No matter how many postcards you’ve seen of Rome’s iconic Colosseum, you just don’t get it until you pass beneath its crumbling arches. Built by Emperor Vespasian in 72 C.E., the huge amphitheater held 50,000 spectators and marked its opening with 100 days of brutal spectacles like gladiator combat and animal fights. The Colosseum was in use for four centuries, and now you can tour the ruins. We will stop here for a memorable picture. Parking for vehicles has some limitations in Rome so the driver may need to park a bit far and it may involve some walking.

Inaugurated in 1911 to pay respect to Victor Emmanuel II, the Monumento Nazionale a Vittorio Emanuele II (Altare della Patria) is an imposing building located in Piazza Venezia. It provides some breath-taking views of Rome. Since 1921, the Victor Emmanuel Monument holds the tomb of the unknown soldier, a place in which the eternal flame shines and which is always guarded by two soldiers. The colossal monument, which is 135 meters wide and 70 meters high, is comprised of scores of majestic Corinthian columns and endless stairs, all carved in white marble. The top is crowned with an equestrian sculpture of Victor Emmanuel cast in bronze and two chariots driven by the goddess Victoria.

The Trevi Fountain is perhaps the most famous fountain in the world and definitely in Rome. The baroque fountain on the Piazza di Trevi was initially designed by Bernini for Pope Clemens XII. However, it was not built until 50 years later after a redesign by the architect Nicola Salvi. Construction lasted from 1732 to 1762. The fountain’s fame is in part the result of the many films that featured the Trevi Fountain, including La Dolce Vita, Angels and Demons, The Lizzie McGuire Movie. The almost 30-metre high Trevi Fountain was built against the Palazzo Poli building. In the centre underneath the arch stands the statue of the nautical god Neptune, being pulled to the sea on his shell-shaped chariot pulled by two winged horses and tritons. The cars are not allowed at the Trevi fountain so the chauffeur will drop you off as close as possible and pick you up after the visit.

The Vatican City, one of the most sacred places in Christendom, attests to a great history and a formidable spiritual venture. A unique collection of artistic and architectural masterpieces lie within the boundaries of this small state. At its centre is St Peter’s Basilica, with its double colonnade and a circular piazza in front and bordered by palaces and gardens. The basilica, erected over the tomb of St Peter the Apostle, is the largest religious building in the world, the fruit of the combined genius of Bramante, Raphael, Michelangelo, Bernini and Maderno. The parking is a bit far from the main area so it may involve some walking. We will just stop here to admire the fabulous Vatican.