These Are The 30+ Things To Do In Mexico City That You Must Try!

BY  Sibashree Nov 7, 2025

Hiking the Aotea Track up to the summit view of the Hirakimata Peak was one of the most rewarding experiences I had on the Great Barrier Island. The view after reaching the top took all our fatigue away.  However, the Great Barrier hiking trails are not just about panoramic summits. Hiking here also means walking along the rugged coastline, through the native forests, and to the geothermal springs. To cut a long story short, the best hikes on Aotea Great Barrier Island, New Zealand are the best routes for exploring its dramatic island.  Furthermore, you can be a beginner or a seasoned hiker. Great Barrier Island has trails that can accommodate all. So, this guide is about the trails you can explore for the perfect eco adventure. Why Is The Great Barrier Island A Hiker’s Paradise?  Cultural exploration, stargazing, off-grid living, exploring the biodiversity of the island, and the dramatic geothermal features make the Great Barrier Island a hiker’s paradise.  1. Dark Sky Sanctuary “Ecotourism is extremely important to Great Barrier Island and this International Dark Sky Sanctuary status will not only provide further tourism development and economic growth opportunities but also ensure the preservation of our exceptional starry skies." Izzy Fordham, Great Barrier Local Board Chair.  The designation of the Great Barrier Island as a Dark Sky Sanctuary in 2017 was not about getting a label to boost tourism. The island’s 60% area is a conservation park, and the local Maori people believe that the protection of the sky is important for the health and well-being of the local community.  Also, if New Zealand becomes a Dark Sky Nation, as aimed by the Royal Astronomical Society of New Zealand, the Great Barrier Island will have a pivotal role to play.  Nevertheless, as an activity, stargazing seems the most surreal experience during a multi-day hike on the Aotea track. Just relax and prepare for the next day after completing your day’s hike.  2. Off-Grid Living Sustainability is a choice or a way of living on the Great Barrier Island. So, there is complete reliance on solar power, and people here use composting toilets. Rainwater harvesting is another sustainable practice followed by the people of this island.  Nevertheless, thanks to the island's off-grid living, it has minimal to no light pollution and air pollution. Also, because of off-grid living, life on Great Barrier Island is deeply connected to nature. So, you can be the biggest homebody, but here you will feel the urge to experience the outdoors more intimately.  3. Biodiversity Of The Island “Great Barrier is at an exciting point in its history where the future of the islands flora and fauna looks bright.” - Go Great Barrier Island. The fact that 60% of the island is a conservation park speaks volumes about the island’s biodiversity. Furthermore, it is home to countless endangered species, including 13 species of lizards, the North Island Kaka Parrot, the Black Petrel, the Banded Rail, and the Pateke.  In addition, the native forest here is getting replenished quickly with the island authority being particular about pest control.  4. Geothermal Features Located within the Hauraki Rift, the Great Barrier Island has the Taupō Volcanic Zone and the Kaitoke Hot Springs. These geothermal zones, along with being natural spectacles, are also home to unique ecosystems where you will find New Zealand pigeon or kererū, fernbird, etc.  So, hiking through these geothermal zones is an exciting outdoor activity in the Aotea Great Barrier Island.  A Brief Comparison Table Of The Best Great Barrier Island Hiking Trails  Trail NameDurationDifficultyHighlightsAccessibilityAotea Track2–3 daysModerateForest, summit, hutsDOC huts, remoteKaitoke Hot Springs1.5 hrsEasyGeothermal poolsWheelchair-friendlyWindy Canyon1 hrModerateCliffs, panoramic viewsCar park accessHarataonga Coastal Walk4 hrsModerateBeach, forest, birdsTrailhead parkingPalmers Track2–3 hoursModerateStream crossings, dense bushNot recommended for people with fitness or mobility issuesWarren’s Track30–45 minutesEasyFamily-friendly loop near Tryphena, Kid-friendlyIt is not wheelchair-accessible. Whangaparaoa Beach Walk1–2 hoursEasyDune ecology, remote beachIt is not wheelchair-accessible due to a steep loop-walk area. Glenfern Sanctuary1–2 hrsEasyConservation, native birdsGuided tours available What Are The Best Great Barrier Island Hiking Trails? (Brief Overview) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Aotea Great Barrier Island (@greatbarrierislandofficial) Most of the hiking trails on the Great Barrier Island come with an easy to moderate difficulty level. Also, the Aotea track here is the only multi-day hiking trail on Great Barrier Island and the entire Auckland Region.  