Last Updated on May 4, 2022
During our first trip to Europe, we wandered around Rome, a city that is laced with layers and layers of history. We threw coins over our shoulders into the Trevy Fountain, wishing to return to the Eternal City. Since then, we have truly hoped to get back to Rome again one day. It only took that one visit to realize that everyone should visit ancient Rome at least once.
Rome is a truly special place. With its rich history and gorgeous architecture, breathtaking churches, fountains, and piazzas it has something for everyone. Whether you are looking for delicious food, fabulous shopping, or exciting entertainment, you will find it all in Rome. But perhaps the aspect of this city that makes it so unique is its enduring sense of family. No matter where you go in the city, people treat each other with kindness and respect. This sense of community and interconnectedness is what truly makes Rome a one-of-a-kind place. Whether you are experiencing this magic firsthand or simply dreaming about your next visit to this magnificent city, one thing is clear: Rome is unlike any other place on earth and is a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike.
Why should you visit Rome? We have narrowed it down to twelve reasons:
Table Of Contents
The Fountains
One of our favorite parts of visiting Rome is all the invaluable and detailed fountains. Rome is home to some of the most spectacular fountains in the world. Home to over 2000 fountains, Rome has more than any other city in the world from the monumental to the small drinking fountains.
The Trevi Fountain is perhaps the most famous, a late Baroque masterpiece, and it is certainly one of the most beautiful. The fountain is over 85 feet tall and 65 feet wide, and it is adorned with statues, bas-reliefs, and cascading waterfalls. People come from all over to throw a coin in, using the right hand over the left shoulder, in hopes of returning to the Eternal City.
The Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi is another masterpiece, representing four major rivers from around the world: the Nile representing Africa, the Danube representing Europe, the Ganges representing Asia, and the Río de la Plata representing the Americas.
These are just two of the incredible fountains that can be found in Rome – a city that truly celebrates water in all its forms.
It really is impossible to imagine Rome without thinking of its incredible fountains. Turning a corner as you wander the streets, the surprise of a grand fountain is always a welcome sight.
Rome Is Romantic
There is something undeniably romantic about the city of Rome. Its ancient streets and stunning architecture have long captured the hearts and imaginations of people from around the world. Whether you are exploring the Vatican or gorging on delicious pasta in a cozy local restaurant, there is no shortage of ways to experience the romance of Rome.
Part of what makes this city, so alluring is its enduring appeal. Centuries after it was first founded, Rome still draws in tourists and locals alike with its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking beauty. Whether you explore by day or night, beneath the gleaming sun or twinkling stars, there is always something new to discover here. From intimate dinners al fresco to charming street musicians serenading passersby, Rome truly embodies the idea of romance at every turn. Whether you have been planning a trip for months or have found yourself swept up by an unexpected encounter, it is certain that you will fall under the spell of this enchanting city. So set your sights on Rome and discover for yourself why it has captivated people for centuries.
Rome is also synonymous with romance. If you take the Italian word for Rome (Roma) and reverse it, you get ‘Amor’, meaning love. With the grandeur of Rome through its monuments, fountains, piazzas, and cobbled streets, Rome is one of the most romantic cities. Love fills the entire city with its hold of the past in the present.
After all, as they say, when in Rome…
Rome Heightens Your Senses
There is something truly magical about the city of Rome. From the sounds of its bustling streets to the sights of its stunning buildings and breathtaking natural scenery, this ancient metropolis seems to have an almost mystical ability to heighten your senses. Whether you are exploring its many landmarks and museums, enjoying a leisurely stroll through one of its picturesque parks, or simply taking in the incredible smells of traditional cooking wafting through the air, there is always something new and wonderful to discover in Rome.
We felt like Rome made us more aware of all of our senses as we wandered around the Eternal City. Our vision from seeing some of the greatest masterpieces on earth, the extreme scale of the buildings, seeing the way the buildings glow during sunset and admiring the contrast of ancient and modern throughout the city. Hearing from the sounds of passionate Italian spoken and the melodies of street musicians. Smell from the delicious cuisine on each street as we wandered aimlessly. Taste from our endless stops for Gelato and our favorite authentic pasta finds that we could not get enough of. Touch for those first feelings of water from some of the most impressive fountains, to the cobbled streets beneath our feet.
