Rome has perhaps some of the best attractions to see in the entire western world. Since this is the capital of what is largely considered the foundation for most other western societies the history is rich as is the culture and traditions. With this wealth of culture comes layers upon layers of fabulous architecture and art that is literally around every corner.

In order to get a true feel for the city of Rome you must embrace the present as well as the past. Many tourists go to see the ruins of Rome and the surrounding areas. However this negates all of Rome’s present atmosphere. I believe that some of the best advice given to me once was “be present” meaning to soak up all that is around you and try to be aware of the surrounding world and not caught up in your own head. While it may be nice to imagine Rome in earlier times, and this should be done at some time, it is better to also be aware of the people that surrounds you at the moment.

This being said I have a list of things that in order to get a feel for the city should be accomplished at least once. This list is in no particular order as I am not big on ranking experiences.

Eating a slice of pizza in Rome is one of the best things you can do while you are visiting the city. While many may argue that the pizza in Rome is not the best I would argue quite differently as this is perhaps one of the best ways to really soak up the culture as everyday locals are more than likely to be around you.

Going to see the Coliseum would also be ranked high in things to do while in Rome. While this is slowly turning into a tourist trap this structure still represents some of the best engineering of the time. This is the place where the capital of a large empire entertained many of its inhabitants.

The Forum is another one of those ancient sites that should also not be missed. This is the place where many Roman emperors consulted with the Roman senators and much political intrigue and deceit was accomplished here. This area of government transformed most of western Europe with its rulings and degrees. Surely this must be worth a visit!

If you are an art lover then the Galleria Borghese is one of the best places to view Belini sculptures plus many other notable artists of the Renaissance. Here you will see many outstanding examples of great talent by mankind. True expression of passion and feeling is expressed through these many works of art.

Eating gelato after a good evening meal is perhaps one of the best ways to spend your time at night in Rome. If you are with a group this is perhaps one of the best ways to explore the city with your pals. Besides Italian gelato is far less fattening than ice cream.

If you are lucky enough to get a ticket to a local football game I would definitely go. There is no other sport that Italians take so passionately like football. This is known in America as soccer and unlike America is insanely popular in Europe. Since Italy won the world cup in 2006 I would say that there is a certain level of pride that Italians take with their football.

Be sure to have some espresso in the morning before you venture out. This is one of the common customs that many Italians take part in almost everyday. In a coffee shop you can rub shoulders with the busy locals as they rush into work. Perhaps for some this may not see like an attraction but I am sure you will not forget the experience. Also I would like to point out that no self respecting Italian would order Capuccino in the afternoon so if you do not want to be see as some hopeless tourist follow this custom.

IF you want to soak up the Roman city and watch the world go by I would go to the Piazza Navona. This is perhaps what is considered by most as the center of Rome and it is one of the best places to people watch and talk over a cup of coffee or espresso.

While there are so many things to see and do in Rome I believe that these activities and places capture the heart of Rome in the past and present. It is truly difficult to capture a true feel for a city if you are planning on just staying a short period of time but if you can squeeze most of these things in I am sure that you will have a more well rounded experience.

Coming off a long 9 hour plane trip to Rome can be quite exhausting. However it is always wise to keep your eyes open and to take it all in. Rome is one of the most beautiful cities in the entire world. It is called the eternal city for a reason and one of those reasons is that this city has lasted over many generations and still grows in character and charm each and every day.

There is so much to do and see in Rome that you should not be bored. As a major metropolitan city of commerce many foreigners move there on their home country’s behalf. Because of this you have a mixture of cultures and attitudes that give the air in Rome a certain unique quality you will not find anywhere else.

Rome is the foundation for most of Western European culture and you can see this as you look upon the seven palatine hills that make up this city. Since its foundation Rome has been characterized by the surrounding hill sides that make up the valley that is the center of Rome.

What is perhaps the most symbolic part of Rome is the Coliseum and this is a sight that should not be missed. Many spectacles were shown here and this building entertained Romans of every economic stature for over several hundred years before its eventual decay.

If you just arrive in the morning I would make it a point to step into a local coffee shop and grab yourself an espresso. You will see many Romans doing the same as they head to work or school as this is a common custom. You can select from many different pastries to eat with your coffee to help fuel your exploration of the city.

Rome should be viewed with as clear of a mind as possible so get your rest and then go out and explore this fantastic city and all it has to offer.