Let’s find out more about the Aotea track and other Great Barrier Island hiking trails.  1. Aotea Track (Multi-Day Circuit) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kristina | New Zealand travel, hiking & outdoors (@kristinamonts) Aotea track allows you to experience the ultimate fusion of history and natural beauty. Here, you will find the surviving trees and a unique wildlife of Kahikatea, Rimu, and Kauri.  The plants you will come across here are the cabbage tree, Horoeka or lancewood, Mānuka, Kānuka, etc. Furthermore, you will spot birds like Riroriro (Grey Warbler), Kererū (Wood Pigeon), etc.  2. Mount Hobson / Hirakimata Summit Track View this post on Instagram A post shared by Walking Legends Guided Walks (@walkinglegendsnz) This hiking route allows an encounter with the remnants of the ancient native bush, such as lancewood and cabbage tree. Also, while walking, you can meet the endangered Chevron Skink, a symbol of the rich biodiversity of the Great Barrier Island. 3. Kaitoke Hot Springs Track View this post on Instagram A post shared by Auckland, New Zealand (@visitauckland) This easy hiking track continues along the Kaitoke Swamp to the Kaitoke Hot Springs. You can continue your walk and continue on the Peach Tree Track to reach the Hirakimatā peak.  Kererū or wood pigeon and Kōtare or kingfisher are the most popular birds here.  4. Windy Canyon Track View this post on Instagram A post shared by Auckland, New Zealand (@visitauckland) The Windy Canyon track is one of the most popular short hiking trails on the Great Barrier Island. You have to climb up the steps through rock walls, which look dramatic thanks to the rampage of the ancient force of nature.  As you reach the top of the canyon, you will see the wonderful views of the Okiwi Basin, Whangapoua Beach, Medlands Beaches, and Kaitoke.  5. Palmers Track After completing the Windy Canyon Track hike, you can continue on the Palmers Track. Here you will walk along the steep ridgeline, and it is the shortest route to Mount Hobson.  Furthermore, on your way, you will spot the endemic kānuka plants, and the wooden horse here is a telltale of the logging history of the island.  6. Harataonga Coastal Walk It is one of the easiest hiking trails in Harataonga. It is associated with the history of transportation on the island, as it used to be the connecting route between the northern and southern parts of the island.  7. Warren’s Track It is a beautiful hike to a waterfall with a gently graded climb. Once you reach the waterfall, you can take a swim in the stream beneath. The food passes through the Kauri plantation before it joins the Bridle Track.  Here, you will walk through an exotic forest. However, the last lap of the trek is a little difficult with a rocky surface.  8. Whangaparaoa Beach Walk View this post on Instagram A post shared by Working In New Zealand (@workinginnewzealand) This peaceful route takes us to the Stanmore Bay Beach through the Rata Road walkway. Most of the walk continues on a paved road. However, some sections have a boardwalk and gravel.  This road is ideal for a pram walk. However, the stretch between the Rata Road Reserve and Whangaparāoa town centre is steep enough, and you will have to cross a few roads.  9. Glenfern Sanctuary Walks View this post on Instagram A post shared by Glenfern Sanctuary (@glenfernsanctuary) The Glenfern Sanctuary is a family-friendly loop track that continues along the Aotea Stream. You have to walk through a stretch of regenerating bush and climb around 100 meters.  After climbing up, you will enjoy the most amazing views of the Hauraki Gulf. On the stretch, you will be able to spot black petrel and kaka nesting. Also, you will find here the Chevron skink, the rarest and largest reptile in New Zealand.  