Rome wasn’t built in a day, but that doesn’t mean it should take longer than that to see the best of it!
One of my favorite ways to get a taste of a new city is to book a long layover. It can make long flights cheaper and it gives me the opportunity to have a mini vacation on my way to or from a longer trip. The first time I ever did one of these micro vacations was in Rome, and I can’t wait to go back and spend more time getting to know the city. Until then, though, here are some tips to maximize your short time in the Italian capital.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your travel itinerary for Italy!
Popular itinerary in Italy:
Walk or rent a bike – Rome is home to some of the most stunning architecture in the world. In a one-day trip, you will not have time to wait in lines or spend hours in museums. Cover as much ground as you can, enjoying the views. Go into as many sites as you can, I guarantee you can hit a good few. You can fall in love with Rome from the outside, no need to waste precious time waiting around. Explore the nooks and crannies of this ancient city and enjoy the atmosphere unique from anywhere else in the world.
Food – Who doesn’t love Italian food? Double that love you already have because there is nothing in this world like the genuine Italian food that you can get in Rome. In just one day, you don’t want to spend too much time in a restaurant – if you are willing to then pick just one and have one meal there. Otherwise, the Pizza and Gelato that you can grab on the go is unlike any fast food you get elsewhere. I still dream about the Gelato I had in Rome almost eight years ago!
Research and plan – Figure out what you must see on your trip and plan accordingly. Look at maps and be realistic about your goals. Check opening times and rates – some sites are linked and a ticket for one can apply to several. Plan your sites according to your route (don’t backtrack too much) to insure that you see as much as possible.
Watch your wallet! Pickpockets are notorious in Rome. Make sure your valuables are secure when you are traveling around. My friend put her purse on the ground for just a moment to take a picture, and just as quickly it was gone. You don’t want to spend your entire time in Rome in the police station – especially if you get your passport stolen!
Don’t sweat the small stuff – Nothing can ruin your day like getting frustrated over small things. You have just one day in this magical city. Missed a site that you wanted to see? Make sure to get it on your next trip.
I love the feeling of spending a full day exploring an incredible European city, rushing to the airport, and collapsing in a chair at the gate with a cappuccino – finally allowing myself to feel the soreness in my feet and my absolute exhaustion – knowing that it was… completely worth it.
And in case you don’t know how to plan a trip to Europe, let us help you with the hard work, so you can relax and enjoy your vacation abroad!
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Also check out – Travel Italy – Discover the Beauty of Tuscany
