Reviewed by Rama Gaind.
Price: $34.99.
There’s a famous adage about Rome not being built in a day. Just seven words, but they carry a huge impact. Of course, great things take time to accomplish, and appreciate.
Lonely Planet’s Experience Rome travel guide reveals exciting new ways to explore this iconic destination with one-of-a-kind adventures at every turn. Devour delicious pizza slices in Testaccio, toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain, explore new underground levels at the Colosseum ― using the local experts and planning tools to create your own unique trip. Here is an essential travel guide for all explorers looking to immerse themselves in the city’s culture.
What’s so distinct about the capital of Italy? The ‘Eternal City’ brims with ancient history, from the Colosseum to the port of Ostia Antica to majestic Vatican City and the Sistine Chapel. It’s special also because of its history, art, architecture and beauty. Perhaps, we can also add, gelato and pasta, to the mix!
Discover newly-opened sections of Rome’s most famous archaeological monuments. Explore local markets to get a feel for the city’s multicultural character. Step into baroque palaces and majestic cathedrals to admire the work of legendary artists. Stand in awe before the masterpieces of the Vatican. Enjoy a slice of pizza rossa as you seek out eye-catching murals in up-and-coming neighbourhoods. Hop from piazza to piazza and take in the elegance of the city’s monumental fountains. This is Rome.
However, there is so much more to uncover. Let the professionals give you tips to help build on your experiences when visiting well-known sights and landmarks. Fun insights will pique your curiosity and take you to the heart of the place as you discover a thriving street-art scene in the districts of Ostiense, Garbatella and San Lorenzo; see the forgotten home of Nero, which lay undiscovered for centuries; enjoy a sumptuous alfresco aperitivo at Aqualunae in Prati.
One cannot dispute that that Italy’s “hot-blooded capital is one of the world’s most romantic and charismatic cities” offering a “heady mix of haunting ruins, awe-inspiring art and vibrant street life.”