If you search my archives, you'll find that Angeline and I spent just about three days in Rome after sailing the Carnival Sunshine in 2013. Our Mediterranean cruise ended in Venice and we jumped on a train to Rome, where I'd booked a hotel near the Pantheon. While sailing through the Mediterranean on the Carnival Vista, I booked the Rome on Your Own Excursion because I had a good feeling for what I wanted to see and do, and the restriction of being stuck in a group would held me back from getting the full experience.
Group tours are the perfect way to see the sights when you're unfamiliar with an area, are a nervous traveler, or just enjoy the leadership of someone who knows all there is to know about a destination or attraction. I've been obsessed with Roman culture since childhood and have been there before, so all I really needed was transpiration to and from the city from the port of Civiatecchia. Now, you can take the train to the port, but I find it easier to just book an excursion. Yes, I'm lazy. Not always, but sometimes!
We were dropped off across the street from the Teatro de Marcello...which just so happens to be on the same street that my hotel was on during my last stay in Rome. I stepped off the bus and hit the ground running, as there is so much to do and see in Rome, and I only had six hours until our group was to meet to depart.
My first stop? The Colosseum, of course. It's one of my favorite historical sites in the entire world.
Right next door is The Arch of Constantine, which was under renovation the last time I was in Rome. It was lovely to see it in its full glory, without being obstructed by scaffolding.
Rome is really an archaeological and historical dream. Everywhere you turn, there are ruins that show just how majestic the Roman Empire used to be.
The Roman Forum and Pallentine Hill always takes my breath away!
One of my favorite places to visit in Rome is The Trevi Fountain. There are always a ton of people milling about, but I was able to get some great photos despite the fact.
Of course I made a wish - and it actually came true that very evening!
I had never made my way to the Piaza Novana on my previous visits to Rome, but I made a concentrated effort during this visit and I was not disappointed.
It was a fun space with so much going on!
Another must see is the Pantheon. It is such a magnificent structure! There are a lot of great little cafes and shops nearby as well, so make sure that you do a little exploring before or after your visit!
I ended my day in Rome by stopping by a little cafe Angeline and I visited during our trip in 2013. I had a mozzarella and prosciutto platter and about a bottle of prosecco...it was the PERFECT way to end my day in the eternal city.
Have you ever been to Rome? What are you favorite sites and favorite restaurants?
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