How To Reach The Best Great Barrier Island Hiking Trails? View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nicole Marinkovich (@nicoolemarinkovich) You will have to take a Great Barrier Flight or a ferry ride to reach the Great Barrier Island. Upon reaching the island, you will have to take local transport to reach the following trail heads.  Great Barrier Island Hiking TrailsTrail HeadAotea TrackWindy Canyon/Whangaparapara RoadMount Hobson / Hirakimata Summit TrackBrownlee AvenueKaitoke Hot Springs TrackWhangaparapara RoadWindy Canyon TrackOkiwi-Claris RoadPalmers TrackWindy CanyonHarataonga Coastal WalkHarataonga CampsiteWarren’s TrackOpposite the Akapoua Campground EntranceWhangaparaoa Beach Walk1.5 Km up from Okiwi AirfieldGlenfern Sanctuary Walks20 Glenfern Road What Are The Best Family-Friendly Trails On Great Barrier Island? Best for Seniors• Kaitoke Hot Springs• Glenfern SanctuaryBest for Kids• Warren’s Track• Harataonga Beach WalkFacilities• Toilets at Major Trailheads• Picnic Areas• DOC Signage What Is The Best Time For The Great Barrier Island Hiking Trails?  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Julia Cole (@juliagoesglobal) The hiking trails of the Great Barrier Island are ideal for all-season hiking. However, the hiking trails offer a unique experience in each season.  SeasonWhy Visit The Hiking Trails?Summer (December to February)• Pleasant Weather Conditions• Clear VisibilityAutumn (March to May)• Cooler Temperature• Fewer CrowdsWinter (June to August)• Wet and Muddy• Fewer CrowdsSpring (September to November)• Active Birdlife• Blooming Flora Sustainable Hiking Tips For The Trails On Great Barrier Island Leave No Trace Use Cleaning Stations for Kauri Dieback (A Deadly Disease of Local Kauri Trees) Prevention Use Bio-Degradable Soap Use Reusable Water Bottles Follow Local Guidance and Signage to Remain Respectful to Wildlife and Sacred Sites What To Pack For Hiking The Best Trails On The Great Barrier Island?  Your packing list will depend on whether you are going for a single-day hike or a multi-day hike.  Day Hike EssentialsMulti-Day Gear• Water (2L+)• Snacks• Sunscreen & hat• Rain jacket• Map or GPS• Sleeping Bag• Cooking Gear• First Aid Kit• Headlamp• Extra Layers Guided Hikes And Local Tours: Enhancing Your Hiking Experience On The Great Barrier Island  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Glenfern Sanctuary (@glenfernsanctuary) Glenfern Sanctuary Tours and Māori Cultural Tours are the two most popular guided tours on the Great Barrier Island.  1. Glenfern Sanctuary Tours The Guided Loop Track tour of Glenfern Sanctuary is an amazing experience as you walk through the native bush. Here, you will spot the magnificent kauri tree and the resident black petrel.  The tour is 1 hour and 30 minutes, and a group must have at least five members. The tour's charges are $50 per person.  2. Māori Cultural Tours Whangaparapara Harbour Historic Treks, Harataonga, and Aotea Track are some of the best hiking trails to learn about authentic Māori culture and tradition.  The Whangaparapara Harbour Historic Treks take you to places of Kauri logging and whaling in ancient times. On the other hand, at the Harataonga DOC Campsite, you will find the old settlement sites of the Māori tribe.  Moreover, the Aotea Track has Māori archaeological sites, and Hirakimata Peak itself reflects local Māori spiritual beliefs and significance.  Where To Stay Near The Best Great Barrier Island Hiking Trails?  DOC huts, eco-lodges, hostels, and camping are the best accommodation options near the best Great Barrier Island hiking trails.  Trail NameNearby AccomodationAotea Track• Mt. Heale DOC Hut• Kaiaraara DOC HutKaitoke Hot Springs• Barrier Beach Cottage• Wiltshire ManorWindy Canyon• Aotea LodgeHarataonga Coastal Walk• Tipi and Bob's Waterfront LodgePalmers Track• Tipi and Bob's Waterfront LodgeWarren’s Track• Medlands Beach Backpackers and VillasWhangapoua Beach Walk• Aotea LodgeGlenfern Sanctuary• Glenfern Sanctuary Things You Don’t Know About The Great Barrier Island Hiking Trails: (Unearthing The Secrets) From housing, the only multi-day hike in Auckland, to being the home to many endangered species, the Great Barrier Island has many secrets to share.  