We left the hotel early in the morning in order to visit the Vatican – especially St. Peter’s Basilica, Castel Sant’Angelo and Villa Borghese Gardens, Aventine hill and then end the day with dinner in a restaurant near the Colosseum in Rome. So, we headed to Termini and took the metro. We also activated our Roma Passes 48 h. From Roma Termini Station to Ottaviano Station it took 10 minutes (6 stops) on line A, direction Battistini.
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Taxi Transfers
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Our Vatican Visit
We got off at Ottaviano and then went towards south on Via Ottaviano and at the 4th intersection, in Piazza del Risorgimento we kept forward on Via di Porta Angelica. At the 4th intersection, the one with Borgo Pio, we finally saw the Vatican gate, Porta Sant’Anna on the right, which is the north gate where you have to pay 17 euros to visit the Vatican Museums and also the Sistine Chapel.
But we decided to skip the paid tour and visit only Piazza San Pietro and St. Peter’s Basilica, because we would have spent half of the day or even more only at the Vatican and see lots of exhibits I am sure we wouldn’t have paid too much attention to, and at the end we would have been very tired and not able to visit anything else in Rome.
Discover the Best Tours & Activities
If you want to see more of the Vatican, including the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, you can explore guided Vatican tours and experiences before your visit.
Breakfast During Our Vatican Visit
We needed to have a proper breakfast, so pastries from Dolce Maniera or Parenti pastry shop weren’t enough, and unfortunately Panino Divino sandwich shop was closed. So we decided to go to McDonald’s on Via Borgo Pio, just after the gate, Porta Sant’Anna. It was interesting to see Vatican clergy – priests, nuns at the tables next to us. I wonder if The Pope himself stops by too.
So, from the Vatican gate Porta Sant’Anna we kept ahead on Via di Porta Angelica and at the second intersection we saw the Vatican city walls in front. Then we went slightly left along the city walls on Largo del Colonnato, followed the walls and finally arrived in Piazza Papa Pio XII. We continued to the right along the City walls on Via Paolo VI and at the first intersection we went right and arrived at the Gate.
Beginning Our Vatican Visit: St. Peter’s Basilica
Once at Vatican we went straight to St. Peter’s Basilica, passed the security check and then went to the ticket counter on the right side to pay 10 euros to visit the Cupola, by taking the elevator.
The elevator took us to the roof of the first floor so we didn’t climb the 200 steps.
We got to an interior balcony from where we could admire the interior of the church from above.
Despite the elevator, we still had to climb 320 steps from Michelangelo’s Dome. It was a spiral staircase that led us to the top of the dome.
It wasn’t very hard to climb the steps, but for claustrophobic people it could have been a problem.
Our Top Recommendation: Comfortable Walking Shoes
Vatican tip: If you plan to climb St. Peter’s Dome and explore Rome on foot afterwards, comfortable walking shoes are essential.
Enjoying the Views from the Dome of St. Peter’s
We eventually got to the top and enjoyed the best views of Rome, Vatican and also of St. Peters square.
From up there we could also see the Palace of the Governorate and the Gardens of Vatican City – Orti Vaticani.
As a matter of fact we were at the top of the tallest Dome in the world.
For sure San Peter’s Basilica and the Dome are a must see when in Vatican and Rome.
St. Peter’s Basilica Tours
Planning to visit St. Peter’s Basilica? Explore guided experiences that include the basilica, its dome and other Vatican highlights.
Exploring the Interior of the St. Peter’s Basilica During Our Vatican Visit
On the return way we descended some steps and eventually got to a terrace where we could photograph the upper statues.
Afterwards we exited into the nave and visited St. Peter’s Basilica, without waiting in line at the entrance from the piazza.
Just under Michelangelo’s Dome lies the impressive Tomb of Saint Peter.
St. Peter’s Chair is another important relic inside St. Peter’s Basilica, dating back to the 1st century. It is placed at the site of St. Peter’s burial.
