Rome
Day 1: Ancient Rome & Iconic Landmarks
After catching an early flight and arriving at Rome’s Fiumicino Airport, we took the Leonardo Express (a direct train) straight to Termini Station - fast, easy, and no stress. It took 32 minutes from the airport to the station, one stop on the train, and they run approximately once every 15 minutes. Once we had dropped our bags at the hotel, it was time to explore!
Here's what we got up to on our first day:
Trevi Fountain
This iconic spot was just breathtaking. Don’t forget to toss a coin over your left shoulder into the fountain - legend says it guarantees your return to Rome! And remember the fountain gets VERY busy, so go super early in the morning or super late at night to avoid the crowds.
Our hotel was a 1-minute walk from the fountain, so this had to be our first stop!
Getting Takeaway Cocktails
One of my favourite little moments was grabbing €5 takeaway cocktails from Ristorante Taberna Patrizi e Plebei just a 1-min walk from the fountain, also a restaurant which we didn't get to try this time around!
Sipping on a cocktail while strolling through Rome on a hot summer's day? A total vibe.
On the menu there was a range of cocktails from the classic aperol spritz, bellini, or a pina colada, which had a smiley face on top, such a lovely touch :D
Pantheon & Piazza Navona
From the fountain, it’s an 8-minute walk to the Pantheon. Don’t miss the Egyptian obelisk in front - it adds to the surreal contrast of ancient and modern. Then head 5 minutes further to Piazza Navona, one of Rome’s most beautiful squares, lovely to walk around or enjoy a morning coffee or an evening aperitif.
Victor Emmanuel II Monument
Nicknamed the “wedding cake building,” this grand white marble monument is massive. Climb up to the Altar of the Fatherland for a panoramic view of Rome (totally worth it!).
Piazza del Campidoglio
Right next door is this lesser-known square designed by Michelangelo - quiet, historic, and a perfect photo spot.
Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill
Ensure you book your Colosseum tour in advance (ours was at 4:30pm). We booked through GetYourGuide, super easy!
Afterward, walk through the Roman Forum and up to Palatine Hill - you'll feel like you're walking through time.
Dinner Around the Colosseum
There are lots of great restaurants in Monti (just nearby). We had a lovely dinner at Lalocanda del Tempio - rated 4.6 stars on Google.
I recommend the salami pizza and the meatball fettuccini - both delicious!! Also make sure to get a tiramisu for dessert, my favourite.