1. Aotea Track: The Only Multi-Day Hike On The Island The 25–30 km loop of the Aotea Track is the only multi-day hiking track in the Auckland region. It passes through volcanic terrain, native bush, and summit views.  It’s a rare wilderness experience so close to a major city.  2. You Can Rejuvenate And Soak In Hot Springs In The Middle Of A Hike As you walk through the Kaitoke Hot Springs track, you will find geothermal pools, offering you a natural spa experience.  These pools, hidden in bushes and set in an underdeveloped setting, offer the purest connection to nature.  3. The Summit Of Mt Hobson Is A Breeding Ground For An Endangered Seabird Black petrel (tāiko) is one of the rarest seabirds of New Zealand. Hirakimatā / Mt Hobson is the home ground of these birds.  So, hikers have to continue on the boardwalks to protect the nesting areas of the birds.  4. The Island Is Free Of Possums, Stoats, And Deer Because the Great Barrier Island is free of Possums, Stoats, And Deer, you will be able to spot more birds such as kākā, kākāriki, and pāteke, and different types of wildlife.  5. You Can Hike Along Historic Logging Tramlines Some parts of the Aotea Track pass through the old tramlines used during the kauri logging era. In these pockets, you will find the ruins of machinery and dams that were used in carrying the logs.  6. The Island’s Trails Pass Through Regenerating Forests Much of the forest you hike through is regrowth from early 20th-century logging, dominated by manuka and kanuka, with pockets of ancient kauri, rimu, and kahikatea still surviving. 7. There’s a Track Named After A Gold Prospecting Legend The Te Ahumata Track to the White Cliffs was a popular site of gold prospecting. The locals still believe that gold may be hidden in the mountain. Thus, the hike has an element of myth.  8. The Island Has A Rare Endemic Plant: The Great Barrier Tree Daisy On many trails of the Great Barrier Island, especially on the Mt Heale Hut route, you will find the endemic species of the Great Barrier Tree Daisy.  This plant grows nowhere else in the world.  9. You Can Build Your Own Loop Adventure You can customize your Aotea Track hiking route based on your interests and fitness level. It has feeder tracks such as: Palmers Track Peach Tree Track Tramline Track 10. The Island’s Māori Name Means “Light Striking the Cliff” The Great Barrier Island has geological and spiritual significance in the Māori tradition. Mount Hobson is called Hirakimatā in the Māori language.  It means the “lightning striking the cliff face.” Great Barrier Island Hiking Trails: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the Great Barrier Island hiking trails.  1. Do I Need A Permit To Hike On The Great Barrier Island? No, if you are on a day trek on any Great Barrier Island trail, you do not need a permit. However, if you are trekking the Aotea Trail, you will need to book the huts of the Department of Conservation well in advance. You can contact the booking office at +64 7 867 9080 or the DOC Customer Service Centre at 0800 275 362. The last time I checked, the huts were under maintenance. So, confirm the availability of these huts.  2. Is It Safe To Hike Solo On Great Barrier Island? Yes, hiking solo is safe on the Great Barrier Island trails. However, the trails are in remote locations, and mobile coverage is limited in these areas. So, you must keep someone informed about your hike, and carry a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) and an offline map.  3. Are Dogs Allowed On Hiking Trails? No, dogs and pets are not allowed on the hiking trails on Great Barrier Island. The trails here are ideal for wildlife spotting. So, dogs are not allowed on these tracks to protect native wildlife. In addition, dogs are not allowed on these trails to prevent the spread of kauri dieback disease. 4. How To Reach The Great Barrier Island From Auckland? Taking a flight is the easiest option to reach the Great Barrier Island from Auckland. Barrier Air operates this flight service from the Auckland Domestic Terminal to the Claris Airport. Also, you can take a Sealink ferry from Auckland’s Wynyard Wharf to Tryphena. It is an unforgettable journey of 4.5 hours.

