Where do you Want to Go?

Since we were in Rome Palm Sunday weekend, to beat the crowds at the Vatican we arrived around 7:30am to wait in line outside the Vatican walls. The line moved fast, and we quickly made our way to the security check beneath the Vatican grounds. Our first stop was the Vatican Museum, viewing many works of art, collected from various popes. Next stop entrance to the newly renovated Sistine Chapel. You cannot speak or take pictures inside this chapel. But bring a pair of binoculors to check out the newly revealed details in Michealangelo's masterpiece. Our last stop at the Vatican was St. Peters. The cathedral was breathtaking, and photography was allowed. The tour at the Vatican lasted about 3 hours.

Our next stop was the Coliseum. This is the world's most celebrated and widely known Italian landmarks. If you saw the movie Gladiator this landmark is surely not to miss. With a newly built walking bridge in the center you can stand dead center and do a 360 panoramic around the coliseum. The great thing about this site, if you don't like stairs(or if your tired of them) there is an elevator to take you to the 2nd level.

Ancient Rome is walking distance from the Coliseum. This area is known as a "archaeological park." With marble columns protruding from the earth, remains of temples, churches and the senate building are outlined. As we had a guide this lasted about 2 hours, as he told the history of each archaelogical remains. You can do this by yourself with a book in half the time.

For us this was the last stop in Rome, and we didn't even scratch the surface in the numerous sites that we failed to see. I would recommend starting your trip in Rome and giving yourself 3-4 days here. Also stay within the center of city. Our hotel was on the outskirt and it took us 30 minutes to get into the city. Bring a guide book and get to places early such as the Vatican. You need to purchase tickets for the Vatican and the Coliseum. And don't forget your camera!