you know, every joke has some truth.

So, before you is Rome. First introductory visit. In just a few days you can see the main attractions without visiting museums. If you are planning a short trip, then my article is just for you.

And the first recommendation is - if possible, do not go to Rome in the summer - it is very hot and there are more crowds of tourists than in Tiananmen Square in Beijing. Under such conditions it is really difficult to get a feel for the city. But winter is the low season - it's time to explore new territory!

For a relaxing, pleasant time, I recommend a bunch of attractions: Old streets of the center of Rome + Borghese Gardens. I’ll tell you in more detail (be sure to read about the other days too, maybe you’ll like the other plans better).

Fountain of Trevi

Finally, it is no longer under renovation, and everyone can see this beauty! They say that if you throw a coin into this fountain, you will definitely return to Rome. And more detailed sources announce the entire “price”: two coins - a love meeting, three - a wedding, four - wealth, five - separation. I don’t know about the rest, but the fountain does bring wealth, at least to the public utilities - in 2017, 1.4 million euros were caught from here.

We go further through the city of stopped clocks. Did you think the phrase “time stopped” was used only figuratively? Nooo, not here. There are a lot of street dials. Those who are coming can be counted on one hand. I think I know why Rome is called the eternal city.

Pantheon

The once former pagan temple became a Christian basilica. Behind the majestic but moderately modest façade hides one of the largest domes in the world with a hole in the center that gives an interesting lighting effect. It is in the Pantheon that Raphael and King Victor Emmanuel are buried. The attraction has been paid for since June 2018 (2 euros), but in any case it is easily accessible and without a doubt worthy of a visit.

Upon entering, we are offered to download an application - an audio guide to the Pantheon, including in Russian. We haven't done this, but you know about this possibility now, so if you want, look for the Pantheon Rome app.

Piazza Navona and other streets nearby

Just one general direction of movement is enough. Walk wherever your eyes look and your feet lead. And let this be a time for your own discoveries.

Lunch time

Perhaps your eyes, like mine at one time, will beg for mercy and want to stop seeing something beautiful at least for an hour, and just focus on food. Will not work.

Roman restaurants have their own special action, where the main role is played, of course, by the waiters. Middle-aged men, impressive, with a straight back, without one extra movement and with an excellent sense of self-esteem, will bring you a menu and proudly take your order.

The average price of one dish is 10-15 euros, pizza: 8-12 euros. On the very, very central streets it will be a little more expensive.

Of course, in traditional Italian restaurants, you probably won’t be able to get your usual sized cup of tea or coffee for any price. For some, this may not be a problem at all, especially in the warm season, but in winter and in general, for some reason this did not make me happy at all. If you're a big drinker of hot drinks like me, then take your own cup with you and make sure there's a kettle in your room

Borghese Gardens

This is where the famous fine art museum Galleria Borghese is located. Original works by Titian, Raphael, Botticelli, Van Gogh, Modigliani, etc. are kept here. The entrance ticket for an adult is 20 euros. Moreover, the time spent in the gallery is strictly limited - you can be here for no more than 2 hours. Purely theoretically, if you plan to visit this gallery and the Colosseum, then it will be more profitable for you to buy a Roma Pass card, but keep in mind that then you will still need to book your time to visit this gallery 1-2 weeks in advance, and the savings will be 5-10 Euro.

In any case, even without any museums, there are places to take a walk in the Borghese Gardens. Over 70 hectares of cooling greenery! On one of the paths, among the Italian heroes, there is a large honorary monument to Pushkin.

It's time to relax and then go to the bar. Yes, yes, Italy is the place where even the most notorious nerds can hang out in bars. After all, a “bar” is nothing more than a “coffee shop”. Great, right?

Coppede Quarter

A little further from the Borghese Gardens is one of the most expensive quarters of Rome. Housing here is sooooo expensive (it never drops below a million euros!), but you can stroll through the streets of “the most fabulous Roman quarter,” as it is often called, with any budget. The concept was developed by one architect - Gino Coppede - and is a mixture of almost all known styles.

There aren't many coffee shops or eateries here, so plan on your strength when you go to this area.

