“Rome is not like any other city. It’s a big museum, a living room that shall be crossed on one’s toes.” – Alberto Sordi.
In Part II, (check out Part I) of our wonderful trip to Rome, I am sharing all of the places we visited. G and I tried to fit as much as we could into our week long trip in Rome, while making sure we living and enjoying in each moment.
There are so many stops to make in this city. Visiting during the off-season was an excellent decision. We were really able to enjoy each monument, and not have to rush or be overcome by large crowds of people. Going during the month of January was the perfect choice for us, and luckily a lot of tours were not booked or crowded.
Also, if you are interested in vacationing in Rome, bring your walking shoes! We rarely took a taxi in the city, and literally walked everywhere. I brought a lot of comfortable sneakers, and was so grateful I did.
First, I will start with where we stayed …
Hotel Artemide
Hotel Artemide, was the perfect home away from home. The accommodations were lovely, and the staff was nothing short of amazing.
The gorgeous how restaurant, Ambrosia.
Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum
This was such a cool experience and a dream come true for G. We were able to learn so much about these wonderful monuments and how they became to be. There is so much history on these stops, and we actually did a combined tour that highlighted each area.
The view of the Colosseum.
G & I decided to take the extended Colosseum tour, we were lucky to go into parts of the arena that were not accessible to the public.
Overlooking the Romun Forum.
One of the many arches erected in Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
Palatine Hill
The entry into the Roman Forum.
Triumphal Arch of Constantine
Milivio Bridge
My best friend, Alisha gifted me a locket to put on the Milivio Bridge. It has G’s and I initials engraved on the front, and our wedding date on the back. We were able to secure it on the bridge, and it was such an amazing way to cement our memory and spot in Italy.
Our gold locket secured on the bridge.
Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain was gorgeous and breathtaking, we instantly felt calm as we approached this stunning structure. This is where visitors make their wishes by throwing coins into the fountain, also there are people who drink the water as well, as a form of good luck. It was a bit crowded, but we were able to make our way to the fountain to make several wishes.
The Trevi Fountain
Making a wish.
Altar of the Fatherland
This historic museum not only was breathtaking, but filled with artifacts from the Italian Unification. Also, the monument is dedicated to king Vittorio Emanuele II, and his resting place is inside the Altar of the Fatherland. This museum has some of the most amazing views of Rome. They even offer an elevator ride at the top of the building for visitors to enjoy the landscape from up high.
Overlooking the city of Rome from the steps of the Altar of the Fatherland.
G standing in front of the Altar of the Fatherland.
Spanish Steps
The Spanish Steps consists of 174 steps, and when you finally reach the top, you're literally in awe of the gorgeous city and overlooking Piazza di Spagna. In front of the steps you'll find the Fontana della Barcaccia which is a work of art. Also, in this area you'll find a ton of high end shops - Fendi, Gucci, Hermes, Valentino, and so much more. During this stop I treated myself to my very first Fendi bag! Visiting this city, I really wanted to buy a special piece from Roma, and I'm so glad I did.
G soaking the city in while sitting on the Spanish Steps.
Our view on top of the Spanish Steps.
In front of Fendi with my very first bag from the iconic store.
Vatican City
This stop was one of my favorites. The city is amazing, and the bridge leading up to this area is stunning. The church was nothing like I've ever seen before and encompassed such great detail and design. Also, services were being conducted during our visit - if you are interested in attending it was super easy to find a seat and be a part of it. Cameras and videos were not allowed during services, as well as in the Sistine Chapel. We toured the Vatican Museum which connected us to the chapel super easily.
Strolling through Vatican City.
Soaking in the views of Vatican City.
Enjoying a rainy day in the city.
The Pantheon
This former temple, now church is simply lovely. The architecture for this building was so neat to see in person. It was very easy to get in and walk around. When visiting you'll find many artists sketching the iconic features of the church.
The Pantheon
In front of the fountain by The Pantheon.
Teatro Dell’Opera
Our hotel was right around the corner from this amazing Opera house. G and I went to see La Traviata and the show was absolutely wonderful. Also, they provided English and Spanish subtitles during the show, which was super helpful to follow along. The interior and design of Teatro Dell'Opera was stunning. Also, there was a small museum inside that displayed the buildings history.
The entrance to Teatro Dell'Opera.
Getting ready for the show, La Traviata.
The gorgeous cieling in the hall.
Thank you so much for reading part two of our Italian vacation!
Our trip was so much fun, and we are already thinking about planning another vacation soon! What are some of your favorite places to visit? Share below!
XO, Analise