Aiko Tanaka
@aikotracesmostly place
Loves travelling to different countries and getting to experience various new places and cultures.
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Reviews(20)
A Dreamy Ribbon of Blue Framed by the Alps
Lake Como · Como, Italy
Wandering around Lake Como feels like stepping directly into a classic Italian painting where time has gracefully slowed down. Shaped like an upside down "Y", this legendary lake is a breathtaking playground of deep blue water, dramatic mountain peaks, and elegant, pastel-colored lakeside villages that cascade down to the shore. The vibe here is completely relaxed and explorational; it invites you to completely ditch your itinerary, hop on a public ferry, and simply drift from one charming town to the next. Whether you are getting lost in the steep stone staircases of Bellagio, walking along the romantic promenade of Varenna, or admiring the grand historic villas that hug the shoreline, Lake Como captures an effortless, timeless romance that is completely mesmerizing.
Milan’s Symphony in Marble and Spires
Milan Cathedral · Milan, Italy
Standing before the Duomo di Milano feels less like looking at a building and more like witnessing a massive, frozen marble wave. As the crown jewel of the city, this jaw-dropping Gothic cathedral is an absolute masterpiece that completely commands the entire square. The vibe here is wonderfully explorational; the closer you get, the more you realize that the facade is a living canvas covered in thousands of incredibly detailed statues, gargoyles, and pinnacles. It is a monument that rewards you for slowing down and simply looking closer.
The Living Heart of Milan’s Grand Theater
Cathedral Square · Milan, Italy
Stepping into Piazza del Duomo feels like walking onto the grandest stage in Italy. It is the absolute, unmissable center of Milanese life, where centuries of history crash directly into the stylish, fast-paced energy of the modern city. The vibe here is endlessly entertaining; it is a place built for slow people-watching, where you can watch elegant locals rushing to work, street performers entertaining crowds, and travelers looking up in sheer awe. It is a sensory feast that manages to feel both monumentally historic and vibrantly alive all at once.
Modern Masterpieces with a Room with a View
Museo del Novecento · Milan, Italy
If you are wandering through Milan's bustling heart and want a change of pace from the gothic intensity of the cathedral, stepping into the Museo del Novecento is an absolute must. It has a fantastic, relaxed flow that encourages you to ponder the art without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Instead of just observing history, you feel like you are walking through the creative evolution of modern Milan itself.
A Must-See Night Spot for Epic Rome Photos
Castle of the Holy Angel · Rome, Italy
Seeing Castel Sant'Angelo illuminated at night is one of the most magical sights in Rome. The way this massive ancient fortress lights up at night is stunning, especially with its golden reflection shimmering right on the Tiber River. It is super easy to just grab a gelato, stroll across the pedestrian bridge lined with angel statues, and soak in the lively Roman street vibe. You do not even need to buy a ticket to go inside to appreciate how cool this place looks from the outside.
An Architectural Masterpiece and Spiritual Journey
Saint Peter's Basilica · Vatican City, Vatican City
The sheer scale of St. Peter's Basilica leaves you speechless from the moment you step into the square. Walking among the towering columns at night feels like stepping back in time, with the masterfully lit facade casting a dramatic, golden silhouette against the dark Roman sky. With an unmatched collection of Renaissance and Baroque masterpieces, and exceptional lighting that highlights the intricate exterior carvings, this is one of the place that rewards you with unforgettable memories.
Christmas celebrations in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican
Saint Peter's Square · Vatican City, Vatican City
St. Peter's Square is a monumental plaza located directly in front of St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. Encircling the square are 284 columns and 88 pilasters ( lining the top of the columns are 140 statues of popes, martyrs, and saints). During my visit in the christmas period, the square featured the illuminated Christmas tree and St. Peter's Basilica with hoards of people lining up to enter the St. Peter's Basilica after passing through the security screenings. The combination of ancient permanence and seasonal celebration that defines christmas at the Vatican creates an unforgettable atmosphere.
The view of the Tiber River from Ponte Pietro Nenni
Ponte Pietro Nenni · Rome, Italy
Had a slow walk towards the Tiber River after exploring Piazza del Popolo. I immediately noticed a view that portrayed another side of Rome which is much more quiet, peaceful and serene.
