{"id":185878,"date":"2024-09-18T11:31:12","date_gmt":"2024-09-18T07:31:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.headout.com\/blog\/?p=185878"},"modified":"2025-03-18T20:26:08","modified_gmt":"2025-03-18T16:26:08","slug":"locals-pocket-guide-to-rome","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.headout.com\/blog\/locals-pocket-guide-to-rome\/","title":{"rendered":"Rome travel guide: Explore the eternal city like a local"},"content":{"rendered":"

With its unparalleled history, renowned cuisine, awe-inspiring architecture, and lively atmosphere, Rome is one of the most romantic, charismatic, and unforgettable cities in the world. Fusing ancient wonders with a modern metropolis, Rome has everything to delight the traveler in you. Be it gazing at the Sistine Chapel<\/a> or wandering about the cobbled alleyways and popular piazzas; strolling through the leafy expanses of Villa Borghese, or unwinding with a glass of wine at a popular bar; taking in the sights of the wondrous Colosseum<\/a> or visiting centuries-old villas. There is so much to do that you will need an entire bucket list for Rome alone. <\/p>\n

\"?\"<\/p>\n

LanguageItalian & English<\/span><\/p>\n

\"?\"<\/p>\n

Time ZoneGMT +1<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\u260e\"<\/p>\n

Country Code+39<\/span><\/p>\n

\"?\"<\/p>\n

Socket Type C, F & L<\/span><\/p>\n

\"?\"<\/p>\n

CurrencyEuro (\u20ac )<\/span><\/p>\n

Things to do in Rome<\/h2>\n

\"Travel<\/p>\n

While the traveler in you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to deciding what to include (or exclude) in your itinerary from a wide array of attractions in Rome, you cannot miss the most historic sites in the world, that Rome boasts of. Here we list out all the information to make your visit to the big attractions of Rome stress-free.<\/p>\n

Colosseum<\/h3>\n

The best time to shoot at the Colosseum is either early in the morning or right after sunset. The closer to sunrise you arrive the better, as the smooth travertine curves of the structure, begin to appear more prominent in that light. The Colosseum is particularly atmospheric in the evening when the amphitheater is illuminated by lights. Now, there is a lot to see, not just within the Colosseum but nearby. Here is a list of things you shouldn\u2019t miss out on while you\u2019re there:<\/p>\n

1<\/span> Roman Forum:<\/h3>\n

The Roman Forum<\/a> was the center of daily life in ancient Rome, the site of public gatherings, trials, elections and gladiatorial combat.<\/p>\n

<\/a>\"Roman<\/p>\n

2<\/span> Palantine Hill:<\/h3>\n

Palatine Hill<\/a> is located about 300 meters away from the Colosseum. Considered to be one of the oldest parts of Rome, this is where you can get the most spectacular panoramic views of the city.<\/p>\n

<\/a>\"Palantine<\/p>\n

3<\/span> Arena:<\/h3>\n

The arena was the \u2018place of action\u2019 or where gladiator and animal fights were held. Don\u2019t miss the opportunity to get the feels of a battleground!<\/p>\n

<\/a>\"Colosseum<\/p>\n

4<\/span> Entry & Exit Gates:<\/h3>\n

Combatants entered the arena through a Gate of Life whereas the Gate of Death was used for the exit of the victorious and gladiators killed during the fight!<\/p>\n

<\/a>\"Colosseum<\/p>\n

5<\/span> The Hypogeum:<\/h3>\n

This labyrinth of service corridors and cages offers a glimpse of where animals and gladiators were kept before their fights. This maze also had 36 trap doors to add special effects to performances. <\/p>\n

<\/a>\"Colosseum<\/p>\n

6<\/span> Columns & Arches:<\/h3>\n

Each archway, in all the levels, is numbered. These numbers allowed spectators to find their seats. 76 archways were used by the public. The remaining four were reserved for emperors, senators, and visiting dignitaries.<\/p>\n

<\/a>\"Colosseum<\/p>\n

\ud83d\udca1 The Colosseum at night<\/a> is a magnificent sight to see. A night-time Colosseum tour is rather personalized as there is a minimum crowd and the weather is pleasant too. Soak in the shadows of this majestic structure while you also enjoy the view of Rome by the night.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Vatican<\/h3>\n

1<\/span> Vatican Museum:<\/h3>\n

The Vatican Museum <\/a>consists of over 54 galleries. The Sistine Chapel,<\/a> is one of the largest in the world and has the ability to display more than 20,000 pieces in its seven kilometers of halls and corridors.<\/p>\n

<\/a>\"Vatican<\/p>\n

2<\/span> St Peter’s Basilica:<\/h3>\n

The Basilica is the largest Catholic Church in the world and is the sovereign jurisdiction of the Vatican city. Check out our guide to choosing the right St. Peter’s Basilica guided tour<\/a>  if you fancy a guided tour.<\/p>\n

