Escape to the Eternal City: A Solo Traveler’s Reflections on Rome

When thinking of an unforgettable vacation, many dream of visiting Italy. Engaging in the Italian history and cuisine is on quite a few bucket lists. I recently embarked on an amazing journey through Rome, the Amalfi Coast, and the rolling hills of Tuscany. In my opinion, every solo adventurer should do the same.

My favorite times of year to travel are in the off-peak seasons. Early January, May, and November to be exact. The crowds are down during these months. The weather is not usually extremely hot or cold, except maybe in January. Traveling to Rome in the first week of November proved to be a perfect time to be there. A sweater or light jacket was all I needed. Don’t forget comfortable shoes for all the walking you’ll do on those cobblestone streets.

Visiting the Colosseum was first on my list. I recommend booking a skip-the-line tour. Most tour companies include a walk through the Roman forum or other extras with the ticket. The Colosseum is one of the wonders of the world and you will see why when inside. Gaining insights into its gladiatorial past was just fascinating. Standing outside the architectural marvel is just as wonderful.

If Vatican City is also on your list of must-see sites, I suggest reserving a tour here as well. Remember to also pack your walking shoes and your patience because the lines at the Vatican museums can be brutally long. Do not expect to see the Pope unless you reserve tickets in advance for the Papal Audience that is held on Wednesdays.

Pro tip: visit the popular sites like the Colosseum and Trevi Fountain early in the morning to avoid the crowds.

Photos can be tough to get when traveling solo. But other travelers and tour guides are usually happy to help. As an alternative, invest in a portable tripod to carry on your journeys. I have a selfie stick that also acts as a tripod. I can’t remember the last time I had to use it though. It is also possible, and often affordable, to book a photographer on Airbnb for a photo shoot. Search “Rome photographer” and thank me later! Make sure to capture every essential moment.

Food

All of the walking, tours, and photography are sure to leave you hungry. There are so many great restaurants where you can find pasta and gelato! Food tours are becoming commonplace on my travels. There’s no better way to get all the best food in an area than being guided by a local. But wear your stretchy pants.

The food in central Rome is fine and often offers picturesque views. For the best food, venture out of the tourist district. You know it’s authentic when there are no menus outside the restaurant. There are especially no menus in English!

The Trastevere area is a great place to go for food, music, and shopping. I took a Trastevere food tour on my second day in town. It did not disappoint. The portions were large and the wine was free flowing. I definitely recommend a local food tour when in Rome.

Cooking classes are an awesome way to immerse yourself in the culture and eat some good local cuisine. I took a cooking class in a local restaurant where we made fettuccine, ravioli, and tiramisu. It was a unique experience.

My fettuccine

Day Tours from Rome

So, after exploring all the sites in the eternal city, consider heading to the countryside or seeing the coast. I took a tour to Positano and Pompeii on the Amalfi coast. If your stomach can handle driving up the winding roads, I say book it. The views were breathtaking. It’s definitely a must-do even when visiting Italy.

Most tours to the Amalfi coast will also stop in Sorrento or Pompeii. Mine stopped in Pompeii. I was able to see Mount Vesuvius and the destroyed city of Pompeii. It was unimaginable.

Here, you can enjoy a history lesson about the eruption of Mount Vesuvius and the city it destroyed. Buildings and people were frozen in time when it was buried with volcanic ash and gas all those years ago. This place is definitely worth a visit.

Pompeii

Amalfi Coast

Best known for its scenic views, the 50-kilometer stretch of southern Italy will definitely take your breath away. Positano, Sorrento, and Salerno are among the popular cities on the Amalfi coast.

Visit or view the small beaches and cliffs while dining beachside. Enjoy a limoncello spritz or do some shopping. These coastal towns never disappoint.

Tuscany

Who among us has not dreamed of being under the Tuscan sun? I’m guilty. The region is filled with farmland and wineries. A perfect place to stay or getaway to from Rome. I had lunch at a farmhouse and shopped in a nearby town called Monticello.

Wine tasting in the Chianti region, friendly guides shared their passion for winemaking. If I had more time in Tuscany, I would stay in a bed and breakfast, visit a castle, and go to the capital city – Florence.

Final Thoughts

Traveling through Italy solo is exhilarating. The adventure and relaxation recharges you. From the ancient wonders of Rome to the serene coastal trails of Amalfi, and the rustic charm of Tuscany, every moment was a reminder of the joy and empowerment that comes with solo travel. I will be back soon.

If you’re considering your first solo adventure, why not let Italy be your muse? Pack your bags, embrace the unknown, and create your own story—because the best journeys are the ones you take for yourself.