June 30th 2024.
Exploring a new city can be a daunting task, especially when there are so many sights to see and limited time to do it all. I had experienced this first hand during my last visit to Rome, where the scorching heat and overwhelming crowds left me feeling exhausted and unfulfilled. So when the opportunity arose for a second chance, I was hesitant but curious. Little did I know, this time would be a completely different experience.
Instead of trying to cram in as many tourist attractions as possible, I decided to take a more relaxed approach and focus on a few key activities. My top priorities were visiting Vatican City and catching the sunset over the city from a stunning viewpoint. But before I could do that, I stumbled upon a unique and exciting opportunity – a vintage Fiat 500 tour.
As I arrived at the meeting point, I couldn't help but smile at the sight of a convoy of brightly colored Fiat 500s, each one a different vibrant hue. The tour promised to take us to some of Rome's most iconic spots, but in a fun and unconventional way. With the windows down and the sun on our faces, we zoomed through the streets, with our knowledgeable guide leading the way.
We made quick stops at popular destinations like the Colosseum and the Aventine Keyhole, capturing photos and learning interesting tidbits about each place. Along the way, we received friendly waves and smiles from passersby, making us feel like celebrities in our tiny cars. And for those who wanted to spice up their photos, there were fun props like oversized sunglasses and Roman soldier helmets available.
One of the highlights of the tour was a stop at Janiculum Hill, where we were treated to breathtaking views of the city. Our guide shared fascinating stories about the history of Rome, making it feel like a personal and engaging history lesson. We also got to see Europe's only remaining pyramid, the Pyramid of Cestius, which was a pleasant surprise.
As the sun began to set, we made our way to a rooftop bar to enjoy the view with a glass of fizz in hand. It was a surreal moment, taking in the beauty of Rome without the usual tall buildings obstructing the view. This was the perfect way to end a fun-filled day.
The following morning, we had the chance to explore the Vatican Museums before it opened to the public. It was a pricey experience, but one that I will never forget. We had the privilege of unlocking each room, turning on the lights, and admiring the magnificent art without the usual crowds and noise. Our personal guide added to the experience, giving us a private tour and answering all of our questions. And to top it off, we were treated to breakfast afterward.
As we entered the Sistine Chapel, I couldn't help but feel awe-struck by the famous fresco created by Michelangelo. It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see it without the usual hustle and bustle of tourists. Of course, there are more affordable ways to visit the Vatican Museums, such as booking a group tour with skip-the-line access.
To my surprise, as we made our way to St. Peter's Basilica, we discovered that the Pope was in residence. It was the perfect ending to our early morning tour, and a stark contrast to my previous visit where we almost missed our transportation home.
As I boarded my flight back to London, I couldn't stop smiling and reminiscing about the wonderful experiences I had in Rome. From the exhilarating Fiat 500 tour to the exclusive early morning Vatican Museums visit, it was truly a trip to remember. And it taught me an important lesson – sometimes, less is more. I didn't try to do everything, but what I did do was truly unforgettable.
For those looking to visit Rome on a budget, January, April, and October are the best months to find affordable flights. British Airways offers great deals, and their low fare finder is a helpful tool to find the cheapest flights. As for accommodation, I highly recommend the 5* InterContinental Hotels Rome Ambasciatori Palace, where you can stay for two nights starting from £439 per person.
And for a unique and fun way to explore the city, I highly recommend a vintage Fiat 500 tour. Prices start at €290 for two people, and it's an experience you won't want to miss. And if you're a history buff like me, the private early morning tour of the Vatican Museums is worth the splurge. But for those on a budget, booking a group tour with skip-the-line access is a great alternative.
Rome truly stole my heart with its stunning architecture, rich history, and charming locals. It's a city that has something for everyone, and I can't wait to go back and discover even more. As the saying goes, when in Rome, do as the Romans do – and I certainly did.
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