And again we admired the Dome painted by Michelangelo.
Just in front of the Tomb of St. Peter is the Confessio. The altar of the Confessio is placed inside the Vatican Grottoes and can be accessed via a staircase.
We also saw the Papal Altar at the center of Saint Peter’s Basilica.
St. Peter’s Square Visit
Then, out of the basilica we took beautiful pictures of the statues and also of the piazza.
We also managed to photograph the Swiss Papal Guards (Corpo della Guardia Svizzera) in their colorful uniforms, as we found them posted at entrances to the Vatican City.
Moreover, in the piazza we took photos of the colonnade of St. Peter’s Basilica from the middle of Piazza S. Peter and also captured the Vatican Obelisk, dating to Ancient Egyptian times.
Below you can see the Bernini fountains.
Then, as we were exiting the piazza, we managed to capture a closer up of the columns. The people in front of it forms the line for the security check. However, the line is shorter in the morning.
We finally exited the Vatican through the same gate, the one in Via Paolo VI.
We then went left on Via Paolo VI along the Vatican walls and got to Piazza Papa Pio XII and then turned right on Via della Conciliazione.
Exploring Castel Sant’Angelo After Our Vatican Visit
We continued forward and got to an intersection in Piazza Pia, location offering beautiful views with the Vatican City in the front and Castel Sant’Angelo in the back. The Tiber River is on the right. We continued on Lungotevere Castello and we finally got to the entrance to Castel Sant’Angelo and first we took a photo of the castle from the Sant’Angelo Bridge. To visit the castle we used our Roma Passes 48 h and entered for free, and also we skipped the line.
Castel Sant’Angelo Tours
Want to explore Castel Sant’Angelo? Discover guided tours and experiences that take you inside this historic fortress and its panoramic viewpoints.
The castle was built as the mausoleum for the Emperor Hadrian.
The visit started on a circular path offering magnificent views of the city.
We also got nice views of the pedestrian bridge through the fortress walls.
The itinerary eventually got us on Rampa elicoidale to the top of the castle. The ramp is actually among the oldest parts of the castle.
Lunch and Views of Rome and the Vatican from Castel Sant’Angelo
The views from the bastions were outstanding, we took photos of Rome and of Vatican city.
We then stopped for lunch at Minuetto bar within the castle, we had some soft drinks and also some tasty sandwiches. The prices were very reasonable.
It is a great bar on rooftop of Castel Sant’Angelo on the edge of one of the upper floors, offering great views of St. Peter’s Basilica and of the city.
We sat a table near the wall in order to capture amazing views of St. Peter’s Basilica. But afterwards we moved to a table on the other side, in the shadow, because it was very hot in the August midday sun.
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Then we continued our visit through the castle.
There was also a lower floor with an exhibition room, not very interesting though.
We saw the fortress interior areas, exhibits of old weaponry and also paintings. But what I liked the most were the grand rooms with beautiful art covering the ceiling and walls.
Then we finally got to the 3rd and last level, on top of the castle, on the Terrazzo dell’Angelo, a square-plan courtyard, also called the “Cortile dell’Angelo”, from the name of the statue of the Archangel Michael that dominates it. Moreover, from there we could enjoy a wider panorama of Rome.
Explore Castel Sant’Angelo
Discover one of Rome’s most fascinating historic landmarks and enjoy panoramic views across the city and towards St. Peter’s Basilica.
From Castel Sant’Angelo to Piazza del Popolo
Finally leaving Castel Sant’Angelo, we went left on Lungotevere Castello and also kept left at the intersection with Piazza Adriana. Then we continued forward at Piazza Adriana and at the intersection went right and crossed Piazza Cavour with its beautiful park. First we admired the building of Corte Suprema di Cassazione and then Chiesa Valdese in the north east corner of the piazza.