The Flutter
It is an incredible feeling to wander a place of such grandeur, and it is hard to explain the flutter you feel when you realize you’ve fallen in love with the city. It is that same kind of feeling you get as you admire the intricate and mind-blowing work of some of the most talented artists of all time. You’re sure to feel like you pale into insignificance, compared to their brilliance.
The flutter you feel when you fall in love with a city is like no other feeling. It’s the feeling of finally belonging somewhere; of being able to breathe easy and just be yourself. It’s the feeling of home. When you find a city that you love, it’s like finding a piece of yourself that you never knew was missing.
Architecture
If you have ever heard the expression “Rome wasn’t built in a day”, it is nothing short of mind-blowing to consider that thousands of years ago, Romans were able to build such stunning and timeless structures. You cannot think of Roman architecture without thinking of the world-famous Roman Colosseum, aqueducts, Roman Baths, basilicas, and cathedrals.
There are also unexplainable feats of architecture. The Pantheon is a masterpiece, built in the 120s AD. It is the largest free-standing concrete dome in the world, and nobody has been able to figure out how it exists as it does.
The architecture was important in unifying the Roman empire. Even more impressive, is the impact that Rome has had on architecture across the globe. Today, even in the US, many of the official buildings are influenced by Roman architecture.
The architecture of Rome is an eclectic mix of styles and influences, ranging from ancient classical forms to the grandeur of the Baroque period. The iconic domes and arches that adorn many buildings in the city are a testament to Rome’s status as a former imperial capital. Beyond its obvious aesthetic appeal, however, Rome’s architecture also offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of this powerful and influential city. Whether exploring crumbling ruins at the base of the Colosseum or admiring majestic structures like St Peter’s Basilica, visitors to Rome will uncover layer upon layer of history in its magnificent architectural legacy. Simply put, Rome’s architecture is truly unforgettable.
Age & History
Rome is old. There really is not a simpler way to put it. You can see it around every corner you turn, the layers upon layers of history. Rome is one of the oldest and most well-preserved cities in the world. Founded in 753 BC, it has a rich history that is evident in its architecture and art. While much of the city has been modernized, there are still many ancient ruins to explore.
A great example of this is the Basilica of San Clemente. Preserving over 2000 years of history, you can admire the remarkable mosaics and frescoes, explore the Basilica of the fourth century and the world of Rome in the first century where there is still a pagan temple.
The Colosseum, for example, is a well-preserved amphitheater that was built in 80 AD. The Forum, another popular tourist spot, was once the center of Roman public life. And the Pantheon, a temple dedicated to all the gods, is one of the best-preserved Roman buildings. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that Rome is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world.
As you visit each historical building and sight, it is hard to not be amazed to be standing where the Romans walked thousands of years ago. There is so much history to learn about and walk along the path of.
Art & Culture
Its ancient ruins and museums attract tourists from all corners of the globe, and its thriving artistic scene draws artists and creators from around the world. But what many people don’t realize is that one of the most characteristic aspects of Rome’s culture is its friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re walking down the street or grabbing coffee at a café, you’ll find that locals are always happy to stop and chat, offering advice on where to go and what to see. And with so many festivals, outdoor markets, and cultural events happening throughout the year, it’s easy to feel right at home in this vibrant city. Whether you’re visiting Rome for the first time or returning after many years away, there’s no doubt that this unique city will welcome you with open arms into its friendly culture.
We really enjoyed soaking in the culture of the locals. Their friendliness, love for good food, and the importance of family time really hit home with us.
Even just a wander around the streets, you are bound to run into a breathtaking creation by a famous Italian artist. Timeless art is everywhere you look, and it is so inspiring to witness.