BY  Abdul Aziz Nov 7, 2023

A blend of natural beauty, a rich history, and a dynamic culture make Vietnam in southeast Asia perhaps one of the most attractive nations on the continent. It has become a popular travel destination. Vietnam offers a really unique experience with its broad range of scenery. You will find breathtaking coasts, towering mountains, lush deltas, and dynamic towns in Vietnam. Vietnam is a land of contrasts. It is the site of some of the world's most stunning beach locations, including Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc Island. Crystal-clear waters and white sands form a tropical paradise abound on these beaches. On the other hand, energetic hubs with bustling marketplaces, active street life, and a vibrant food scene, Vietnam's cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi provide a vivid fusion of modernity and tradition. If you want to know the best time to visit Vietnam, we are spilling all the details here. Best Time To Visit Vietnam Image Source: onewanderatatime.com Your best bet to visit this beautiful country is between November and April. From Sapa's verdant rice terraces to Ha Long Bay's spectacular limestone karsts, Vietnam is home to some breathtaking vistas. For those who enjoy being outside, it offers plenty of chances. Adventure seekers have a variety of activities. It includes trekking in the northern mountains, visiting caverns in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, or sailing the Mekong Delta. In coastal regions, water sports like kayaking, diving, and snorkeling are also very popular. Vietnam has a rich past that is evident in its many historical sites and is firmly anchored in ancient traditions. The Complex of Hue Monuments, Hoi An Ancient Town, My Son Sanctuary, and the Citadel of the Ho Dynasty. These are some of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Hue, an imperial city that has a Citadel and other royal tombs, also preserves the splendor of earlier Vietnamese eras. Vietnam now is a far cry from its turbulent and war-torn past. Its cities and towns are bursting with tall and imposing skyscrapers. It also has charming floating markets and mopeds zipping through the streets. You may complete the experience with the consistently delicious traditional Vietnamese cuisine. Vietnam is becoming more and more well-known on a global scale. Try well-known meals such as pho (noodle soup), banh mi (baguette sandwich), fresh spring rolls, and mouthwatering seafood. Vietnam is unique in that it offers a wide range of experiences. It offers a range from the craggy peaks of Ha Giang to the Mekong Delta's backwaters. Chase dragons in Hue join the crowd inside the canary-yellow walls of Hoi An's UNESCO Ancient Town. Finally, find space to breathe in a remote northern Vietnamese village. There are sand dunes in Mui Ne, tea fields in Thai Nguyen, waterwheels in Pu Luong, and hundreds of charming hamlets and intriguing little cities. The small villages dot the velvety rice terraces of Sapa and Mu Cang Chai. They also abound in the spiky limestone karsts of Halong Bay and Ninh Binh. Things To Do In Vietnam Image Source: www.travelinsurancedirect.com.au Now that you know when is the best time to visit Vietnam, here are some things you can try out when you visit: Learn To Prepare Vietnamese Cuisine- It's one thing to enjoy great Vietnamese cuisine. Consuming it after learning how to prepare it is another! Dive Underwater At Nha Trang- Although Nha Trang offers some fantastic diving, you would not think of Vietnam as a major dive destination. Visit The Canyons In Dalat- Climb, slide, leap, and rappel your way across canyons in this breathtaking location! Visit Da Nang's Marble Mountains- These stunning mountains have amazing vistas and temples to stop at along the trip. They have been quarried for marble for years. Sandboard Along Mui Ne's Sand Dunes- Similar to snowboarding, but you will go down enormous sand dunes! Embrace the rush! Go To Ghan Da Dia's Giants Causeway- Located in Northern Ireland, half a world from the Giant's Causeway, be awed by this extraordinary geological formation. Outside Of Ho Chi Minh City, See The Cu Chi Tunnels- Without visiting these famous tunnels that were utilized during the war, no vacation to HCMC is complete. Ride A Bike Over The Hoi An Pass- This is regarded as one of the most stunning stretches of road in the entire globe. Enjoy! Read More: Walking On Sunshine: Exploring The Magic Of Vietnam’s Golden Hand Bridge! Where To Stay Image Source: images.squarespace-cdn.com Vietnam is currently home to a wide variety of lodgings thanks to the country's construction boom. It includes glitzy sky pads in Ho Chi Minh City and rustic mountain retreats with nearby hill tribes. For the extravagant, there are opulent beach resorts with world-class spas. Whether you're on a tight budget or can afford to splurge, Vietnam excels in providing quality lodging at affordable prices. You can discover family guesthouses, flashpacker hostels, and fantastic local businesses. Wink Hotels, which recently launched in Ho Chi Minh City's hip District 3 with fusion cuisine and artsy rooms, starts at £30 per night. The