Last Day in Rome - Piazza Campidoglio & Campo Dei Fiori

Sadly, this is my last full day in Rome! It went by so quick! It was a little of a rainy day, but luckily, it wasn't heavy enough to stop me from sight-seeing (not that it would have anyway!). At this point, I've done everything on my list for Rome, except for... of course.. shopping! But its okay, because the Porta Portese flea market is only open on Sundays! (I plan well). I took advantage of the Roma Pass I purchased by taking the bus along the Tiber river to the very end of the line to get here. It is swamped with people buying really cool items from jewelry, antiques, clothing , shoes etc. But be careful of your belongings because of pick-pocketers!  I ended up walking away with an Indian Silver spiky necklace before it started pouring! So back on the bus I went. From there I went to Campo Dei Fiori, which is like a farmer's/food market. I'm sure it is much nicer in the morning, but it seemed like most of the stands were closed already. However, the walk around this area is amazing. One thing I love about Rome is the ruins everywhere! You can walk in the street alongside ruins that are centuries old. Lunch was at Vinando, which I highly recommend.  It eventually got really packed, even though its located in a hidden alley - always a good sign. After that, I once again used the Roma Pass for free admission to the Musei Capitolini in Piazza Campidoglio. There are a lot of statues in there that are worth seeing - like this giant Zeus looking one. The last night in Rome, I hopped around grabbing drinks at various bars and ordered osso bucco and the house wine for dinner and it was the perfect way to leave this Ancient City. 

Rome Day 2 - Castle & Carnivale

After the Vatican, I headed to the ancient castle that's a few minutes away. In fact, it was built so close because there is a secret passageway that leads from inside the Vatican walls to the castle walls to protect the Pope in case he faces any danger. The views are one of the best in Rome and its worth it to climb to the top. I timed it to be here at sunset, and got the best view of the sun setting over Rome. After, I walked long the Tiber river to Piazza del Popolo (the People's Square) just to sight see. By luck, I caught the very end of Roma Carnivale! There was a horse show, flame throwers, dancers, and it was just one big festival. I wish I came sooner, but even watching the ending was magical.

Rome Day 2 - Vatican City

Good Morning! I knew the first thing I wanted to do bright and early to avoid the lines is see Vatican City. It was AMAZING. I hate to compare it to the movie of Angels and Demons, but there were so many scenes I recognized from the movie! If you ever find yourself wondering if its worth it to get a tour of anything in Rome - Get a tour of Vatican City hands down! Otherwise, you will never full absorb and appreciate the Vatican museum, St. Peter's Basilica, St. Peter's square, and the rest of this city in all of its glory. Do it! Its worth every single euro cent! If you can sneak a picture of the Sistene Chapel and the Swiss Guards like I did, you should do that also ;) 

Rome Day 1 Dinner

Dinner was that this amazing restaurant called il Corallo. The food, service, and ambiance was very nice and the pizza was fantastic!! I would definitely come back here the next time I'm in Rome.