One of the most beautiful areas in the world. Whether you’re going to hire a Rome travel guide or not you’ll experience the very cradle of human civilization, its many landmarks are a joy for the eyes to behold. The Eternal City remains unrivaled when it comes to the sheer aesthetic supremacy of its antique structures and its impressive, widely-venerated history. It doesn’t come as a surprise then that Rome has claimed the #2 spot on the top travel destinations in the world.

1. Rome

With a climate mild and rainy in winter rather than full of snow, many find Rome the perfect place to vacation during any time of year. If you aren’t one for weather, the history will definitely appall you. You do not need a Visa if you’re only staying for 90 days or less. Experts recommend visiting Rome in the off-peak months between October and March to avoid the summer rush. During the summer it gets crowded and the prices go up. If you can, try to book a hotel near or within the centro storico or historic district. Today I will be your travel guide.

2. Take The Tour

Be sure to make a list of locations you intend to visit within Rome beforehand to save you time and money. The public transportation can be iffy at times, but still reliable. Private tours are a great way to get around and at the same time soak up the local culture. Another great way to economize is by taking the TramBus system, that goes around the city and provides a fascinating tour of Romes neighborhoods. Also, don’t forge to think about ticket cost along with how you get there. But don’t worry we got you covered in a later section.

3. Don’t Miss These Locations

The Coliseum is probably, next to the Vatican, next to the Parthenon, next to the Sistine Chapel, next to the Roman Forum; the best structure to visit in the city.(I just can’t pick one, LOL!) Your transit can tour the premises or you on your own or join those conducted every hour by guides dressed as Gladiators. Operating hours vary throughout the year, so you will want to call in advance if at all possible. But if you want to see something massive, visit the Circus Maximus. The Roma Pass is another part of Rome’s public transportation system, we’ll talk about it later but keep an eye out for it. As we discussed buses may be a more affordable option, and you can get closer to the culture, you might want to try them for our next stops.

4. The Roman Forum

Check out the civic center of Ancient Rome where political, religious, and economic activities took place. Many of its columns remain standing among the ruins even after 2000 years, displaying the intricacies of Roman architecture. The Forum started out as a patch of grass between hills where politicians, philosophers, and alike met and discussed. But with many things in Rome, it evolved into a beautiful display of ancient sculpting and craftsman ship. The enormous arches and never-ending halls put you in a olive oil fussed daze. In between the Palatine and Capitoline hills, the nature itself is awe-insipiring. Admission is free, opens at 9 am and closes an hour before sunset. If you want, you can spend a little more to get a personalized guided tour complete with audio pedestals where you can learn more.

5. The Vatican

One of the most popular spots to visit in Rome is, of course, the Vatican. In addition to its religious importance, the Vatican has a fine collection of sculptures, paintings, books, and many other artifacts that chronicle the Catholic Churchs history. You can view St. Peters Basilica, marvel at Michelangelos Pieta, its detailed masonry, or the papal catacombs. Move on to the Vatican Museum where even more magnificent antiquities are housed, not the least of that are Egyptian mummies from B.C. era. The Vatican as many know is the smallest country in the world, city right inside Rome. jason swaby

6. The Sistine Chapel

If pressed for time, skip everything else and proceed to the Sistine Chapel. Michelangelo, primarily, was known as an excellent sculptor so when Pope Julius II commissioned him to paint the Bible on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, he thought it was a ploy by his rivals who thought Michelangelo, not being a full-on painter, would yield mediocrity and embarrass himself. Of course, we all know it didn’t quite turn out that way. In fact, the Sistine Chapel is probably the most recognized piece of work from the Renaissance period.

7.The Circus Maximus

The Circus Maximus was a valley between the Aventine and Palatine hills, used as a chariot racing stadium by the Romans during ancient times. When it was originally used it was mere dirt and stone, but as time passed and it became a popular spectacle to see they build a wooden, and eventually stone stadium. At it’s height, it could seat 200,00 occupants which was simply ahead of its time, and still a marvel to this day. It’s dimensions are a staggering 550 meters long, by 80 meter wide. During the fire that wiped out three fourth’s of Rome’s population this was the only form of entertainment and was enjoyed by everyone. This stadium is often called the Coliseum’s true BIG brother. It was the largest architectural structure of ancient Rome. You have to see it for yourself to believe it, its even more remarkable thinking about when it was built.

6. Parco degli Acquedotti

One of the most famous aqueducts of all time, Parco degli Acquedotti is also a must stop any tourist bus. Many locals advice tourists to take a bike ride through and enjoy the scenery. the bike ride will work up an appetite so don’t forget to bring snacks for a pick nick. While eating take some time to check out the large pillars and broken down structures, try to imagine yourself there in ancient Rome, when the pillars would all have been standing. That would be a site to see. The large one hundred meter high trees and kilometres of open grass remind you, you’re with nature.

Roma Pass

This next one is less of a place to go and more of a must have. The Roma Pass has two main options, The Roma Pass 48 Hour, and The Roma Pass. The Roma Pass 48 Hour Edition only lets visits up to one museum, get discount on transport and food, and costs 28 euros. While, the standard Roma Pass let’s you visit up to two museums, stay for three days, but costs 36 euros.

Ticket Costs

Here is a list of some of the ticket costs of the attractions and destinations we listed:

The Roman Forum: Free Admission!

The Vatican Musem: 17 euros

The Sitine Chapel: 14 euros

The Circus Maximus: Free Admission!

Parco degli Acquedotti: Free it’s a park…