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Day One - Rome

Home » Italy » Italy One Week Itinerary » Day One - Rome
Posted by Your Guide on May 4, 2006 5:31 PM

Spending a week in Italy is a dream come true for most people. The only difficult part is deciding how and where to spend your time. This itinerary allows you to sweep through the country, hitting all the major cities and attractions. It requires moving at a fast pace, however. Each of the days could easily be stretched into two or three if you prefer to stay in one place for a longer period of time.

Start your weeklong jaunt in the eternal city of Rome, and spend day one exploring the ancient historical sites. Start with the Pantheon, which is by far the most preserved building of all of Rome’s ancient structures. It is one of the world’s architectural wonders because the diameter of the dome is precisely equal with its height.

Move on to the Roman Forum (Foro Romano), which was the center of Roman life in ancient times, and continue on to the Colosseum (Colosseo), which was the site of bloody gladiator duels. You can tour both if you choose.

The Golden House of Nero (Domus Aurea) was built after the Rome fire in 64 A.D. It reopened in 1999 after a 15-year restoration, and visitors can now tour 30 of the original 250 rooms.

Of Rome’s famous seven hills, Capitoline Hill (Campidoglio) is the most famous and sacred. The beautiful Piazza del Campidoglio has replaced the Etruscan temple to Jupiter that once stood at its pinnacle. Designed by Michelangelo, it provides a spectacular view of the Forum below.

Plan to walk along the Spanish Steps (Scalinata di Spagna) at sunset. It is one of the best places in the city to soak up the Roman spirit and enjoy some of the world’s best people watching. The Trevi Fountain is located just off Via del Corso near the Piazza Colonna. It is perhaps the most beautiful fountain in the world, and legend says every visitor should toss a coin in and make a wish to return to Rome some day. After your glorious day in the city, you will wish for the same.



Next Page: Day Two - Vatican City

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