The number of sights in Rome reaches such a magnitude that after just a couple of hours in this city, the traveler’s brain and heart begin to refuse to perceive new ones. Therefore, it is a crime to spend only a day or two in Rome. You can come here again and again and again. The main thing is to understand that Rome is not Italy. Consider it a separate country or even a separate world. Rome is terribly old and forever young, and it has seen the rise and fall of one of the greatest civilizations in history. It is not surprising that its entire historical center has been declared a World Heritage Site.
Districts of Rome
Rome is divided into many zones, municipal districts, villages, districts, neighborhoods and other residential areas. Undoubtedly, each of them will have its own pearl, but it is difficult to understand all the intricacies even for Romans of the seventh generation, so for the first acquaintance it is better to choose one of the historical districts and leave the working-class neighborhoods for later.
The city welcomes its guests with the Termini district, just like Rome’s main station of the same name. Many travel agencies recommend this place, talking about the cheapness of housing and the convenience of logistics, but in fact these advantages are rather questionable, and there are plenty of other disadvantages: the station areas are characterized by increased noise, dirt, bustle, and some criminal activity, and Termini is no exception. And the seeming transport accessibility is like that in Rome almost everywhere.
To the west of Termini and north of Ostiense, there is a whole galaxy of ancient neighborhoods where you can’t walk without tripping over a monument or bumping your forehead into it: Monti, Campitelli, Celio and Ripa. Yes, these are crowded and very popular areas, and the dances of tourists around the Colosseum do not stop even at night. But if you try hard enough, you can find not the most expensive accommodation on a quiet street a stone’s throw from the Forum and enjoy the view of these majestic ruins early in the morning while everyone is sleeping. The number of not the most famous, but incredibly beautiful churches here is simply off the charts.
You can walk around the central part of Rome without fear, but it is better to avoid the “emigrant” neighborhoods. The main danger for tourists is pickpockets, especially gypsies, on crowded streets and in public transport. Many bus stops even have special signs warning about pickpockets.
Another amazing group of neighborhoods is located just above the Colosseum: Trevi, Parione, Pigna and Regola. In addition to endless palazzos, temples and squares, this area is notable for its shops – small private shops, fashion boutiques, markets, and many cozy cafes, bars and gelaterias. The main landmarks are Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, and the Barberini metro station.
The north of the right-bank center of tourist Rome is occupied by the Ponte, Colonia, and Campo Marzio districts. The first is recommended for lovers of walking along the embankments and bridges – its coat of arms even depicts the Bridge of the Holy Angel, and the Vatican is within easy reach. The Colosseum and the Field of Mars are good for both independent excursions and shopping.
On the left bank of the Tiber, a large area is occupied by Trastevere. It is a real blasphemy to ignore this neighborhood. First, you cross the bridge and you’re already in the center. Secondly, there are plenty of attractions here. And thirdly, this neighborhood is alive, it’s inhabited by the most ordinary Romans, they go to non-touristy shops and cheap trattorias for the locals, trade in real, not souvenir markets and do not dress up in legionnaire and gladiator costumes. In Trastevere, you will feel the rhythm of modern society, harmoniously existing within the walls of the medieval streets of the eternal monument. The downside is that the local youth only calms down in the morning.
To the north are Borgo and the Vatican. The main difference from Trastevere is that there are many more tourists and pilgrims, as well as scammers than locals, but if you go deep into the neighborhoods, you will surely find a quiet and inexpensive place.
From the districts remote from the center with affordable housing and good conditions, we can recommend Eure with its Palace of Congresses and the square Colosseum, as well as the neat and green Monteverde. In Testaccio, go for nightlife and a tour of small family-run pizzerias.
Transport in Rome
Rome is one of those cities that are best explored on foot. But if your hotel is not in the very center, but a little to the side, then you can’t avoid getting acquainted with the transport.
Roma Termini is the main hub of Rome, where the main traffic flows intersect
The backbone of the public transportation system is a wide network of bus routes that connects all parts of the city. In addition, Rome has 6 tram and several trolleybus lines.