Explore Historic Roman Landmarks on Foot
Discover the ancient monuments of the city with this interesting walking exploration. Set off with your knowledgeable guide for the open-air market at Piazza Campo de Fiori with its colorful displays of fruits, vegetables, crafts, and other items. Browse through the market as you take a short break before heading on to bustling Navona Square. Stroll around looking at the fountains, churches, and palaces around the square that are the works of famous artists such as Gian Lorenzo Bernini and Francesco Borromini. Walk on till you come upon the magnificent Pantheon, once a temple devoted to pagan deities that now serves as a Christian basilica. Saunter past Palazzo Madama, the seat of the Italian senate, and the Column of Marcus Aurelius constructed in honor of Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius. Leave behind Palazzo Montecitorio, the seat of the Italian Chamber of Deputies, as you make your way to the famous shopping street of Via Condotti with its exclusive boutiques. Amble to the end of the street to the iconic Trevi Fountain made famous by the 1960 movie La Dolce Vita. You could throw a coin into the fountain before heading on to the Spanish Steps with its sloping staircase and the elegant Barcaccia fountain. (Half Day; Private Transfer & Activity; Fitness Level: Moderate. Please wear comfortable shoes and clothing appropriate for church visits.)
Coffee and Gelato Tastings in Rome
Indulge yourself in Rome’s inspiring culinary scene, enjoying espressos and gelatos as the locals do. Begin with a stroll near the lively Piazza Navona and the open-air Campo dei Fiori market. Soak up the sights, sounds, and aromas of the Eternal City while your guide introduces you to Italian food habits. Visit tiny and elegant establishments and absorb Rome’s distinct café culture that spans between social courtesy and a personal daily ritual. Step into world-famous cafes where you can learn the art of ordering an espresso, barista etiquette, and witness the entire process from roasting beans to pouring the perfect cup, highly regarded by coffee connoisseurs. Next, drop by family-owned gelaterias to taste colorful scoops of seasonal and signature flavors. Interacting with gelato masters, understand the subtle differences that constitute a good gelato! Finally, head to a local bakery for tastings of traditional tiramisù, before dispersing from Piazza di Spagna. (Half Day; Time: 1530 hrs; Shared Activity; Group size: 1-12 guests; Ice-cream, coffee, and tiramisu tastings included; Fitness level: Easy; Please wear comfortable walking shoes. Please note the pick-up is at Piazza della Minerva & drop-off at Spanish Steps).
Majestic Vatican Tour
Visit the glorious Vatican Museums, an expansive complex that houses the world’s largest private art collection across 54 galleries and two papal palaces. Admire the stunning architecture and the elegant décor as you enter the premises and walk through the corridors. Accompanying passionate expert guides, absorb centuries of history via anecdotes and hidden details that bring the art to life, showcasing the power and politics of the Vatican City. Amid this treasure trove of priceless art including works by master painters and celebrated artists, see magnificent frescoes, rare sculptures, and prized paintings. Navigate the many rooms including favorites such as the Gallery of the Candelabra, Gallery of Tapestries, and the Gallery of the Maps featuring painted topographical maps of Italy. Take a break at the airy Belvedere Courtyard. Stepping inside the Sistine Chapel, marvel at Michelangelo’s masterpiece paintings that adorn the walls and ceilings. Observe scenes from the Old Testament, with hidden symbols of Judaism. Continue further to the ornate St Peter’s Basilica, considered the world’s largest and the most important church, thanks to the crypt that serves as a site of pilgrimage for Catholics. After browsing Bernini’s Baldachin, climb the dome for a close look at the ceiling mosaics, and enjoy the best view of Rome, concluding an experience of a lifetime! (Half Day; Time: 1430 hrs; Shared Activity & Transfer; Fitness level: Easy; Please wear appropriate clothing – shorts, miniskirts and uncovered shoulders are not allowed in the Basilica – and comfortable walking shoes. If St. Peter’s Basilica is being used for a religious ceremony or function, the tour will continue outside.)
