Colosseum

Rome has a rich history pertinent to western civilization. There are three different aspects of roaming in Rome, namely, architecture, history, and religion (Catholic – Christians). I was profoundly interested in history and to some extent, in architecture, and that influenced my itinerary.

Day 1 – walks

Start with a walking tour and after walking tour use Rick Steve’s free audio tour to wander in the heart of Rome, primarily, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and Spanish steps. Then use Rick Steve’s Jewish Ghettos walk to do a self-guided tour of Jewish ghettos.

Pantheon
Pantheon
Spanish steps
Spanish steps

Day 2 – History

Wake up early morning and head to The Colosseum; it opens up at 8:30, and you better queue up by 8. Do either a paid guided tour here or use Rick Steve’s free audio tours. If you are interested in history, spend less time at Colosseum and more at The Forum, which is rich in history. If its a weekend, you can head to Domus Aurea and visit that too.

Colosseum
Colosseum
The Forum
The Forum

Next door is one of the three churches which lays claims to having St. Valentine’s skull, free to visit.

St. Valentine's skull
St. Valentine’s skull

There is the “Mouth of Truth” there as well.

Mouth of Truth
Mouth of Truth

Now head to “Pyramid of Caius Cestius”. The only pyramid of Rome. The best views are from the outside, so don’t bother going inside.

Pyramid of caius cestius
Pyramid of Caius Cestius

Day 3 – Vatican and Trastevere

If you are interested in the Catholic religion, reserve a full day for this and go to Sistine Chapel as well. But for others, a visit to the Basilica of St. Peter, the first Pope for the Catholics. A few hours are sufficient here.

Vatican city
Vatican city
St. Peter's Basilica
St. Peter’s Basilica

Then head to Trastevere, an area famous for its ton of traditional shops and eateries. Try vegan Cibatta here.

Cibatta
Ciabatta

From here, head to Capuchin Crypt, which consists of various structures made out of human bones.

Capuchin Crypt
Capuchin Crypt