Ah, Rome. Rome is a city full of such a great deal of history and culture that it ends up on nearly everyone’s bucket list. The challenge with Rome, and it’s one that we’ve heard repeatedly, is that there is so much to do and see within the boundaries of the city that planning a trip can get overwhelmingly complex quickly.
We`ve had direct experience with Rome on multiple occasions – including dedicating a full 10 days entirely to exploration across our latest trip to Italy (be sure to check our guide if planning travel, it addresses creating an itinerary for Italy).
While we had previously experienced the main attractions in Rome like the Colosseum and the Vatican, having more time allowed us to delve deeper and explore parts of Rome that many travelers seldom see.
Additionally, though her time living in Rome concluded long ago, Alysha`s experience of around half a year`s residence provides a slightly altered viewpoint of the city compared to many visitors.
She still enjoys recounting the story about being on a late night bus with a couple of inebriated Americans, and having a group of Italians mistake her for Italian herself and speak to her in Italian, ridiculing the oblivious Americans (luckily, she speaks Italian).
We firmly accept that the best way to undergo Rome is not to spend your entire time hurrying around the city from one site to the next. Yes, of course you want to notice the Colosseum and the Vatican with St. Peter’s Basilica. But we also feel that the best way to do Rome is to reserve time in between those main tourist attractions for exploring on foot, wandering, and enjoying a slow lunch or dinner on an outdoor terrace.
In this guide to things to do in Rome, we won’t provide a complete list of every museum, park, plaza, and church possible to see. Instead, we’ll offer a blend of major attractions – what they are, brief history, and how to see them. We’ll also share some of our other favorite activities.
Which, to be honest, mostly involves eating and drinking, with a few magnificent perspectives of the Eternal City sprinkled in for good measure.
Equipped with that information and our guide to planning a Rome itinerary, you`ll be prepared to craft a trip that delves deeper than most and increases understanding of the various aspects of Rome`s history and culture that have shaped the city we know today over its existence spanning multiple millennia. Learning is our favorite element of travel, which you`ll likely realize upon reading this.
Does this sound agreeable to you? Let’s delve into the best things to do in Rome.
Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.
Table of Contents
What to Do in Rome: The Best Things to Do and See in Rome
This guide has been organized into four distinct sections, as follows:
- The Main Sights in Rome
- Other Things in Rome That We Love
- Eating and Drinking in Rome
- The Best Views in Rome
Below that, you’ll find some practical information on when to visit and where to lodge for your trip.
The Main Sights in Rome: The Colosseum, Vatican, and Centro Storico
Look, we understand. When you visit Rome for the first time, you will definitely want to see the primary attractions that are widely referenced – the Colosseum and Roman Forum, the Vatican and St. Peter’s, and the Centro Storico.
What we aim to emphasize with great clarity is that we feel exploring Rome should not solely revolve around that activity.
We also believe it is important to consider how you want to experience each of the main attractions. Which is why we provide detailed guides below including our suggestions on the best ways to see each sight to make the most of the experience.
Be sure to allot time for exploring other attractions alongside the primary sights – enjoying the cuisine, scenic vistas, and ambiance.
The Colosseum & Roman Forum
This is the heart of Ancient Rome, at minimum in our minds. Arriving from an American viewpoint – specifically originating from the western coast, where our cities are POSSIBLY 200 years old – the depth of history and culture that exists within this small complex is mind-boggling.
Old for countless millennia, some of the structures have been repaired for certain, but the actuality that anything whatsoever remains standing here after eons brings the grandeur and impressiveness of the Roman empire into complete focus.
Some guides will have these separated, and I totally comprehend why. They’re entirely distinct experiences, and stand for very dissimilar things in Roman history.
However, we feel visiting them together makes the most sense, which is why we’re covering both under one heading.
Before or during your visit, there exists an outstanding perspective of the Roman Forum from outside its boundaries located here.
We have individually undertaken (and enjoyed) TakeWalks’ Reserved Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill – you can read about our experience here(hint: we loved it!). It is an excellent tour option that encompasses both the Colosseum and Forum.
The Colosseum
The massive Roman structure, the most renowned (and sizable) globally, is the Colosseum.
The structure was commissioned by Emperor Vespasian in 72 C.E. after the area was used as a private palace for infamous (and unpopular) Emperor Nero. It was somewhat of a gesture to the people that the ruling class hadn’t ignored them.
Unfortunately, Vespasian didn’t live to see it completed. Instead, it was completed under his son Titus in 80 C.E., taking just eight years to build (which is insane when you consider that some churches take several centuries).
It`s plausible that after some expansions and renovations through the years, the structure`s capacity spanned somewhere between 40,000 and 50,000 spectators, though you may still encounter figures as elevated as 80,000 thrown around which most scholars generally agree is a bit ambitious.
Another misimpression about the Colosseum often propagated by media like movies and television shows is that the gladiatorial games were unremittingly savage brutal and deadly.
