Family Adventure in the Heart of Rome

Echoes of Empires: A Roman Holiday Begins

Today marked the beginning of our Roman adventure, and what a start it was! From the moment we stepped out of our hotel, 47 Boutique Hotel, I knew this trip would be one for the books. Rome, with its vibrant energy and layers of history, immediately captivated us. The crisp February air, a welcome change from Amsterdam’s dampness, hinted at the exciting days ahead.


Experience luxury and comfort at 47 Boutique Hotel, a chic oasis in Rome's city center, near iconic landmarks and vibrant local culture.
Our first stop was breakfast at the hotel. After a lovely breakfast with the family, we set off to explore the ancient heart of Rome. The February weather was kind, a bit chilly but perfectly manageable with a warm jacket – something I'd advise anyone visiting this time of year to pack. I did forget my power adapter, though, a rookie mistake for a seasoned traveler like myself! Pieter, ever the prepared one, reminded me that we could probably pick one up at RINASCENTE Rome Via del Tritone. But first, history!

The Colosseum: Where Legends Were Forged

As we approached the Colosseum, its immense size struck me. It's one thing to see pictures, but standing before this ancient amphitheater is an entirely different experience. Sofia's eyes widened as she tried to imagine the gladiatorial contests and public spectacles that once unfolded within those walls. I could almost hear the roar of the crowds and the clash of swords. The Colosseum, open from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm during this part of February, was bustling with tourists, but the energy was palpable.


Explore the Colosseum in Rome, a monumental arena where history, culture, and architectural beauty come together, captivating every visitor.

Visiting the Colosseum is like stepping into a time machine, where the echoes of the past resonate with every stone.

We spent hours exploring its different levels, marveling at the architectural ingenuity and pondering the stories of those who fought and died here. It was a humbling experience, a stark reminder of the rise and fall of empires. Even Pieter, who usually prefers modern architecture, was impressed by the sheer scale and historical significance of the Colosseum.

The Roman Forum: A Walk Through Ancient Governance

Next, we ventured into the Roman Forum, the heart of ancient Roman political and social life. Walking through the ruins, I tried to picture the bustling marketplace, the senate meetings, and the everyday life of Roman citizens. It was fascinating to see the remains of temples, basilicas, and government buildings, each with its own story to tell. Sofia was particularly intrigued by the Temple of Saturn, with its towering columns and mysterious history.


Discover the Roman Forum, an open-air museum that immerses you in the rich history and stunning architecture of Ancient Rome.
The Forum in February has a certain charm, with fewer crowds than in the peak summer months. The weather was pleasant enough to wander around comfortably, and the light was perfect for photography. I snapped countless photos, trying to capture the essence of this ancient city.

Palatine Hill: A View from Above

Our final stop for the day was Palatine Hill, one of the seven hills of Rome and believed to be the founding place of the city. Climbing to the top, we were rewarded with panoramic views of the Roman Forum, the Colosseum, and the sprawling cityscape. It was easy to imagine Romulus standing on this very spot, deciding where to build his city.


Discover the historical treasures and stunning vistas of Palatine Hill, the legendary birthplace of Rome, steeped in myth and ancient grandeur.
The hill itself is steeped in history, with ruins of imperial palaces and ancient dwellings scattered across its surface. We explored the remains of the House of Augustus and the House of Livia, marveling at the frescoes and mosaics that have survived for centuries. Palatine Hill offered a sense of tranquility, a peaceful escape from the bustling city below.

A Culinary Journey: Lunch and Dinner in Rome

After a morning of exploring, we were ready for a hearty lunch. We found a charming trattoria, La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali, near the Forum that served traditional Roman cuisine. The pasta was divine, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. It was the perfect place to recharge before continuing our adventure.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali, nestled near Rome's historic Roman Forum.
As evening approached, we decided to indulge in a fine dining experience at Aroma, a Michelin-starred restaurant with breathtaking views of the Colosseum. The food was exquisite, each dish a work of art, and the service was impeccable. It was the perfect way to end our first day in Rome, savoring delicious food while gazing at the illuminated Colosseum.


Experience fine Italian dining at Aroma with stunning views of the Colosseum – a perfect blend of gourmet cuisine and historic ambiance.

Shopping and Sweet Treats

Before dinner, we made a quick stop at RINASCENTE Rome Via del Tritone. I did find the power adapter I needed, and Sofia got a little something for herself too. It was nice to experience a bit of modern Rome amidst all the ancient history.


Explore the luxury of shopping in the heart of Rome at Rinascente, where fashion meets culture and culinary delights await.
I couldn't resist trying some *castagnole*, those irresistibly sugary donut balls that are a seasonal treat here in February. They were the perfect sweet ending to a day filled with history and culture.

Reflections on Day One

As I sit here in our hotel room, reflecting on the day, I am filled with a sense of awe and gratitude. Rome is a city that truly lives up to its reputation as the Eternal City. Its history, culture, and beauty are captivating, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Sofia is already fast asleep, dreaming of gladiators and emperors, while Pieter is researching the best gelato spots in the city.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Vatican City, including the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica. I've heard the Sistine Chapel is an absolute must-see, and I'm eager to experience its artistic grandeur firsthand. We're also planning to grab breakfast at Osteria Luci in cucina, lunch at Pasticceria Boccione and Dinner at Cantina e Cucina. And maybe, just maybe, we'll sneak in a visit to Stravinskij Bar for a nightcap.

Rome in February is proving to be a fantastic experience. The weather is mild, the crowds are manageable, and the city is alive with history and culture. I'm so glad we decided to come at this time of year. It's the perfect way to escape the winter blues and immerse ourselves in the beauty of the Eternal City.

I did read that there are some Jubilee events and celebrations going on this month, so perhaps we will stumble upon one of those! There is also the Rome Carnival, but I think we will miss most of it.

I'm so excited to share more of our Roman adventure with you. Stay tuned for tomorrow's update!