Tour Rome in 2-5 Days

After a night of a bit too much red wine and limoncello, you may be beginning to feel like you are on vacation. Those strong cups of espressos come in handy especially the morning after. To see and enjoy the beauty of the Vatican you definately need to be awake, as it is a feast for the eyes.

The Vatican Museums

The Vatican Musems are what the majority of tourists are principally interested in. These museums make up a small part of the Vatican City, which includes the revered St. Peter’s Basilica. Unless you are part of a private tour group there is no official way to skip the long lines.  We advise you to arrive before 9 am to spend as little time as possible in this constantly growing line. Once inside you can buy your tickets and choose which section of the museums you would like to visit. If it is your first visit, your main interst is the path which leads to the Sistine Chapel. It is impossible to immediately enter the Sistine Chapel, without first passing through at least 5 different rooms. Not to worry however these rooms whet your artistic apetite for the main courses ahead of you. We definately advise renting the head set unless you have your personal guide book or already know what you are looking at. There are a set of strict rules enforced inside the Sistine Chapel such as, absolutely no photos of any kind, no sitting except in the designated areas, no shouting or speaking in a loud voice and no cell phone conversations. Just in case you may be tempted to throw caution to the wind, there are attentive and alert stewards watching your every move. Dress code is in full effect in the Vatican museums.

Lunch will most definately be welcomed after your trip to the Vatican. We have compiled a list of restaurants in the zone should  you want to remain in the area.

Castel Sant’Angelo

Castel Sant’Angelo can be seen after lunch because of its proximity to the Vatican. It offers a cool respite from the summer heat and affords you a view of the city of Rome like you have never seen it. This mausoleum has changed function many times throughout its history along with its architecture. During the summer Castel Sant’Angelo plays host to a variety of concerts and during the winter period there is an ice skating rink constructed outside. Also of important interest is the bridge -Ponte Sant’Angelo which leads to the castle, which has been lined with angels sculpted by Bernini.
If after the visit you still have a bit of juice in your battery, you can take the scenic walk over to Piazza Navona and have a mid afternoon gelato there. For the rest of you, now would be a good time, to return to your hotel and relax for a bit and rest your tired feet.

Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona is one of the best examples of Baroque Roman architecture. This square is unique in its exaggerated elongated shape, which explains the original purpose of the square itself. It was once the Stadium of Domitian, used as a public area to host games (agone), and from 1652 – 1866, the setting for elaborate celebrations put on by the Pamphilj family. The fountain of The Four Rivers by Bernini with its whimsical expressions of the Danube, Nile, Ganges and Amazon rivers, comes to life from its marble flesh, inviting you to discover this intriguing world. The fountain of the Moor was created in 1575 by Giacomo della Porta while in 1653 Bernini created the crowning piece the Moor standing in a conch shell. The fountain of Neptune located to the north of the square was created after that of the Moor, to balance out the now assymetric piazza. There are many bars located around the piazza which give you a wonderful opportunity to while away the afternoon while enjoying the view before you. The piazza is almost always a hive of activity with modern artists and ecclectic performers, jostling for space and prime position in this popular location.

St. Agnes

The church of St. Agnes in ‘Agone’ has nothing to do with the saint Agnes in agony. ‘Agone’ refers to the location of the church in Piazza Navona which was once the site of ancient games referred to as agone. It was built by legendary competitor of Bernini, Francesco Borromini and is definately worth a quick look around. The beauty of the church lies in its architectural layout and in its sculptural reliefs.

Via dei Coronari

Via dei Coronari probably the most famous antiques street in Rome, is found to the north of the piazza and is packed on both sides with antique dealers selling every imaginable object. From Caracalla marble busts to bronze jars, whatever your heart or wallet desires you can find here. With the late afternoon sun shining on the cobblestones, the street becomes a magical treasure trove of rare finds and colourful personalities.

Piazza Pasquino

Piazza Pasquino which still to this day has the bust of ‘Pasquino’ – a sculpture where Romans placed derogotary comments – is an excellent starting point to your evening activities. Proceding to Via Governo Vecchio, which is lined with quaint and charming bars and restaurants, a myriad of choices for aperitivi and dinner unfold before you.

To wind down your evening and to walk off a few calories why not revisit Piazza Navona, which will definately appear before you in a different and romantic light.

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