most expensive option is to book a night at a landmark hotel like the Park Hyatt Saigon or Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi. Boutique hotels abound in this region of Southeast Asia, so you won't have to travel far when looking for something more design-focused. The InterContinental Sun Peninsula Resort Danang, Hotel de la Coupole Mgallery Sapa, JW Marriott Phu Quoc Bay, and Capella Hanoi are some of the hotels. They were created by hotel designer Bill Bensley. Labels like An Lam, Fusion, Azerai, and Zannier promote a more eco-chic look. Wrapping Up Despite having one of the longest wars of any country, a third of Vietnam's 97 million residents are under 30. This vibrant fusion of the ancient and new is what has propelled the nation from post-war destitution. It has become one of Asia's fastest-growing economies and one of the most popular tourist destinations. Vietnam has over 2,000 miles of majestic coastline, a profusion of golden beaches, fishing villages, and idyllic tropical islands. It has national parks and mind-boggling biodiversity. Its spectacular inland waterways stretch from its northern border with China to the Gulf of Thailand in the southwest. Halong Bay is one of Vietnam's most famous spectacular inland waterways. Vietnam has a patchwork of undulating mountains, dizzying rice terraces, and 1,000-year-old temples. Its vibrant cities, and life-giving rivers, most notably the Mekong, help dazzle its interiors. Along the way, you can munch your way through the trip. You can choose between mountains of zingy fresh food. There are meaty banh mi sandwiches, prawn-filled spring rolls, and sizzling banh xeo pancakes. You can pick up a whole new wardrobe from cheap-as-chips tailors. Or you could immerse yourself in a variety of historical treasures. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask on when is the best time to visit Vietnam, please leave a comment. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: THIS Is When You Should Visit Maldives! Island Paradise Unveiled: Best Time To Visit The Philippines This Is The Best Time To Visit The Seven Magic Mountains In Vegas! Singaporean Expert Says Vietnam Tourism Needs Better Destination Management: Report

BY  Sibashree Dec 27, 2023

Rome is unlike any other place. Here are some of the best things to do in Rome, as recommended by locals, whether this is your first or 20th visit. This is a city where narrow streets lead to stunning temples, the mound serves pasta, and there are endless opportunities to people-watch. There's a reason it's one of the most well-known cities in the world, but you can only truly appreciate its allure if you visit. Things To Do In Rome It’s important to have a plan because Rome is much larger than you may have imagined. Archaeological finds, famous art collections, and an abundance of culture make Rome special.  But don't worry, you still have plenty of time to enjoy an aperitif outside in the warm sunshine and digest your lunchtime pasta. Vatican Museums And Sistine Chapel Across 54 galleries, courtyards, and hallways, the Vatican Museums, established by Pope Julius II in the sixteenth century, are home to one of the greatest and most significant art collections in the world. The Sistine Chapel is home to thousands of prehistoric sculptures, Raphael pieces, and, of course, Michelangelo's frescoes. Get tickets to explore the Vatican Gardens, which are home to fountains, plants, and a recreation of the Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto, as well as the Vatican Necropolis, which is beneath St. Peter's Basilica, if you have the time and can arrange well in advance. The Colosseum The Colosseum is a must-see when visiting Rome, of course. Rome's crown jewel is this magnificent building—you know, the kind of thing you see on postcards—and it's even more amazing in person than you could have imagined. It is the world's largest amphitheater, with a capacity of 80,000 people, and was constructed between 72 and 80 AD. This used to be much more peaceful, with local Romans coming to watch animal hunts or bloody gladiator fights. Because of the sometimes insane lines, we advise purchasing tickets in advance. However, the 360-degree view over the theater on the fifth level makes it well worth the climb. Castel Sant’Angelo Hadrian, the Roman Emperor, constructed the striking cylindrical fortification known as Castel Sant’Angelo, or “The Castle of Angels.”  It is on the banks of the Tiber River. The popes used it as a castle and fortress after it was first inaugurated as a mausoleum for Hadrian and his family. It even has a hidden escape route connecting the building to Vatican City. These days, it’s a museum featuring rooms with frescoes, a display of medieval weapons, and expansive views of Rome and the neighboring St. Peter’s Basilica.  