That point is valid to some degree, but our guide also pointed out that ultimately, the gladiators were highly skilled professionals AND they represented significant monetary assets to the wealthy owners who undoubtedly didn`t want their valuable property injured or destroyed.
It’s more plausible that the gladiatorial battles resembled modern boxing matches than the bloodbaths depicted in films starring Russell Crowe.
It’s enormous, and it’s an impressive feat of human ingenuity. I, Matt, have explored the Colosseum four different times now, and each time my jaw drops as you emerge onto the perimeter platform surrounding the arena.
The Roman Forum
The Roman Forum – known in Italian as the Foro Romano – is a little different than the Colosseum. Unlike the Colosseum, which stands tall and intact (having been rebuilt and renovated over the years), the Roman Forum is mostly ruins.
Which makes comprehending the buildings complex without a guide to deciphering the differences such as between the Senate building and the Temple of the Vestal Virgins. Palatine Hill, one of Rome`s seven hills, lies just to the southwest and is accessible from within. One of Rome`s best views can be found at the viewpoint at the top of the hill.
This is the heart of the ancient city of Rome.
The majority of significant structures in Ancient Rome were within walking distance of this historic gathering place.
Contrary to common belief, while a temple dedicated to Julius Caesar is located here, he was actually killed nearer Largo di Torre Argentina rather than in the Forum.
How to Experience the Colosseum and Roman Forum
We firmly believe, largely influenced by the incredible tour of the Colosseum we experienced with our favorite Italian tour company (you can read all about it here) where we learned that some (really, most) preconceptions we held about the Colosseum were simply myths.
In actuality, the conflicts weren’t gruesome and bloody. In actuality, they didn’t execute Christians en masse. In actuality, they didn’t have naval battles inside the Colosseum.
Receiving guidance from our tour greatly enhanced our comprehension through the insightful context and details provided. Without that background, it`s difficult to appreciate the significance of some locations, especially the Forum which now consists mainly of ruins. We would highly recommend booking a tour to take full advantage of the experience.
Remember, we each had previous encounters with the Colosseum. MULTIPLE TIMES. That, friends, demonstrates the impact of touring with a guide who is truly knowledgeable about the topic. You’ll attain a deeper understanding and learn about the structure beyond the myths and tales perpetuated for decades.
Now, if interested in a guided tour, the options can seem convoluted. Is seeing the Colosseum floor necessary? What about night visits? Fortunately, we`ve participated in most tour variants (and consulted guides) so we’ll summarize the best approach here.
There are basically three tour options we would take into account. They all include visits to both the Colosseum and Forum (some include extra visits to restricted areas), and all involve an expert guide who will help bring the massive structures to life.
A tour of the Colosseum during the daytime: This was the excursion undertaken, and the experience was superb. I can imagine that in the peak heat of summer, the portion exploring the Forum where shade is scarce might feel rather intense, but the data our guide imparted was truly remarkable, and arguably altered some of our perspectives and viewpoints regarding Rome and Italy. Both the Colosseum and Forum areas were covered, with the most time spent within the Colosseum, allowing ample opportunities for photographs and inquiries.
The Colosseum and the Pathway of the Gladiators: This experience essentially covers the similar grounds as the previous option – meeting at the same place and time, and visiting similar locales. The difference lies in accessing the interior ground through the entrance formerly used by gladiators, and traversing the reconstructed arena floor. While a little pricier, the perspective from within the battlefield is otherworldly, thus potentially worthwhile depending on one`s budget.
The Colosseum by Night (+ Underground Tour): We too undertook the night exploration of the Colosseum on our latest excursion, and must confess holding a conflicted experience. The tour itself proves quite educative – you`ll commence externally from the Colosseum complex, walking from the Teatro di Marcello, past Piazza del Campidoglio, and into the Imperial Forum prior to arriving at the Colosseum. This provides the possibility to gain additional context about the Roman Empire ahead of entry. Additionally, with tours spaced strategically within, you essentially explore solo, contrasting vastly with daytime crowds. The underground areas are revealed too, where combatants and creatures awaited their turn to rise onto the arena floor, presenting an intriguing perspective. Regretfully, our guide conveyed myths as reality and generally lacked skills to satisfy inquiries or impart historical learning to the group. Nevertheless, given experiencing the Colosseum under a wholly different light, we`d still advocate despite reliant on one`s guide.
Visiting the Colosseum and Forum on Your Own
Wanting to visit on your own? We’d strongly advise downloading the Rick Steves audio guide, which has been used before. You’ll need to bring headphones to listen to it, and it’s a way to simulate a guided tour, but for free.
Purchase tickets in advance, ideally as far ahead of time as possible if visiting Rome in the summer season. For more details and to buy tickets, check the official website (exact hours and costs are not provided here since they vary with time, so the official site is best to confirm up-to-date information).
Exploring the sites will require a minimum of three to four hours to do them justice. Even in late September, wandering through the Roman Forum was intensely hot. During the peak summer months, the heat will be nearly unbearable with very few opportunities for shade or respite from the sun. Therefore, be certain to bring ample water and sun protection, as both will be needed.
