Day 5
Our visit to the Vatican Museums was an incredible experience! The lines were a bit long, but the anticipation made the sights even more amazing. Once inside, we were blown away by the breathtaking art — Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling was nothing short of awe-inspiring, and the Raphael Rooms were like stepping into another world. The sheer scale and beauty of the collections were overwhelming, but the flow of the museum was well-organized, and we were able to soak in every masterpiece. Even with the crowds, it felt like a privilege to witness so much history and art in one place.
After visiting the Vatican, we walked to Castel Sant’Angelo, which is just a short stroll away along the Tiber River. The massive round fortress stood out with its towering structure and angel statue on top. Originally a Roman mausoleum, it later became a papal refuge, and walking through its ancient halls gave us a real sense of its layered history. The views from the top were amazing, offering a perfect panorama of Rome.
The Pantheon is about 15-minute walk from Castel Sant’Angelo. It is one of the best-preserved ancient Roman buildings and a true architectural marvel. Originally built as a temple to all the gods around 27 BC by Marcus Agrippa and later rebuilt by Emperor Hadrian around 126 AD, it’s famous for its massive dome and central oculus (open skylight), which is still the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome. This design reflects the Roman mastery of engineering, mathematics, and their deep philosophical connection to harmony and the heavens. Over time, it became a Christian church, helping preserve it through the centuries. Today, it’s also a tomb for famous Italians, including the artist Raphael.
After a pleasant 10-minute walk through Rome’s charming streets, we arrived at Piazza di Trevi, where the sound of rushing water and the sight of the iconic Trevi Fountain instantly captivated us. Though the piazza itself is modest in size, it’s always buzzing with visitors drawn to the stunning 18th-century fountain — the largest and most iconic in Rome. Designed by Nicola Salvi, the fountain features Oceanus (god of the sea) at its center and is known for the tradition of tossing a coin over your shoulder to ensure a return to Rome.
Kids absolutely love gelato in Rome — and honestly, who can blame them? With its creamy texture, vibrant flavors, and refreshing sweetness, it’s the perfect treat for little explorers (and adults, too!) wandering the Eternal City. From classic favorites like chocolate and strawberry to rich, nutty delights like pistachio and hazelnut, there’s a flavor for every craving. Smoother and more indulgent than regular ice cream, gelato turns a simple snack into a memorable experience. Enjoying it while strolling through Rome’s charming streets was the sweetest way to end our unforgettable 5-day journey through Italy.
If you're worried about theft in Italy—especially pickpocketing and petty crime—it’s a valid concern, particularly in tourist-heavy cities like Rome, Florence, Venice, and Milan. To stay safe, we avoided public transportation and opted for taxis when needed. It gave us peace of mind and made getting around much more comfortable.