Viewing entries tagged
rome

A Walk Through Ancient Rome: Discovering the Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

A Walk Through Ancient Rome: Discovering the Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

There’s something particularly unsettling about standing on a stone slab where Julius Caesar might have tripped on his toga. Welcome to Ancient Rome’s power corridor, where marble once echoed with oratory, betrayal, and an occasional bacchanal. No city sells its past quite as elegantly as Rome—and nowhere is this more evident than in the tangled ruins of the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill.

This isn’t your average walk in the park. It’s a time warp through the very epicenter of Roman civilization—a place where history leaps from dusty stones with the audacity of a gladiator who missed retirement.

Powered by GetYourGuide

Welcome to the Roman Forum

Every direction in the Forum is a ghost story waiting to be dramatized. The Temple of Saturn stands dark and skeletal against the sky—its eight columns, a survivor’s sneer to time and earthquakes. The Curia Julia, Caesar’s personal pet project, still bears his ambition in its impressively intact form. Pop inside and be transported to a 44 B.C. boardroom. If marble could talk, this one would spill Senate secrets.

Let's start with the Roman Forum (Foro Romano if you’re showing off). Nestled between Palatine and Capitoline Hills, this sprawling archaeological site was once Rome’s nucleus for political pulse-checking, religious thunderbolts, and economic elbowing. Imagine Wall Street, Capitol Hill, and the Vatican had a baby—then left it to age elegantly in the sun for 2,000 years.

Don’t skip the Arch of Septimius Severus, mainly because saying his name aloud is oddly satisfying. It’s Rome’s version of a LinkedIn profile—engraved celebrations of victories in Parthia, chiseled under a monumental triple arch.

But ah, then there's the Via Sacra—the Sacred Road. Yes, the road is cracked and uneven, but when you realize emperors paraded down this very path during triumphal processions, you stop treating it like a liability and start treating it like an Instagram backdrop.

Powered by GetYourGuide

Up the Hill: Palatine Panorama & Palaces

Just a short walk—and a bit of a breathless climb—lifts you from the civic bustle of the Forum into the rarefied air of Palatine Hill. Here, you trade senators for emperors. According to myth, this is where Romulus founded Rome after a fratricidal misunderstanding with his brother Remus (we’ve all had sibling drama, but this one involved wolves and immortality).

Palatine Hill was the Bel Air of ancient Rome. If you were loaded and plotting to stay that way, you built your mansion here.

Emperors like Augustus and Domitian left mega-footprints. Augustus' modest house (by imperial standards) offers frescoes as vivid as the man’s PR machine, while Domitian’s palace sprawls like a statement of royal overcompensation.

Then, there’s the view. Oh, the view. From atop the hill, the Colosseum peeks out like it's waiting for its next battle, and the skyline scratches together domes, ruins, and bell towers into a messy but majestic collage. It’s Rome as the Romans never quite saw it—but only because they were busy building it.

Add this to your Rome itinerary, stat

If you're drafting a Rome travel itinerary, slot the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill high—right under “eat cacio e pepe” and “pretend to understand the Sistine Chapel ceiling.”

Practical tips: Entry to both the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill is included with the Colosseum ticket (yes, you want the skip-the-line version). Wear real shoes. Those ancient cobblestones have no pity for gladiator sandals.

For those who dream of Rome beyond the Vespa-chic cafés and gelato-fueled wanderlust, the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill deliver the gritty grandeur. These stones don’t whisper; they shout. And Rome doesn’t apologize for the noise—it invites you to walk into it.

Powered by GetYourGuide

Conclusion: If Rome is the Eternal City, then the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill are its eternal heartbeat—beating across centuries, emperors, and Instagram filters. Walk it. Breathe it. And maybe—just maybe—feel history wink at you.

FAQ: Visiting the Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

Q: Are there restrooms or places to get water?

A: Yes. Both sites have restrooms and water fountains. Bring a refillable bottle—you’re going to need it.

Q: Is the Roman Forum accessible for people with limited mobility?

A: Some paths are uneven and steep. The main walkways are partially accessible, and the site provides alternative entrances and helpful staff.

Q: What is the best time to visit the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill?

A: Early morning or late afternoon is ideal to avoid crowds and the midday sun. Visiting in spring or fall offers the most comfortable weather.

Q: How long should I plan to spend at the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill?

A: Allocate at least 2–3 hours to fully explore both sites without rushing. The combined Colosseum-Roman Forum-Palatine ticket gives you access to all three within 24 hours.

Q: Can I visit the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill without a guide?

A: Yes, but a guided tour or audio guide elevates the experience by adding historical context. Otherwise, it’s just a lot of lovely rubble.

