Rome: A Weekend in the Eternal City

After a stop in Bologna, my journey continued south, to Rome. And it's not for nothing that they say all roads lead here — Rome is one of the few cities you can visit again and again and still find something you haven't seen before. A single weekend isn't really enough, but with good planning and a bit of walking, you can still fit in a surprising amount in just two days.

The Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

Rome's most famous landmark is undoubtedly the Colosseum, the largest surviving amphitheater of the ancient world. Tickets need to be booked in advance, ideally combined with the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill — this is where the original settlement of Rome began roughly a thousand years BC, and from here the city gradually grew into the shape we know today. Walking among the ancient columns and temple ruins is one of the most powerful experiences the whole visit has to offer.

The Pantheon

A short walk from the center stands the Pantheon, the best-preserved building of ancient Rome. This circular temple, with its massive dome and an opening in the roof that lets light pour in, was completed in 118 AD and still fascinates visitors with its construction to this day — and entry is free.

Trevi Fountain and Piazza di Spagna

No visit to Rome would be complete without the Trevi Fountain, the world's most famous fountain, where legend says you must throw a coin over your shoulder if you want to return to Rome one day. Nearby lies Piazza di Spagna, with the Spanish Steps, one of the city's most photogenic spots.

Trastevere

Anyone wanting to experience a different side of Rome should head to the Trastevere district on the other bank of the Tiber. Narrow cobbled streets, ivy-covered façades, and countless small trattorias and bars make it the perfect place for an evening stroll or a glass of wine.

Food and Atmosphere

Rome is a paradise for food lovers — fresh pasta, authentic Italian pizza, and of course an espresso at the counter in a local bar. In the evening, it's well worth walking past the illuminated landmarks again — Rome at night has a completely different atmosphere than during the day.

A Practical Tip

It's worth buying tickets to the major sights (the Colosseum, Vatican Museums) online and in advance — queues can eat up an entire morning. For a short stay, the Roma Pass tourist card also comes in handy, covering public transport and free entry to two museums.

Rome, in short, is a city that simply doesn't fit into one weekend — but that's exactly the reason to come back one day.