Today’s walk, even though it thrusts deep into the heart of Rome, seeks to avoid the busiest streets and focus on the cycling paths along the Tiber, through marvellous parks. If your desire to reach St. Peter’s is strong, we suggest you walk at a comfortable pace and enjoy Rome from close up. Depart from Piazza Sempione to leave Monte Sacro and cross the Tazio Bridge over the Aniene River. Follow first the sidewalk and then the easy cycle path along the Tiber River until you reach the Vatican. Pay close attention to the signposts to get to Villa Ada, Rome’s second largest park and one of the city’s best loved. Villa Ada was originally built as a royal residence for the reigning Savoy family, and the park remains home to a major legacy of architecture and verdant greenery. A visit is a must. Then the route passes by Rome’s great mosque, past the entrance to Villa Glori, another of Rome’s historical parks, and then past the Auditorium and Parco della Musica cultural hub. You will soon reach Ponte Milvio, one of Rome’s oldest and most important bridges. On the other side of the bridge you can get back on the cycle path along the Tiber. The walk is made even more special by striking views of Castel Sant’Angelo and the dome of St. Peter’s, affectionately known as il cupolone, or ‘big dome.’ You are now inside the very heart of the Eternal City, surrounded by history and the beauty of the magnificent architecture. Leave the cycle path and cross the Sant’Angelo bridge, where splendid statues of angels welcome the tired pilgrim. Now walk down Viale della Conciliazione, you’ll feel your step quicken as you approach one of the great marvels of the world: the Basilica of St. Peter’s and Vatican City. It is time to give in to the sheer joy of having made it. All you need now is the last stamp and the Testimonium Sancti Petri. Congratulations!