Italy, Leg 2: Rome Bound

There’s nothing quite like traveling through Italy by train, I mean how else would you do it? The rhythm of the rails, the shifting landscapes, and the anticipation of what’s next. Leg 2 of our Italian adventure took us from the quiet charm of Cava to the timeless energy of Rome, with a few detours, delicious bites, and one big reminder: sometimes, the best part of travel is letting plans change along the way.

Day 4 – Travel Day to Rome & First Impressions

After another simply delicious breakfast at the hotel, we grabbed a cab to the train station and started our journey north. The day included a train from Cava to Naples, followed by our little splurge, a pre-booked fast train from Naples to Rome. (Totally worth it for the comfort and speed!) From Rome Termini, we hopped another train to Rome Muratella, then walked the final 15 minutes to our hotel.

Dinner at the hotel and a quiet evening were just what we needed after a full travel day. A lighter day overall (5,063 steps!), but a good reset before exploring the city.

Day 5 – Exploring the Eternal City

Breakfast that morning was in a large, bustling dining space, a big contrast to the cozy, welcoming atmosphere we loved in Cava. It felt a little impersonal, and to my disappointment, there was no option for a decaf cappuccino, so I had to go without. A small thing, but one that reminded me how much those thoughtful touches can shape your experience.

After breakfast, we set out for the city starting with a 15 minute walk to the train at Rome Muratella which took us to , the Roma Ostiense station, followed by a quick subway ride. Off the subway and up some stairs, and suddenly, there it was: the Colosseum, holy cow. It literally took my breath away. I was HERE. It’s one of those sights that will never lose its magic. Standing in front of it, you can almost feel the weight of history. We had nothing scheduled that day, which turned out to be such a gift. We wandered aimlessly through the surrounding ruins, pausing to take in the Roman Forum, the Temple of Venus, the statue of Caesar, and remnants of ancient structures that have stood for centuries. It’s surreal to see history in person, to walk the same paths where emperors once stood and imagine the lives that played out in those very streets.

We decided to skip some of the big-ticket stops this time, places like the Vatican, the Sistine Chapel, Trevi Fountain, and the Spanish Steps, choosing instead to experience Rome at a slower pace. There’s something freeing about not rushing from one famous site to the next. Without the pressure of a checklist, we could just wander, linger, and notice the smaller moments, a street musician playing near the ruins, locals chatting over espresso, sunlight catching on ancient stone. It felt like seeing a softer, more personal side of the city.

From there, we let the day unfold on its own, strolling through cobblestone streets until we found ourselves in Campo de’ Fiori for drinks and snacks. Then we crossed the river to Trastevere, where we explored the shops and soaked up the charm. By the time we started thinking about lunch, it was nearly 3 p.m., and we were crossing our fingers we’d even find a place open. Italy tends to shut down in the afternoons. Luckily, we stumbled upon a tiny deli that was still serving, and it turned out to be a gem . We split a delicious sandwich and a perfect cannoli. Sometimes, the best meals are the ones you don’t plan.

We located the train station and took a quick train ride back to Rome Muratella, another 15-minute walk to the hotel, and one last stop at an amazing food truck situated just outside our hotel for paninis (to save for dinner). The afternoon called for pool time before a relaxing dinner in our room. Over drinks by the pool that evening, we decided to tweak our plans; instead of spending four nights in Rome later in our itinerary, we’d do three in Bologna and just one night back in Rome before flying home.

Final thoughts: The hotel had a great pool but was a bit too far from the city center. The staff felt a little standoffish, and the restaurant was just okay. Still, after a day filled with 15,700 steps, good food, and spontaneous decisions, we ended the night feeling grateful, tired feet, full hearts, and ready for our next leg.

Travel isn’t always glamorous, sometimes it’s a crowded breakfast room, a missing cappuccino, or the frantic search for an open café, but it’s always worth it. Some of the best moments happen when you don’t have a plan, just time to wander and take it all in. Each leg brings something unexpected, and that’s what makes the story unforgettable. Next stop: Monterosso.