With priceless works of art, the Sistine Chapel, and incredible Papal history, the Vatican Museums attract over 6 million visitors a year. That can mean up to 30,000 people visiting the Vatican on any given day. That’s why planning when to visit can make the difference between feeling like part of the crowd, or having […]
When you come to Rome and visit Vatican City, you are technically leaving Italy and entering a new country. Don’t worry, there’s no need to bring your passport to get into the Vatican. However, knowing that this is technically a border can lead a lot of people to wonder: why is Vatican City a country? […]
If you make the trip to Rome, then it is highly likely that a trip to Vatican City is likely on your must see list. The Vatican is one of the most well known and busiest museums in the world. It is open all year round except for a select number of days in the […]
I did not speak Italian when I moved to Rome. I think I borrowed Rosetta Stone subscription at some point once I realized that I would actually be going to Italy. I made some flashcards. Got stuck repeatedly on the pronunciation of uomo and uova. I also bought a book called 601 Essential Italian Verbs. […]
We recently took an ambitious trip where the travel itself was intended to be part of the fun- going from Rome to Bratislava by air; Bratislava to Vienna by ferry; and then Vienna to Venice by night train. It was my first experience with a night train (I have avoided them until now, and I’m […]
Let me be honest—May is when Rome hits its stride. The tourist crush of summer hasn’t kicked in yet, the days are long, and the city feels like it’s quietly showing off. After almost 15 years of living here, I can tell you this is one of the best months to experience Rome—not just see […]
So many Rome regulars are trying to fill the Marigold-sized hole that was left when the beloved restaurant closed. One of the best contenders is Marzapane, which has been reborn once more. It is hidden in plain sight near Piazza del Popolo, and still somehow a bit off the classic tourist trail, which is part […]
Rome for Easter is iconic: the Vatican is down the road and there are traditional events starting the week before the big Sunday. But if you’re visiting Rome and looking for something a little off the standard Easter path — IKONO has created a fun augmented reality egg hunt from 11 – 21 April. IKONO […]