<\/a>\"St<\/p>\n

3<\/span> Sistine Chapel:<\/h3>\n

The first thing anyone would notice when they enter Sistine Chapel<\/a> is its phenomenal ceiling. The famous frescoes, The Last Judgement, were painted by Michelangelo which has not been outdone since. If you miss out on the real Sistine, you\u2019re still in luck because there\u2019s another one painted by Michelangelo in Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore. Here’s an ultimate guide to exploring the Sistine Chapel.<\/p>\n

<\/a>\"Sistine<\/p>\n

4<\/span> The Spiral Staircase:<\/h3>\n

It is a mesmerizing architectural marvel; shaped like a double helix with two sets of staircases designed in such a way that those guests going up do not cross paths with those descending. This makes for an excellent photo op.<\/p>\n

<\/a>\"Vatican<\/p>\n

5<\/span> Vatican Gardens:<\/h3>\n

The Gardens <\/a>cover nearly half of Vatican City. You will get to see opulent fountains, incredible winding paths, vibrant colored flowers, and magnificent oaks. Also medieval fortifications, monuments, and buildings from the 9th century to the present day.<\/p>\n

<\/a>\"Vatican<\/p>\n

6<\/span> Vatican Grottoes:<\/h3>\n

This vast underground cemetery beneath St Peter\u2019s Basilica has coffins that date back to the 10th century. Buried in them are the several Popes and Saints that found the religion of Christianity. <\/p>\n

<\/a>\"Vatican<\/p>\n

\ud83d\udca1The Vatican follows a strictly enforced dress code. Low cut, sleeveless clothing, shorts, miniskirts and hats<\/strong> are not allowed. Keep shoulders and knees covered<\/span><\/strong>, opt for lightweight materials and consider bringing a scarf or wrap so you can cover up inside, then take it off if it gets too hot later in the day.<\/p>\n

\ud83d\udca1The Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museums are closed every Sunday<\/strong>,<\/span> with the exception of the last Sunday of every month when entry is free.<\/p>\n

\ud83d\udca1Photography is strictly not allowed inside the Sistine Chapel<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Villa Borghese<\/h3>\n

Villa Borghese is Rome\u2019s green oasis, offering a perfect blend of nature, art, and history. This sprawling park is home to museums, gardens, and scenic viewpoints, making it an essential stop on your itinerary. Whether you’re looking to explore world-class art collections, enjoy a relaxing stroll, or take in stunning panoramic views, here\u2019s what you shouldn’t miss at Villa Borghese:<\/p>\n

1<\/span> Galleria Borghese:<\/h3>\n

One of the most renowned art galleries in the world, the Galleria Borghese houses masterpieces by Caravaggio, Bernini, Raphael, and Titian. The collection features Bernini\u2019s breathtaking sculptures, like Apollo and Daphne, and Caravaggio\u2019s intense paintings, making it a must-visit for art lovers. <\/p>\n

<\/a>\"Facade<\/p>\n

2<\/span> Pincian Hill Terrace (Terrazza del Pincio):<\/h3>\n

For one of the most spectacular views of Piazza del Popolo and the Rome skyline, head to Terrazza del Pincio. This scenic terrace is a popular sunset spot and a great place to soak in the beauty of Rome from above. <\/p>\n

<\/a>\"Skyline<\/p>\n

3<\/span> Temple of Aesculapius:<\/h3>\n

Located in the Lake Garden (Giardino del Lago), this picturesque 18th-century temple dedicated to the Greek god of medicine sits beside a peaceful lake where you can rent a rowboat and take in the serene surroundings.<\/p>\n

<\/a>\"Temple<\/p>\n

4<\/span> Bioparco di Roma:<\/h3>\n

For families or animal lovers, the Bioparco di Roma is a fantastic stop. This historic zoo houses a variety of species, from elephants to tigers, and is one of the oldest zoological gardens in Europe.<\/p>\n

<\/a>\"Entrance<\/p>\n

5<\/span> Secret Gardens & Fountains:<\/h3>\n

Villa Borghese is filled with hidden gardens, fountains, and sculptures. The Valle dei Platani (Valley of the Plane Trees) and Giardino della Meridiana are two lesser-known but stunning spots for a quiet retreat away from the crowds.<\/p>\n

<\/a>\"Villa<\/p>\n

Museums<\/h3>\n

1<\/span> Castel Sant\u2019Angelo<\/h3>\n

Originally built as Emperor Hadrian\u2019s mausoleum, Castel Sant\u2019Angelo has served as a fortress, papal residence, and prison. Today, it\u2019s a museum offering incredible views of Rome and the Tiber River.<\/p>\n

Must-see highlights:<\/p>\n