The Colosseum: Rome’s Grand Stage of Spectacle, Survival & Selfie-Stick Glory

The Colosseum: Rome’s Grand Stage of Spectacle, Survival & Selfie-Stick Glory

You haven’t really experienced Rome if you haven’t let your jaw slacken at first sight of this stone giant, posed elegantly amidst honking Vespas and dubious selfie angles. But beyond its fame as one of Italy’s major tourist attractions, the Colosseum is also a paradoxical place—a brutal playground of ancient entertainment and a modern icon of endurance, innovation, and spectacle. Let’s step beyond the postcard version.

There are few things in life capable of stopping both time and tour groups in their tracks. Most of them are gelato-related, but occasionally, we must talk about architecture. Enter: the Colosseum, Rome’s 2,000-year-old amphitheater that has more stories carved into it than your Nonna’s face.

Powered by GetYourGuide

Rome’s Ultimate Arena

Completed in 80 AD under Emperor Titus (because egos must be built in stone, obviously), the Colosseum—originally known as the Flavian Amphitheatre—was engineered as a supreme PR stunt. A gift to the people, the arena could seat over 50,000 Romans itching for blood, drama, and the ancient equivalent of WWE meets Cirque du Soleil (except with more actual lions).

This architectural marvel was made from concrete and volcanic stone—a building technique so robust it’s still baffling engineers today. Yes, the Colosseum survived earthquakes, pillaging, weather erosion, and 20th-century tourism. Give her a round of applause... and maybe a conservation budget, please?

Powered by GetYourGuide

The Bloody (and Surprisingly Organized) Past

Forget popcorn—Roman spectators came for severed limbs with a side of social commentary. Gladiatorial games weren’t just entertainment. They were finely crafted public events, meticulously scheduled, complete with pre-show sacrifices, exotic animal hunts (some imported from as far as North Africa), and even mock sea battles when organizers flooded the arena with water. How very… dramatic.

Contrary to Hollywood dramatizations, not every fight ended in death. In fact, many gladiators were prized and trained professionals. Kill them too early and—you guessed it—they were expensive to replace. Think of them as athletes-slash-influencers with a higher mortality rate.

Powered by GetYourGuide

Modern Magic and A Few Tips

It’s easiest to visit the Colosseum with a combined ticket that includes access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. (Pro tip: book ahead. The lines are longer than Caesar’s resume.) Want a richer experience? Opt for a guided tour—or even better, the night tours, when this ancient beast glows gold under spotlights and becomes suspiciously flirtatious.

Now a UNESCO World Heritage site and magnet for millions of Instagram shots each year, the Colosseum is a walkable time capsule. Thanks to recent restoration projects, the underground hypogeum—where animals and combatants awaited their fate—is accessible to visitors again. Walking through these tunnels? Think of it as history’s version of backstage at Hamilton, just with more chains.

Powered by GetYourGuide

Beyond the Bricks

Hungry after all that ancient warfare? Trattorias in nearby Monti serve classic Roman dishes like carbonara, cacio e pepe, and amatriciana—no lions required. Try La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali for old-school Roman charm without the tourist markup.

And for those seeking their gladiator moment minus the grappling, there’s the Gladiator School of Rome (yes, it’s real), where you can swing a sword, wear a tunic, and risk spraining your dignity.

Sure, the Colosseum is a visual thunderclap. But staying in this corner of Rome offers more than just bricks and bravado.

Just steps away, Palatine Hill offers sweeping views of the Roman Forum and Circus Maximus, plus the fascinating Domus Augustana. The hill feels curated by the gods of Instagram—sunset here is practically a religion.

Powered by GetYourGuide

Rome Wasn’t Built in a Day, but the Colosseum Might Break Your Phone’s Storage

The Colosseum is not just a monument; it’s a master class in survival. It’s the original arena—an influencer before influencers, a spectacle without the screen. So whether you’re a history buff, an architecture nerd, or you just came for the selfies, this Roman colossus won’t disappoint.

Now go forth, traveler. But beware: once you’ve stood in the Colosseum’s shadow, almost everything else feels... a little anticlimactic.

Powered by GetYourGuide

Rome Wasn’t Built in a Day, but the Colosseum Might Break Your Phone’s Storage

The Colosseum is not just a monument; it’s a master class in survival. It’s the original arena—an influencer before influencers, a spectacle without the screen. So whether you’re a history buff, an architecture nerd, or you just came for the selfies, this Roman colossus won’t disappoint.

Now go forth, traveler. But beware: once you’ve stood in the Colosseum’s shadow, almost everything else feels... a little anticlimactic.

Powered by GetYourGuide

FAQs About Visiting the Colosseum in Rome

Is the Colosseum guided tour worth it?

Absolutely. A licensed guide brings layers of depth (and witty quips) to your visit. Plus, many tours include skip-the-line access and entry into areas like the underground hypogeum or upper tiers.

Can you visit the Colosseum at night?

