The Coliseum and other Rome, Italy Things to Do Tips

You can't go to Rome and not see the Coliseum so this is not an original tip. However, it's one I couldn't simply not write.

We had to clear security first (bag x-ray checks only) - but the line in our case moved very quickly. Only half an hour earlier we've found a camera, so for a second I got really flushed realising I was about to push through xray an object I didn't know anything about... paranoia!...

After the security check, you buy tickets (also valid for the Palatine Hill before 12 noon on the next day). EU citizens under-26 get halfp price. You could also make reservations beforehand, so then you jump the queue.

The Coliseum is just magnificent, and what's even more impressing is that it could be completely evacuated in 12 minutes. Having said that, be careful coz the stairs can be slippery (they are practically polished by the number of shoes trodding on them on a daily basis). I liked the way they restored only half of the arena so we can see the underground premises - gives you a batter perspective, even tho for a closer view you need to rent The Gladiator. ;-)

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It's amazing how much history can be bundled into such a small space. One wouldn't know where to start and even then one couldn't possibly remember it all - the gates, the assembly, Cesar's cremation place (now, that was a surprise), the Vestals' house, The Romulus' Temple, etc, etc.

Pity that the Fora at the other side of Via dei Fori Imperiali were not accessible/reconstructed. I realy wanted to see the Mars Ultor but hopefully one day that would be possible too.

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Now, I just loved the Pallatine. Just a few steps away from the Roman Forum and the Colloseum, yet so peaceful, almost deserted. Great place to sit down, rest your feet and plan the rest of the day... or just simply enjoy the greenery. Mind you, can be a bit windy, but apart from this it's just lovely. Home of the aristocracy, and no wonder why.

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Directions: Entry from the Roman Forum or at the side of the Colliseum.

On the third day of our visit, we were simply exhausted... so it was time to commit the cardinal sin of 3-day journes - do nothing! Let the time simply pass by! Enjoy the moment.

We walked to Piazza Navona and sat down for a coffee, enjoyed the sun and the street life, wrote a few post cards... There was this amazing guy singing all the famous areas - it was transfixing... it's my favourite memory of this trip.

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