abrunettetravels Last updated on May 19th, 2023 at 08:22 pm
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Travel to Rome automatically conjures up images of the Colosseum, Forum, Pantheon and Vatican. All of these sites are amazing and should be visited, however each of these are also very crowded. Fortunately, there are other ways to spend your time while visiting the Eternal City. You can move away from the crowds and tourist areas into one of Rome’s quieter neighborhoods. Enjoy wandering beautiful open spaces that provide stunning views of the city and find some unusual ways to avoid the crowds while in Rome.
Let’s take a look at some of the ways to avoid the crowds and have a memorable day in Rome.
Aventine Hill—A Neighborhood away from the crowds
Aventine Hill is a quiet neighborhood in Rome that offers historical sites and beautiful views of the city. It is Away from the hustle and bustle of the city center, and a great way to avoid crowds. You can take your time exploring this district and as a result, have a relaxing day. I’ve listed some suggestions below of things to do while in Aventine.
Circus Maximus
Known for being the first and largest stadium in Rome, Circus Maximus hosted Roman chariot racing. It is perfectly situated in the valley between Palatine and Aventine hills. The full grandeur of this imposing stadium may no longer be present, but you can, however, imagine what it would have been like centuries ago. Gladiator shows, small beast hunts, religious processions all took place in front of thousands of spectators. Just a few steps aways from Circus Maximus, this beautiful rose garden is built on what was a Jewish cemetery. Spend a little bit of time admiring this beautiful, fragrant garden that houses several different hybrids of roses and you might forget you are in a large bustling city.
Roseto Comunale
This beautiful rose garden is built on a former Jewish cemetery and is just steps from Circus Maximus. Spend a little bit of time admiring this beautiful, fragrant garden you might forget you are in a large busting city. Walk about 5 minutes from the rose garden and you will stumble upon this beautiful terrace away from the crowds. You can enjoy one of the most breathtaking views of Rome while the subtle scent of orange fills the are from the many orange trees.
Parco Savello
Walk about 5 minutes from the rose garden and you will stumble upon this beautiful terrace away from the crowds. Enjoy one of the most breathtaking views of Rome, while the subtle scent of orange fills the air.
Take your time exploring the Aventine area and you will encounter many treasures. Hidden in the same area as Parco Savello is a small keyhole at the Knights of Malta entrance. If you see a short line, you have probably found it, so look through the keyhole for a surprising view.
Colle Aventino
Take your time exploring the Aventine area and you will encounter many treasures. Hidden in the same area as Parco Savello is a small keyhole at the Knights of Malta entrance. If you see a short time, you have probably found it. Look through the keyhole for a surprising view.As you continue your stroll through the Aventine neighborhood, you can’t miss this impressive church. The oldest basilica in Rome that has kept its original structure. Constructed between AD 422-432, the wooden Cyprus doors are constructed of panels that depict Biblical stories from the Old and New Testament. Make your way through the archway for another incredible view of Rome.
Basilica di Santa Sabina
Continue your stroll through the Aventine neighborhood and you can’t miss this church. The oldest basilica in Rome that has kept its original architectural structure, it was constructed between AD 422-432. The wooden cyprus doors are constructed of panels that depict Biblical stories from the Old and New Testament. Make your way through the archway for stunning views of Rome.
Gelato
You are probably ready for a break from sightseeing after walking through the Aventine neighborhood. What better way to relax than with authentic gelato? Fortunately for you, you are within walking distance of Panna & Co. This is a hands down favorite in Rome for homemade gelato. Enjoy!
Carcer Tullianum
Carcer Tullianum or Mamertine Prison is an oft overlooked ancient site. The prison is particularly meaningful to those who are interested in Biblical history and sites. Saints Peter and Paul were both imprisoned here. It is a smaller attraction, though it has a museum on one level and the prison is down below. If Biblical history is something that is meaningful to you, this is a great way to avoid crowds and yet still visit an important place in history.
St. Angelo Bridge
St. Angleo Bridge is in the city center, but it is often overlooked due to its leading to Castel Sant’ Angelo. The angels on the columns are all different and beautiful works of art. The stunning views at sunset make this a place worth visiting in the evening.
Fiume Tevere
The Tiber River winds its way through Rome. Walk down the stairs from the St. Angelo Bridge and you will find yourself in the quieter Prati neighborhood. You will find boutiques lining the street and people milling about. In the evening, streetside cafes open to celebrate apertivo hour, so top in for a cocktail and let the busyness of the day wash away.
Pizza
If you are by the bridge during the day, stop by Pizzeria Romano Al Taglio. It’s within walking distance and an excellent place for a slice. Are you in the mood for something sweet? Arena del Gelato is a great choice for homemade gelato.
Getting Around
Rome has many sites that are relatively close together, however if you are traveling in the summer, the crowds and heat can make walking a daunting task
- Aventine Hill can easily be visited on your own at your own pace. You can take the Metro to the Circo Massimo stop and walk for a few minutes to Circus Maximus. If tours are your preference, there are tours that visit the Aventine Hill area and the sites listed above. Here is just one option.
- St. Angelo Bridge can be reached by bus numbers 23, 271, 280, 62 or 982–get off at Piazza Pia and it’s a 5-minute walk. By Metro, take Line A to the Lepanto station and it’s a 17-minute walk. You can also exit at Ottaviano station and it’s a 16-minute walk.
- Carcer Tullianum is close to the metro. Exit at Colosseo station or the Fori-Imperial-Colosseo station. Both are an 8-minute walk.
- Vespa tour- We visited Aventine Hill and many other tourist areas on a Vespa tour. This is a unique way to see the city and be able to cover a lot of ground. Scooterama Tours is one option.
Conclusion
Rome is an exciting city with enough to do to keep anyone busy for days. On days when crowds become overwhelming or you just need a break, opt for some of these unusual ways to escape the crowds.
