Riding through Rome, Italy

Photographers

Dave O'Byrne
Stephen D. Milton

A motorcycle and walking tour through many layers of history and heritage

Rome, the Eternal City, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and architectural magnificence. While the bustling streets and narrow alleys can be challenging to navigate during the day, the combination of daytime walking and evening motorcycle rides offers a unique and enriching way to experience the city, exploring Rome's hidden gems on foot, followed by a series of evening motorcycle rides to witness the grandeur of its illuminated landmarks.

The best thing to do is leave the motorcycle locked safely at the hotel, and get out there on your own two feet. From the ancient ruins of the Roman Forum and the Colosseum to the hidden gems of Aventine Hill and Trastevere, walking allows you to immerse yourself in the layers of history that define this magnificent city. The slower pace gives you time to truly appreciate the intricacies of Rome’s past and the stories etched into its stones.

Mornings: Walking Through Ancient Rome

The Roman Forum

Start your day at the Roman Forum, the epicentre of ancient Rome. This sprawling archaeological site, once the heart of political, commercial, and social life, is best experienced without the crowds. Wander through the ruins of temples, basilicas, and the Senate House, and you’ll find yourself imagining the bustling activity, commerce, discussions and agreements that once took place here. Visit the Temple of Saturn, the Arch of Titus, and the Rostra, where orators like Cicero addressed the public.

Palatine Hill

Just adjacent to the Forum lies Palatine Hill, where legend says Romulus founded Rome. This area offers stunning views of the city and the Forum below. Explore the ruins of imperial palaces, the House of Augustus, and the Farnese Gardens. The tranquil atmosphere and historical depth make it a perfect spot for leisurely exploration, and a good way to recharge your batteries.

The Colosseum

No visit to Rome is complete without marvelling at the Colosseum, the iconic symbol of Roman engineering and gladiatorial combat. Although crowded during peak hours, a morning visit can offer a relatively serene experience. Walk around the massive amphitheatre, and if possible, latch onto a guided tour to gain deeper insights into its history and architecture.

Afternoons: Discover Hidden Gems

The Aventine Hill and the Keyhole

After lunch, head towards the Aventine Hill, one of Rome's seven hills, known for its serene gardens and churches. A must-visit here is the famous keyhole at the Knights of Malta headquarters. Peering through this keyhole offers a perfectly framed view of St. Peter's Basilica, a charming yet lesser-known experience.

The Baths of Caracalla

From there, walk to the Baths of Caracalla, one of the largest and best-preserved ancient thermal complexes in Rome. These baths once accommodated up to 1,600 bathers and featured hot and cold rooms, swimming pools, and even libraries. The sheer scale and architectural grandeur of the ruins are truly awe-inspiring in the old sense of the word, providing a glimpse into the leisure, decadence and luxury of ancient Roman life. Maybe they just knew how to enjoy life, before everything became so fast, urgent, commercialised and stress-inducing.

Trastevere

As the afternoon progresses, make your way to Trastevere, a vibrant neighbourhood known for its narrow, winding streets and bohemian atmosphere. Stroll through Piazza Santa Maria and visit the Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere, one of Rome's oldest churches. The area is also famous for its charming trattorias and cafes, perfect for a relaxing break while you bury yourself in some local cuisine. No nice wines just though, you’re heading back to the hotel to grab your motorcycle, after this.

Evenings: Riding Through Illuminated Rome

The Spanish Steps and Piazza di Spagna

As the sun sets, the sky illuminates and the traffic calms, it's time to hop on your motorcycle and explore Rome by night. This is a fantastic experience, and one you should plan into each day. As the day transitions to night, the city takes on a different aura. Riding a motorcycle through the quiet streets and past the illuminated landmarks like the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, and St. Peter's Basilica provides a sense of freedom and awe. The reduced traffic and the soft glow of the lights make the experience both exhilarating and serene. The blend of ancient history and modern vibrancy comes alive in a way that is uniquely Roman.

Trinità dei Monti

Start at the Spanish Steps, a popular gathering spot for Romans and visitors alike. Ride through the elegant streets of the surrounding area, passing luxurious boutiques and historic buildings. The steps and the Trinità dei Monti church are beautifully illuminated, creating a magical ambiance.

The Trevi Fountain

Next, weave through the streets to the Trevi Fountain, one of Rome's most famous landmarks. The fountain, with its Baroque grandeur, is especially stunning at night. The sound of cascading water and the glow of the lights create a captivating scene. Remember to toss a coin into the fountain to ensure your return to Rome.

The Vatican and St. Peter's Basilica

Finally, make your way to Vatican City. The sight of St. Peter's Basilica illuminated against the night sky is truly breathtaking. Ride around St. Peter's Square, taking in the grandeur of the colonnades and the obelisk. The quiet of the evening offers a peaceful contrast to the daytime crowds, allowing for a more reflective experience. When you are visiting it during the day, make sure to get there as early as possible, as the crowds start forming before The Devil gets his coat on.

By combining the intimacy of walking tours with the thrill of nighttime motorcycle rides, you get the best of both worlds. You can explore hard-to-reach places on foot during the day, delving deep into Rome’s cultural and historical fabric, and then enjoy the sweeping views and iconic sights from your motorcycle as the city transforms under the stars. This balance not only makes practical sense but also enhances your connection with Rome, allowing you to see and feel the city in all its timeless glory.

Now, the next thing you have to do is find the cosiest place possible to sample some of the local wines!

Piazza Navona

Continue to Piazza Navona, a lively square filled with artists, street performers, and cafes. The Baroque fountains, especially the Fountain of the Four Rivers by Bernini, are beautifully lit, adding to the square's charm. Riding through the illuminated piazza offers a glimpse into Rome's vibrant nightlife and cultural scene. Just be aware of any pedestrian areas or no-car zones that might change status from day to night.

The Pantheon

Ride over towards the Pantheon, an architectural marvel that has stood the test of time. The Pantheon is a sight to behold under the night sky, with its imposing columns and the oculus open to the heavens. Take a moment to admire the sheer ingenuity of this ancient, self-supporting structure, which has inspired architects for centuries.