The Vatican Museums, The Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica
It can be argued that the most famous museum globally resides within the collections of the Vatican. They exhibit an astounding 20,000 art pieces and culminate with the legendary Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo`s ceiling frescoes bear his work.
One contradiction that often appears in the rear of my mind when visiting huge, ornate churches has to do with the function of the church.
Why one may inquire, does an organization that preaches the Bible, which unequivocally condemns wealthy individuals who do not share their prosperity, display such an ornate and extravagant demonstration of wealth?
A thought-provoking question to pose, if you have the fortune of encountering the Pope (or a future female leader of the church).
As a site of spiritual significance, I have questions regarding the Vatican and St. Peter’s Basilica. If one considers the Vatican Museums solely as a compilation of artistic works, it encompasses an incredibly impressive display featuring numerous eminent Italian artists through history.
Essentially there are two primary sections – the highly esteemed Vatican Museums (which feature the renowned Sistine Chapel) and the revered St. Peter’s Basilica. You should experience both, aiming to be on either the first or last tour of the day.
We`d also advise ascending to the panoramic view from the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica to appreciate the birds-eye scene below of the square and towards Rome`s historic center, with its numerous churches and governing buildings rising above the rest of the city.
Advance ticket purchase is highly recommended for this site, particularly in the summer months. Tickets can be obtained here – the language selector in the top right can toggle the page to English.
For the most fulfilling experience, we`d advise selecting tickets that feature an audio guide, or, better yet, reserving a guided tour that incorporates a live guide
We would also advise an escorted visit, but feel it`s less crucial here than for sites like the Colosseum and Forum, which truly require a guide to maximize enjoyment and comprehension. In our view, an organized tour is beneficial but not essential, as an independent exploration with an audio guide (or the helpful Rick Steves audio application) would be adequate.
If you`re interested in exploring in more depth, we could go on the “Pristine Sistine” tour with Take Walks (one of our favorite tour companies worldwide) which allows you to enter the Museums an hour before they open to the public, when you have a better chance of experiencing the magic of the Sistine Chapel before it`s crowded with noisy tourists which can diminish the atmosphere.
The Historic Center of Rome (The “Centro Storico”)
There is nothing more charming or atmospheric in Rome than walking through the city center.
However, that charm and atmosphere can be a little overpowering in the afternoon and evening, when the narrow corridors snaking their way between the sights in the Centro Storico are crowded with people.
We would highly advise taking a stroll through the historic city center (see here`s a map) early in the morning — before 9:00 am if possible — when you`ll likely have it to yourself.
You will start your walk from Campo de` Fiori, a historic square home to a flower market (I advise against purchasing souvenirs there – the items for sale are overpriced and low quality), wander through the narrow alleyways of Rome`s historic center, and end at the northern end of the neighborhood near Villa Borghese, where you`ll be treated to an excellent viewpoint of the Vatican.
Campo de’ Fiori
This historic square, at the southwestern edge of the neighborhood just a few blocks from the Tiber River, has roots in Ancient Rome. That`s where it derives its name – “field of flowers” – which refers to the fact that this used to be open land before Rome`s expansion enveloped it.
Nowadays, this square has two sides. In the morning, you’ll find a busy marketplace with flowers, fruits and vegetables, and the kind of mass-produced souvenirs that are sold at nearly every other shop in Rome.
In the evening, it transforms into an outdoor club, essentially. The restaurants and bars on the square bring outdoor tables onto the square, and it’s generally full of people eating and drinking their way through the evening (complete with plenty of dance music).
It’s a nice place to start a morning stroll. If you’re looking for coffee nearby, either stop in at one of the many bakeries and cafés for an espresso at the bar, or detour a few blocks over to Barnum for specialty coffee.
Piazza Navona in Rome is likely our favorite destination explored on this tour through the city center. The huge oval public space contains numerous points of interest. Originally developed on the site of an ancient stadium, it took on its present form in the 15th century, as reflected in the architectural motifs present.
You’ll be approaching from the south if coming from Campo de’ Fiori, so we`ll begin there.
At the southern end of the square is a fountain – the Fountain of Moro – displaying some scantily clad, well-built gentlemen frolicking in the water. At the northern end lies the Fountain of Neptune, which serves as another excuse to depict a group of muscular half-naked males in the water, it seems.
In the center is an obelisk – the Obelisk of Domitian – and just off to the right there`s a massive church – Sant’Agnese – that towers over the square.
Most importantly, there’s a location of Grom gelato at the northern end of the square that serves our favorite gelato in Rome (plus, everything is gluten-free, such as the cones, which Matt appreciates). Is it ever too soon for gelato?
More details about gelato can be found below in the section on Rome for food enthusiasts.
The Pantheon
Continue east from Piazza Navona for a brief distance to arrive at the Pantheon.
The Pantheon – which presently has an enormous lineup at all hours as they must check the Green Pass for entry – is an immense prior Roman temple built in the second century C.E. (though a temple existed beforehand on the same site before it burned down).
