Rome with the family in a day to remember. It might seem ambitious, however, not only can it be done but you will have a day as a couple or as a family which may well rank as one of the best of your life.
This is a circuit of Rome which was first recommended to me by my good friend, a Roman, called Luciano, a man of culture, whit and wisdom to whom I am grateful for opening my eyes to the marvels of Italy. Luciano helped me understand that Rome is an unusually compact city where you can "fill your cup" with wonders in a day. I have tested it both with my children when young and my partner more recently (big hit every time).
First you need to get to the centre of Rome from where-ever you are staying (and you should consider trying one of our Lazio villas for the perfect holiday near Rome). Take the train to Saint Peters square station then walk round to the Vatican. From the Piazza san Pietro take the main thoroughfare to the Castel Sant Angelo and cross the river Tiber via the Ponte Sant Angelo.
On the south side of the river take the Via di Coronari (starts as the Via di Panico) which runs east parallel with the river and walk through the "antique area" where you will find an excellent ice cream shop for a break about half way along. Then turn right into the Piazza Navona (a good spot for lunch) half way along which you will see a small road on the east side with signs leading you to the Pantheon (visit inside – its free).
From the north of the square of the Pantheon take the via in Aquiro, passing the Colonna di Marco Aurelio and you will come to the Fontana di Trevi (throw in a coin for luck!) which is always mega busy but worth it. From here walk south (takes about half an hour) or take a taxi if you can to the Piazza Venezia then on to the Fora Romano (ancient Rome). The entrance is about half way along the via dei Fori Imperiali (there is a fee – easily worth it).
The Fora Romano covers over a square kilometre of ancient Rome and includes temples, arches and much more and at the south east extremity overlooks the coliseum (which is an optional extra on the same ticket – I think too much to go round as well in the same day).
Take a taxi or walk (about half an hour) back to St Peters square then, if your one of the lucky ones, its back to your Lazio holiday villa for a dip in the pool.
This circuit involves lots of walking, it can be hot so don’t forget hats and sun cream and carry plenty of water. If you take breaks at the main sights, drink plenty and indulge in ice creams it is manageable and enjoyable.