Can Rome be done in 24 hours? 2 students certainly think so
viaggi
Rome wasn’t built in a day…
But here’s how to make the most of a day in The Eternal City
By Christine Clark (Christine’s photos)
A city oozing charisma, discovering Rome truly feels like a journey through history.
Good rail links from all major Italian cities make catching a morning train to the capital a breeze. Leave Roma Termini station and head straight for Palazzo del Quirinale, the official residence of the President of the Italian Republic.
Here you can soak up panoramic views of Rome and if you’re lucky, you might even catch il cambio della guardia [the changing of the guard]! Just a short walk from the piazza you’ll find the historic Fontana di Trevi, which has come to be one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Take a moment to cool off by the glistening waters and admire the ethereal beauty of the baroque sculptures that have stood for centuries. The next stop is Piazza di Spagna, which boasts more of Rome’s treasures, such as the famous Spanish Steps or La Scalinata Di Trinità dei Monti, and even an Egyptian-inspired obelisk!
Take a break at any one of the many bustling coffee bars where you’ll experience the authentic Italian tradition of drinking espresso standing at the bar with locals. Next, head towards the Città del Vaticano and marvel at the most renowned work of Renaissance architecture, La Basilica di San Pietro. Then, cross the statue-lined Ponte Sant’Angelo spanning the River Tiber, leading to the historic Castel Sant’Angelo. A five-minute walk will bring you to Piazza Navona, where you’ll find a wealth of restaurants and street performers surrounding Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi. Enjoy it all over a delicious lunch of spaghetti alla carbonara for a true taste of Rome and round it off with none other than the finest gelato from Gelateria Tre Fontane.
Il Pantheon is another must-see, with its domed roof and imposing columns, as is Altare della Patria which you’ll pass while leisurely strolling to the ancient Foro Romano. Finally, what’s a trip to Rome without seeing the emblematic Colosseo? Wonder at the amphitheatre dating back to 70-80 AD where thousands of Romans flocked to enjoy the gory gladiatorial contests there.
Rest assured, you’ll still be spellbound by Rome as you board the train home, and for a long time after that!