Yes! Night tours are available and highly recommended for a more intimate and dramatically lit experience. They often come with small-group sizes and access to restricted areas.

What else should I see nearby?

Don’t miss Palatine Hill, the Roman Forum, or the Arch of Constantine. Also nearby: Monti, a charming neighborhood full of craft shops and legendary pasta.

How much does it cost to visit the Colosseum?

As of 2024, general admission tickets are €16, with bundling options that include entry to Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum. Discounts and free admission days are available check the official tourism site.

What are the best times to visit the Colosseum?

Early morning (8:30–10 AM) or late afternoon are best. Crowds peak mid-day, especially in summer. Visiting during shoulder season (April to June or September to November) offers fewer crowds and prettier lighting

Reasons Why Italy is the Capital of European Summer

Reasons Why Italy is the Capital of European Summer

Italy’s great food, beautiful countryside, fabulous wine, and long history make it an excellent country to visit. I fall in love with it every time I go. The vineyards in Tuscany, the history of Florence, the ancient streets in Rome, the laid back nature of Southern Italy, the gorgeous Cinque Terre, and the romantic canals in Venice all make the country irresistible. Italy leaves no one underwhelmed and, with so much to do and see, you better download the Italy Travel Guide and Offline Map to help you plan your trip.

1.  Tuscan Hills

Tuscany has a timeless familiarity with its iconic Florentine cathedral dome, gently rolling hills dipped in soft morning mist and sculptural cypress alleys. Get out, explore, hike and ding your bicycle bell, as this rousing landscape demands. Then there's the food. No land is more caught up with the fruits of its fertile earth than Tuscany, a gourmet destination whose residents spend an inordinate amount of time thinking about, discussing and consuming food and wine.

2. The Ruins of Pompeii

The ghostly ruins of ancient Pompeii make for one of the world's most engrossing archaeological experiences. Much of the site's value lies in the fact that the town wasn't simply blown away by Vesuvius in AD 79 but buried under a layer of lapilli (burning fragments of pumice stone). The result is a remarkably well-preserved slice of ancient life, where visitors can walk down Roman streets and snoop around millennia-old houses, temples, shops, cafes, amphitheatres, and even a brothel.

3. Venetian Grandeur

The Grand Canal, reflects the glories of Venetian architecture lining its banks. At the end of Venice’s signature waterway, the Palazzo Ducale and Basilica di San Marco add double exclamation points. But wait until you see what’s hiding in the narrow backstreets: neighbourhood churches lined with Veroneses and priceless marbles, Tiepolo’s glimpses of heaven on homeless-shelter ceilings, and a single Titian painting that mysteriously lights up an entire basilica.

Italy Guide for iPhone, iPad and Apple Watch

Learn more about other destinations that offer unique experiences by checking out eTips.

Things You Must Experience at the Vatican

Things You Must Experience at the Vatican

Right in the heart of Rome, Italy is Vatican City, a city-state that is considered the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church. However, it isn't just known for being the Pope home, but it also houses a trove of iconic art and architecture. The Vatican Museums that hold ancient Roman sculptures, Michelangelo's masterpiece of the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Raphael rooms' stunning frescos are just some the most notable art that you will see in the Vatican. Explore the seat of Catholicism with the Vatican Travel Guide and Offline Map.

1.      The Sistine Chapel

Experience the rush of religious grandeur within the walls of the chapel in the Apostolic Palace. Revel in the grandeur of the official residence of the Pope and be stunned by the famous The Last Judgment ceiling by Michael Angelo himself. Along with the Sistine ceiling, the fame of the chapel lies mainly in the frescos that decorate the interior. Between 1470's and 1480's a team of Renaissance painters that included created a series of frescos depicting the Life of Moses and the Life of Christ.

Awesome Sistine Chapel at Vatican City

2.      The St. Peter's Basilica

Experience the Pope's liturgies at the St. Peter's Basilica. Not only is St. Peter's regarded as one of the holiest Roman Catholic shrines, but it is also the largest church in the world. With that being said, it is famous as a place of pilgrimage where the pope holds liturgical functions throughout the year, drawing crowds of 15,000 to over 80,000 people at a time. The Basilica is also the burial site of the first Pope, Saint Peter, who is also one of Christ's Apostles. His tomb is said to be directly below the high altar of the Basilica.

Vatican City Travel Guide for iPhone, iPad and AppleWatch

3.      The Vatican Museums

Experience artistic history by visiting the Vatican museums, which holds an immense collection of more or less 70,000 pieces and 20,000 of them on display. The museums' collection was built up by the Popes and throughout centuries has included some of the most celebrated masterpieces of Renaissance art in the world. It is one of the largest museums in the world and was visited by 6 million people 2013 making it the 6th most visited art museum in the world.

Learn more about other destinations that offer unique experiences by checking out eTips.