From the remains of its imperial glory days to the Renaissance and baroque riches of its historic centre, Rome is a living masterpiece.
Begin your journey at the Vatican City, declared an independent state in 1929 and home to St Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museum and the Sistine Chapel. The awe-inspiring architecture and art collection makes the Vatican City top of the list of must-sees.
Ancient Rome, founded upon seven hills, divided the city into neighbourhoods with distinct styles and personalities that have survived to modern day.
On the west bank of the Tiber River, Trastevere is home to countless authentic pizzerias and restaurants. Across the river, the Basilica of Santa Sabina and the church of Sant’Alessio can be found in Aventine (one of the celebrated seven hills).
A short walk away is Testaccio, where literary buffs will find the tombs of English poets John Keats and Percy Bysshe Shelley.
With the famous Spanish Steps, Pantheon, and Piazza Venezia all in the historical city centre, the winding, cobblestone streets easily transport visitors back to bygone days of chariots and gladiators.
But while there’s no escaping Rome’s illustrious past, modern Romans embrace the present. The abundance of restaurants and wine bars in Camp de’ Fiori make it a nightlife hotspot for both tourists and locals; tuck in for a traditional meal of gnocchi or the Roman specialty, pasta coda alla vaccinara, a ragu made from braised oxtail stew.
For shopping, Via Condotti is where all the big-name designers have their shops. For smaller, independent boutiques, try Via del Boschetto, Via del Pellegrino and Via dei Governo Vecchio. For mainstream labels and chains, focus on Via del Corso. Luxury goods to take home include assorted vinegar, truffles and olive oil.
Rome’s largest flea market is the vast Porta Portese in Trastevere on Sunday mornings. Other local neighbourhood food markets are dotted all over town, but for the oldest and most famous, visit the Campo dei’Fiori every morning from Monday to Saturday.
Visit Rome with ROCS Travel
ROCS Travel package rates for summer 2013 start from €259. Rates include return Air Malta flights to Rome, two nights’ accommodation at the five-star La Griffe on Via Nazionale, daily buffet breakfast and all taxes and charges.
ROCS Travel is also offering three escorted full-day tours over four days visiting the main sights of Rome. These tours include professional tour managers, return Air Malta flights to Rome, three nights’ accommodation at the five-star La Griffe on Via Nazionale, daily buffet breakfast and all taxes and charges.
The dates for these tours are June 27-30, August 8-11 and September 5-8. Group tour rates start from € 299 per person.
For more information call ROCS on 2015 1515, or visit www.rocsholidays.com.