In the 6th Century, this building became affiliated with Catholicism, and because of the care it received it is one of the more intact structures from Ancient Rome.
To be candid, we wouldn’t (and, in actuality, didn’t) linger awaiting entry to the temple/church. Interesting, surely, but likely not worth waiting over 10 or 15 minutes.
If you do go inside, we think the intricate (and huge) dome and the skylight are the most noteworthy features, bringing some of that sweet Mediterranean sunlight into the cool darkness of the Pantheon`s interior.
For a quintessential coffee tasting — head on over to nearby Tazza d`Oro ( here on Google Maps) and order an espresso at the bar, which is a quintessential experience for java enthusiasts in Rome. Forego sitting! Place your order with the cashier near the entrance, take your receipt to the barista, and show it to the (short-tempered) barista. It`s more budget-friendly and novel that way, in our view.
Trevi Fountain
Continue eastward to the most scenic and crowded sight in the Historic Center, the Trevi Fountain. Everyone who visits Rome makes their way to Trevi either a) to toss a coin in or b) to capture the ideal photograph in front of the fountain. As a result, this area and the surrounding few blocks is quite crowded at all hours, even at 8:30 am in October when we were last there.
It’s an established landmark, for certain, but there are so many crowds.
The fountain was constructed in the 18th Century using Travertine stone, details about which can be learned on a guided tour of the Colosseum and Forum sites.
Housed in a former motor inn, this trendy hotelon the southwest corner of the Downtown area is a great pick if you’re searching for a central option that doesn’t require an arm and a leg.
It was widely used throughout famous Roman constructions, from St. Peter`s Basilica to the Colosseum, as well as most other significant structures.
Piazza di Spagna (the Spanish Steps)
From here, your walk turns almost directly northward to reach the final destination of this grand tour, Piazza di Spagna. Or as you may know it, the Spanish Steps.
At the base of the steps, you’ll find a baroque fountain – Fontana della Barcaccia – which portrays a longboat in the center (the name translates to “fountain of the longboat”), which is an excellent foreground subject for the steps in the background. Originally, there was supposed to be a statue of Louis XIV here, but it never came to be.
Ascend the stairs, be sure to glance back and admire the vista.
If you’re up for a little more ambulation and want an even better perspective, head along the route in Villa Medici over to Terrazza del Pincio for an excellent view of the Vatican, with Piazza del Popolo in the foreground.
Additional Rome Travel Guides to Assist Your Planning
- ITINERARY: How to Develop an Amazing Rome Schedule
- WHERE TO STAY: The Best Locations to Lodge in Rome
- GLUTEN FREE: Gluten Free Eateries in Rome
Other Things Not to Miss in Rome
Here are three more things that are likely to be included on nearly every itinerary for Rome.
Castel Sant’Angelo
Despite walking past Castel Sant’Angelo countless times, I had never actually ventured inside until our most recent trip.
The building was constructed as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian and has since been appropriated by various factions in Rome such as the Catholic Church (it still holds Hadrian’s tomb).
Undertaking the self-led tour they have established is genuinely deserving of the time and money invested. The panoramic perspective of the Vatican alone from various points along the route could potentially render it worthwhile.
We also have a guide to spending different ways to divide up a week in Italy, which delves into this topic from another angle because it presents multiple schedules for completing a weeklong trip there.
Wander Trastevere in the Afternoon / Evening
We love Trastevere at all hours, but it truly comes alive in the evening when the individuals enjoying the many bars and eateries in the area start mingling out onto the streets.
Find an outdoor spot to rest and enjoy one or two drinks while observing people – we`d suggest the establishment Freni e Frizioni, which we frequented AND received recommendation for from our hotel staff in Trastevere.
In terms of nourishment, we enjoy eating at Mama Eat (one of our favorite ) and Fatamorgana Gelato.
Add in an evening stroll along the scenic route behind the bohemian neighborhood up to the Belvedere del Gianicolo for spectacular views across the city alongside important historical aspects of the battle for Italian unification.
The Villa Borghese & Borghese Gallery
We have not actually visited the Borghese Gallery, mainly because we`ve opted to spend our time exploring outdoors and felt saturated by museums. Yet, if you`re open to another museum and interested in Italian art, it presents a decent option and is likely the second most compelling museum in Rome after the Vatican.
If you wish to enter the Gallery, you’ll need to schedule tickets well in advance here as the number of entries per hour is highly limited.
If the Borghese Gallery tours are fully booked, an alternative is a guided visit – we would suggest this tour, which incorporates the gardens as well.
However, the gardens are certainly worth your time whether or not you’re up for another art museum. And they make an excellent addition to the walk through the Centro Storico that we previously described.
Things to Do in Rome for Foodies
Rome is an excellent city for food, and we say that as two individuals who eat gluten free out of necessity (sometimes Alysha gets to bend the rules, but Matt has Celiac Disease and will become dangerously ill with just a crumb of gluten).
