Twenty years ago this year the world lost one of the most talented and beautiful actresses it had ever seen, but her legend lives on.
This year, we suggest taking a break with a difference, a Roman Holiday the Audrey Hepburn way.
While you may not be a princess in hiding, everyone knows the pressures and frustrations of a tight schedule, so why not retrace Anne/Anya’s steps in the Eternal City for a joyful city break. If you happen to find some young Gregory Peck lookalikes while you’re over there though… please bring one home for us too. Thanks!
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The Spanish Steps (Scalinata della Trinità dei Monti)
One of Rome’s most popular tourist attractions, the Spanish Steps is the widest staircase in Europe, with the Piazza di Spagna at the base and the Trinità dei Monti church at the top. The sight is spectacular on a summer’s evening, and is crowded with happy tourists and relaxed locals year round.
The Mouth of Truth (La Bocca della Verità)
Careful what you whisper while visiting this one, a superstition dating back to the Middle Ages states that if one tells a lie with their hand in the mouth of the sculpture, it would be bitten off. You’ll find this one in the portico of the church of Santa Maria in Cosmedin.
The Trevi Fountain
One of the most famous fountains in the world! Standing 86ft high and measuring 161ft wide, this spectacular sight is best visited as night closes in. The legend says that if a visitor throws a coin into the Baroque fountain then they’re sure to return to Rome again some day.
Via Condotti
Would you like to “sit at a sidewalk cafe, look in shop windows …”? If you’d like to follow in Audrey’s footsteps, the famed Via Condotti is the place to do it. Whether you’re splashing out or simply stopping for some quality Italian coffee, this is the street to set yourself up on for some fascinating people-watching.
The Pantheon
It’s difficult to even comprehend the history that goes with this building. Erected over two thousand years ago as a temple to the Gods, it remains one of the best preserved of the Roman buildings. The Pantheon is still occasionally used for special masses.
The Colosseum
The largest amphitheatre in the world, and the iconic symbol of Rome itself. The Colosseum dates back to the Roman Empire and is considered one of the greatest works of Roman architecture. Imagine the gladiators of old, and the 50,000 spectators who filled the arena to see them. Breathtaking.
Roman Holiday was the movie that brought worldwide attention to a young Hepburn, who won the Best Actress Academy Award for her portrayal of the reluctant princess. To create your own Roman Holiday break, check out Flexibletrips. With daily flights available, you’re sure to find a trip that suits!
Some sample trips:
Direct Flight and Hotel packages (no baggage or transfers)
20 May 2 Nights 4* Hermitage Hotel / Pariolo district €322.00 per person B&B
20 Aug 2 Nights 3 * Sisto V Hotel / Vatican district €306.00 per person B&B
20 Oct 2 Nights 3* Tre Stelle Hotel / Termini Station €242.00 per person B&B
For information on the deals on offer for Rome and various other locations, check out the Flexibletrips website or call 01 514 0349.
