Let’s be real: I didn’t fall in love with Rome. It was beautiful, yes. Historic? Absolutely. But is Rome worth visiting? Also, it felt like a sensory avalanche—loud, fast, swarming with tour groups and selfie sticks. For this neurodivergent introvert…I felt a little dizzy. It was like being on a coffee date with someone objectively impressive but kind of exhausting. Still… it fed me. And I mean that in more ways than one.
Piazza del Popolo: A Surprising Festival and Local Feel in Rome
We stayed at Hotel Valadier, tucked next to Piazza del Popolo—a spot that ended up being one of my favorites. On our first day, we stumbled into a full-blown Polizia festival. Think armored vehicles, police dogs, marching bands, and Roman families out in droves. Kids were climbing into trucks and a demo helicopter, balloons were flying, there was gelato and street snacks, and the energy was just so local. It wasn’t on any itinerary, but it gave me this little unexpected window into everyday Roman life. And I loved that.
Rome Sightseeing: Colosseum, Vatican, and a Lot of Walking
Of course, we did the must-see Rome attractions. The Colosseum and the Vatican are non-negotiables when you’re in the Eternal City, and for good reason. Standing inside the Colosseum is wild. You can feel the weight of history pressing into the stones. And the Vatican? Overwhelmingly ornate, sacred, layered. I couldn’t take it all in—but I tried. It was quite busy but I absolutely adored our tour guide-she was so personable and sweet. With that said, you MUST book ahead. It is often hard to get in especially now with the Jubilee.
That said… wear good shoes. Rome is not for the under-caffeinated or ill-prepared. And maybe treat yourself to a foot massage afterward.
Where to Eat Pizza in Rome: My Favorite Local Slices
Let’s talk food—because food never lets me down. Rome does this magical thing with pizza called pizza al taglio—big rectangular slabs cut with scissors and priced by weight. It’s nothing fancy, just deeply satisfying. We had a lot of it. Some slices were bubbling with cheese, some topped with zucchini blossoms, others with salty mortadella. Every bite felt like, “Okay yes, this is why I came here.” Seriously, I did not get sick of it at all 🤣
Villa Borghese: The Most Peaceful Place in Rome
And then there was Villa Borghese. This massive park was my favorite part of Rome. It had everything: quiet, shaded corners with benches and statues where you could hear yourself think; live musicians serenading passersby; families renting go-karts and zipping down the paths; a carousel spinning under the trees; vendors selling popcorn and trinkets and all kinds of color.
It was both peaceful and alive. Touristy? Not really. It felt like the kind of place Romans actually go—to unwind, to play, to flirt, to read. I’d go back in a heartbeat. So is Rome worth visiting? Still yes!
Rome Travel Tips for First-Timers (Especially If It’s Not Love at First Sight)
Not every destination has to sweep you off your feet. Here’s what worked for me:
- Pick a Pocket
We stayed in a calmer part of Rome, and it made a difference. Piazza del Popolo gave us access to beauty without the chaos of the Spanish Steps crowd. - Let Food Lead You
One of our best nights came from wandering into a tiny trattoria off the main drag. No English menu, just locals eating slowly. The pasta was perfect. The limoncello came on the house. Trust your instincts (and your nose). - Find the Locals’ Rome
Parks, pop-up festivals, side streets—this is where you catch the real rhythm of a place. Villa Borghese showed me a Rome I could breathe in.
Final Thoughts: Is Rome Worth Visiting?
Even if Rome wasn’t my favorite city, it still left its mark. The food, the history, the energy—it all added up to something rich and real. Travel doesn’t have to be perfect to be meaningful.
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