Rome – The Eternal City: Why It’s Worth Every Step (And Every Bowl of Pasta)

Rome. Just saying the name conjures up images of ancient ruins, mouthwatering pasta, and epic monuments that have witnessed the rise and fall of empires. It’s a city where you can spend hours marveling at thousands of years of history—while also eating the best gelato of your life. If you’ve never been, let me, your trusty travel expert, convince you why Rome should be at the top of your list (and why you’ll probably leave a little bit in love with it).

1. History That Feels Like a Blockbuster Movie

If you’re even mildly interested in history, prepare to be completely overwhelmed in Rome. The city is basically an open-air museum, where every corner you turn is another jaw-dropping reminder that people have been walking these streets for literally thousands of years.

• The Colosseum: Sure, it’s a little touristy, but standing in the middle of the Colosseum is like stepping into the heart of a gladiator battle scene. Close your eyes, and you can almost hear the roar of 50,000 spectators, rooting for the lions (or maybe the humans, depending on the day). Plus, you’ll get some great photos to make your Instagram followers jealous.
• The Roman Forum: What looks like a bunch of ruins is actually the ancient heart of Roman public life. Once upon a time, this was where politicians made speeches, laws were passed, and Caesar probably ordered a salad or two. As you walk through the crumbling columns and archways, you can’t help but imagine what life was like when Rome ruled the world.
• Pantheon: This isn’t just any old temple—this is the best-preserved Roman building in the city. Its dome, which still impresses architects today, has been there since 125 AD. Go inside, stare up at the oculus, and wonder how on earth they built something this massive without cranes or Wi-Fi.

2. The Food Will Ruin You (And You’ll Love It)

Rome isn’t just about ancient ruins—it’s also a foodie paradise. And I’m not just talking about pasta (though, yes, there’s a lot of that too). Roman cuisine is all about simple ingredients done really, really well. You’ll start every meal thinking, “I’ll just have something light,” and end up deep into a five-course feast, wondering how it all happened.

• Pasta Carbonara: Let’s get this straight: real Roman carbonara is not creamy. It’s a heavenly concoction of eggs, cheese, guanciale (pork cheek), and pepper. That’s it. No cream. It’s so delicious that you’ll want to order it at every meal, and you know what? No one will judge you. You’re in Rome—carbs don’t count.
• Cacio e Pepe: Another Roman classic, this deceptively simple dish of pasta, Pecorino cheese, and black pepper will make you question why you ever bothered with fancier meals. You’ll want to try it everywhere, but especially at Felice a Testaccio, where they mix it at the table for dramatic effect.
• Gelato: Forget ice cream. Gelato is the Roman dessert of choice, and the best part? You can eat it multiple times a day and still be culturally appropriate. Head to Gelateria del Teatro or Giolitti, and prepare for your taste buds to experience a happiness they’ve never known before.

3. The Sights That Will Make You Say “Wow” (Repeatedly)

Rome isn’t just a place to visit; it’s a place to experience. It’s not just about checking off a list of landmarks—it’s about letting the city’s beauty, chaos, and grandeur wash over you.

• The Vatican: Technically its own country, the Vatican is home to St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel. Even if you’re not religious, it’s impossible not to feel a sense of awe as you stare at Michelangelo’s masterpiece on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. But fair warning: you might develop a temporary crick in your neck from all the ceiling-staring.
• Trevi Fountain: Sure, it’s packed with tourists, but there’s a reason. The Trevi Fountain is stunning, especially when it’s lit up at night. Tradition says that if you toss a coin over your shoulder into the fountain, you’ll ensure your return to Rome. And trust me, you’ll want to come back.
• Spanish Steps: These iconic steps are perfect for people-watching and grabbing some downtime between sightseeing. Sit for a while and imagine Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck having their Roman Holiday moment (bonus points if you’ve got a gelato in hand).

4. The Vibe That Will Make You Fall in Love

Rome is chaotic, romantic, and endlessly charming. It’s a city where people seem to take their time, where you’re encouraged to linger over meals, and where every street feels like it’s hiding a secret worth discovering. The pace of life is just different here. People walk slower (probably because they’re eating gelato), they talk louder (mostly about food), and they live more fully (probably because they’ve mastered the art of doing nothing, or as they call it, la dolce far niente).

One of the best things to do in Rome is simply wander. Stroll down narrow cobblestone streets, peek into hidden piazzas, and grab an espresso at one of the many charming cafes. And when in doubt, follow the locals—they always know where the best food, coffee, and gelato are hiding.

The Bottom Line

Rome isn’t just a city—it’s a world. A world of history, food, art, and la dolce vita. It’s a place that will dazzle you with its grandeur, make you swoon with its food, and leave you wondering how you ever lived without it. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, Rome has a way of getting under your skin in the best possible way.

So, pack your walking shoes (you’ll need them), your stretchy pants (for all that pasta), and get ready to fall in love with the Eternal City.