Second day in Rome

Colosseum + Palatine Hill + Roman Forum

Rome is one of the most famous places on the planet, home to an incredible amount of antiquities. Can you imagine - columns, stones that have been preserved since “BC”?! The same Colosseum, the photo of which we all remember from history lessons at school, is standing in front of you, and you can even touch it! Remains of the temples of the Holy Roman Empire...The popularity of these places these days is breaking all records, and whenever possible you should try to buy a ticket in advance.

However, even if you haven’t done this, and you really don’t like standing in line, there is an option. Immediately upon exiting the metro, you will be surrounded by dozens of guides selling their services. The guides can spot Russians quite easily, so you won’t get through unnoticed. There is no need to queue with a guide.

For a walk along the Palatine Hill (from which the city of Rome began) and the Roman Forum, I used the route from the izi.travel application. He takes us along a somewhat atypical route, which allows us to at least slightly avoid the crowds of tourists.

A ticket at the box office costs 12.5 euros, payment only by card! This includes visits to the Colosseum, Palantine Hill and the Roman Forum. This can be done in two days - that’s exactly how long the ticket is valid.

The easiest way to get to the Colosseum is to get off at the metro station of the same name. Underground, in the Roman metro, fashion shows are broadcast, and imposing Italians often sit nearby. On this trip, there was a man sitting to my left, carefully reading mathematical formulas. And he seems to be dressed usually - a sweater, jeans, but on top is a stylish double-breasted coat made of high-quality wool. All this together looks very noble.

After such a history-filled day, you might want to head to the Trastevere area, on the other side of the river. They say that this is the most “picturesque in terms of its Italianness” area. There is also the Gianicolo hill, from which a stunning panorama of the entire city opens. Apparently my hands were shaking especially strongly from emotions, so there won’t be a photo of Rome at night :(.

Oh, this Vatican! Pilgrims from all over the world have been trying to get here for more than two thousand years! Once upon a time, getting to this state within a state could have been the goal of a lifetime, but now it is enough to buy an inexpensive plane ticket. What wonderful times we live in!

The Vatican Museums can be explored almost endlessly, but if you don’t have that much time, or rather, very little of it at all, then plan on St. Peter’s Basilica, the first pope. This is the place where all words fade and camera lenses go down. Pointless. It is impossible to stop at something and snatch a photo from the overall beauty. An incredible creation of human hands. Encyclopedia of labor and art. You can go to special places for prayers where photography is prohibited and real silence is observed. Only the candle sways. The main thing is not to lose the thread of conversation with God in such a huge number of things, statues, paintings and decorations.

If you only want St. Peter's Basilica, go to the shorter line - you don't need to buy tickets, just go through security.

If you do come during the season, come at least an hour before opening, so as not to spend half a day in line. You can visit the notorious Sistine Chapel for 16 euros (full ticket). The price includes all museums in the complex. The queues are kilometre-long, so we recommend that you buy tickets in advance on the official Vatican website.
A note for lovers of printed materials - go to the post office right on St. Peter's Square, next to the queues for the cathedral. A postcard from the Vatican costs only 0.50 euros, and shipping costs 1-3 euros. A wonderful greeting for parents and friends.

Beware of strikes! Strike is another Italian attraction that was revealed in all its glory on this trip. Living in an apartment right next to the metro and an hour’s drive from the airport, you somehow don’t think about leaving much in advance. But when the nearest metro station is closed, and the next one too, and the whole city is stuck in traffic jams and you walk faster than a taxi, you begin to realize that the plane can fly away without you.
Thank God, everything turned out to be a 40-minute walk-jog with a backpack through half the city - trains did run from Termini station. Locals told us that nowadays similar strikes by transport workers occur once a month, but of course, each time on a different date. Now I understand why accommodation near Termini Station is so popular

Where I lived in Rome

I lived in an apartment that I booked through AirBnb. I'm very pleased. For the price of a regular hotel room, you get spacious housing, with a full kitchen and excellent access. If you have never booked through AirBnb, then read my first booking guide.

The following two photos: the apartments that I rented through this site.

What else to see in Rome

I wholeheartedly recommend taking a closer look at excursions from local residents. Modern young guides understand perfectly well how tired everyone is of boring babble and try to present information in an interesting and fun way. It makes sense to take at least one excursion to get a deeper feel for the city.