ahoyne9Day 1 – Arrive in Rome 08.14.2021
My second visit to Rome was just as captivating as the first time I fell in love with the city back in 2018. This time, I traveled from Florence to Rome on August 14th, 2021, by train. The journey was a swift and comfortable 1.5 to 2-hour ride, covering approximately 275 kilometers (171 miles). The high-speed Frecciarossa and Italo trains whisked me away at speeds of up to 300 km/h (186 mph), with ticket prices ranging from €30 to €80 depending on class and advance booking. With frequent departures from Firenze Santa Maria Novella to Roma Termini, it’s a convenient way to transition from Florence’s Renaissance charm to Rome’s vibrant energy.
This time around, I had high hopes of finally visiting the Pantheon. On my last trip, the long queue in the heat dissuaded me, and with COVID restrictions requiring advance booking, I found myself unable to enter again. However, I was excited to find out that I could tour something I’d missed in 2018 when we visited Vatican City.
For Oron, who had never been to Rome before, we decided to start with the main attractions. We made our way to the Pantheon to admire its impressive exterior and check out the queue. Fortunately, Rome is filled with history that can be enjoyed without spending a dime, just by walking around the city.
Thanks to the lower tourist numbers during COVID, I was able to enter the Colosseum almost immediately, with no waiting at all. My ticket included access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill for a day, priced at approximately €18 for adults. Discounts are available at around €9 for EU citizens aged 18-25, and entry is free for EU citizens under 18 and for residents of Rome. Constructed between 70 and 80 AD, the Colosseum in Rome is an architectural marvel of the ancient world, showcasing the engineering prowess of the Roman Empire and serving as a stage for gladiatorial games and grand public events.
During my last visit, I had skipped Palatine Hill and only saw part of the Roman Forum, so I made it a point to explore both this time. Oron decided to opt out, preferring to relax and cafe hop while I took on the sites. I dedicated my day to the Roman Forum and planned to visit Palatine Hill the next day. Afterward, Oron and I met at the Trevi Fountain.
The Roman Forum, the heart of ancient Rome, is a sprawling complex of ruins that once served as the epicenter of political, social, and economic life in the city. Nestled between Palatine Hill and the Colosseum, the site is filled with remnants of temples, basilicas, and government buildings, chronicling Rome’s rise to power. As you wander through the cobbled pathways, you’ll encounter iconic landmarks like the Temple of Saturn, the Arch of Titus, and the Curia, where the Roman Senate once convened. A visit to the Roman Forum offers a captivating glimpse into the daily life and grandeur of the Roman Empire, making it a must-see destination for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.
We reunited at the Trevi Fountain, which I personally think looks far more enchanting at night. Thanks to COVID, a rooftop bar near the fountain was practically empty. While it was more of a romantic setting, we didn’t linger long but enjoyed some great views of the fountain.
Day 2 – Palantine Hill & Spanish Steps 08.15.2021
This was Oron’s last day in Rome before heading back to the States. I have two more days left, but tomorrow I’ll be staying near the airport due to an early flight. We plan to visit Vatican City today, which I’ll cover in a separate post. After that, I’m hoping to explore Palatine Hill and the Spanish Steps, both of which I missed during my last visit to Rome. My Colosseum ticket from yesterday is still valid for Palatine Hill today.
We started our morning at the Spanish Steps. These iconic Baroque steps, built between 1723 and 1725, were designed by Francesco de Sanctis to connect the Trinità dei Monti church with the bustling Piazza di Spagna below. Commissioned by the French diplomat Étienne Gueffier, the steps symbolize the historic link between France and Spain, which is why they are named after the nearby Spanish Embassy.
Afterwards, we headed to Vatican City. We spent a few hours there, and then Oron decided to head back to the Airbnb for a break. Meanwhile, I ventured to Palatine Hill.
Palatine Hill, one of the Seven Hills of Rome, is a site rich in history and myth, often considered the birthplace of the city. Rising above the Roman Forum, this ancient area was once the center of power for Roman emperors and aristocrats, who built opulent palaces amidst lush gardens offering stunning views over the city. According to legend, Romulus founded Rome here in 753 BC, making it one of the world’s most significant archaeological sites. As you explore the ruins of the Imperial Palace, the House of Augustus, and ancient temples, you’ll gain insight into the lives of Rome’s elite while enjoying a peaceful escape from the bustling city below. Walking through Palatine Hill is like stepping back in time, with every stone whispering tales of Rome’s grand past.
If you continue through Palatine Hill and work your way up towards the Colosseum, you can capture the perfect “Instagram” shot.
Tomorrow, I have no plans other than preparing for my flight and enjoying one last dinner in Rome, so I won’t be posting an update. I did make one last attempt to enter the Pantheon, but due to COVID restrictions and the need for advance booking, I couldn’t get in. This will give me an excuse to return to Rome for a third time.
Overall, this trip has been incredible, and I feel fortunate to be able to travel during COVID. Not having a job and living off interest and dividend income has been more manageable abroad than in the U.S. I never thought I’d be able to travel for two straight months without dipping into my savings. Of course, credit card points have been a great help with flights. I have no more trips planned for the rest of 2021, but for the summer of 2022, I’d love to plan another big European adventure, perhaps to Ireland and Norway. We’ll see how that plays out!
Cheers!