24 HOURS IN... Rome
ROME wasn’t built in a day and a mere 24 hours is nowhere near enough time to spend there either. There can be no other city that is quite as rich in history and culture as Italy’s capital, and as such it is tricky to pick out the highlights for a whistle- stop tour. But if there’s no way that you can squeeze a little extra time off work to enjoy the wonders of the Eternal City, then follow our guide for a taster trip that will whet your appetite and keep you coming back for more.
Boscolo Palace Dripping with charm and character, this lavish hotel is situated in Via Veneto, Rome’s most elegant and fashionable street. You will find this majestic period building conveniently located between the Spanish Steps and the Villa Borghese. For a cheapter alternative check out the small but well-situated Hotel Romae. http://palace-roma. boscolohotels.com/hotel/ and www. hotelromae.com/en
Pinpointing the best place to eat in Rome is nigh on impossible. Much of the food is good with even the most touristy of venues offering pizza, pasta and more Italian favourites. In between meals you might want to sample two of the other great Italian specialties, coffee and ice cream. Enjoy both of those at Giolitti in Via Uffici del Vicario. This historic cafecum-ice cream parlour is located by the parliament and serves some of the best gelato in Rome. www.giolitti.it
A trip on an open-top bus If you have a couple of hours to spare, this is a great way to take in the Rome’s star attractions, including the Vatican. There are several commercial companies that offer the service, with many also providing an accompanying audio tour. Prices vary, but more reasonable is the city’s own Trambus 110 Open which stops at the significant tourist attractions, and Archeobus for the key archaeological sites. www.trambusopen.com
The Colosseum and the Forum If you only have time for one thing in Rome, then head for the archaeological heart of the city. Few sights can be as incredible as the remnants of the once powerful empire, which ruled for centuries over the vast swathe of land between Spain and Asia. Arrive early for minimal queues or avoid