What Is the Best Way to Explore Rome?

By Robert Palmer

Exploring Rome is a dream come true for many travelers. The Eternal City is rich in history, culture, and breathtaking sights.

But with so much to see and do, what is the best way to explore Rome? Let’s dive into some of the options available to make the most out of your visit.

1. Walking Tours

If you want to immerse yourself in the charm of Rome, a walking tour is an excellent choice. Walking tours allow you to experience the city up close and personal, while knowledgeable guides share interesting facts and stories about the landmarks you encounter.

Tip: Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be covering quite a bit of ground.

Advantages:

  • Flexibility: You can choose from various walking tours based on your interests, such as historical sites, food tastings, or art walks.
  • Intimate Experience: Walking tours often have smaller groups, allowing for more interaction with the guide and fellow participants.
  • Holistic Exploration: Walking tours provide an opportunity to stumble upon hidden gems and lesser-known attractions that you might not discover otherwise.

2. Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

If you prefer a more convenient way to get around Rome’s iconic landmarks, consider a hop-on hop-off bus tour. These double-decker buses follow designated routes that cover all major attractions in the city.

Tip: Sit on the open-air top deck for panoramic views while traveling between destinations.

Advantages:

  • Flexibility: You can choose where to start your tour and which attractions to spend more time exploring.
  • Guided Commentary: Most hop-on hop-off buses provide audio commentary in multiple languages, offering insightful information about Rome’s history and landmarks.
  • Efficiency: Buses run at regular intervals, ensuring you won’t waste time waiting for public transportation.

3. Bicycle Tours

If you enjoy a more active approach to sightseeing, renting a bicycle and joining a guided bicycle tour can be an exciting way to explore Rome. Not only will you cover more ground than on foot, but you’ll also experience the city from a different perspective.

Tip: Be cautious while cycling through busy areas and always follow traffic rules.

Advantages:

  • Faster Pace: Cycling allows you to visit more attractions in less time compared to walking tours.
  • Athletic Adventure: It’s a fun way to stay active while discovering the city’s highlights.
  • Eco-Friendly: Choosing a bicycle over motorized transportation reduces your carbon footprint while exploring Rome.

4. Segway Tours

If you’re looking for a unique and effortless way to explore Rome, consider joining a Segway tour. These two-wheeled self-balancing devices offer a fun mode of transportation around the city’s streets and squares.

Tip: Attend a brief training session before hopping on a Segway to ensure your safety and enjoyment during the tour.

Advantages:

  • Fun and Easy: Riding a Segway is an enjoyable and effortless way to navigate through Rome’s bustling streets.
  • Cover More Ground: With a Segway, you can visit multiple attractions within a shorter span of time.
  • All-Inclusive Experience: Many Segway tours include entrance fees to popular attractions, making it a hassle-free option.

In conclusion, there is no single best way to explore Rome. The ideal method depends on your preferences, fitness level, and the experience you seek. Whether you choose to wander through the city on foot, hop on and off a bus, pedal your way on a bicycle, or glide effortlessly on a Segway, Rome will undoubtedly leave an everlasting impression on you.