When in Rome: A Student's Guide to the Eternal City

Rome, often referred to as the 'Eternal City', is the capital of Italy and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. With a history spanning over 2,800 years, it's no wonder that Rome is often regarded as a living, breathing museum.

Every street, building, and square in the city echoes tales from its past, ranging from its foundation in 753 BC, through the era of the Roman Republic and Empire, and into its present status as a thriving, modern metropolis.

Located in the central-western portion of the Italian Peninsula, Rome is a sprawling city famed for its iconic historical sites such as the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Pantheon.

The city is also home to Vatican City, an independent city-state enclaved within Rome, which serves as the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church and the residence of the Pope. Here, you can admire the awe-inspiring St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, renowned for its stunning ceiling frescoes by Michelangelo.

Rome isn't just about history and religion, though. It's a city of life and vitality. From the charming trattorias serving delicious Italian cuisine to the bustling markets offering an array of local produce, from high-end fashion boutiques to vibrant nightlife, Rome is a city that celebrates the joy of living.

But more than anything, Rome is a city of contrasts. Here, ancient ruins coexist with modern architecture, busy traffic-filled streets open onto quiet piazzas, and local vendors vie for attention amid world-class boutiques. It's a city that can feel chaotic and serene all at once, a city where every corner turned can reveal a surprise, be it a centuries-old church, a charming café, or a stunning vista.

Above all, Rome is a city that gets under your skin, a city that, despite its occasional inconveniences and contradictions, leaves an indelible mark on those who wander its timeless streets. It's a city where history, culture, food, and life intertwine to create an experience like no other.

Welcome to Rome, the Eternal City.

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Rolling into Rome: Where Ancient Grandeur Meets Modern Hustle

Ready to hit the road, or rather, the air? Let's buckle up and jet off on a trip down memory lane to the days of my first visit to Rome. I was a fresh-faced 17-year-old, a little naive maybe, but brimming with excitement about the adventure ahead. A word of advice from my younger self? Steer clear of those tantalising scam products, even if they scream "when in Rome!"

Off we went, a band of students bleary-eyed from the wee hours of the morning departure but buzzing with anticipation. Remember those school trips with the grueling 3 AM wake-up call for a chilly coach ride to the airport? Yup, that was us, but the promise of Roman adventures kept our spirits high.

And let me tell you, touching down in Rome in July is no joke. We’re talking a scorching 31 degrees, folks! But a little heat couldn’t dampen our spirits, not even when trapped in a coach with a moody aircon system. And our home away from home? The charming Hotel Archimede.

Sure, it's no 5-star Dubai extravaganza, but with a clean bed and a shower, who could ask for more? Just a heads up, though - don't be surprised if you catch a whiff of smoke here and there. It seems to be an Italian thing.

Then there's Rome's main train station.

Picture this: a sprawling hub that feels more like a bustling town than a station. And it was just a stone's throw from our hotel. Perfect for an ice cream – I mean gelato – aficionado like me. Ah, the divine pistachio gelato... brace yourselves, I'll be raving about Italian gelato a lot!

But let’s address the elephant in the room – Rome is a city of contrasts. On one hand, you have the awe-inspiring ancient structures; on the other, walls scarred by unsightly graffiti and the city streets marred by the smell of rubbish. It can be a bit of a downer, but if you look past it, Rome's charms are irresistible.

And oh, the scammers! Ever been chased around by a selfie-stick seller? I sure have. My friend Joel, steering me away from those money-grabbing traps. So, word to the wise, keep your eyes peeled for scams while wandering around the city.

Now, my favourite part about Rome? It's so delightfully walkable! You can soak in the city's vibrant energy while saving a few euros, dodging mopeds and Fiat cars. Trust me, pounding the Roman pavements is the way to go! And as for my teenage eyebrows... let's just say, we live and learn! So, are you ready to roll into Rome?

Roaring Past at the Roman Rumble: The Colosseum

Next up, one of the grandest spectacles in Rome - the Colosseum.

Imagine this: an ancient megastructure pulsing with energy, filled to the brim with up to 50,000 roaring spectators. You're not watching a Russell Crowe movie here, this is the real deal!

Commissioned around 70-72 AD by Emperor Vespasian as a sort of grand gift to the Roman people, the Colosseum was a place where warriors clashed and exotic beasts roamed, all under the watchful eyes of an enthralled audience.

From gladiatorial battles to mock sea battles - yes, they really flooded the place - the Colosseum was a hotbed of excitement and spectacle.

But let's not forget the not-so-pretty side: it was also a testament to the brutality of ancient Rome, and an arena where power and wealth were paraded for all to see. And now? The Colosseum stands as a monument of Roman grandeur and a must-visit tourist attraction.

Now, I know you're itching to see it for yourself. You can get your tickets right here. But let me give you a word of caution: the gift shop is a bit of a letdown. Unless you fancy shelling out 20 euros for a magnet, it's better to just focus on soaking in the experience. Take loads of pictures - they're free, and they capture the historic value of the place far better than any overpriced trinket.

So, go ahead and get lost in the echoes of the past at this iconic Roman landmark. Just remember, we can't promise a surprise appearance by Russell Crowe!

A Stroll Through the Storied Stones: The Roman Forum Unveiled!

Okay, people, let's roll back the clock, hop in our time machines, and make a pit stop at ancient Rome, right smack in the center, at the Roman Forum! This bustling hub was the heart of Roman political, religious, and social life – think Times Square, but swap out the neon lights for columns and togas.

Now, let's chat about the power brokers of the day - the rockstars of the Roman Republic, the first and second triumvirates. These guys were the ones shaping the direction of Rome, literally molding history with their hands, and their egos, of course!