The Food
The food of Rome is famous for its rich, bold flavors and incredible diversity. Whether you’re sampling traditional pasta dishes at a cozy trattoria or digging into delicious street fare from a food truck, there is something to satisfy every craving in this bustling city. Some of the most beloved dishes in Rome are those made with simple ingredients sourced from local farms and markets. Rich aged cheeses, seasonal fresh veggies, hand-made artisanal breads, and locally caught fish combine to create mouth-watering meals that can be enjoyed any time of day. When it comes to Italian cuisine, you will want to experience the true flavors of Italy in Rome. Be sure to explore all the amazing food it has to offer!
Do not forget about the Gelato, oh the flavors on flavors of Gelato. All washed down with some incredible Italian wine, sometimes even classy by drinking right out of the bottle (hey, we were backpacking, after all). The food in Rome is spectacular.
The Streets & Beauty
All over Rome, you’ll find Piazzas or squares. They are always gorgeous, featuring impressive fountains and absolutely buzzing with people. It is a great spot to do some people watching as you witness social life unfold. Piazzas are a great spot to unwind and chill.
The streets take you to places you only imagined from the movies. Around each corner and down each narrow street, surprises unfold around you, with cobbled paths beneath your feet.
Rome also tells so many stories through its well-worn, but remarkably preserved streets. Rome does not have the same pretty as say Paris; it has some grime and grit that gives great character and charm with all the secrets the walls and buildings still hold.
Related Story – 10 Things You Didn’t Know About The Roman Forum
Easily Walkable
When it comes to exploring a new city, nothing is more enjoyable than being able to walk from place to place. This is especially true of Rome, a city that has a rich history and many impressive sights to visit. Thanks to its compact size and historic layout, Rome is perfectly suited for pedestrian exploration. Whether you want to meander through quiet side streets or hustle down bustling main thoroughfares, you can get almost anywhere on foot. And with plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops along the way, there is always something interesting to see around every corner. If you’re planning your next vacation in the Eternal City, be sure to leave plenty of space in your suitcase for comfortable walking shoes – Rome is truly one of the best destinations for exploring on foot.
The Grand Amount Of #1 Sights
In some cities, you’d be hard-pressed to find more than a couple of gems. Rome is full of gems to discover. It is impossible to walk too far without coming across another impressive artifact of the past. It feels like there is something impressive to find and learn around every corner.
Rome is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and it’s no wonder why. With its breathtaking architecture, ancient ruins, and historic monuments, this city has a wealth of impressive sights to see. Rome is full of gems to discover.
Whether you’re exploring hidden corners or marveling at the towering pillars and arches of the Colosseum, exploring the intricate mosaics of Ancient Rome at the Pantheon, or wandering among the Villa Borghese gardens, there is something for everyone in Rome.
A City In The City
By visiting Rome, and without requiring your passport to enter, you are able to visit the smallest country in the world: Vatican City.
The city is encircled by a 2-mile border with Italy. An independent city-state, it covers just over 100 acres or 1/8 the size of New York’s Central Park.
Vatican City is one of the most fascinating places on Earth. Located within the borders of Rome, the tiny city-state is a true gem filled with incredible cultural and historical treasures. Perhaps most famous for its massive cathedral, St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City is renowned around the world as a center of faith and spirituality.
Vatican City is the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church and has major significance within the Christian world. It is also home to the Pope and endless pieces of iconic art and architecture.
In summary, Rome is worth the visit. There is a good reason that tourists swarm Rome all year. Brimming with ancient history, Rome is one of the most impressive cities we have visited. We feel that Rome is truly an experience everyone should have the chance to witness. The city is full of the grandeur of times of the past and still holds onto that beauty today, even though thousands of years have passed.
Usually, when a destination is as applauded as Rome is, there is some worry that it may fall short of your expectations. Rome is a city that exceeded any expectations we had. We hope that one day you will experience the excitement and anticipation that comes with exploring the Eternal City of Rome.
Whatever your interest or passion may be, this enchanting city will surely sweep you off your feet with its gorgeous blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
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