Cityscape views from Terrazza del Pincio
Piazzale Napoleone Primo · Rome, Italy
Fantastic viewpoint to breathe in the panoramic cityscape views from. The large dome visible is that of St. Peter's Basilica and the prominent white marble building in the background is the Altare della Patria located in Piazza Venezia.
Aurelian Walls
Aurelian Walls · Rome, Italy
Built between 271 and 275 AD by Emperor Aurelian to defend Rome from barbarian invasions. The Aurelian Walls span 19km and encloses the historic center of Rome.
Antoninus and Faustina located within Villa Borghese
Villa Borghese Park · Rome, Italy
The structure is an 18th-century "false ruin" designed by Cristoforo Unterperger to evoke ancient Roman charm using archaeological fragments and also to celebrate the cultural appreciation of the Borghese family for ancient Roman history.
Chiesa di Santa Susanna alle Terme di Diocleziano
Santa Susanna alle Terme di Diocleziano · Rome, Italy
The church is a must-see for anyone interested in the evolution of architecture; you are quite literally looking at the blueprint for the Baroque style that defines so much of Rome today. Compared to the overwhelming grandeur of Rome’s major basilicas, Santa Susanna offers a more intimate and serene experience, allowing visitors to closely inspect the intricate details of its frescoes and ornate chapel interiors.
Fountain of Moses
Fountain of Moses · Rome, Italy
This monumental fountain is a powerful display of late Renaissance ambition. Completed in 1587 under Pope Sixtus V, it was designed to mark the terminus of the restored Acqua Felice aqueduct. The fountain's design was inspired by the Roman triumphal arch, creating a sense of victory and permanence that makes it impossible to miss if you are walking through the area. It is a wonderful, often overlooked stop that highlights how integrated the city's water infrastructure was with its religious and civic monuments.
The Fountain of the Naiads
Fountain of the Naiads · Rome, Italy
The magnificent central fountain featuring four bronze nymphs (Naiads) is the showstopper of the square. It is especially striking when the water is in full play, creating a vibrant focal point in the middle of the cobblestoned space. Tucked into the left side of the square is Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels and Martyrs and on the right side of the fountain is Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome Hotel.
Pantheon
Pantheon · Rome, Italy
Arguably the most perfectly preserved building from Ancient Rome. Its massive, unreinforced concrete dome remains the largest of its kind in the world, a testament to Roman architectural genius. The Pantheon also serves as the final resting place for several historical figures, including the Renaissance master Raphael.
Chiesa di Sant'Agnese in Agone
Chiesa di Sant'Agnese in Agone · Rome, Italy
Chiesa di Sant'Agnese in Agone is a stunning example of 17th-century Roman Baroque architecture, perfectly situated on the western side of Piazza Navona. Built on the site where it is believed St. Agnes was martyred, the church’s concave facade designed by Borromini is widely considered one of the most beautiful in Rome.
Fountain of the Four Rivers at the center of Piazza Navona
Fountain of the Four Rivers · Rome, Italy
Fountain of the Four Rivers also named Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi is located in the center of the piazza. Bernini’s masterpiece is a stunning homage to four major rivers. It is topped by an impressive obelisk and is widely considered one of the finest examples of Baroque sculpture.
Fountain of the Moor at the southern end of Piazza Navona
Fontana del Moro · Rome, Italy
The Fountain of the Moor is a stunning example of the transition from late Renaissance to high Baroque design in Rome.
Neptune Fountain at the northern end of Piazza Navona
Fountain of Neptune · Rome, Italy
The Neptune Fountain is one of three magnificent fountains adorning this grand Baroque square. Originally built in the 16th century, the fountain features a dramatic statue of the god Neptune locked in a battle with an octopus, surrounded by playful cherubs and sea creatures. Whether on a rainy day or a sunny afternoon, the sound of the water provides a peaceful, constant backdrop to the bustling activity of the piazza.
Trajan's Market - The world's first shopping mall
Trajan's Market · Rome, Italy
Often referred to as the "world's first shopping mall," Trajan's Market are an architectural marvel. Built between 100 and 110 AD, the complex was once a bustling commercial and administrative hub featuring over 150 shops, offices, and apartments. Visiting at night, as you did, provides a spectacular view of the multi-level, semi-circular brick facade, which is beautifully illuminated, highlighting the ingenuity of Roman engineering.