Rome is one of the world’s greatest cities to visit, but knowing what’s actually worth your time can make or break your trip.
Bookmark the BEST guide to Rome here
Tours mentioned:
• Rome in a Day Tour
• The BEST Vatican Tours
• Colosseum Underground and Arena Floor Tours
Sean and Brandon break…Rome is one of the world’s greatest cities to visit, but knowing what’s actually worth your time can make or break your trip.
Bookmark the BEST guide to Rome here
Tours mentioned:
• Rome in a Day Tour
• The BEST Vatican Tours
• Colosseum Underground and Arena Floor Tours
Sean and Brandon break down the absolute must-see sights in Rome, from the Vatican and Colosseum to the Borghese Gallery, the Pantheon, and the Catacombs. If you’ve ever wondered what’s actually worth your time, how long to spend at each spot, or when to visit to skip the crowds, this episode lays it out clearly. Between travel tips and a few running jokes about Rome’s stereotypes, like tourist-trap restaurants and overcrowded monuments, you’ll come away ready to plan a smooth, smart trip through the Eternal City.
Topics Covered:
• The top sites in Rome and how to plan them over four or five days
• Which attractions truly need a tour and which are great on your own
• The best times of year and times of day to visit each site
• How to avoid the classic tourist mistakes that waste your day
French People ARR. Rude is produced by The Tour Guy, Europe's leading marketplace for tours & experiences.more
Traveli is all about experiences right? Imagine being alone in the Vatican Museums at sunrise, turning on the lights in the Sistine Chapel, or stepping into Florence’s Duomo to view Brunelleschi's dome with a handful of other travelers after hours.
We're discussing recently added VIP experiences a…Traveli is all about experiences right? Imagine being alone in the Vatican Museums at sunrise, turning on the lights in the Sistine Chapel, or stepping into Florence’s Duomo to view Brunelleschi's dome with a handful of other travelers after hours.
We're discussing recently added VIP experiences at some of Italy's most iconic sites with Walks of Italy's Denyse Pantaleo
• Rome - Vatican Key Master's Tour - tour details
• Rome - Alone in the Sistine Chapel - tour details
• Rome - Colosseum Tour with VIP Caesar's Palace - tour details
• Florence - Alone in the Duomo with private terrace access - tour details
• Venice - Alone in St Mark's with Doge's Palace - tour detailsRead the full episode show notes here > untolditaly.com/285
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Join our mailing list and get our FREE Italy trip planning checklist - subscribe here | Join us on tour: Trip schedule | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Visit our online store | Follow: Instagram • Facebook • YouTube • Italy Travel Planning Community • Online travel assistant
The Untold Italy travel podcast is an independent production. Podcast Editing, Audio Production and Website Development by Mark Hatter. Production Assistance and Content Writing by the othermore
Colosseum: Gladiator Myths, Stone Blocks, and Rome’s Biggest PR Move
👉 For all show notes & extras
👉 Book a Colosseum tour (underground and arena access available)
In this episode of French People Arr. Rude, Sean and Brandon take a chisel to the biggest stereotypes about the Colosseum. Was i…Colosseum: Gladiator Myths, Stone Blocks, and Rome’s Biggest PR Move
👉 For all show notes & extras
👉 Book a Colosseum tour (underground and arena access available)
In this episode of French People Arr. Rude, Sean and Brandon take a chisel to the biggest stereotypes about the Colosseum. Was it just a place for gladiator battles? Did people really get fed to lions? And who were these so-called gladiators, anyway?
They unpack the truth behind Rome’s most famous monument—starting with why it was built, the materials and methods used to construct it, and how it functioned as both entertainment and empire-building. You’ll hear about what the games were actually like, who got to fight, and why the Colosseum went through long stretches of being totally unused.
What We Cover in This Episode
• Common misconceptions about the Colosseum
• Who commissioned it and how it replaced Nero’s palace
• What materials were used and how long it took to build
• What the games were like (spoiler: more than just gladiators)
• Who the gladiators actually were (and who they weren’t)
• Why the Colosseum sat empty during certain periodsmore
In this first of two special episodes on Rome, Italy, hosts David Brodie & Tim Johnson explore the Eternal City as it stands in 2025—where timeless beauty meets the buzz of modern travel. From the Colosseum to the Vatican, and from hilltop gardens to hidden sovereign territories, this episode offers…In this first of two special episodes on Rome, Italy, hosts David Brodie & Tim Johnson explore the Eternal City as it stands in 2025—where timeless beauty meets the buzz of modern travel. From the Colosseum to the Vatican, and from hilltop gardens to hidden sovereign territories, this episode offers an insightful and entertaining look at how to make the most of your time in Rome, especially if you're visiting during peak season.
In This Episode:
Is Rome Worth Visiting in High Season?
• Why the crowds and heat are worth it—and how to stay cool with tips like filling up at the city’s free nasoni fountains.
