02 Jul 2025 7 min read Italy

10 Timeline Stops through Ancient Rome: A Complete Travel Adventure

Rome Wasn't Built in a Day: A Timeline Trip through Ancient Rome.

It all started with a loose cobblestone in the Roman Forum... Join me as I delve deep into the heart of ancient Rome, one timeline stop at a time.

Getting Lost in the Roman Forum.

After my budget travels in Bali and a whirlwind tour of the Canadian Rockies (which I would absolutely recommend for any nature enthusiast), I found myself in the very heart of the Eternal City, Rome. The array of ancient ruins, impressive monuments, and endless gelato stands were a far cry from the bustling streets of Paris I'd gotten lost in while working on my Paris travel guide.

There's nothing quite like the Roman Forum to truly capture the essence of Rome's glorious past. Imagine bustling markets, grand processions, and passionate political debates - all taking place amidst towering columns and grand temples. It's rather overwhelming to think of the centuries that have come and gone in this very place.

As I weaved my way through the labyrinth of ruins, I couldn't help but compare the Roman Forum to the relics of the vintage I've encountered in my travels - remnants of a bygone era, echoing with tales of triumph and despair. But remember, like any popular tourist spot, keep an eye out for pickpockets. Even Caesar couldn't have defended himself against those!

The entrance fee to the Roman Forum is 12 Euros, quite a steal for a step back into ancient Rome. I'd recommend allotting at least half a day to truly soak in the atmosphere and explore each corner of the Forum.

A Glimpse of the Gladiators at Colosseum.

Leaving the Forum behind, I made my way to the iconic Colosseum. If you've ever wondered what it would feel like to be a gladiator, this is probably your best shot.

"You can almost hear the roar of the crowd," a fellow traveler said, echoing my thoughts exactly. The Colosseum, once home to brutal gladiatorial fights and public spectacles, is a stark reminder of Rome's powerful and sometimes gruesome past.

With an entrance fee of 16 Euros, you can explore the now peaceful amphitheater that would once have housed up to 50,000 spectators. It’s a sight that would rival even the grandeur of Paris' Eiffel Tower or the rugged beauty of the Canadian Rockies.

However, while you take in the breathtaking panorama from the upper levels, keep in mind that the Colosseum, much like the Eastern Europe’s regime, was built on the back of slave labor. It's chilling to think of the countless lives lost in the construction and the games that followed.

Despite the dark history, the Colosseum is a must-see on any Rome itinerary just for its sheer historical significance and architectural grandeur. Just make sure to bring a hat and plenty of water if you're visiting during the summer!

Unveiling the Vatican: From Peter to Pope Francis.

During my time exploring Rome, I couldn't help but be drawn to the magnificence of the Vatican, the world's smallest independent city-state. It's a stark contrast to the rugged wilderness of the Canadian Rockies or the dreamy landscapes of Bali. Yet, the splendor of the Vatican is something that even the most seasoned budget travel enthusiast. can't resist.

As I crossed the awe-inspiring St. Peter's Square, the heart of the Vatican, I couldn't help but feel a chill run down my spine. This is a place where history merges with the present in the most beautiful way. Starting from St. Peter, who was crucified here in 64 AD, to Pope Francis who resides here now, the Vatican has been home to the papacy for centuries.

There is no actual admission fee to enter the Vatican City or St. Peter’s Basilica. However, to explore the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel, you will need to pay an entrance fee of 16 Euros. It's a small price to pay for such an enriching experience, cheaper than most attractions listed in any Paris travel guide..

However, a word of caution: beware of the pickpockets. Just like the vintage Moscow, the Vatican, despite its sanctity, is not immune from the petty thieves.

On a lighter note, let me share an anecdote. Whilst admiring the grandeur of the Sistine Chapel, I overheard an American tourist comparing Michelangelo's 'The Last Judgment' to a graffiti piece found on the Berlin Wall. A truly global perspective indeed!

Roaming the Ruins of the Palatine Hill.

After experiencing the Vatican, my journey took me to the Palatine Hill, one of the most ancient parts of the city. The ruins here are a stark reminder of the grandeur of the Roman Empire, reminiscent of the Eastern Europe's ghost towns. The crumbling structures stand as a testament to a bygone era, a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of the streets of Bali.

Rome - black bicycle near handrails at daytime

The entrance ticket to Palatine Hill, which also includes the Roman Forum and the Colosseum, is 16 Euros. Still, the chance to walk through the remnants of ancient palaces and gardens is a priceless experience which makes this a worthy addition to any budget travel itinerary..

While exploring this site, I discovered that this was the very hill where the legendary founders of Rome, Romulus and Remus, were discovered by a she-wolf, as per the legend. The history here is as overwhelming as the panoramic view of Rome from the top of the hill.

However, remember to wear a hat and sunscreen as the area is quite exposed, and the Roman sun can be relentless. Also, the pathways can be quite uneven, so make sure to wear sturdy shoes.

As I was leaving the Hill, an Italian tour guide, seeing my fascination with the ruins, shared a local proverb with me. He said, "Roma non fu fatta in un giorno." That's Italian for "Rome wasn't built in a day". After spending a day in the eternal city, I couldn't agree more.

The Eternal Beauty of the Pantheon.

Every city has its crowning jewel, and for Rome, it's undoubtedly the Pantheon. And you don't need the budget of a Paris travel guide. to soak in its majesty. This ancient Roman temple, now a church, stands with a timeless aura that whispers tales from the past. Its grandeur is a testament to the architectural prowess of the ancient Romans, reminding one of the grandeur of the vintage monuments scattered across Eastern Europe.

As I stepped through the colossal bronze doors, I felt a sense of awe washing over me. Gazing up at the dome, with its captivating oculus flooding the interior with natural light, it felt like time stood still. The best part? Unlike exploring the Canadian Rockies., you don't need hiking boots or a week's worth of provisions. All you need is a sense of wonder and your camera.

The Pantheon is a well-touristed site and generally safe, but as with any destination, it's best to keep an eye on your belongings. Watch out for pickpockets who might try to take advantage of the crowd. The Eastern Europeans had a word for it - vorovstvo.. As always, travel smart and stay safe.

A Night Walk around Piazza Navona.

After the Pantheon, my wanderlust had me meandering towards Piazza Navona, a city square with a vibrant nightlife. It was like stumbling upon a bustling night market in Bali., but with a Roman twist. The square, which was once a Roman stadium, is now filled with artists, street performers, and bustling restaurants and cafes.

Rome - road between green grass field near mountains under blue and brown sky at golden hour

A personal anecdote: I found a jovial artist sketching portraits, and couldn't resist having my own done. We chatted about his life in Rome as he captured my likeness onto paper. "Rome is like an open-air museum," he told me with a chuckle, "and the entrance fee is simply the cost of the plane ticket." The portrait was reasonably pricede Euros for a gelato or a portrait! While Piazza Navona is generally safe at night, it's advisable to stay alert. Avoid dark alleys and stick to well-lit, crowded areas. If you're on a budget travel. like me, watch out for overpriced restaurants targeting tourists. Take a leaf from the Eastern European handbook - keep your head up, your senses sharp, and your wallet close.