After passing by the church, we turned right on Via Federico Corsi and kept ahead. At the 4th intersection we got to a park, Giardino Ettore Troilo. We crossed the park and then walked to the right on Ponte Regina Margherita over the Tiber. We kept forward on Via Ferdinando di Savoia and finally arrived in Piazza del Popolo.
In the middle of the piazza lies Rome’s oldest obelisk, Obelisco Flaminio, completed by Pharaoh Ramses II, and next to it is the Fountain of the Lions. Also impressive are the two churches dominating the vast piazza, placed symmetrically: Chiesa Santa Maria dei Miracoli and Basilica di Santa Maria in Montesanto.
In the following picture you can see the Fontana della Dea di Roma, and in its back the gardens of Villa Borghese.
Strolling Through Villa Borghese Gardens
From Piazza del Popolo we climbed the stairs that get to Viale Gabriele d’Annunzio at Villa Borghese Gardens and then we went on the alley Salita del Pincio that gets to Terrazza del Pincio. Before climbing the stairs we also took a picture of Porta del Popolo.
Climbing to Terrazza del Pincio at Villa Borghese Gardens – Views Over Rome
We started our visit to Villa Borghese Gardens with Terrazza del Pincio from where we could see Piazza del Popolo from above.
From the ‘Pinciano’ Obelisk on Pincio Promenade we turned left on an alley and found the Water clock at Pincio.
From there, back on Pincio Promenade, we got to an intersection and then to Via delle Magnolie. We then turned left on the second alley called Viale Tarragona, passed by Fontana Rotonda di Villa Borghese and got to Viale Fiorello la Guardia and then went to the right. There was Museo Carlo Bilotti and next to it we saw the Portico dei Leoni.
The Temple of Asclepius and Villa Borghese Lake
We continued to the left on Viale Fiorella la Guardia and then at the roundabout we turned right on Viale Esculapio. At the end of the alley we finally arrived at a lake – Laghetto Di Villa Borghese. From the lakeshore we could admire the Temple of Asclepius.
We rested for a while on a bench in the shade. Afterwards, we went on Viale de Lago and at the intersection with a perpendicular street we kept ahead and got to the Temple of Diana.
From the temple we continued forward through the park, and then we finally exited and saw Porta Pinciana at the big intersection.
We crossed the intersection and boarded bus 61 from bus stop Veneto/Sardegna in order to get back to Flaminio metro station at Piazza del Popolo. Then we got off at the 4th stop called Villa Borghese/Washington.
We also took a photo of Porta del Popolo from he outside of Piazza del Popolo.
Discover the Best Tours & Activities
Want to discover more of Villa Borghese? Explore guided walking tours and experiences around the gardens, galleries and historic heart of this beautiful area of Rome.
The Pyramid of Caius Cestius
Afterwards, from Flaminio Metro Station we took line MEA for 4 stops to Termini, changed lines and then continued for 4 stops on line MEB1, direction Laurentina. We finally got off at Piramide Metro Station – a 26-minutes metro ride.
We got of at Piramide Metro Station towards Piazzale Ostiense, crossed the street to the left and then got in front of the Pyramid of Caius Cestius.
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Taxi Transfers
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Explore Taxi Options →Car Rental
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To the right of the pyramid there is Porta San Polo, city gate, part of the Aurelian wall.
Aventine Hill Visit and Views of the Vatican
From the pyramid we went towards north on Via Marmorata, to get to the Aventine Hill. At the first intersection on the left we crossed the street and went left on Via Asinio Pollione. Then at the crossroads we turned left on the first street, Via di Porta Lavernale. Then we continued forward and, when the street ended, we finally got to Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta.
Our Top Recommendation: Comfortable Walking Shoes
Walking Rome all day? Comfortable shoes make a big difference when combining Vatican City, Castel Sant’Angelo, Villa Borghese and Aventine Hill in one itinerary.
The Famous Aventine Keyhole
We got to the Aventine Keyhole (Buco della Serratura). We waited in line for our turn to look through the keyhole to see the framed view of St Peter’s.
