So, my first time in Italy and I'm heading into Rome with PV and his Family for a day trip, within minutes of looking at the map I can see that wont nearly be enough time but I will definately be making the most of it. We will be getting the train from Bracciano Straight to Rome as the parking can be tricky, and I've been told the train is a double decker so the view is better than by car (not to mention the ticket is only six Euro and this allows travel on Train, Metro and Bus all day. Very good value).

The day was fantastically clear, about 25 degrees, and on arrival into Rome it becomes clear how vast a City it is, the transport network however was extremly efficient with a metro (underground) system that practically covers all areas by a simple crossed line in the centre and the corners reaching to the corners of the city. So good in fact that there was no need to use a bus as you are never far from a station.

Our first stop was the 'Stato della Città del Vaticano' or the Vatican City. When you see it on television or a movie, it doesn't prepare you for how vast it actually is. You are immediately struck by a vast row of pillars atop of which are scores of statues of saints. Once inside this you see a large Cepitaph in the centre with two large fountains either side. and of course you see above the entrance to St Peters the balcony from which addresses are made.

Inside St. Peters again there is just an amazing sense of grandeur and size, literally on every wall is a mural or painting, statue or artifact, there are literally too many to count. Even looking to the ceiling you see fantastic frescos and ornate designs. I would say from just the bit I saw you would need at least two days to get a sense of everything, and even that is justskimming the surface, but well worth a visit.

The next stop was a treat, we had lunch just outside the vatican in an extremely popular pizza shop, it is literally a couple of blocks away on via Germanico, and is highly recommended.

Next on the Agenda, The Colusseum, another sight in Rome you can never fully appreciate until you see it. We took the Metro from Vatican City, to Colosseo station. As soon as you step outside, you are confronted with the imposing presence of The Colosseum itself, as you get closer the true enormity takes hold and you feel about the size of an ant in contrast, it truely is a wonder.

Although a lot of focus goes on the Colossuem, next to it is the Arch of Constantine and also the Ancient City, which are both again spectacular, there are guided tours of the city but you would have to put aside most of at least one day for this in order to fully appreciate it.

We then travelled to the Piazza di Spagna, this being an enchanting space in the City with Spanish steps leading up to the Chiesa di Trinita dei Monti. There is a fountain known as the 'Barcaccia' (boat) which many people congregate around as the square leads into several famous streets, Via Dei Condotti, Via Frattina and Via Borgognona with their luxurious boutiques, and Via Del Babuino with its antique shops.

Of course, no trip to Rome would be complete without seeing The Fontana di Trevi or Trevi Fountain. A fantastic sculptured fountain which marks the end of the Aqua Virgo, an aqueduct constructed in 19 BC. Bringing water all the way from the Salone Springs about 20km from Rome. Legend has it that the bottom of the fountain represents the sea, and if you throw a coin in over your shoulder you will definately return. Obviously I did this

Finally after a turn around the Pantheon we visited the church of san luigi dei frances which famously holds three of the reputed fourteen Caravaggio paintings in Rome, closely followed by Ice Cream in a nearby Restaurant and then home.

I think on reflection, Rome has many wonders that each warrant spending time in or around, and over the next few years I will return many times to give each its deserved time. Although for a whistle stop tour, I think I managed to see and experience enough of Rome to wet my appetite.