Italy happens to provide an excellent environment for eating gluten free, so we largely got to partake of and drink whatever we wanted while we were in Rome – gelato, basic pasta dishes (all with guanciale or pancetta), cannoli (which originate from Sicily not Rome, but still very much worth tasting), and selections like fried artichokes and oxtail stew.
Rome offers multiple ways to immerse in its rich culinary culture and that of Italy through activities like food tours and cooking classes. Here are some recommendations for foodies visiting the city.
Devour ALL of the Food
First, let’s discuss the kinds of foods you should search for when in Rome.
Italian cuisine is diverse and multifaceted, and each region has a very distinct set of ingredients and, as a result, dishes that make it special.
Dopa Hostel is a cool and inviting hostel situated within a historic building in the heart of the university area. It provides a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere and is furnished with rustic handcrafted furniture using local wood and iron.
In Rome, meals tend to be simple, as seen in common pasta dishes explored at home through this excellent cookbook, generally containing guanciale or pancetta plus cheese seasoned with salt and pepper.
Here are the pasta dishes native to Rome that are worth ordering.
Cacio e pepe: As simple as it gets. Pasta, pecorino romano cheese, salt, and pepper. No butter – the creaminess comes from the starchy pasta water added back in at the end.
Carbonara: Again, incredibly simple. Using eggs, cheese, and pancetta. Add in some salt and pepper, and you’ve got a delicious, hearty, filling pasta dish. This is my first memory of a meal in Rome, and we make it all the time at home now.
Pasta alla Gricia: Take cacio e pepe and also include some guanciale and white wine.
Pasta all’Amatriciana: Take pasta alla gricia and add in tomatoes.
See? Super simple. And they all basically use similar primary ingredients.
Besides pasta, you should definitely try a few other things during your stay in Rome. We’re going to cover coffee,gelato, and wine in more depth below, so we’ll pass over those groups for now.
Pizza cut into squares: Pizza portions (Fans of New York will rejoice!) usually served sliced into squares. One of the most legendary examples of this is a small shop near the Vatican, Pizzarium, though we noticed that Antico Forno Roscioli consistently had a line outside the entrance (it was right under our apartment in Rome).
Any dish involving pecorino romano: We discovered this cheese at home as the best for pasta, and it`s even better in Italy where you can obtain it closer to its source of origin. It`s a hard, salty cheese, and it`s a component in nearly every pasta meal you`ll find in Rome.
Trippa alla Romana: Roman fare is pretty frugal which signifies you’re gonna encounter cheaper cuts of meat around. We heard it’s considering all of the fine cuts of meat were obtained by the nobility, which left the less appealing parts like tripe for the regular folk, but we’re not fully certain how real that truly is. This is a tomato-braised tripe with pancetta that is topped with, you speculated it, pecorino romano.
Get Your Hands Dirty and Take A Cooking Class
This traveler enjoys participating in cooking classes while exploring new places. It is a great way to experience the local cuisine, especially if there is a guided tour of the market. Meeting other travelers and learning recipes to cook at home that spark memories of the trip are benefits. The recipes made will remind this person of their travels whenever they make them in the future.
From South America to Mexico City to Barcelona, we`ve participated in cooking lessons spanning the globe. Generally speaking, our preferred experiences have been through Airbnb Experiences, which has become our standard resource given the focus on connecting visitors to smaller local businesses. Indeed, I cannot think of an experience we`ve had with them that wasn`t tremendous, often being a trip highlight.
Now, Matt has Celiac Disease, meaning no gluten for us. So an Italian cooking class is not an option – too much flour flying around for Matt to feel comfortable avoiding illness.
However, that does not mean you shouldn’t try one.
Here are four culinary classes that would definitely be on our list if one of us, you know, could consume gluten.
- Handcrafted Pasta Class at the Pantheon: You`ll get a brief overview of Roman cuisine before the hands-on session, where you`ll learn how to create two traditional kinds of pasta along with multiple sauces. Of course, you get to eat it too. Vegatarians welcome.
- A hands-on pasta and sauce making class in Rome: We appreciate experiences introducing us to local families in neighborhoods seldom visited by tourists. This opportunity fits that description. Join Riccardo, a lifelong Roman, at his family home where handmade pasta and classic sauces like carbonara and cacio e pepe (our favorites) will be prepared while connected to Rome`s food culture in an especially meaningful way. Naturally, wine features as this is Italy. Vegetarians welcome.
- Best Luxury Hotels: Ritz-Carlton – The Danna – St. Regis – The Datai – Casa del Mar – The Andaman
- Pasta-Making Experience – Cook, Dine & Drink Wine With A Local Chef: Hosted by TakeWalks, which we’ve already mentioned is one of our favorite tour companies in Italy, you’ll get a full rundown of handcrafted pasta, along with aperitifs and prosecco beforehand, and gelato for dessert. The experience takes place in Trastevere. Vegetarians welcome.
Here is a link to see cooking class options on Airbnb Experiences in Rome: Click here to see available options to learn how to cook authentic Italian cuisine in Rome.
