There aren’t many destinations with so much packed into them, youll need to return to see them all. One is the historic Italian capital, Rome – huge, and bursting with history.
Easily reached from the UK, take advantage of money-saving extras, such as Manchester airport parking, making your break cheaper, and less stressful!
The capital of the former Roman Empire is home to countless famous monuments get your walking shoes on and explore!
Firstly, Vatican City. Home to the Pope, inside this world-famous city are many museums, documenting former battles and the story of Christianity, including the breathtaking Sistine Chapel. You dont have to be into art to be blown-away by this. The walls are covered with examples dating back to the 15th century, including Michelangelo’s The Last Judgement. Stunning. No other word.
Michaelangelo’s The Last Judgement
A walk around the peaceful, beautiful gardens may be in order, to get your breath back, before a walk around iconic St Peters Square.
This is one city that requires a large memory camera
More? Head Trevi Fountain for stunning baroque architecture. Legend has it if you throw in a coin, youre sure to return. Honestly, youre sure to return anyway, with so much to see
Trevi Fountain
More still? St Peters Basilica is famous world over, a huge space for worship, holding around 20,000 people, with its iconic large dome standing proud.
Now, theres one monument it would be a crime to miss the awe-inspiring Colosseum. This is truly a jaw-dropping building. Build around 72AD, welcoming around 55,000 spectators, eager to see battling Roman gladiators. Outside youll see the famous Arch of Constantine, celebrating Constantines victory over Maxentius. If you visit just a few of Romes many ancient sites, make this one.
The Colosseum
When to visit Rome depends on your preference. Summer is predictably hot, however winter is mild, at around 11°c. Avoid October and November if you dont like rain
Being a large, cosmopolitan city, theres much to do outside the historic trail. Into sport? Youre in for a treat, with Italian football fans certainly passionate! Visit Stadio Olimpico, home to AS Roma – and catch a game if you can certainly an experience!
Shopping is plentiful in this stylish city, with Piazza di Spagna the best place to head for famous designer stores plenty of credit card damage to be done! The city boasts many other stores, with something for everyone. Many markets line the city centre, selling a variety of handcrafted goods.
When the sun goes down, nightlife is varied and plentiful. Bars, restaurants and clubs vie for attention. Of course, Italian food is simply mouth-watering, be sure to sample some traditional cuisine who doesnt love a scrumptious pizza?!
For a cultural, artistic evening, head to one of many theatres, and catch a world-famous show, or head to the opera!
Getting around is easy. The Metro is very regular and easy to follow. Buy tickets from vending machines dotted around – drivers dont sell them, so buy before you board!
Another visit is inevitable, even without throwing a coin in the Trevi fountain! All of this is just 2½ hours away; made cheaper with pre-booked value extras, check out parking at gatwick airport. You can also fly indirect from Stansted, with extras available , such as stansted car parking.
So hurry, Rome is waiting for you!
Author Bio: Molly Austin
Molly Austin is a blogger outreach assistant and writer for an English travel company. As well as reading, writing and obsessing about travelling, she loves to eat, is a self confessed geek and spends way too much time online, you can often find her on twitter @molly_austin1
Editor’s Note: This is a guest post
Photo Credits: The Last Judgement by kevingessner, Trevi Fountain by pmorgan67, Colosseum by chrisparkeruk
