On the Map: Rome If You Want To

We’re almost back to New Jersey aboard the Royal Caribbean Odyssey of the Seas, following a 14-night cruise with ports, and storms, and detours, and six nights across the Atlantic. But first, let’s take a look at our Rome trip. We flew there for a three-night stay before heading to the cruise terminal and sailing off. It wasn’t a lot of time, but we saw plenty. Check out my travelogue below with some photos.

We stayed at the Mascagni Hotel, a boutique hotel near the busy central city. I’m not giving it a thumbs up or down. I knew from past experience that European hotels in general are smaller, and that was the case here. But the decor is lovely, the staff was (mostly) friendly and helpful, and it was easy to get everywhere … until you started walking to your destination! Rome’s streets are very pre-grid, and even using Apple Map we got lost. The pathways are winding, in comes cases even seeming tortured, and if you take a wrong turn the map just reorients and takes you another route. Maddening, especially when your walking tour leaves at 10:30 a.m. and you’re sure you won’t make it. But we did! And here’s what we saw …

Say hello to Genny and Paul, the lovely couple from Canada who were among the travel friends we made, and these folks are keepers!

Exploring the Colosseum and the Vatican

Few cities capture the imagination quite like Rome. Known as the Eternal City, it’s a living museum of history, art, and faith. Every cobblestone seems to whisper stories of emperors, artists, and pilgrims who walked these same streets centuries ago. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for another taste of la dolce vita, Rome never fails to amaze — especially when you stand beneath the grandeur of the Colosseum and the spiritual majesty of Vatican City.

The Colosseum

I’ve had a thing for gladiators since I was a boy playing with plastic replicas. They fought to the death, and I was very eager to see where it happened in ancient times. The iconic amphitheater that once hosted gladiatorial games, mock sea battles, and public spectacles was as impressive and I’d imagined it. Built nearly 2,000 years ago, it remains one of the most astonishing feats of Roman engineering.

As you step inside, the scale is breathtaking. Imagine 50,000 spectators cheering as gladiators fought under the gaze of emperors. The underground chambers — now visible through glass walkways — once held animals and fighters awaiting their turn in the arena. A guided tour (especially one that includes the underground level) brings this ancient world vividly to life.

Travel Tip: Buy a combined ticket that includes the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. We did! Visiting all three offers a fuller picture of ancient Roman life, from political intrigue to imperial luxury.

The Vatican

No, the pope did not grant us an audience, possibly because we hadn’t called ahead. Vatican City, the world’s smallest independent state and the spiritual heart of Catholicism, is a must-see, even for non-religious visitors. My one caution: it’s extremely crowded, and if shuffling slowly along with a few thousand other people on a busy day isn’t too dauting for you, it’s something to remember.

Start early at the Vatican Museums, home to one of the greatest art collections on earth. Masterpieces by Raphael, Leonardo da Vinci, and Caravaggio line the corridors, but the real highlight awaits at the end — Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel. No matter how many photos you’ve seen, standing beneath that ceiling is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

From there, step into St. Peter’s Basilica, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Climb to the top of the dome for a panoramic view of Rome — terracotta rooftops stretching endlessly toward the horizon.

Travel Tip: Book skip-the-line tickets or a small-group guided tour to make the most of your visit. The crowds can be intense, especially in summer.

Eating and Wandering

After hours of exploring, or before, reward yourself with Rome’s culinary pleasures. Grab a slice of pizza al taglio, enjoy a creamy gelato, or settle into a trattoria for a plate of cacio e pepe — simple, peppery perfection. I have to give a shout out to the cafe on the corner from the hotel. I was there every morning and the staff was terrific, especially the woman at the front counter who quickly remembered what I want at 6:30 a.m.

Rome is best experienced on foot, with time to wander, linger, and get lost. Every piazza, fountain, and ruin has a story to tell. Whether you toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain or watch the sunset from the Spanish Steps, the magic of Rome lingers long after you leave.

If you’ve never been to Rome, put it on your list. While I don’t need to go back, I’m very glad I finally visiting, crazy winding streets and all.

Next up: Getting the royal treatment on Royal Caribbean