Explore Rome’s Rich Food Culture with a Food Tour
Food tours excellently achieve exploring ample delicacies while engaging with a local resident explaining meaningful details, providing a personalized community view, and recommending navigation techniques around Rome along the journey.
Here are some food tours that caught our eye though, sadly, we also skipped these because of the whole gluten and cross-contact issue.
- Hidden Rome Culinary Experience in Trastevere with Dinner and Wine: Exploring Trastevere – our favorite neighborhood in Rome – through the eyes of a local food connoisseur. You’ll simultaneously taste amazing dishes from places that you wouldn’t have discovered alone, and also gain context for how that cuisine came to be a staple in Rome. Plus, wine and limoncello along the way! This tour blends history and culture with great food, which is usually what we look for in an excursion.
- An Evening Tour Exploring Local Cuisine and Hidden Gems: Born and raised locally, Selene and her team will take visitors on a guided excursion around Rome sampling the city`s finest foods. Along the way, guests will gain insight into Rome`s history and culture. Stops include sampling pizza, carbonara, and other delectable local specialties while exploring the Centro Storico area.
- The Roman Food Tour in Trastevere: This experience, which covers Prati to the north of Vatican City, involves sampling meats and cheeses and the best sliced pizza in Rome (which was discussed below in the “Devour ALL of the food” section).
- Experience the finest flavors of Rome: 25 samplings throughout four hours – so you`ll desire to show up hungry! You’ll wander through Prati, pausing at five locally held spots to try a variety of delicacies ranging from truffles to meats and cheeses plus additional choices.
Experience Aperitivo
Aperitivo is a period during the late afternoon, between finishing work and dinnertime (which is later than you`d expect in Rome) where people go out for drinks. And those drinks are served with a selection of small bites like bruschetta, olives and things like that.
For Americans and Canadians, it`s somewhat like happy hour, except the food is complimentary with your drinks. While the days of fully stocked aperitivo buffets are behind us in most of Rome, the idea behind aperitivo of spending time socializing over pre-dinner drinks and snacks is still one of our favorite customs in Italy.
During aperitivo, our beverage of choice (and what you’ll see many people drinking) is the Aperol Spritz.
It’s a lightly blended cocktail – perfect for a summer day – that is made with sparkling water, sparkling wine (all of the bubbles, please!) and Aperol, an orange-hued bitter aperitif.
Your spritz will generally cost somewhere around 4-5 Euros (definitely don’t pay more than 6 Euros!), and is the quintessential pre-meal beverage to us.
I made the mistake of ordering a Campari Spritz instead, just to try it, and won’t be doing it again. It was fine, totally drinkable if you’re into bitter liqueurs like Campari, but it wasn’t nearly as refreshing.
Explore Rome’s Evolving Coffee Culture
The first thing you need to know is that Matt is a full blown coffee snob. If it isn`t a light roast coffee prepared meticulously by hand, he doesn`t want it! Okay, that’s a bit of an exaggeration. Sort of.
We spent nearly two months in Italy – including a few weeks in the region of Sicily – and because Matt awakens each day with a strong need for a caffeine boost, we were able to explore Italian coffee culture. We should really write an entire guide about it, but the main idea is this.
The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive winds done the heart of the park, presenting astonishing views of the canyons and valleys. It’s closed to private vehicles all over the tall season from March to November, although there is a unfastened shuttle that you can grab instead. The shuttle leaves from the visitor centre and stops at few key spots like the Zion Lodge, West Rim Trail, and the Temple of Sinawava. Scan more about it here.
Their coffee consisted of dark, bitter brews roasted to the point of no return rather than light-bodied drinks after 10:00 am.
In a situation familiar to many North American travelers visiting Italy for the first time, I too had an experience ordering my first coffee there. I requested a “latte,” and the barista appeared amused by my order and asked if I was certain rather than simply correcting me helpfully. I of course affirmed, and was promptly served a hot steaming glass filled with foamed milk.
Naturally, I added an espresso into it.
The reality is, I (Matt, the coffee expert here!) truly enjoyed the coffee in Rome. And I think that if you’re a coffee drinker, you should definitely try having an `espresso at the bar` at least once, even if that’s not your usual way of drinking coffee.
For a taste of casually enjoying espresso at the counter, you can essentially head to any cafe or bakery located throughout Rome. Personally, I rather enjoyed frequenting Tazza d’Oro(situated near the Pantheon) and Sant’ Eustachio Il Caffè (just east of Piazza Navona). Both attracted tourist crowds admittedly, but I appreciated the experience of nudging my way to the counter and providing the barista my receipt.
Pro-tip: The process involves initially purchasing your beverage at the cash register and obtaining a receipt, which is then shown to the barista preparing drinks to communicate your order. The barista may ask in Italian whether sugar is desired for an espresso drink.
Another pro-tip:You’ll pay more to sit down and drink your coffee with table service than you will ordering it at the bar or to-go.
All that being said, there is a small but growing specialty coffee scene in Rome. Here are my three favorite spots.
