My favourite Rome-sunset-spot

When the sky turns to shades of red, and San Pietro is lighting up in the distance, Altare della Patria standing tall and grand in the background— in Giardino degli Aranci.

First of all, to make it clear, Rome is always beautiful. At any time of day. I could leisure around the city without any destination in my head, and end up in awe anyway. It’s full of ancient sites and lively vibes. Even after midnight, or early morning at dawn, you could see Trevi without the crowd or San Pietro lighting up.

However, I have always had a thing for sunset. That twilight sky with shades of gradations from red to pink to purple, I’m head over heels for. Which is why, I kept spending sunset in different places in Rome, until I finally found my perfect hideaway: Giardino degli Aranci.

This place, which translates to Orange Garden, is located on the Aventine Hill. It’s just next to the Aventine Keyhole. You will need about 25-30 minutes away by foot from Colosseum, and 15 from Circo Massimo. Giardino degli Aranci is actually not so far from these two sites. However, it’s an uphill walk, which is why you’ll get an amazing view to the city’s panorama.

Inside the park are these tall, scenic trees, keeping you cool under their shades even when the sun is scorching. There are lots of park benches where you can kick back and relax, waiting for the golden hour.

Approaching sunset, this vantage point is normally crowded with couples who are enjoying the romantic view. And I can’t blame them, especially since there’s always this man serenading the entire visitors with his acoustic songs.

As you enter Orange Garden, you will see a path, with San Pietro’s dome in the distance. It’s such a beautiful sight, the Cupola seemingly framed by the tall orange trees.

You can also see Altare della Patria from this place and the Tiber. My favourite moment is the second it gets dark and the streets start to light up, along with the city. I took a lot of pictures, although none of them do the sight justice. You just have to see for yourself. It’s such a calming, peaceful, beautifully exquisite experience.

Here are some of the photos I took. Rome in different sunlights.