I wrecked my feet in Rome.
So the weather has been glorious the last few days and it got me thinking about my trips and when I’ve had the best weather.
One that’s definitely top of the list, is Rome.
I’ve actually visited Rome twice, but it’s only the second time I really want to talk about! Sometimes it takes a couple of trips to really appreciate a country and I’ve definitely had a love hate relationship with Italy. The people you go with also have a huge impact on your experience, so being with the love of my life definitely helped! #CHEESE.
This particular trip was in October, celebrating my one year anniversary with my other half. We only stayed for 3 days, however I think that’s a perfect amount of time for a city break!
I’m going to split this blog into 3 sections, pros and cons, sights and my overall opinion, so hopefully this helps someone planning their own trip!
Pros and Cons
Pros
1. The sights really are stunning. There’s so many different places to go and visit, so if you’ve got the time, you’ll never be short of things to do.
2. There is a reason Italian food is so famous - it’s delicious!
3. Depending on when you go, you’re almost guaranteed to have the weather on your side. I was there in October and it was still 26 degrees (c), so if you’re visiting in the summer months, you definitely want to pack shorts!
4. If you’re like me and counting countries to tick off your list, it is a massive score that you can cross of The Vatican too!
5. Things can be costly, however walk around - you will always be able to find someone offering a competitive price.
6. The markets are amazing and the vintage finds could bankrupt me!
Cons
1. It’s Europe which usually means, have a healthy budget. I’m travelling from the UK and I definitely noticed a hike in prices, especially food!
2. It’s busy - you can’t expect to go somewhere as notorious as Rome and be the only people there. The crowds for Trevi Fountain are insane and be prepared to spend your time in queues!
3. There is a reason this blog is called ‘I wrecked my feet in Rome’! You have to do so much walking. Public transportation isn’t as easily accessible as you may normally be used to and everything is quite far apart! My number one point from this blog would be, pack sensible shoes!!!!
4. Contrary to what I said earlier, the weather could REALLY let you down. Weather checks are vital! Don’t get drenched because you only packed for a summer trip!
Sights
Well, I’m sure you’re aware of what Rome has to offer, but I’m going to show you anyway! I could rant and rave, causing this blog to be a million pages long, so I’m going to provide three sights and my mixed reactions, to trim this down a little bit.
Trevi Fountain is gorgeous and I can totally understand why the crowds are so big, however honestly, it’s a little panic inducing. Trying to get close enough to get a decent picture made me feel so claustrophobic. I literally snapped the shot and ran!
If you are the same, I’d definitely recommend taking a camera with a great zoom feature, so you don’t have to compromise your space!
Alternatively, for some people, the crowd is all part of the fun!
I did revisit the fountain later in the day and there was hardly anyone there, plus it looks amazing lit up at night, so that would be recommendation number two. Don’t like crowds? Just plan your visit a little later!
The Colosseum is most definitely my favourite thing Rome has to offer...well other than Gelato!
It’s gorgeous on the inside and out and makes for the most amazing photos!
Entry was $12 for me and I had to queue for around an hour, however that’s nothing in comparison to a line at Disney, so it wasn’t a big deal. If however you’re really opposed to waiting in lie, a skip the queue will set you back $16 - not a bad price to pay!
I’d say an hour and a half is about as long as you want to be spending in there, but some people may feel this is too rushed. The tours are excellent and very informative, however for me, I like to walk at my own pace and take it all in, which I feel is compromised when running behind a guide. An alternative to this could be an audio guide, but then again, you have a certain path you have to follow, else the audio makes no sense!
Piazza Di Spagna was a bit disappointing if I’m honest. It’s ridiculously overcrowded and underwhelming. It’s still lovely to go and see, but Rome has so much more to offer...
Often undergoing a lot of construction (currently) too, so you’re lucky if you manage to see it all clearly!
Overall opinion
Of course there are things I haven’t touched upon in great details. For example, The Vatican and St Peter’s Basilica is incredible and so worth the visit, although you may be queuing for what feels like years! I could sprout on and on about the interior and the dome. How photogenic it is, however I’m trying to create something that will help people with their planning and maybe prioritise things, to get the best out of what may be limited time! The Vatican is of course, usually the number one hot spot for people anyway; understandably!
My first trip was an absolute disaster and so I always thought Rome was tainted for me, however that’s why I’m writing about my second trip.
I completely fell in love with Rome.
Yes there were things that were hit and miss, but overall, I’d go back in a heartbeat.
I would definitely recommend 3 days being the minimum length of time you spend there, else you’ll definitely feel short changed! There’s so much history and culture to take in, don’t do that to yourself!
Wear sensible shoes, learn from my mistakes.
Live in the moment. Yes of course it’s amazing to take photos and I do, regularly, but don’t live through your lens. Rome is astonishing, breathe it all in!!
Budget! Unless you are flexible with your expenditure, in which case, go wild, when in Rome and all that jazz!
If you’ve found anything interesting, or maybe you want to disagree with me, please let me know! I love hearing about everyone’s travels!
Or you know what? Even if you think I’ve missed something and would like me to do a follow up - for example, maybe you want more info on The Vatican, rather than a skim read? Tell me and your wish shall be granted!
Hope this has helped somewhat and hope anyone going to Rome has THE MOST AMAZING TIME <3
Peace and love, E.
x