toP tours
a day. Rome wasn’t built in one, but you can certainly do your best to see as much of it as you can. here’s how...
01 RIDE A VESPA
When in Rome, do as the Romans do and cruise around the city on your very own Vespa scooter. If you have the courage – and the experience – you can ride one yourself, or hop behind a guide as he zips you around the capital’s biggest sites and secret spots. The best part about seeing the city by scooter is that you have the chance to experience different sides to Rome – from its narrow winding streets and busy piazzas, to the age-old ruins and out-of-town hidden gems. Turn one corner, and you’ll get to marvel at the Coliseum, one of city’s most prominent architectural feats, as your guide paints a picture of how the amphitheater roared with events, games and battles more than 2,000 years ago. Turn another, and you’ll soon find yourself riding over the world’s first manmade street where literally the only road led to Rome. Rest up a local coffee shop before catching stunning views of Vatican City at sunset.
scooteroma.com
02 EXPLORE ON FOOT
The best sights can all be viewed on foot thanks to the pedestrian-friendly nature of the city. Following even the tiniest of cobbled-stone roads can often lead to expansive public piazzas filled with cafés, shops and historical sites. We suggest you tackle a two-hour piazza tour like this: start at Piazza di Spagna, or the Spanish steps – 138 of them to be exact – easily accessible by metro. Located at the heart of the city, this is the perfect spot to perch and people watch. Head north, and you’ll find yourself at Piazza Del Popolo – one of Rome’s larger open spaces featuring an Egyptian style obelisk and twin churches. A 25-minute walk southeast and you’ll wind your way into Piazza Novona, best known for its incredible fountains and water features, and the best Tartufo in town. Finish your walking tour by heading east to the Trevi Fountain. Squeeze your way through the crowds to make a wish – by throwing a coin into the fountain. But don’t forget to face away from the fountain while you toss the coin overhead! Treat yourself at the end of your afternoon with an icy scoop of gelato at the infamous San Crispino.
03 HOP INTO A FIAT
Italy may have given us the Ferrari and the Lamborghini, but it’s the wonderfully tiny Fiat Cinquecentos that capture the essence of fun-loving Rome. Painted in beautiful vintage colours, they’re small enough to zip round the back-alleys and cobbled streets, so you’re not lumbering around like the armies of tourists in their huge coaches. You’ll head out on a guided convoy-style tour featuring commentary from the tour leader as you circuit Rome, incorporating short stops at key sights.
rome500exp.com