We departed Florence the next morning and head towards the final leg of our trip – Rome. Perhaps one of the most visited cities for its long ancient history and rich cultural experience. Since the Roman Kingdom to the Roman Republic and finally to Roman Empire, the Eternal City has an incredible legacy that lasted centuries before its collapse. Rome’s brilliant warfare tactics, architectural techniques, engineering feats, organizational structures, politics are still applicable in the modern world today. Just like the well-constructed roads that are still in use today…amazing! Walking along the street kinda makes me a time traveller. With no modern buildings and a certain ‘ruins-like’ surroundings, the city seems like holding time to ransom.

Every corner streets to each individual stone tell a story dated back for god knows how long. It’s probably this unique atmosphere or aura that makes Rome, Rome. And the most iconic places to visit in Rome are none other than the magnificent trio – Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum.

The Monument to Victor Emmanuel II

After visiting the trio, the Monument to Victor Emmanuel II is next, also commonly known as Altar of the Nation. The impressive white marble monument was built to honour Victor Emmanuel II who was the first King to unified Italy.

The huge horseman statue of Victor Emmanuel II.

Right below the king’s statue is a Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a symbol dedicated to all unknown fallen soldiers of Italy. In addition, the tomb is flank by two guards and there’s a ceremonial changing of the guards throughout the day.

The Trevi Fountain

This is another prominent landmark and perhaps the most well-known baroque fountain in Rome. Located at the junction of three roads, which is how Trevi Fountain derived its name (tre & vie). Photo taking around the small surrounding area of the beautiful fountain can be frustrating since there are people literally everywhere at all times.

There’s a saying that you’ll be sure to return to Rome if you throw a coin over your shoulder and into the water of Trevi Fountain. Well, I didn’t do that and yet still somehow find myself back here 3 years later…

The Spanish Steps

Not far from Trevi Fountain is Spanish Steps is the small but beautiful Barcaccia Fountain. The stairs itself is packed with people lazing around or taking a break. And I guess most people may be here for the shopping since Rome’s most famous shopping street. Since Via Condotti is just directly in front of the steps. Here’s where the boutiques of the world’s most luxurious brands congregate.

STAY: Hotel Giorgi Rome review

Hotel Giorgi is situated near to Roma Termini Station and is a plus since we will be taking Leonardo Express to the airport two days later. The reasonable price comes with free Wifi and breakfast. The decent sized room is cosy and comfortable which is nice. Probably not so nice is getting to our room on the 3rd level using the small and not-so-dependable-looking cage lift. And seems like it might break down anytime…