My first trip to Rome was twelve years ago and I’m just as in love with Rome now as I was at first sight, though perhaps my love has mellowed. When I think of Rome today it’s more as if Rome is an old friend with whom I have created some really great memories. However, when I talk to strangers about Rome, or people who’ve never been to Rome, I still feel the same passion and enthusiasm and I want them to feel it too. I want everyone to love Rome as much as I do.
I think the reason I fell so hard was because I didn’t expect to. It didn’t happen like a lightning bolt, but more like a strong steady rain that catches you a little off guard, and even though you take cover, you still end up drenched.
Good memories and good trips are made up of moments in time. A collection of great moments is like a photo album, with each turn of the page another memory springs to mind. Another experience that you will always remember.
My memories of Rome are so powerful I can actually see myself in Rome walking down the street, or at a specific piazza. I remember what time of day it was, what I was wearing, and most importantly, how I felt. Excited. Curious. Hopeful. Joyful.
On assignment in Rome, Italy
Contents
Favorite Moments in Rome
1. Stepping inside St. Peter’s Cathedral for the first time.
The power of the Roman Catholic Church is clearly evident here. You don’t need to be Catholic or religious, it’s impressive!
Exterior St. Peter’s Cathedral, Rome
2. The Capitoline Hill at sunset.
If I was going to choose a number one favorite moment in Rome, it would probably be watching the sun set over the Roman Forum from the Capitoline Hill. Here you will see the ruins of what was once the most powerful country in the world! I never get enough of this view, and I always take friends there.
Sunset at the Roman Forum
3. Ride on a scooter.
Thereโs something quintessentially Roman about this. You must do it! I ended up on the back of a scooter with a total stranger. Call me crazy. I am here to tell the tale and obviously came through unscathed. You don’t have to be as daring as I was. Now, many companies rent scooters. You can even go on scooter tours.
scene from the film Roman Holiday courtesy Wiki creativecommons
4. Eating Bucatini all’ Amatriciana.
This is a classic Roman dish. The sauce is made with tomatoes, black pepper, a bit of red pepper flake, and pork jowl or pancetta. I tried this on my first visit to Rome. Molto Italiano!
5. Drink a spritz standing at the bar, Italian style.
Drink whatever you like but do it the Italian way. If you stand at the bar you’re more likely to strike up a conversation with a local and you can practice your Italian. Note: only the tourists sit down.
Tourists enjoying a sunny day in Piazza Navona.
6. Watch the sunrise on the Tiber River from Ponte Sant’ Angelo.
The Ponte Sant’ Angelo is a bridge with great historical and religious significance; that makes it a big tourist attraction. It’s worth it to get up early and go there before the crowds arrive. Who knows, perhaps gazing upon Bernini’s sublime angels lining the bridge first thing in the morning you will feel even closer to God.
Sunrise at Ponte Sant’ Angelo
Of course, I have many more memories but I can’t write about all of them here. . No matter where I stay, what I eat, or who Iโm with, the beauty of Rome is that it is always memorable.
What are your most memorable moments in Rome?
22 comments
Beautiful and atmospheric pictures, everything in Rome is perfect and great, Roman Forum, Colosseum are fantastic!!
wish you all the best, thanks!!
Thanks for reading the blog!
Rome is awesome place to be happy without any thing -)), that’s my experience
You’ve got it! That’s exactly how I feel. Thank you for your lovely comment.
I have been to Rome once and I love the climate over there! After reading this, it seems like I missed something! For sure I need to revisit again and with scooter ๐
Wow, riding around Rome on a scooter! You must be very brave.
Or crazy!
Love these! My magical Rome memory is from when I was a teenager traveling in Italy alone (my first solo travels!) and crossed the bridge into Trastevere to get a great dinner by myself. It was so beautiful and so freeing. What a city!
Ah Trastevere! My favorite neighborhood. So glad you have good memories! Thanks for sharing them.
Lovely, Penny. I feel the same way about Paris as you do about Rome. My trip as a 15-year-old felt rushed, sweaty and lacking serious soul!
Just lovely!! I’d say YES!!
yes!
I have this “thing” about visiting Italy, but as much as I long to visit this amazing country, I am waiting until we can do it right – maybe 3 months touring (and eating) around the country.
Hi Patti, I understand about wanting to have time to savor the experience. All I can say is, go. As soon as possible. There’s no wrong way to do it.
Six great memories. I hope to have those same ones someday. This was supposed to be my year to visit Rome — but my love will have to wait a bit longer. I know exactly what you mean about being able to see yourself in those places so precisely. It’s a wonderful thing.
Cathy I can’t wait to hear about your experience when you do go. We can compare notes! ๐
So I have been to Rome a few times now, and agree with all of your memorable moments! My favorite moment of all was my very first time to Rome when I was 16. I was on a bike trip across Europe and Rome was our end destination. We came to our first sign for Rome (50km) and stopped for a picture. Adrenaline was pulsing through my veins, I was so excited to see the city that I had dreamed about for so long. A couple of hours later, with the sun setting, we pedaled into Rome. It was a mix between, holy crap I rode my bike here and holy crap I’m in Rome, and I will never ever forget that amazing feeling!
Katie I love this story. Wow, biking into Rome! That must be one of your most treasured memories. I know that “holy crap!” feeling! ๐
As an expat living in Rome, I must say you’ve hit the highlights! Just make sure that you ride on the scooter BEFORE you drink the Spritz!
I just hold on Rick!
Sadly enough, but I have never actually been to Rome, Penny! Now that I am reading about your love affair and great experiences, it feels I too would really like to meet this old friend of yours. Hopefully next year and I will certainly make sure not to sit downโฆ ๐
I hope you can go too! I’m sure you will love it. Let me know if you need any suggestions!