This is one of the best views of the Vatican, through a literal keyhole across the city. It’s really worth the ten or fifteen minutes spent waiting in line.
But the photos we took with our phones couldn’t reveal what we actually saw. Because it is a little tricky to take a photo with the phone. So it’s much better to use a camera with optical zoom and back the lenses a little from the lock.
Travel Photography Essentials for Rome
Photography tip: The Aventine Keyhole is tricky to photograph
with a phone, so a camera with optical zoom or a compact travel
camera can be useful for capturing the view through the keyhole.
EUCOS 62″ Phone Tripod
A tall phone tripod that can be useful for taking
photos, videos and hands-free shots while exploring
Capri.
Voinap Wireless Camera Remote
A wireless remote makes it easier to take photos from
a distance when travelling solo or when you want
everyone in the picture.
Liphisy Selfie Stick Tripod
A selfie stick and tripod combination is handy for
capturing wider shots of you with Capri’s coastline,
viewpoints and famous landmarks in the background.
Vimity Magnetic Phone Tripod
A compact magnetic phone tripod can be useful when you
want a quick hands-free setup for photos or short videos
during your Capri sightseeing stops.
MOSISO Camera Backpack
A dedicated camera backpack gives you space to organize
your camera, lenses, accessories and other photography
gear while exploring Capri.
Zacro 14-in-1 Camera Lens Cleaning Kit
A compact cleaning kit helps keep camera lenses and
photography equipment free from dust, fingerprints
and other marks while travelling.
Want more travel photography gear? Browse my complete Amazon
Idea List for additional tripods, storage, camera accessories
and other useful travel products.
Peaceful Gardens and Hidden Views on the Aventine Hill
Afterwards, we went to the right on Via di Santa Sabina and visited the Giardino Di Sant’ Alessio on the left.
The garden is next to the Basilica of San Alessio, located at the top of the Aventino Hill, one of the seven hills of Rome.
It is a quiet garden with a panoramic terrace from where it is possible to see the Dome of St. Peter, the Altar of the Fatherland and also many other places of the city.
Then out of the garden, we turned left on Via di S. Alessio and we got to a piazzetta called Piazza Pietro D’Illiria and found the Fontana del Mascherone di Santa Sabina.
We entered the garden on the alley Viale Michele Galdieri and arrived in the middle of Giardino degli Aranci – a beautiful orange trees garden. We wandered through the garden and also got at a belvedere spot, offering views over the city and also of the Tiber River.
The Rose Garden and Belvedere Romolo e Remo
Back to Fontana del Mascherone di Santa Sabina and to Via di Santa Sabina, we went left and continued until the third intersection. There was the entrance to the Roseto di Roma. Entrance was free, but it is open only twice a year, in May and in October. As we were in Rome in August we couldn’t visit.
From the Rose Garden we then got to Via del Circo Massimo, crossed the street to get to Belvedere Romolo e Remo point.
From there we could admire, at sunset time, the Circus Maximus, a wide ancient arena where the Romans held chariot races.
Eventually, we went to the right on Via del Circo Massimo to get to Circo Massimo Metro Station, at the big intersection. We took the metro for 1 stop to Colosseo, line B, direction Rebibbia.
Travel Essentials
These are some useful items to pack for a day of sightseeing:
Sunglasses
Protect your eyes from the bright Mediterranean sun while exploring outdoors.
Refillable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the day while reducing the need to buy single-use plastic bottles.
Comfortable Trainers
A comfortable pair of walking shoes is essential for exploring historic streets and sightseeing on foot.
Portable Charger
Keep your phone charged for maps, photos, tickets, and other travel essentials throughout the day.
Crossbody Bag
A lightweight crossbody bag keeps your phone, wallet, and other small essentials close and easy to access.
