The first time I visited Rome was with my brother in 2010 and it was instant magic. There is something extremely powerful about being in a place that has a robust history, knowing an ancient energy lingers throughout centuries.
The second time I visited Rome was in March, and I once again felt that vivacity as I walked in my own footsteps from 13 years ago. Rome is called the Eternal City for that exact reason - it still stands. The expansive history and culture have been woven throughout centuries of power and global events and yet, the city and all of its stories, stand the test of time. I have always been fascinated and attracted to that connection between the past and the present and for me, there is no greater place than to relive that history in the city's open air museum. Every cobblestone passageway leads to a piazza, a fountain, a statue or a stunning landmark, leaving one breathless.
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FOLLOW ANCIENT FOOTPRINTS
What I love most about Rome is the collection of several architectural and art styles from ancient to baroque, renaissance to rococo and today, modern. I also love that all of these ancient marvels combine different types of motifs and materials gathered from all over the vast Roman empire. Every single landmark, fountain, statue comes with an incredible story.
So let's go for a around Rome and explore my favourite sights!
Piazza Navona | I first fell in love with this piazza from the movie "Angels & Demons" and then fell in love even, when I saw it live. Filled with street artists, performers and dotted with typical trattoria’s. Amazing place to enjoy a glass of sparkling strawberry prosecco will soaking up the atmosphere.
Pantheon | this impressive structure is one of the best preserved landmarks; a temple for the Roman gods, built between 25 and 27 B.C.E by Marcus Agrippa and comprises of Greek, Italian and Egyptian architecture. is also the final resting place of Raphael, the famous Renaissance painter.
Fontana di Trevi | this is the most glorious fountain I have ever seen and leaves me breathless every time I see it. The 26 metre-high landmark was built on top of an ancient water source and depicts Oceanus, God of water flanked by two other gods representing health and abundance. Beneath they are surrounded by hippocampus and tritons while the Papal Coat of Arms sits on the top suspended by angels.
Piazza di Spagna | this is probably the most luxurious piazza in all of Rome, laced with the highest concentration of designer shops and boutiques. Its a popular meeting place and features famous landmarks such as the Spanish Steps or officially "Scalinata della Trinita dei Monti", the Trinita dei Monti church, the Fontana della Barcaccia and the statue of Mary at the base of the steps.
Villa Borghese | located just a few minutes walk from Piazza di Spagna, is Villa Borghese - Rome's largest park. This stunning green space is dotted with monuments, sculptures, fountains and the impressive ancient temple of Aeusculapius, dating back to the early 17th century. It is also home to Galleria Borghese, Galleria Borghese which contains one of the largest private art collections in the world of cardinal Scipione Borghese.
Piazza del Popolo | a popular square which is perfectly (and strategically) located at the base of Villa Borghese and start of Via del Corso (Rome's most popular shopping street). Piazza del Popolo was once the entry point to the city during the time of the Roman Empire. Today its a popular place for large exhibitions and socialising. There are several impressive landmarks including the Egyptian Obelisk, the Santa Maria del Popolo basilica which houses two incredible canvases by Caravaggio and two other churches which almost mirror each other.
Castel Sant'Angelo | today this impressive landmark is a museum, but it was originally built as a mausoleum by order of Emperor Hadrian. When my brother and I visited the first time, we spent around 3 hours exploring - take your time and invest time, it is worth it! Starting from the entry point at the bridge of Angels - the architecture is just phenomenal!
Vatican City | not much explanation is needed here; I was very lucky to be able to visit the Vatican on a quiet spring day before the tourist masses (unlike the first time we visited in the middle of summer). You need a booking to visit the Sistine Chapel so I'll save that for my next trip. Apart from that, the "city" is largely made up of St. Peter's Square, shops, restaurants / cafes and a lot of administrative buildings including embassies.
Colosseum | probably the most famous landmark in the world and a lot can be said about it; my words would never give it true justice. This marvellous amphitheatre was built around 70 AD for the Roman people to enjoy gladiatorial games and at the time hosted around 50,000 spectators. A word of advice when visiting; make sure you get there early, buy a ticket in advance and plan for an entire day exploring the complex! I didn't make it to the Colosseum, Palatine Hill or Foro Romano during this trip, but I'm sharing some old photos from when I visited with my brother.
Palatine Hill | located directly next to the Colosseum, Palatine Hill holds importance for being the location where Romulus and Remus where find by the she wolf (according to legend). Apart from the wealth of historical events that took place (including Emperor Caesar Augustus' birth and Caligula's death), the hill is a true marvel. It is filled with ancient ruins interspersed with flourishing Mediterranean plants.
Foro Romano | one of my favourite places in all of Rome, this ancient complex is considered the birthplace of Rome. It was the centre of public life in Rome, where lawmakers and politicians gathered; where speeches were given and criminals were hanged. Today, the forum is filled with stunning ancient ruins featuring the most incredible and intricate designs. It is located walking distance from the Colosseum / Palatine Hill complex and is highly worth a visit or two :).
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MANGIARE BENE
Chi Mangia Bene, Vive Bene (he who eats well, lives well) - Italian Proverb
Italian cuisine is my favourite and I love trying out regional dishes in whichever city I visit. Here are a few recommended places to enjoy the insatiable Italian cuisine when visiting:
Babington's Tea Room | Rome's original teahouse opened since 1883 - click here to read more about the fascinating history. I visited the tearoom 13 years ago and then last month for a fabulous afternoon tea! Details here.
Caffetteria Ristorante Le Terrazze Castel Sant’Angelo | excellent food paired with stunning views; details here.
The Court Rome | posh cocktail bar and restaurant overlooking the magical Colosseum as recommended by my friend Jack. Details here.
Lagana | my brother's recommendation for authentic Italian food where mainly local Romans eat (must be a good sign!); located near Fontana di Trevi. Details here.
Rome is part of the Lazio Region and I recommend you try these local specialities:
Pasta Carbonara or Gricia (with bacon)
Cacio e Pepe
Pizza al Taglio (this means pizza by the slice / cut - try every flavour you can find!)
Pasta all’Amatriciana
Supplí
Carciofi alla Romana
Saltimbocca
Trippa alla Romana (Roman Tripe)
THE ESSENTIALS
Getting Around | Rome is a massive city - let's not deny that. While it is possible to walk around (and I HIGHLY recommend it) - just grab a printed map or Google maps; the city is seamlessly connected with 3 metro lines, taxis virtually everywhere, bikes and vespas (if you really want to be Italian during your holiday).
A word of recommendation if landing at Rome Airport, a taxi will set you back EUR 50 (fixed rate as of March 2023) whereas taking the Leonardo Express from the airport is about EUR 13 and the journey is only 30 minutes.
Accommodation | Booking.com and Airbnb offer excellent options for every budget and preference. During this trip I stayed 1 minute walk from Piazza Navona at the charming Terrazze Navona; the owner Vincenzo, was a warm and welcoming host and I would highly recommend a stay here.
Currency | the official currency is Euro, card payment is accepted everywhere, however it is always advisable to carry some cash.
Safety | Rome is a mega city so there should always be a level of caution. I am certain there are pickpockets and thugs out there so keep all your jewelry back in the hotel safe, do not carry large amounts of cash, do not wander in lonely alleys alone and always let someone know where you are. In other words: use common sense. I have personally never felt unsafe.
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With so much to see, do, explore and taste, my best advice is explore, get lost and write your own story :)
xo,
Marina
Disclaimer: All views are my own and all photographs are © My Sweet Escapes, unless otherwise stated. Please check if the above mentioned businesses are open at the time of reading this post.
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