Rome, Italy Travel Guide

The world has a love affair with Italy and once you go, you will know why.

When in Rome

If you adore the idea of strolling beautiful cobblestone paths, overindulging in delicious food and wine, want to see ruins and remnants of 2,000 year old temples, cascading ivy draped around ancient columns, and bask in beautiful piazzas with a gelato in hand, Rome is the place for you.

It’s one of the most ancient cities in the world. A city so rich in art and memorable views. An absolute must-see destination.

You’ll want to spend at least 3 days in this beautiful city as to not rush experiencing the magic. And don’t forget to allow yourself plenty of time for limoncello tastings and spontaneous adventures, because… When in Rome!

What to Eat: 

  • Pizzaria Baffetto (don’t miss the gelato right across the street!

  • Ninno’s by the Spanish Steps

  • La Carbonara

  • Hostaria Romana 

  • Ar Galletto 

  • Assunta Madre

  • Da Giggetto al Portico D’Ottavia 

  • Quinzi e Gabrieli 

  • Gelato at Il Gelato di San Crispino

  • Lunch at L’Archetto 

  • Roma Sparita

Meet me under the stars in Rome

Some Things to Do: 

Of course, if we were planning together, we’d talk through your preferences to match you up with the perfect experiences, such as food tours, wine tastings, private early-entrance tours to avoid lines, etc. But here are some must-do’s:

  • Start your exploring at the Spanish Steps - it’s centrally located!

  • Trevi Fountain

  • Villa Borghese Gardens - most people miss this!

  • Roman Forum , the Colosseum & Palatine Hill

  • St. Clement Church

  • Outside of the City:

    • Hike Gianicolo Hill for panoramic city views

    • Visit the Stadio Olimpico area, home to 2 first-class football clubs

  • Pantheon

  • Hang at Piazza Navona 

  • Side car tour

  • Key Hole

  • Vatican, Sistine Chapel, St Peter’s Basilica

  • Experience the Trastevere neighborhood

  • Enjoy an Italian cooking class & wine tasting

  • So much more!

Let’s talk through which Roman tours you need to book ahead of time, and which you can do while you’re there :)

One thing I do for all my Italian adventure clients: I send a Google Maps Guide with all main locations pinned, so you’re able to maximize your walking time, while hitting all the main sights.

Tips to be a pro in Italy

  • Visit the monuments in the morning to avoid larger crowds

  • Pizza is not served in regular restaurants. It is served in a pizzeria

  • Shops are closed Sunday and Monday mornings, and most museums are outright closed on Mondays

  • The public transit system is good but traffic may slow it down, and getting a cab is nearly impossible unless your hotel arranges for one

  • Cappuccinos are usually not served after 11am; if you want milk get a caffé macchiato which is an espresso with a touch of foam

  • Spaghetti is not an entrée

  • Don’t put all of your Euros/credit cards in the same pocket of your purse! Be on the lookout for gypsies/pick pocketers. Assume the best, plan for the worst.

  • You need to make seat reservations for all trains!

  • Don’t eat right by the main attractions

  • Salad dressing to the Italians is olive oil.

  • There are some non-vetted group tours of the Vatican and Sistine Chapel, where it can be nearly impossible to understand. Please allow me to find you a tour that will get you the most value

  • Don’t respond to people coming up to you - they’re just trying to sell you things

 

All in all, Rome was not built in a day, and neither are your travel plans.

Let’s get to talking about how to bring your dream trip to Roma to life. You deserve to do life as the Romans do!

Start planning with me here.

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Florence, Italy Travel Guide

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