Iconic Rome
• Colosseum: Why booking ahead and joining a guided tour transforms your experience
• Trevi Fountain & Spanish Steps: Expect crowds, but don’t skip them—coin tosses and city views await
• Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel: Must-see masterpieces—book timed tickets in advance
• St. Peter’s Basilica: No ticket required, but take time to explore quieter corners for moments of peace
• Keykeeper Tour Tip: Be the first inside the Vatican by joining a private early-morning opening tour
Off-the-Beaten-Path Highlights
• Access Italy’s Golf Cart Tour: A customizable and stylish way to explore the city’s hidden gems
• Giancarlos Beneditti Corcus: A local artist painting in the laneways near Piazza Navona
• Villa Borghese Gardens: Shady paths, scenic views, and quiet cafés—perfect for escaping the crowds
• Knights of St. John (Sovereign Military Order of Malta): A quirky micro-nation in Rome with its own flag, passports, and even UN observer status
How Many Countries Can You Visit in a Day?
• Rome lets you check off three countries in a single day—Italy, Vatican City, and (unofficially) the Sovereign Military Order of Malta
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Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll cover where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around the Eternal City.
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Mentioned in this episode:
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Check out the Smart Travel Podcast
This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:
We went to Rome, Italy and we’re sharing the must-see highlights and attractions! We share all the attractions, what is worth the entrance fee, and how to see and do it all with just a few days.
Highlights of the City Include:
• Trevi Fountain
• Spanish Steps
• Colosseum
• Roman Forum
• Palatine H…We went to Rome, Italy and we’re sharing the must-see highlights and attractions! We share all the attractions, what is worth the entrance fee, and how to see and do it all with just a few days.
Highlights of the City Include:
• Trevi Fountain
• Spanish Steps
• Colosseum
• Roman Forum
• Palatine Hill
• Vatican City
• Vatican Museums
• Sistine Chapel
• St. Peter's Basilica & Dome
• Scavi Tour
• Pantheon If you want to take this exact trip, you can download our Rome Itinerary. The Rome itinerary gives travel tips, restaurant and hotel recommendations, links to every activity we booked, packing list, and a day by day itinerary for you to follow. You can also book the same tours we did and hotels we stayed in:
• Augusta Lucilla Palace (Hotel near Termini Station)
• Pantheon Skip the Line Tickets
• Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel Skip the Line Tickets
• Colosseum Underground, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill (Brittanie's favorite tour)
• St Peter's Basilica & Dome: Guided Tour
Check out our Rome Viator Experiences for all activities we recommend and even some that we wanted to do but couldn't get to.
If you're looking for a flight deal to Rome, we recommend signing up for Thrifty Traveler Premium to get daily flight deals (points & cash) emailed directly to you!
Connect: YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram and contact us at [email protected] to submit a question of the week or inquire about guest interviews and advertising. Submit a question of the week or inquire about guest interviews and advertising.more
On this episode of Out Of Office: A Travel Podcast, the boys treat the ancient aqueducts like a flume ride and splash right into Rome! Kiernan and Ryan talk Emperors, SPQR, why columns make the best decor, plus just a touch of new Pope speculation.
Our episode on Vatican City:
https://outofofficepo…On this episode of Out Of Office: A Travel Podcast, the boys treat the ancient aqueducts like a flume ride and splash right into Rome! Kiernan and Ryan talk Emperors, SPQR, why columns make the best decor, plus just a touch of new Pope speculation.
Our episode on Vatican City:
https://outofofficepod.com/podcast/episode-197-vatican-city/
German Vandals, Fendi, Overcooked Pasta, and Bloody Sandals
👉 For all show notes & recommendations
👉 To book the best Rome tours
In this episode, we break down everything you need to know about visiting Rome—from navigating the chaotic streets and confusing public transit to uncovering the …German Vandals, Fendi, Overcooked Pasta, and Bloody Sandals
👉 For all show notes & recommendations
👉 To book the best Rome tours
In this episode, we break down everything you need to know about visiting Rome—from navigating the chaotic streets and confusing public transit to uncovering the best neighborhoods to stay in. Whether you're wondering why first-time visitors struggle without a guide, how to avoid the crowds at the Vatican, or where to find the best pasta (and what not to do when ordering it), we've got you covered.
Expect travel wisdom, hilarious cultural mishaps, and brutally honest advice to help you experience Rome the right way—without the tourist traps.
Stuff We Talk About:
• Why walking is the only real way to see Rome
• The floral scent that takes over the city in spring
• The ancient Roman tax that proves money doesn’t stink
• Underrated museums you’ll have all to yourself
• The best spots for aperitivo (and what to order)
The one drink that makes you look instantly local
Stuff We Talk About:
• Why walking is the only real way to see Rome
• The floral scent that takes over the city in spring
• The ancient Roman tax that proves money doesn’t stink
• Underrated museums you’ll have all to yourself
• The best spots for aperitivo (and what to order)
The one drink that makes you look instantly local
✨ Stuff We Talk About:
• Why walking is the only real way to see Rome
• The floral scent that takes over the city in spring
• The ancient Roman tax that proves money doesn’t stink
• Underrated museums you’ll have all to yourself
• The best spots for aperitivo (and what to order)
•
• The one drink that makes you look instantly local
Rome: German Vandals, Fendi, Overcooked Pasta, and Bloody Sandals
👉 For all show notes & recommendations
👉 To book the best Rome tours
Think you know Rome? Think again. In this episode, we dive deep into the truths, myths, and wild history of the Eternal City—from Roman food culture and drin…Rome: German Vandals, Fendi, Overcooked Pasta, and Bloody Sandals
👉 For all show notes & recommendations
👉 To book the best Rome tours
Think you know Rome? Think again. In this episode, we dive deep into the truths, myths, and wild history of the Eternal City—from Roman food culture and drinking customs to strange historical facts and modern-day stigmas.