We're talking Julius Caesar, Pompey the Great, and Marcus Licinius Crassus in the first, and Marc Antony, Lepidus, and Octavian in the second. These weren't your average government suits; these were the power trios, the puppet masters pulling the strings.

Here's the scoop: each of them took control of individual provinces of Italy, becoming the head honchos of the GDP. They dictated the flow of economic lifeblood in the Roman Empire.

But it wasn't all sunshine and rainbows. These guys manipulated the course of Roman history right from the Roman Forum, which was essentially their arena. They were like a high school clique, but with political power and an empire at their disposal.

Here's the tea, though - these heavyweights, with all their power, caused a fair share of trouble. Their rulings and actions could make life a living nightmare for the average Roman citizen. We're talking exploitation, power abuse, the works. So, while the Forum may have been the heart of Rome, it was also a hotbed for political drama and discord.

But here's what's really mind-blowing - the Roman Forum still stands today! Yep, you heard me right. This 2,000-year-old historical marvel is testament to the resilience of Roman architecture, not to mention the indomitable spirit of the Romans themselves.

So, whether you're a history buff, an architecture lover, or just someone looking for a cool Instagram backdrop, the Roman Forum is the place to be. Just remember, as you walk down the Via Sacra, you're treading the same ground as some of history's most influential figures. And, hey, if that doesn't make you feel like a rockstar, I don't know what will!

A Palate of Pastas, Piazzas and Fountains: My Edible Adventure in Rome

So, first, I went to, La Prezzemolina, a fantastic and quaint pizza place, doing other Italian dishes as well, such as all different types of pasta, and fresh seafood, it was delicious. (Now I can’t quote on the price, this was included in my college package) but I know that the prices weren’t TOO expensive, we’ll get to expensive food, just you wait.

Next up, picture this: my weary feet, aching from the hours spent marvelling at the Roman Forum, trekked a good 27 minutes to the Spanish Steps. Now, let me tell you, these Steps, or "Scalinata della Trinità dei Monti" as the locals call it, while impressively steep with its 135 travertine steps spread over 12 ramps, didn't quite hit the spot for me.

Sure, they're the longest and widest staircase in Europe, opened way back in 1725, but, honey, my tired feet and rumbling belly were not impressed. However, I have to admit, they did look dazzling under the Saturday sun, surrounded by swanky shops and pretty fountains.

Starving, we stumbled into a bustling pizza-pasta-gelato joint, with a solid 4.2-star rating. That's right, only the best for us hungry college kids! We refuelled with some delectable carbs, then, fully sated, waddled over to our next stop: the iconic Trevi Fountain, all lit up in the dark like a rock star on stage.

But wait a second, let's get real here. Those Pinterest-perfect pictures of a desolate fountain? Forget it. This place was swarming with people, like bees around a honey pot. The Trevi Fountain, completed in 1762 by Giuseppe Pannini and his gang, is simply breathtaking.

Its cherubs, towering beams and glowing lights put my local muddy creek to shame. And guess what, it's absolutely free! Unless you want to toss in a coin for good luck, that is.

Our night ended with a walk back to the Hotel Archimede, full of laughter and chatter about our epic day and anticipation for our last day in this magical city. As I sank into my somewhat comfy bed, still tasting the pizza with king prawns, sampling the local vino, and relishing the Nutella-banana gelato that seemed to be at every corner, I felt the ancient history of Rome pulsing through my veins.

So, despite the stiffness of my bed, I said goodnight to my lovely roommate Agnes and, still savouring the taste of Rome, drifted off to sleep. Trust me, darling, Rome isn't just about its landmarks, it's about its flavours too!

Wrapping Up Rome: A Conclusion to Remember and a Peek at Vatican City

As we close the book on my Roman adventure, it's hard to not reflect on the roller coaster of emotions that encapsulated my whirlwind weekend trip.

The sheer thrill of walking the same cobblestones as the ancient Romans in the Forums, the sweet ecstasy of sinking my teeth into a slice of heavenly pizza, and the awe-struck wonder of beholding the grandeur of the Trevi Fountain, were experiences that will forever be etched in my memory.

But Rome wasn't just all sunshine and Nutella-banana gelato. Brace yourself for some uncouth scam artists lurking in the corners, ready to turn your Roman holiday sour. A word of caution to the wise: keep your wits about you and guard your pocketbook. The prices for souvenirs and gifts can be exorbitantly high, but they're part of the charm of this historical city, aren't they?

While the bustle of the city, with its electric energy and rich history, is enthralling, Rome can leave you a little breathless. Let's just say it's a destination best enjoyed over a weekend, or three days at a push if you're an avid history buff. Any longer, and you risk running out of gelato flavours to try!

The overarching lesson from my Rome trip? A balance of joy, frustration, laughter, and even a little discomfort make for an unforgettable journey. But as they say, when in Rome, do as the Romans do - take in stride the good, the bad, and the downright absurd.

But don't fret, my dear readers, our Italian journey isn't over yet. Just as one chapter ends, another begins. Join me next time as I swap my pizza slice for a rosary, leaving behind the Colosseum's roar for the solemn hush of the Vatican City. Until then, arrivederci Roma! You've been a slice!

Planning a visit to Rome? Here are some of the top-rated hotels worth checking out: Harry's Bar Trevi Hotel & Restaurant, CC Palace Hotel Roma, and The Hoxton Rome.

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That's all for this post! If you've visited Rome and discovered any hidden treasures or have tips to share, I'd be thrilled to hear about them. If you're in the process of planning a trip and have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out. Assisting fellow travellers is always a pleasure, and I make it a point to respond to every email I receive (sara@sarajourneys.com). Until we meet again, journey safely!

P.S. For those curious to see more, you can find all our travel photos on the SaraJourneysMore Instagram page.