RFID Passport Holder
Keep your passport, cards, and other important travel documents organised and protected with an RFID-blocking passport holder.
Foldable Daypack
A lightweight daypack that folds away easily and is handy for carrying essentials during sightseeing.
Packing Cubes
Keep clothes and other belongings organised and make packing and unpacking easier.
Budget Travel Accessories
Everything you need to organize your perfect trip in one place. Browse budget travel accessories on AliExpress.
Dinner in Rome at a restaurant near the Colosseum
Many restaurants near the Colosseum in Rome offer beautiful terrace views of the ancient monument, especially at sunset.
If you’re looking for authentic pasta, there are plenty of charming restaurants near the Colosseum in Rome that serve classic Roman dishes like carbonara and amatriciana.
Finally, we had the most pleasant dinner in Rome at Ristoro Della Salute restaurant, just in front of the Colosseum. We had dinner reservation at 8.30 pm.
We also got a 40% discount through The Fork app.
Discover Restaurants in Rome
Planning a trip to Rome? Discover local restaurants, traditional Italian trattorias, authentic Roman cuisine, and charming places for a memorable meal.
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We had red wine, gnocchi and cacio e pepe pasta, traditional dish in Rome. The prices were ok with the 40% discount applied, especially taking into account we were at a restaurant near the famous Rome Colosseum.
Explore Rome Food Tours
Want to experience more Roman cuisine? Explore Rome food tours and culinary experiences to discover traditional dishes beyond your own restaurant visit.
Out of the restaurant near the Colosseum we did a photo session to immortalize the famous Rome Colosseum at night.
Then, after dinner in the restaurant near the Rome Colosseum we got to Colosseo Metro Station and we took line B metro, direction Rebibbia and got off at the second stop, Termini and finally got to our hotel.
Plan Your Rome & Surroundings Trip
Planning a trip to Rome? From the Colosseum and the ancient Roman Forum to Vatican City, the charming town of Nemi, the gardens of Tivoli and the coastal town of Gaeta, the region offers history, culture, beautiful landscapes and unforgettable experiences. Here are some travel resources and practical essentials to help you plan your own adventure in Rome and Lazio.
Find the Best Area to Stay in Rome
Choosing the right area can make your visit to Rome much easier. The city is large, and your accommodation location can affect how much time you spend travelling between attractions.
Staying near Roma Termini can be convenient if you plan to use trains, buses or the metro, especially if you are arriving by train or planning day trips outside the city.
Alternatively, explore accommodation in the historic centre, near the Vatican, around Trastevere or in other neighbourhoods that suit your itinerary and budget.
Discover the Colosseum and Ancient Rome
The Colosseum is one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks and a fascinating place to begin exploring the city’s ancient past. Nearby, the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill reveal the remains of the political, religious and social heart of ancient Rome.
Allow enough time to explore the archaeological area. A guided tour can help bring the ruins to life and explain the history behind the monuments.
Booking tickets in advance can be helpful, particularly during busy travel periods. Check official ticket conditions, entry times and inclusions before booking.
Visit Vatican City and St Peter’s Basilica
Vatican City is one of the most remarkable places to visit during a stay in Rome. St Peter’s Basilica, St Peter’s Square and the Vatican Museums offer an extraordinary combination of architecture, art and history.
If you want to see the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museums, plan your visit carefully and check ticket availability ahead of time. A guided tour may help you understand the artworks and the history of the collections.
Remember to check current visitor rules and dress requirements before visiting religious sites.
Explore Rome on a Walking Tour
Walking is one of the best ways to experience Rome. Explore historic squares, impressive fountains, picturesque streets and beautiful churches while discovering the stories behind the city’s most famous landmarks.
Depending on your interests, choose a general introduction to Rome, an ancient history tour, a food walk or an evening tour through the historic centre.
A guided walk can be particularly useful if you have limited time and want to understand more about the places you see.
