Seeing the sights of Rome

I was ready to begin sightseeing! After a quick train ride from the hostel, I made my way to the Trevi Fountain. It was easy to find with numerous signs pointing the way and the increasing number of tourists and souvenir shops. As per tradition and the Lizzie McGuire Movie, I tossed a coin into the fountain so that one day I would return to Rome! Legend has it that you’re also likely to find the love of your life if you toss a coin in. While I received no marriage propositions during my trip, only time will tell if I return to Rome!

Since I had skipped my morning coffee, I quickly made my way to Sant’ Eustachio IL Caffe. This coffee shop has been a mainstay in Rome since 1938. I recommend ordering a cappuccino and one of their incredible pastries. You can sip and eat while standing at the bar if you’re in a rush or grab a table and relax for a bit. After feeling sufficiently caffeinated, I walked to the nearby Pantheon and marveled at the iconic temple that was completed in 126 AD. After wandering the streets some more, I grabbed some pizza and Arancini di Riso (fried rice balls) from a local pizza shop and made my way to the Stadio Olimpico to watch S.S Lazio, one of the local soccer teams, play a match. If you are a soccer or football fan, this is a must see as the passion of the Italians is incredible! After a full day, I went back to the hostel for some much needed sleep.

After caffeinating at Pascucci, an excellent coffee shop, and eating a delicious croissant, I was off to the Vatican City. After queuing for a while, I entered St. Peter’s Basilica and was in complete awe of its scale and size! There is so much to see here! Make sure that you explore some of the underground areas. They offer a unique view of crypts and catacombs! I paid an extra few euros to climb the many steps to the top of the basilica and was offered a wonderful view of Rome and the Vatican City. My next stop was more pizza, of course, then the Spanish Steps. I took a few photos and then stumbled upon a unique museum called the Capuchin Crypt. The first section of the museum contains painted pieces and other historical artifacts from the 500 year old monastery. The coolest part is at the end. You’re led into a dark room that contains hundreds and hundreds of bones and skulls elaborately positioned. Creepy and cool. For dinner, it was time to visit the neighborhood of Trastevere. I started at Bar San Calisto for cheap drinks then went to Trattoria Da Augusto for incredible pasta and even better wine. Order the Carbonara. It’s Rome’s specialty. My pasta and wine dreams were coming true.

I was told that the Vatican Museums required a full day and that was what I budgeted for my final day in Rome. After fueling up on coffee, pastries, and even more pizza, I went to the Vatican Museums. Even while not being much of a museum or arts guy, I was amazed by the quantity and quality of art that was contained there. From the marble sculptures to the paintings, it is a must see! Take your time and soak it up. I would recommend a guided tour or downloading a Rick Steves audio tour for your visit. Whatever you do, don’t miss the Sistine Chapel. While you might get a sore neck from looking at the ceiling for so long, the artwork is beautiful.

On your way out, make sure you stop by the post office. Yes, there is an actual post office in the museum where you can buy postcards and stamps. I took advantage of this to win some bonus points with my girlfriend that was back home. After soaking in all the art, I was ready for food.

From there, I needed something sweet. I went to the century-old and family-owned Regoli Pasticceria. Cannoli, tarts, maritozzo, and more! Dessert before dinner has been a habitual practice of mine. For my final dinner, I went back to Trastevere. There was something about the neighborhood that really appealed to me. It felt slightly less touristy than the neighborhoods around the larger tourist attractions. It had a certain romantic vibe to it as well. After walking in circles, I found a restaurant with outdoor seating called Tonnarello. Once I saw that the menu had Carbonara, I was sold. Luckily for me, this was easily the best Carbonara I had in Rome! With a large glass of red wine and a plate full of Carbonara, I celebrated a successful four days. My pasta and wine dreams had come true and I couldn’t think of a more perfect way to end my stay in Rome.