When you are a first-time visitor with plans of many things to do in Italy, exploring its greatest cities can be quite an overwhelming task. Although the chaos is definitely part of the journey’s charm, it could also sometimes be considered a major drawback for visitors who would want to explore as much as possible in the least amount of time. While the Eternal City of Rome is a top choice on every first-timer’s Italy trip planner, exploring it on a short stay becomes tedious if you don’t pick the right mode of travel. From cycling around and walking to major sights to taking the jump-in jump-off sightseeing tour, there are several affordable yet exciting ways to make the most of the Eternal City.
A Vespa tour is a must-do when in Rome
You know what they say: When in Rome, do as the Romans do. A fun, exciting and alternative way to explore the historic streets of Rome is by going on a Vespa tour, which is something that should be on every Italy travel planner. Jumping onto these colorful, light and swift scooters lets you customize your itinerary to suit your interests. Pick your own self-drive or a passenger circuit, and relish not just the sights but also the food-focused circuits you can take, along with quick stops at eateries, local markets and cafes.
Walk around those cobble-stoned streets
Exploring a place by foot is the best way to enjoy its true essence, especially when it is the city centre in Rome. It is quite a fascinating walk and is free of cost. Stroll down the Centro Storico, which contains the Jewish Ghetto, the Pantheon and gorgeous historic city squares called Piazzo Navona and Piazza Campo de’ Flori. You can continue to explore the ancient sites such as Colosseo district by foot to get a detailed picture of the Palatine Hill, the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. Add a fun element to your on-foot exploration and go window shopping at the Via del Corso, and soak in the wonderful vibe on the Spanish Steps.
Exciting bike tours
For travellers who have been to other major European capitals like Copenhagen, Paris or Amsterdam, Rome might not come across as equally bike-friendly. However, there are numerous reasonably-priced and interesting itineraries that you can pick and pedal though the cobble-stoned streets of the Eternal City. If you decide the Vespa and walking aren’t the way to go, you can pick a guided bicycle tour such as Italy Cruiser Bike Tours, Red Bicycle and others, which will include biking through famous attractions and other hidden sights.
Just in case you decide to rent a bike and do your own circuit as per your Italy itinerary planner, don’t forget to wheel down the spectacular Appia Antica. It is a 2300-year-old street, made from cobblestone and lined with Roman aqueducts and ruins that linked the city with the entire nation.
Buy a Roma Pass and discover the historic city
It is always a smart move to buy a sightseeing pass, which will help you save time and money, letting you access free admission to various attractions and board public transportation. The Roma Pass is basically the official tourist-cultural card, which lets the owner gain free usage of the public transport network, enter up to two archaeological and museum sites, and gain access to events and exhibitions. Also, the pass lets you walk past queues without having to wait in them.
Eating your way along Trastevere
Trastevere is one of the most happening and charming Roman districts, located across the Tiber River from the Fiori market. The best way to let yourself be immersed in the Roman culture is by getting lost on a walking food tour in this district’s labyrinthine streets that are lined with time-honoured gelaterias and artisan stores. You can pick one of the food tours and experience the taste of Rome in an unparalleled, non-touristy fashion. The tour includes a visit to the most historic Roman food market and an ancient wine cellar as well.
An aerial view, if you can afford it
Looking down upon Rome from the bright-blue sky lets you appreciate the city’s grandeur in the true sense. If you are on a flexible budget, opt for a helicopter or hot-air balloon ride over the Eternal City. For those travellers who are on a tight budget, worry not! The city offers numerous spots such as Palatine Hill, Capitoline Hill and Gianicolo Hill, from where the city’s magnificent view can be captured. Remember to also take the elevator up the 312 steps of the St. Peter’s Basilica Dome and get a brilliant bird’s eye view of the entire Square. To get a wonderful shot of the majestic Roman skyline, head to the romantic Orange Garden.
You can always hop on to a sightseeing tour bus or even roam the streets on a Segway. Irrespective of what mode you may take to wander the streets of Rome, they will all lead you along awe-inspiring sights.
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