Take a Day Trip to Tivoli
Tivoli is a rewarding day trip from Rome, known for its historic villas, gardens and beautiful surroundings. It offers a change of pace from the busy streets of the capital.
Villa d’Este is famous for its gardens and fountains, while Hadrian’s Villa offers a fascinating look at the extensive ancient residence built for Emperor Hadrian.
Check opening times, ticket requirements and transport options before setting out. Depending on your plans, you may want to focus on one villa or make a longer day of your visit.
Discover Nemi and the Castelli Romani
For a different perspective on Lazio, consider visiting Nemi, a small town overlooking Lake Nemi in the Castelli Romani area. Its scenic setting makes it a lovely place to slow down and enjoy a break from the city.
The area is also known for its local food traditions and strawberries. You can combine a visit to Nemi with other towns in the Castelli Romani, depending on the time available.
Check public transport connections or consider a guided excursion if you prefer not to organise the journey yourself.
VisitGaeta and the Riviera di Ulisse
Gaeta combines a historic old town, coastal scenery and Mediterranean atmosphere. It can be a lovely addition to a wider Lazio itinerary if you want to experience more than the main attractions of Rome.
Explore the historic centre, enjoy the sea views and leave time to discover the area’s beaches and local cuisine. The best plan will depend on the season and your transport arrangements.
If you are travelling from Rome, check journey times and connections in advance. A day trip may be possible, but an overnight stay can give you more time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Plan Transport Around Rome and Lazio
Rome has public transport connections including metro lines, buses and trams. For many central attractions, walking is also a practical way to get around, although distances can add up.
If you plan to visit places such as Tivoli, Nemi or Gaeta, check the relevant train and bus connections before travelling. Some destinations may require transfers or additional local transport.
For airport transfers, day trips or journeys with several stops, compare the available options and allow extra time for connections.
Find Restaurants in Rome
Rome is a wonderful city for discovering Italian food, from traditional Roman pasta dishes to neighbourhood trattorias, pizzerias and restaurants serving seasonal specialities.
Use TheFork to explore restaurants, compare reviews and check available reservation times. Booking ahead can be useful for popular restaurants, particularly during busy periods.
A few practical travel essentials can make exploring Rome and the surrounding region more comfortable. These suggestions may be useful for long sightseeing days, museums, day trips and journeys between destinations.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Rome’s historic streets and archaeological sites involve plenty of walking. Comfortable shoes can make long sightseeing days easier.
Lightweight Day Backpack
A small backpack is useful for carrying water, a camera, a light layer and other essentials while exploring the city or heading out on a day trip.
Reusable Water Bottle
Carrying a reusable water bottle can be handy during sightseeing, especially in warmer weather. Check local guidance about where water can be safely refilled.
Portable Power Bank
A power bank can help keep your phone charged while using maps, digital tickets, transport apps and your camera throughout the day.
Travel Power Adapter
If your devices use different plugs, check that you have a compatible adapter for Italy. Confirm your devices’ voltage requirements before travelling.
Small Crossbody Bag
A compact bag can keep everyday essentials close at hand while leaving you comfortable as you walk around museums, squares and historic streets.
Compact Travel Umbrella
Weather can change, so a small umbrella or lightweight rain jacket may be useful when exploring Rome and taking trips around Lazio.
Travel Document Organiser
Keep important travel documents, booking details and other essentials organised in one place. Keep valuables secure and follow normal precautions in crowded areas.
Packing Cubes
Packing cubes can help organise clothes and accessories, particularly if your Rome visit is part of a longer trip around Italy.
Travel Sunscreen SPF 50
Protect your skin while exploring Rome’s historic streets, archaeological sites and outdoor attractions. Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen and reapply as directed, especially during long days outdoors.
Lightweight Sun Hat
A comfortable sun hat can help shade your face and head while visiting the Colosseum, walking around the Roman Forum or enjoying a day trip to Tivoli. Choose a breathable, packable design that is easy to carry in your day bag.
