One of the Best Views Over Roma and other Rome, Italy General Tips

Favorite Thing: On my first trip to Rome, I chose not to climb my way up to the top of St. Peters Basilica, due to in no small part, the 1000 degree temperature of the city in the summer. However, thankfully, on my second go around in the Eternal City I did. What was at the end of the round and round walk up to the top? A magnificent view over Rome. Standing so far above all the madness of the city and its gangs of noisy Vespas, you can really soak in all of the city's majesty.


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Favorite Thing: The best thing about Europe and especially Italy are the public sqaures or piazzas. Not pizzas; piazzas! At any time of the day or night you cn find locals and tourists alike centered around these great places, either talking, kissing, running, being arrested, whatever. There is always something going on, and thats why they are so great. In Rome, most of them are graced with some elaborate fountain or obelisk.

Fondest Memory: Out of all the piazzas in Rome, my favorite is Piazza del Popolo. Mainly because it is close to Villa Borghese, Via de Corso, a metro, and my friends house.

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Favorite Thing: Upon your arrival at a cafe, you are expected to pay at the cashier's desk (cassa) before consuming. Check out what you want, then pay. After that take your reciept and head to the bar, placing a small denomination coin on your receipt (scontrino) will get the bartender’s attention.

If you would prefer to sit down and take your coffe, it will cost you at least double, in my experience. Doing this, you do not need to pay first. Just sit down and the waiter will eventually come over to take your order.


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Favorite Thing: Rome's enotecas (bottle shops) have historically been meeting places for old men who like to down a glass or two, before setting out on a wandering path towards home. I think it is one of the greatest things to be able to do on a vacation, to catch locals in their own environment. It does not take a lot of effort, all you have to do is wander around, away from all of the hordes of tourists.

Experience REAL Roma!


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Favorite Thing: I venrured the thought of renting a Vespa for my stay in Rome, but I quickly changed that thought once I saw what I was up against. I am definitely not knocking the drivers of Rome. What I observed over my time there is that each driver drives like a lunatic. But, every other driver KNOWS that every other driver drives like a lunatic as well. So, what happens is that all drivers act like they are going to run you off the road , until the last second, when they will eventually attempt to avoid a wreck. Everyone will be yelling, but I think its just that every driver also thinks they are a good singer, and just wants to hear their voice. But I digress....

Eventually,everyone gets where they are going, but for people who are used to much calmer and more rule regulated driving (Americans, Germans, etc.) , it seems like you are always mere seconds from death. I suggest handing over the driving duties and just sit and close you eyes. Try thinking of the gelati you just had!

But, the best thing that I remember about Rome, its drivers, driving, and cars, is the Smart car. NO WAY would that thing work in the States, with our 20 ton SUVs and need to burn more gallons of gas than miles we traveled using that gas. It basically is the same length as it is wide, so you can park anyway you want! How cool is that?!? And, it gets good gas milage. For Rome, that is the perfect car. I just would never dare try to drive one in Texas...


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Favorite Thing: After further review of my last tip, I would have to say that this might be the better view. First, its free from cost and the hassle of waiting in lines. In addition, you have the beautiful confines of Villa Borghese at your back with all its ponds, paths, and silence...

Pincio is the name of the hill directly above Piazza del Popolo. It is high above the square and gives a fantastic view over no less than 12 domes, including St Peters directly in front. With the noises of the city below it is the perfect place to contemplate just how wonderful a time you are having in Rome. It is best viewed in the early morning sun or with the sun lingering at dusk.


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