Inside is a small cafe where you can have a drink or some snacks while taking in views of the Vatican. The Pantheon One of the best-preserved ancient structures is the Pantheon, which was constructed by Emperor Hadrian in 125 AD. With a diameter of 142 feet, its dome is the biggest in the entire globe. This is a must-see in Rome, and if you're visiting the city over Pentecost weekend, you're in for a treat. This tops every tourist's list of things to do in Rome. To commemorate the occasion, tons of rose petals are dropped from the oculus during Sunday Mass. It's quite a sight. The Pantheon is free to enter as of the time of publishing (May 2023), but there are plans to charge visitors an admission fee of €5. Galleria Borghese Cardinal Scipione Borghese showcased his extensive art collection under its roof.  Built in the 16th century, it is still one of the top museums in Rome.  The Cardinal was an ardent art collector. He was also a big fan of Caravaggio’s works and an early patron of Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Highlights of the museum include Caravaggio’s Boy with a Basket of Fruit, Canova’s Paolina Bonaparte, and Bernini’s Apollo and Daphne. Take a stroll through the park after your visit to the “pleasure palace.” It was once a suburban villa submerged in the vast gardens of Villa Borghese. Domus Aurea The opulent Domus Aurea (Golden House) of Emperor Nero is a rare window into Rome’s underground world.  Also, it is one of the most magnificent homes of its era. It was earlier an opulent amusement venue close to the Colosseum between 64 and 68 AD, covering numerous historic hills in Rome. It was then devastated by the city’s destructive fire in 64 AD. Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, guests can participate in guided tours. A virtual reality tour is also available, which helps recreate the villa’s former splendor. Read Also: Eternal Elegance: A Guide To The Best Hotels In Rome Capitoline Museums The Capitoline Museums are in three buildings on the trapezoidal Piazza del Campidoglio, which Michelangelo created in the sixteenth century.  Known as the world’s first public museums, they hold Renaissance marble statues and Roman bronzes, including the Capitoline Wolf, a symbol of Rome’s founding, and the Equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius. An underground tunnel through the Galleria Lapidaria connects the two buildings of the museum. Visitors can also enjoy a superb view of the Roman Forum.  Make time to spend a few hours perusing the collection. Also, don’t forget to pay a visit to Piazzale Caffarelli’s hidden garden, right behind the square. Gianicolo Rome, sometimes referred to as the “city of seven hills,” is renowned for its picturesque viewpoints and abundance of terraces that provide breathtaking views of the cityscape.  Gianicolo is the highest point in Rome with a panoramic view over the Eternal City.  It is worth the trek even though it isn’t technically one of the fabled hills. It is above the Trastevere neighborhood. Nearby is the magnificent Fontana dell’Acqua Paola. It featured in La Grande Bellezza’s opening scene. Its majesty will astound you. Testaccio Market The Testaccio neighborhood is the epicenter of Rome’s culinary traditions. So, it is a must-visit destination for foodies and daring diners alike. The region was once home to the biggest slaughterhouse in Europe.  Workers there typically got compensation for the leftover animal parts. They called it the “quinto quarto,” or fifth quarter. The Testaccio Market, a bright and modern structure, is full of enticing stalls. It serves everything from freshly made pasta and craft beers to tripe stews and artichoke sandwiches.  Trastevere: The Heart Of Roman Nightlife While Testaccio owns the culinary history, Trastevere owns the evening.  This medieval neighborhood, located just across the Tiber, is a labyrinth of ivy-clad lanes and cobblestones.  Start at the Piazza di Santa Maria, home to one of Rome's oldest churches, and let the sounds of street performers lead you into the backstreets.  Local favorites like Freni e Frizioni offer a vibrant aperitivo scene, while hole-in-the-wall spots serve supplì (fried rice balls) that define Roman comfort food. The Appian Way And Catacombs For those who want to escape the city bustle, the Via Appia Antica offers a hauntingly beautiful walk through history.  Known as the "Queen of Roads," this ancient highway is lined with towering pine trees and the ruins of Roman tombs.  Beneath the surface lie the Catacombs of San Callisto, a vast underground cemetery where early Christians were buried.  Cycling down the original Roman basalt stones on a Sunday, when the road is closed to traffic, is perhaps the most serene experience the city offers. Rome In 2026: The Jubilee Transformation If you are visiting now, you will notice the city is glowing with a renewed energy.  Rome has recently undergone massive renovations for the 2025-2026 Jubilee, resulting in cleaned monuments and improved pedestrian zones.  A highlight is the newly accessible Largo di Torre Argentina, where you can walk among the ruins of the temples where Julius Caesar was assassinated. It is now home to Rome’s most famous cat sanctuary. This blend of high-stakes history and quirky modern life is precisely why Rome remains eternal. Read Also: What Is The Rome To Amalfi Coast Distance? How To Reach Amalfi Coast From Rome? Gladiators In Ancient Rome: Blood, Glory, And The Legacy You Can Still Feel Today Summer In Rome: Sleep, Do, See