From
northern cities like Milan and Turin to southern cities like Naples and Palermo
in Sicily, Italy is a medium-sized country in southern Europe, stretching into
the Mediterranean Sea. It’s not the size of Italy, but what it is known for
that draws thousands from around the world. For Asians, heading to Italy and
returning home with the lasting impact of Italy signifies a permanent emblem in
their traveling history (CHANDIGARH, INDIA WHAT TO DO).
The long hauls to step foot in Italy are worth it for discovering Italy - its history, legendary landmarks, heritage from many years back, and Italian culture. And nothing can beat it: when Italy is mentioned, the word “Roman” immediately pops to mind. When in Italy, its Italian food, top brands, fashion, and ancient buildings all sum up what the nature of the country (SABAH, MALAYSIA TOP SPOTS).
Italy Travel
Covering all of Italy in one trip is usually not practical. Most travelers
focus on the most popular destinations in Italy, including Rome, Florence, Venice, Pisa,
Verona, and Milan. Travel between these cities is typically by road, with
around two days spent in each city for sightseeing.
Travellers usually arrive at Rome’s Fiumicino - Leonardo da Vinci International Airport, often in the morning before starting sightseeing in Rome. Spring is the peak tourist season in Italy, so expect crowds at the major sites. Mornings and evenings can still be chilly, so carrying a jacket is advisable.
Things to Do in
Italy
The Colosseum
The must-see in
Rome is the Colosseum. It is not just a landmark seen from afar; it is the
hallmark of the city. The Arch of Constantine, another prominent landmark,
stands right outside the Colosseum between it and the Roman Forum. The Arch of
Constantine at 25-metre-high stone arch was built in AD 315
to celebrate Emperor Constantine’s victory over Maxentius.
Walking past
the arch toward the Colosseum feels like stepping back into Roman history. The
arena is empty in the center, and the stone structure is made of travertine
limestone, tuff (volcanic rock), concrete, brick, and marble, which is why it
still stands majestically today.
In front of the Colosseum, there is always a lot of activity, with photos and videos being taken for social media, capturing the legendary site in Rome from every angle.
What to See
Inside the Colosseum
The Colosseum
has four levels, accessed by walking up stone staircases from one level to the
next.
First Level
(Podium)
Closest to the
arena, this level was for emperors, senators, and VIPs. The marble seats gave
the best view of the action.
Second Level
(Maenianum Primum)
Just above the
first, this level was for wealthy citizens and important officials, still
offering a good view of the arena.
Third Level
(Maenianum Secundum)
Used by
ordinary citizens, this level had stone seats higher up, with a clear view of
the arena.
Fourth Level
(Maenianum Summum)
The highest
level was for women, slaves, and the poorest spectators. Seats were farthest
from the arena, often wooden, showing the full scale of the Colosseum.
Inside, the arena floor and hypogeum reveal the underground tunnels where gladiators and animals were kept. Some of the arena floor is missing, showing the hypogeum below. The arches, pillars, and vaults demonstrate Roman engineering and supported thousands of spectators.
From the upper
levels, there are views of the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, and the city. The
entrances, corridors, and staircases show how crowds moved in and out, while
inscriptions and carvings are remnants of decorations from the Roman era.
Vatican City
Being in
Vatican City brings a surreal and spiritual feeling, especially when standing
in front of St. Peter’s Basilica (Basilica di San Pietro), the largest church
in the world and at the center of the city.
Vatican City is
the smallest independent country in the world, becoming independent from Italy
in 1929 and supported mainly by donations. It is believed that St. Peter, one
of Jesus’s twelve apostles and the first Pope, was killed for his faith around
64 AD. He was buried nearby, and his tomb is said to be beneath St. Peter’s
Basilica.
Visiting St.
Peter’s Basilica is optional. Entrance is free, and inside, notable sights
include Michelangelo’s Pietà , the Baldachin by Bernini over the papal altar,
and the impressive dome and interior architecture. Tickets are required to
climb the dome for panoramic views of Rome.
However, due to long security lines or events in Vatican City, it is sometimes better to skip entering and admire the Basilica from outside.
Trevi Fountain
A walk along
the lanes, amongst the hundreds, leads to the Trevi Fountain. The food from the
cafes and shops along the way is irresistible. It is worth trying at least one
Italian gelato. Another temptation is deciding which flavour is the best.
Creamy and soft, gelato is one of the best foods in Italy.
In front of and
around the Trevi Fountain, a well-known Baroque fountain built in the 1700s, it
can be tricky to squeeze in for at least one picture. Legend has it that
throwing a coin into the fountain will ensure a return to Rome.
At the center of the fountain is Oceanus, the sea god. He rides a chariot pulled by horses and guided by Tritons. Other statues represent health and abundance. The fountain’s design shows the importance of water. It is full of movement and life, making it one of Rome’s most famous landmarks.
Spanish Steps
The Spanish
Steps have 136 steps and are one of Rome’s most popular landmarks. It is mostly
a quick stop, with walking, taking photos, or sitting on the steps as the main
activities. A brief visit is worth it before heading down to the other side,
which leads to cafes and restaurants.
The steps were built in 1723–1725 to connect Piazza di Spagna with the Trinità dei Monti church. They are an important example of Baroque architecture. Over time, the Spanish Steps have become a famous gathering place. They have also appeared in films, paintings, and photography, making them a cultural icon.
What to See in
Rome
Rome has
countless sights. It is not possible to visit all the top landmarks. Unless
spending a few days in Rome, which may not be possible when heading to other
parts of Italy, it is best to focus on practical stops.
Viewing the
bridges and government buildings along the way is a good way to experience
Rome. The bridges have significant history. The government buildings, preserved
much as they were in the past, have become landmarks in Rome.
Bridges over
the Tiber River
Ponte
Sant’Angelo
Near Castel
Sant’Angelo, famous for angel statues.
Ponte Vittorio
Emanuele II
Leads toward
Vatican City.
Ponte Umberto I
Close to Piazza
del Risorgimento, near the Vatican.
Ponte Sisto
Connects
Trastevere to the city centre, popular for walking.
Ponte Cavour
Offers views of
the Tiber.
Ponte Fabricio
The oldest
bridge, connecting Tiber Island to the left bank.
Government
Buildings
Palazzo Chigi
Official
residence of the Prime Minister of Italy.
Palazzo
Montecitorio
Houses the
Chamber of Deputies, part of the Italian Parliament.
Palazzo del
Quirinale
Official
residence of the President of Italy.
Ministry
buildings along Via del Corso and nearby streets
Show Rome’s administrative importance and impressive architecture.