Cooling Travel Towel
A lightweight cooling towel can be useful during hot summer sightseeing days. It is easy to carry in a backpack and can help you feel more comfortable while exploring Rome, visiting outdoor monuments or taking day trips around Lazio.
Plan Your Rome and Lazio Adventure
Want to organise your visit more easily? Use our Rome and Lazio travel guide to help plan your sightseeing days, choose places to visit and make the most of your time in the region.
Explore Rome’s historic landmarks and discover destinations beyond the capital, including Tivoli, Nemi and Gaeta.
Some links on this page are affiliate links. If you book or purchase through these links, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. We only share travel resources and products that may be useful when planning a trip. Prices, availability and booking conditions can change, so please check the details on the provider’s website before making a reservation or purchase.
Read On
Make sure to check out Our Eternal City of Rome, Gaeta, Vatican, Nemi & Tivoli Italy Visit: Day 4 to continue exploring — from hidden corners to grand vistas, there’s much more to discover. Also, you can find all our posts about Rome on this page. Moreover, for inspiration and practical tips on visiting Italy, grab our maps and travel guides and also head over to our Italy Travel Hub and Italy Bucket List — your starting point for all things Italian! If you’re looking to expand your itinerary, don’t miss our posts on Naples, and also our day trips to the Amalfi Coast, Capri and Pompeii.
Thanks for reading!
Related:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) — Day 3: Vatican, Rome Highlights & Dinner
1. What was the main focus of Day 3?
Day 3 was all about exploring Vatican City (especially St. Peter’s Basilica), visiting Castel Sant’Angelo, strolling through Villa Borghese Gardens, then seeing the Pyramid of Caius Cestius, enjoying views from Aventine Hill, and finally having with dinner near the Colosseum.
2. How did you get to the Vatican from your hotel?
We took the metro from Roma Termini to Ottaviano Station (Line A)—about 10 minutes and 6 stops — then walked toward the Vatican.
3. Did you visit the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel?
No — we decided to skip the paid Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel tour (because it takes many hours) and instead focused on St. Peter’s Basilica, its Dome (Cupola), and also St. Peter’s Square.
4. What was the experience like inside St. Peter’s Basilica?
We passed through security, then paid €10 to ride the elevator part-way up the Dome before climbing 320 steps to the top. It was worth it because the views of Rome, the Vatican Gardens, and also of St. Peter’s Square were fantastic.
5. What were the Vatican highlights?
Highlights included:
- Interior of St. Peter’s Basilica
- Tomb of Saint Peter and Papal Altar
- Piazza San Pietro and Bernini’s colonnade
- Swiss Guards in their colorful uniforms
- Obelisk and fountain in St. Peter’s Square
All great for photos and exploration.
Tips:
6. Why did you visit Castel Sant’Angelo?
We explored Castel Sant’Angelo using our Roma Pass (free entry and skip-the-line). The castle’s ramparts, then the panoramas of Rome, and especially the rooftop café made it a memorable stop.
7. What was the purpose of visiting Villa Borghese Gardens?
We enjoyed a relaxing stroll through the Villa Borghese Gardens, including Terrazza del Pincio, Temple of Asclepius by the lake, and other scenic paths — a peaceful contrast to urban sightseeing.
8. What ancient site did you see near the Aventine Hill?
We visited the Pyramid of Caius Cestius, an unusual ancient Roman pyramid-style tomb, and then walked to the Aventine Hill for amazing views — including the famous Aventine Keyhole framed view of St. Peter’s.
9. Did you see Circus Maximus?
Yes — from the Belvedere Romolo e Remo viewpoint on Aventine Hill, we viewed the ancient Circus Maximus site where chariot races once took place.
10. How did you end the day?
We had dinner near the Colosseum, enjoying authentic Roman dishes like gnocchi and especially cacio e pepe, thus a great way to end a full day of sightseeing in Rome.
Have questions or want to connect?
