When visiting the city of Rome there is such a wide range of attractions that it can be a little confusing as to where exactly to start, this will of course also depend on individual choice so some planning is essential before setting out on your journey.
The capital city of Italy, Rome is a huge place with a population of around 3 million. The centre of ancient Rome is contained within an area bounded by the Colosseum, the Palatine Hill, the Capitoline Hill and the Imperial Forums, this area is a good place to see a selection of historic buildings and monuments, also some excellent museums.
To lighten the mood you might head for some of the many piazzas and fountains that are scattered throughout the city, the Trevi Fountain is one of the best known.
The Vatican City will of course be a must for most people and you should allow a day for this very special place. There are over 900 churches in Rome so you will need to be particular in your choices if you don’t wish it to take up too much of your time, among the best are St Peter’s Basilica, the Basilica of St John Lateran, the Basilica of Mary Major and the Basilica of St Paul.
If museums are your thing, then again you will be spoilt for choice in Rome, one of the best is the Vatican Museum, other excellent ones include the Museum of Roman Civilization and the Capitoline Museums.
If you are visiting Rome in the summer, it can get very hot, so you might want to take a day out to head for the coast, a fascinating place to visit is the city of Anzio, 57 kilometres south of Rome, another ancient city it is now a busy fishing port and popular ferry port for those heading to the Pontine Islands. In Anzio you can visit the Beachhead Museum which outlines the history of the Allied landings which took place during WW2.