Pergamino Caffè
This is both the original of specialty coffee in Rome, and also the best combination of location and quality. It’s a block or two from the Vatican, which makes it a perfect morning stop before your visit.
They feature quite a few of Italy’s top coffee roasters – including both Gardelli (virtually every Italian barista named this coffee roaster as their preferred in Italy, and I obtained a bag of a natural Ethiopian coffee that I really enjoyed) and Garage Coffee Bros in Verona (usually the second suggestion after Gardelli).
Barnum Caffè
A bare-bones cafe near Campo de’ Fiori where you can obtain a pleasant espresso-based drink, either at the bar or on their cool small patio outside – or a cup of pour-over coffee featuring roasters from around Italy (including, when we were there, aforementioned Garage).
Fax Factory
This is both my preferred of the three, and also much less convenient than the others. It’s a 20 minute tram ride out to a more residential neighborhood that likely does not make most lists if time is restricted.
That being said, they have a great selection of both house-roasted coffee and coffee from around Europe available to purchase or order as a pour over. Which is my jam, and I loved being able to ask what the barista (owner?) recommended if I liked something bright and juicy.
Devour Delicious GELATO Daily
Now we shift from Matt’s domain – coffee – to Alysha’s – gelato.
It’s really not all that surprising, but the gelato with super bright colors that is spilling out of the tubs outside the shop near Trevi Fountain is, understandably, not the finest quality you can find there.
The main takeaways are to look for gelato that is, best-case scenario, kept in a covered stainless steel container. Next best is gelato that isn’t heaped high into a container, because it’s bad for the gelato to be exposed to oxygen and heat.
Another element to look out for is colors that are excessively radiant. A good example is pistachio gelato, which is among our favorite things on earth. If the pistacchio gelato is a neon green color, rather than a dull greenish-brown color (which is what pistachios actually look like), then it likely has some needless stabilizers and colors included.
In general, although not always strictly accurate, gelato quality tends to decline the closer one gets to Trevi Fountain.
Below are three great gelato spots located in the center of Rome that we enjoyed!
Grom
The Wave the Grain (Cetennial, CO – ~25 minutes from Downtown Denver): Their slogan is “gluten free baking that doesn`t taste gluten free,” which essentially summarizes exactly what I’m looking for in my gluten free baked goods. You’ll find a couple varieties of bread, pastries like danishes and cinnamon rolls, and various breakfast and lunch dishes like burritos, quiche, and ramen.
Their pistachio is to die for, and they typically have a few seasonal flavors worth trying.
They have several locations in Rome, but the one we found leading us there quite often is at the northern end of Piazza Navona ( here on Google Maps).
Fatamorgana
Another classic, we first came across Fatamorgana in Los Angeles before finally making it to their places in Rome itself.
They offer various flavors that are regularly modified, utilizing fresh seasonal ingredients wherever achievable. They had a location near the corner of our apartment on our initial stint in Rome, and we would question each other numerous times (“is it gelato time?”).
Everything, including cones, is gluten free, but you’d never guess it.
Frigidarium
Just a short distance from Piazza Navona is Frigidarium, a location Alysha recalls as it sits nearby the school she attended during a study abroad period in Rome.
The constant flow of people in and out tells you everything required about the quality. It may not be the best gelato in Rome, but it provides a solid product and the spot can`t be beaten (note: gluten free cones are not offered here).
Dive into the World of Italian Wine
Over the six-week Italy trip, focused primarily on Rome, the segment between Milanand Florence, and a Sicily road trip, we sampled a variety of wine.
The intriguing thing regarding Italian wine is that there are practically unlimited numbers of distinct grape varieties in Italy.
We hail from Northern California, so wine is familiar to us (though we prefer cider to wine). However, here in California you will typically find 10-12 different grape varieties, mostly centered around five or six varieties.
In Italy, there exist about 350 unique cultivars! Which is a lot.
Rome is a part of the Lazio wine region, renowned for its white wines. But Rome is the kind of city where you can find wine from all over Italy, if you seek in the proper locations.
When in Rome, you should drink good wine. And our favorite wine in Rome came from Enoteca Il Piccolo, a charming little wine bar in the Centro Storico known for a rotating selection of natural wines from local producers.
Not only was the wine – specifically a lightly bubbly white wine called a pet-nat – excellent, but the experience was unique too! For context, our Italian language skills are minimal – enough to get by, order food, and pay, but not much more than that.
I endeavored to convey, in Italian, the kind of wine I desired (Alysha immediately opted for the bubbly varieties – CLASSIC!), however, my effort resulted in some difficulties. An elderly gentleman, who I believe owned the establishment, assisted me, considered my attempt, turned away, departed, and returned with an excellent glass of wine that perfectly matched what I had hoped for. All with about ten words exchanged between us.
They have a nice small terrace outside that is a wonderful spot for a glass of wine on a warm afternoon and sell wine by the bottle if you want to get one to savor later.
We also happened upon an excellent petite wine shop over in Trastevere (who additionally had a superb hard cider and beer selection) called Les Vignerons. It centers more around bottles to take away, but it’s a cool stop if seeking some nice bottles of wine, beer, or hard cider to savor back at your hotel or apartment.
