Adventures of NaDave: Euro-Trip: 5-6 (Rome)

To finish our Italy stage of the trip, we had 2 full days in Rome.

We got up early on Monday Dec 28, and headed for the Colosseum. As lovers of sports, we spent 3+ hrs walking around the most famous stadium in the world, thinking about Gladiators & other gruesome shows put on by the Romans.

Up next was the Roman Forum, the true center of ancient Rome. While walking the streets, all you could do is stand in awe at the size and detail of the buildings/ruins.

From there it was a short walk to the Tomb of the Unknown Solider. The symmetry and massive stairs were beautiful. Then it was over to the Pantheon...known for its perfectly spherical church dome, built thousands of years ago. (And its where the painter Raphael is buried).

We then found a great restaurant on the street, and enjoyed some delicious Italian cuisine. We ended the night with a romantic stroll along the river, that included an amazing view of Saint Peters church at night. (St Peters is home of the Pope!...and is technically in its own country, The Vatican)

Day 2 was all about Saint Peters & the Vatican Museum. After a hectic morning to find storage for our backpacks at the train station, we soaked up the sun in St Peters Square, headed into the Basilica. It was HUGE!...and quite an experience to be at the center of Catholicism.

On our way to The Vatican Museum, we saw the classic Swiss Guards and the massive wall that protects the country. After we made out way in, there were more statues and paintings than one could appreciate in one day. The highlight of the tour was of course, the Sistine Chapel!

We headed back to the main station for our backpacks, then hopped a train to our hotel out by the airport. We had a 7am departure...for Athens Greece!