Expect a mix of hilarious travel mishaps, brutally honest advice, and fascinating Roman history that will help you navigate the city like a local.
If you're planning a trip, this Rome travel itinerary will help you skip the bad restaurants, embrace local traditions, and experience the city like a pro.
✨ Stuff We Talk About:
• Why ancient Romans had black teeth (yep, really)
• How mirrors used to kill people
• Whether Rome’s driving chaos lives up to the hype
• Essential travel tips to dodge tourist traps
• Why Romans treat pasta like sacred law
• The unwritten rules of coffee (and the cappuccino cutoff)
• What happens when you break local food etiquette
Can a pigeon lead to an Italian adventure? Turns out, yes! 🐦 Join Crystal and Joe as they chat with Adventure Annette about a spontaneous, bird-inspired journey through Rome, Venice, and Pompeii—all thanks to her son's unexpected obsession with pigeons.
What's Inside This Episode?
🏛 Rome: The Eter…Can a pigeon lead to an Italian adventure? Turns out, yes! 🐦 Join Crystal and Joe as they chat with Adventure Annette about a spontaneous, bird-inspired journey through Rome, Venice, and Pompeii—all thanks to her son's unexpected obsession with pigeons.
What's Inside This Episode?
🏛 Rome: The Eternal City – Walking is the best way to explore (and dodge tourist traps). Annette shares insider tips on hidden gems, cheap eats, and why Rome's fountains aren't just for decoration.
🎭 The Colosseum Experience – Gladiators, history, and why booking ahead can save you hours.
🎒 The Gear of the Day – Travel smarter with one essential item that keeps you prepared for any travel weather.
🏺 Pompeii: A Journey Through Time – What it's really like to walk through the ruins of an ancient city frozen in time.
🛶 Venice: Beyond the Crowds – First impressions, best ways to explore, and why the colorful islands of Murano and Burano should be on your itinerary.
💰 How to Save on Flights, Hotels & More – Annette's spontaneous travel hacks that can save you big bucks on your next European getaway.
✨ Final Thoughts & Souvenirs – What's worth bringing home from Italy (besides incredible memories)?
Takeaways for Travel-Loving Stackers:
✅ Spontaneity = Magic. Planning is great, but leaving room for surprises leads to the best adventures.
✅ Walking beats waiting. Exploring Rome on foot saves money and reveals hidden treasures most tourists miss.
✅ Book smart. Annette shares how to score last-minute hotel deals and avoid overpaying.
✅ Escape the crowds. Venice has secrets beyond St. Mark's Square—Annette shares where to go for the real magic.
🎧 Hit play now and join us for a whirlwind Italian adventure! 🇮🇹✈️✨
Let's go to the Colosseum! Undoubtedly one of the world's most iconic buildings, stepping inside the arena is a favorite activity for most visitors to Rome. But with up to 30,0000 tickets sold for the Colosseum a day, how do you make the most of your time there and learn more about this monument, a …Let's go to the Colosseum! Undoubtedly one of the world's most iconic buildings, stepping inside the arena is a favorite activity for most visitors to Rome. But with up to 30,0000 tickets sold for the Colosseum a day, how do you make the most of your time there and learn more about this monument, a symbol of ancient Rome?
Hear Angelo, founder of LivTours, share the ticketing process, what to expect when you visit and the best ways to experience the Colosseum.
Read the full episode show notes here > untolditaly.com/235
Support the show
Join our mailing list and get our FREE Italy trip planning checklist - subscribe here | Join us on tour: Trip schedule | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Visit our online store | Follow: Instagram • Facebook • YouTube • Italy Travel Planning Community
The Untold Italy travel podcast is an independent production. Podcast Editing, Audio Production and Website Development by Mark Hatter. Production Assistance and Content Writing by the other Katie Clarke - yes there are two of us!
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The Untold Italy travel podcast is an independent production. Podcast editing and audio production by Mark Hatter. Production assistance by the othermore
Alizah Holstein, author of "My Roman History: A Memoir", came on to talk about the deep pathos of the Colosseum, how to experience the many layers or Roma, the Roman approach to history and food, and much more.
Mentioned in this episode:
Check out the Smart Travel Podcast
This week…Episode Notes
Alizah Holstein, author of "My Roman History: A Memoir", came on to talk about the deep pathos of the Colosseum, how to experience the many layers or Roma, the Roman approach to history and food, and much more.
Mentioned in this episode:
Check out the Smart Travel Podcast
This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:
Smart Travel Podcast
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of the Voyascape Travel Network, that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com.
If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below.