Pro-tip: Unlike our experiences closer to home, the house wine in Italy is generally both affordable AND high quality. When uncertain, selecting the house wine is advised.
Take in the Best Views in Rome
Endless perspectives abound in Rome, some of which we’ve already covered (like the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica, or the terrace crowning Castel Sant’Angelo.
Here are a few more spots in Rome – some of which we stumbled upon mostly by accident – where you can get some excellent views out over the city of Rome.
Terrazza del Pincio
At the southwestern end of the Villa Borghese you’ll find this excellent viewpoint overlooking Piazza del Popolo, with the Flaminio Obelisk in the foreground, and the Vatican in the distance.
It’s best in the morning hours, otherwise the sun will be directly ahead of you and wash out your photographs.
You will find it mapped here on Google Maps.
Terrazza Piazza Garibaldi (up above Trastevere)
We happened to discover this viewpoint as we wandered a little up the hill above Trastevere. As you climb the hill, there`s a lot surrounding Italy`s independence war that we found really interesting.
>We occasionally overlook that despite being home to the Roman Empire, Italy is actually one of the newest European nations
Visitors can embark on a scenic walk from Trastevere ascending uphill and then downhill to Castel Sant’Angelo and the Vatican City. Explorers will find the route mapped here, accessible via Google Maps.
Giardino degli Aranci (The Orange Garden)
Our preferred sunset spot in Rome, but also everyone else’s too. It’s a lovely little terrace up on the hill where you can get a nice view of Rome from above, which will help you realize that despite walking around the historic center, Rome is not actually really that level.
The best vista is to the north, where the Tiber River can be seen (it’s somewhat difficult to see the river itself, but its path is discernible), with the “wedding cake” – as Alysha refers to the Monumento Nazionale a Vittorio Emanuele II – towering above the rest of Rome.
Here is the location on Google Maps:
You’ll find it here on Google Maps.
The Keyhole
This location is very close by – a few hundred feet away – from the Orange Garden. First and foremost – many people flock here for a photo around sunset in the late afternoon.
As shown in the below photograph, long queues were present (we opted to arrive early in the morning when we were practically the sole visitors).
Someone skillfully designed and situated the door and its keyhole here to have a picture-perfect frame of the dome of the Vatican when you peer through it.
You can find it here on Google Maps.
The Roman Forum from Above
I’m not certain if this viewpoint has a name or not, but we happened upon it during a post-aperitivo walk back to our apartment. From here, you have an excellent view out over the Roman Forum.
The afternoon and evening provide the best times to visit the Forum, when the sun is not directly shining across it.
The Best Time to Visit Rome
There is no strict rule regarding the most suitable time to visit Rome. The Italian capital is blessed with four distinct seasonal periods.
While any time of year offers attractions, fall is our top recommendation overall, though each season has unique advantages.
- Summer – This is the peak season for tourism in Italy. Rome has extremely large crowds and very hot weather. Hotel costs significantly increase and many top attractions have lengthy lines. However, you do get to experience the city bursting with life and activity, and conditions are usually sunny throughout with abundant sunshine as a bonus.”
- Fall – Our favorite season in Rome. Truthfully, we don`t believe you can match this city in September and October. There`s just something so charming about the altering hue of the cork oaks along the Tiber River and the mild evenings. The sole downside to autumn is the potential for some rainfall.
- Winter – Rome takes on a contemplative, mysterious aura in the winter. Unusual snow storms can sometimes occur, and we’ve seen frozen fountains on Piazza Navona in the past. Hotel rates tend to be less expensive in winter and there are notably fewer crowds at the main attractions. However, warm clothing and a coat will be necessary!
- Spring – Like fall, spring is outright breathtaking in Rome. There can be quite a lot of rainfall, but that’s balanced out by the flower blooms in parks like Villa Borghese and Doria Pamphili. May is another favorable time for crowds because the summer rush hasn’t begun quite yet.
How Many Days Should You Spend in Rome?
Given everything there is to see and do in Rome, we believe that 4 days is the absolute minimum you should plan to avoid spending your entire trip rushing from sight to sight without time to savor the atmosphere of the city and enjoy the dolce vita that makes Italy so unique.
With four days, you’ll comfortably be able to fit in the Vatican, Colosseum, and Borghese Gallery alongside eating pizza and pasta, drinking plenty of wine, and exploring a few of our favorite neighborhoods (and getting some pretty magnificent views of Rome along the way).
Our strongest recommendation for planning a Rome trip is to not incorporate more than one major attraction (e.g. the Colosseum, Vatican, or Borghese Gallery) into a single day.
Each of those places is going to require a substantial amount of energy, and by the time you’re preparing to go to the second one, you’re going to be tired and the experience isn’t going to be nearly as pleasurable. If you have two or three days in Rome, it’s still doable.
Refer to our guide on preparing your Rome schedule for ideas on how to spend your time in Rome based on our own experience from our recent trip.
