The historic neighbourhoods of Al Sheyoukh and Al Maraija constitute Sharjah's main Heritage Area. They are compact in size, very walkable and contain a number of small museums that make for short educational and entertaining pit stops along the way.

Built under Emperor Vespasian in A.D. 70-72 and completed by his son Titus 10 years later, the Flavian Amphitheatre, or the Colosseum, is a massive stone arena, which at its peak, could accommodate 80,000 spectators. As in the movie 'Gladiator,' the Colosseum has hosted violent and brutal displays of gladiatorial combats and wild animal fights, all just for the delight of crowds. The inauguration lasted one hundred days, and approximately 9,000 animals and 2,000 gladiators were killed during the event. Today, the Colosseum is Rome's most visited sight, which never fails to leave visitors awe-struck. Be sure to also come here at night when it looks even more magical.

The small town of Guardiagrele is another great option for a short day trip, but it is not reachable by train, so visitors are advised to hire a car. It lies in the foothills of the Maiella mountain, and the stunning views of the surrounding region led Gabriele d'Annunzio to nickname the town 'The terrace of Abruzzo'.

The Basilica of San Clemente is more than a simple church; it is a real museum that houses layers and layers of history. Behind the humble doors of this 12th-century church lie the remnants of the original basilica dating back to the 4th century, the remains of a 1st-century Roman villa, and breathtaking Byzantine mosaics beautifully adorning the ceiling.